Think of your college course--your
profession--all the things we planned! I'm not worth it!"
Phil's voice failed, but he cleared his throat quickly, and spoke out
clearly and solemnly. "Felix," he said, "I will _never_ play cards again
as long as I live; and I will _never_ drink another drop of liquor,--so
help me God." He raised his hand as he spoke, as if registering the
oath. Then he bent over and buried his face in the bed-clothes.
Slowly Fee's poor helpless hand went out and fell on Phil's head. "What
is all the rest compared with _this_," he said, oh, so tenderly! then,
with a little unsteady laugh, "Philippus, I always said there wasn't a
mean bone in your body." And then Phil threw his arms round Felix and
kissed him.
I laid what I had brought down on the table, and went quickly away,
shutting the door a little hard that they might know somebody'd gone
out. I should have left just as soon as I found they were talking,--I
know I should,--but it seemed as if Phil's words just held me there.
I've told Phil and Felix all about it since then, and they say they
don't mind my having heard; but between what I felt for them both, and
for my having done such a mean thing as to listen to what wasn't meant
for me to hear, I was a pretty miserable boy that afternoon.
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