B Oh, Chapter 6.

Fritz Falls Ill and Little Captain Doublecup sets out to seek his fortune, promises to return in

a year and a day.

Up to this time, no serious trouble had ever entered Fritz's

little home.

The only shadows which had, from year to year year danced upon the white-sanded floor

were those cast by a figured curtains, the tall clock, the carved chairs, and the round table, where the sunbeams played at hide-and-seek among this quaint old furniture.

But now at last, Doris', honest eyes were determined to feel the prick and the smart of hot tears,

and her dear kind heart to change its joyous beat for the muffled throb of sorrow.

Fritz, our beloved Foster father, to whom toil was a pleasure, since it kept his fires lighted on our hurtstone.

And the larder filled with victuals and drink for those he loved suddenly fell ill.

He was overtaken on his way home from Emden, whither he had gone to buy shellfish for

Doris by a heavy rainstorm and that night a burning fever came upon him

and although he pulled safely through this trouble it was followed by a severe

attack of rheumatism which stretched him helpless on his back.

A long while, possibly never.

Was the village doctor's cruel response to Doris's question?

Of how long it would be, for Fritz would be able to get about again.

Hans and I heard what the doctor said.

A long while, possibly never.

We love Fritz dearly, and these words went like a knife through and through our little heart.

Hans began to use our mouth for crying, but I waited patiently until he had finished

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