At the steam-boat wharf there were only the pair themselves to cling one moment to each other and then wave that mute farewell that looks through watery eyes and sticks in the choking throat. Who ever knows what good-by means?
"Doctor," said Richling, when he came to accept those terms in the Doctor's proposition which applied more exclusively to himself,--"no, Doctor, not that way, please." He put aside the money proffered him. "This is what I want to do: I will come to your house every morning and get enough to eat to sustain me through the day, and will continue to do so till I find work."
The arrangement went into effect. They never met at dinner; but almost every morning the Doctor, going into the breakfast-room, met Richling just risen from his earlier and hastier meal.
And, unless there was some word from Mary, nothing more would be said. So went the month of November.
But at length, one day toward the close of the Doctor's office hours, he noticed the sound of an agile foot springing up his stairs three steps at a stride, and Richling entered, panting and radiant.
"I've found employment! I have, indeed! One line from you, and the place is mine! A good place, Doctor, and one that I can fill. The very thing for me! Adapted to my abilities!" He laughed so that he coughed, was still, and laughed again. "Just a line, if you please, Doctor."
It had been many a day since Dr. Sevier had felt such pleasure as thrilled him when Richling, half beside himself with delight, ran in upon him with the news that he had found employment. Narcisse, too, was glad. He slipped down from his stool and came near enough to contribute his congratulatory smiles, though he did not venture to speak. Richling nodded him a happy how-d'ye-do, and the Creole replied by a wave of the hand.
In the Doctor's manner, on the other hand, there was a decided lack of response that made Richling check his spirits and resume more slowly,--
"He says you treated his wife one night when she was very ill"--
"I believe I recollect him. Is he away up on Benjamin street, close to the river, among the cotton-presses?"
"Yes. Thalia street they call it now. He says"--
"Does he keep a large bakery?" interrupted the Doctor.