I know I shall have a stronger appetite to-morrow." "You are certainly a sensitive boy," said Mr.Austin, looking at him in some wonder.

"I did not know that such a thing could influence your feelings and your physical condition so much." Ned made no reply, but that night he ate supper with a much better appetite than he had shown in many days, bringing words of warm approval and encouragement from Mr.Austin.
An hour or two later, when cheerful good-nights had been exchanged, Ned withdrew to his own little room.

He lay down upon his bed, but he was fully clothed and he had no intention of sleep.

Instead the boy was transformed.

For days he had been walking with a weak and lagging gait.
Fever was in his veins.