CHAPTER IX.
Wherein the Limberlost Falls upon Mrs.Duncan and Freckles Comes to the Rescue Freckles was halfway to the Limberlost when he dismounted.

He could ride no farther, because he could not see the road.

He sat under a tree, and, leaning against it, sobs shook, twisted, and rent him.

If they would remind him of his position, speak condescendingly, or notice his hand, he could endure it, but this--it surely would kill him! His hot, pulsing Irish blood was stirred deeply.

What did they mean?
Why did they do it?
Were they like that to everyone?
Was it pity?
It could not be, for he knew that the Bird Woman and the Angel's father must know that he was not really McLean's son, and it did not matter to them in the least.