Day of Reckoning
Page 40
Tommy smiled.
“I won’t let you die, Grandfather. Remember the walking riddle? Remember? You said to think of it when I was scared and it would help us, like a lucky charm. I’m doing that now. Four legs, two legs, three legs, Grandfather. I won’t let you die.”
The old man closed his eyes again, and Tommy leaned forward insistently: “Grandfather! Answer the riddle. Who is it?”
Judge Pearson seemed to awaken. He snorted, half-smiled, and answered. “Man.”
Tommy reached out and grabbed hold of the judge’s hand. For just an instant the old man felt all the child’s youth and future flood through his own veins, as if all his wounds were sucking at the boy’s inexhaustible fund of vitality. It coursed through him and he felt a great satisfaction inside.
“I won’t let you!” the boy insisted fiercely.
“I know,” replied the old man.
“Really. I’m not just saying it. I won’t.”
“I know.”
They were quiet for an instant.
“I’m tired,” said the judge. “I’m very, very tired. Three legs.” Tommy squeezed his hand, and he tightened his grip in reply.
They waited then, gently linked together, just as they had throughout the past week, for whatever would arrive next.