But there's one, anyhow, that ain't answerin'," grinned Old Tom.

Then, abruptly, the light died from his eyes.

"How is she, ter-day--the little gal ?" Nancy shook her head.

Her face, too, had sobered.
"Just the same, Mr.Tom.There ain't no special diff'rence, as I can see--or anybody, I guess.

She jest lays there an' sleeps an' talks some, an' tries ter smile an' be 'glad' 'cause the sun sets or the moon rises, or some other such thing, till it's enough ter make yer heart break with achin'." "I know; it's the 'game'-- bless her sweet heart!" nodded Old Tom, blinking a little.
"She told YOU, then, too, about that 'ere--game ?" "Oh, yes.