The others took turns at nursing; Simeon was on duty every hour of every twenty-four.

He lost all interest in Adelaide, in everything except the sick man.

Most of the time he sat quietly, gazing at the huge, helpless object of his admiration as if fascinated.

Whenever Hiram deigned to look at him, he chattered softly, timidly approached, retreated, went through all his tricks, watching the while for some sign of approval.

The first week or so, Hiram simply tolerated the pathetic remembrancer to human humility because he did not wish to chagrin his daughter.