SWEET BETTY PICKERING When we knocked at Hamilton's door, he answered, "Come," and I entered, Betty closing the door behind me, leaving George and me together.

He was lying on the bed, his head and arms bandaged, and a feverish gleam shining in his eyes.

I went toward him, offering my hand.

He rose and sat on the edge of the bed, but did not accept my greeting.

I was about to speak when he lifted his hand to interrupt me, saying coldly:-- "Well, Clyde, what do you want ?" "I want to see you and help you, if I can," I answered, in surprise.
"Now that you have seen me, you may go," he returned.
I did not know the cause of his ill feeling, though I knew that something had happened to turn him against me, so I stood my ground and answered:-- "I shall go if you insist, but before I go, please tell me in what manner I have offended you.