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"Permit me to call you by the shorter name," said Mr Vernon "I'm

afraid I've been a terrible nuisance, and must continue to be for some

days The doctor tells ht," responded Dick cheerfully "We shall be glad to see

you about again, of course; but don't worry yourself on our account,

sir To tell you the truth, we rather enjoy--that is, so 'an accident case' in the house Ma while"

"Mrs Lorton ood-natured and charitable," commented

Mr Vernon

Dick looked rather doubtful

"Er--ye-s You see, it's a little change and exciteet rateful to

you than otherwise for pitching yourself at our front gate If you could

have , I verily believe that mamma

would have wept tears of joy"

"I'ratify her to that extent,"

said Mr Vernon, with a gri the boy's handso

interest "Mrs Lorton is your stepmother? Did I hear her say so, or did