I'll take them for you." McEwen rose with difficulty, groaning as he put his right foot to the ground.

Anderson then perceived that the right foot and ankle were wrapped round with a bloodstained rag, and was told that the night before their owner had stumbled over a jug in Mrs.Ginnell's kitchen, breaking the jug and inflicting some deep cuts on his own foot and ankle.

McEwen, indeed, could only limp along, with mingled curses and lamentations, supported by Anderson.

In the excitement of his son's appearance he had forgotten his injury.

The pain and annoyance of it returned upon him now with added sharpness, and Anderson realised that here was yet another complication as they moved across the yard.
A few words to the astonished Mrs.Ginnell sufficed to secure all her vacant rooms, four in number.