CHAPTER XXI.
IN THE DARK An ominous stillness hung over Hollis farm as Sandy ran up the avenue.
The night was dark, but the fallen snow gave a half-mysterious light to the quiet scene.
He stepped on the porch with a sinking heart.

In the dimly lighted hall Mr.Moseley and Mr.Meech kept silent watch, their faces grave with apprehension.

Without stopping to speak to them, Sandy hurried to the door of the judge's room.

Before he could turn the knob, Dr.
Fenton opened it softly and, putting his finger on his lips, came out, cautiously closing the door behind him.
"You can't go in," he whispered; "the slightest excitement might finish him.

He's got one chance in a hundred, boy; we've got to nurse it." "Does he know ?" "Never has known a thing since the bullet hit him.