"No; everybody here is occupied with schemes for money-making. I can't
get any one to look after me for love or money."

"Then you have no near friend or relative in Tacoma?"

"No; nor, I may say, anywhere else. I have a niece, however, in
Syracuse. She is at school. She is the only tie, the only one on whom I
have any claim."

"If you need money--" began Andy, feeling a little delicate about
offering pecuniary assistance.

"No, I have no need of that kind. I suppose I look poor, for I never
cared about my personal appearance, but I am one of the largest owners
of real estate in Tacoma, besides having some thousands of dollars in a
San Francisco bank. But what good will it all do me? Here I am, sick,
and perhaps near death."

"I will do what I can for you," said Andy. "I am myself a visitor in
Tacoma. I came on business for a New York gentleman. I am authorized to
buy lots in Tacoma. When you are better, I will make you an offer for
your land, if you care to sell."

"Help me to get well, and you shall have it on your own terms."

"You will need some one besides myself. Do you authorize me to hire an
attendant?"

"Yes, I shall be glad to have you do so. I begin to hope for recovery,