The door of the room opened and a man entered. I saw at a glance that it was Simpson, and I looked at him through my half-closed eyes. He came to my bedside and looked steadily at me, then he placed his hand gently on my forehead; his touch was as soft as that of a woman.
"Simpson," I said, and this time I was able to recognize my voice. "Is that you, Simpson?"
His old-time formula acted on me like a tonic; it made me want to laugh. Yes, I really was alive then, and Simpson was with me; but what was the meaning of this strange room?
I thought I saw the tears gather in his eyes, and I am sure I saw his lips tremble.
"Yes, sir, very ill, but I believe we have beaten them, sir."
But this time he did not answer. The woman came in again bearing something in her hand. There was a whispered consultation between them, and then I remember drinking something, after which I went to sleep again.
When I again awoke I felt sure it was morning. I had no reason for believing this, but I had no doubt about it; the air was morning air, the sounds were morning sounds. The birds were chirping in the trees, the cattle were lowing in the meadows, the poultry were cackling in a yard near by, a thousand whispering voices everywhere told me that I had awakened to the dawn of a new day. I moved in my bed; yes, I had strength enough for that, and the movement caused me no pain. In an instant I heard footsteps, and Simpson again came to my side.
"Can I do anything for you, sir? How are you to-day?"
"I feel like a man reborn, Simpson," I said. And it was true. A life was surging in my veins which I never remembered before; I felt as though my whole being had been made clean and all my powers renewed. I was unutterably weak, but I felt all a child's health and joy.
"Tell me what this means, Simpson," I said; "this is not my room, not my bed."
"No, sir, but I am your man, sir," and his voice was husky.
"Yes, I am glad you are with me, Simpson. It is good to wake up and find you here."
"I hope I shall never have to leave you, sir," and I saw him wipe away his tears.
"Tell me about it, Simpson--tell me where I am and what has happened to me."
"I am forbidden to talk, sir; the doctor won't allow me. You see----"