I was vaguely conscious of hearing my name called, of seeing my door move, of everything whirling round and round, and finally of falling, or getting, or being dragged out of bed.
The next thing I was aware of was that I was lying in a strange bed, with a headache, but otherwise tolerably comfortable, though awfully thirsty, and as weak as a mouse.
"Water, please," I remarked at large.
Instantly a face bent over me--a strangely familiar face, which after a moment's reflection I told myself was my mother's.
It was such a surprise that I forgot about the water, and took a nap instead.
In due time I must have woke again, this time by candlelight.
"Mother, are you there ?" "Yes, darling; what is it ?" "My shirt caught fire, and--" "Hush, dear.

Don't try to talk." I didn't quite see why.

I was really curious about several things.

In fact, I thirsted for information.
"Why mayn't I talk, mother ?" "Because you've been ill." "Did I get doctor's leave ?" "Yes, dear." "Mother ?" "Well, sonny darling." "How did you get here ?" "They sent and told me you--" "You didn't believe about that shilling?
Really there was only 2 shillings 6 pence change." "Yes, yes, dear.

Hush now, there's a good boy." "Mother ?" "Well, Tommy dear." "Was there a fire last night ?" "It was a week ago, sonny." "Who was the fellow called me?
Was he riled at me for not answering ?" "Oh no--you were almost suffocated." "Where shall I sleep now?
Have they mended my cubicle ?" "You'll sleep here, dear.