`` He must not lie here , '' said Mrs. Bhaer , and stooping over him she gently called his name . He opened his eyes and looked at her , as if she was a part of his dream , for he smiled and said drowsily , `` Mother Bhaer , I 've come home . '' The look , the words , touched her very much , and she put her hand under his head to lift him up , saying in her cordial way , `` I thought you would , and I 'm so glad to see you , Dan . '' He seemed to wake thoroughly then , and started up looking about him as if he suddenly remembered where he was , and doubted even that kind welcome . His face changed , and he said in his old rough way , `` I was going off in the morning . I only stopped to peek in , as I went by . '' `` But why not come in , Dan ? Did n't you hear us call you ? Teddy saw , and cried for you . '' `` Did n't suppose you 'd let me in , '' he said , fumbling with a little bundle which he had taken up as if going immediately . `` Try and see , '' was all Mrs. Bhaer answered , holding out her hand and pointing to the door , where the light shone hospitably . With a long breath , as if a load was off his mind , Dan took up a stout stick , and began to limp towards the house , but stopped suddenly , to say inquiringly , `` Mr. Bhaer wo n't like it . I ran away from Page . '' `` He knows it , and was sorry , but it will make no difference . Are you lame ? '' asked Mrs. Jo , as he limped on again . `` Getting over a wall a stone fell on my foot and smashed it . I do n't mind , '' and he did his best to hide the pain each step cost him . Mrs. Bhaer helped him into her own room , and , once there , he dropped into a chair , and laid his head back , white and faint with weariness and suffering . `` My poor Dan !
drink this , and then eat a little ; you are at home now , and Mother XXXXX will take good care of you . ''
Bhaer Dan Jo head home load mind morning peek shone