For a long time Reb did not move at all, and the smallest of the Seven Sleepers grew more and more despondent. He closed his eyes and was saying a prayer to Goel when all of the sudden a faint voice said, “Hey, what you doin’ there, Wash?” Wash's eyes flew open, and he saw that Reb was moving his head and watching him. Wash leaned forward and took Reb's hand. “You're awake. Hey, it's good to see you come out of it.” Reb blinked slowly, and the usual cheerful spirit was gone. “I guess … not out of it yet. Never felt so bad, not even when I had malaria.” Wash squeezed the limp hand in his and worked up a smile. “You're gonna be all right. Mr. Valar, he's gone to get you some medicine that's gonna get you all well again.” Reb smiled faintly. “Sure do hope so, Wash, sure do. I'd hate to know I'm gonna feel this bad the rest of my life.” The two of them were silent for a long time. Occasionally Wash said a word to establish communication. Finally, Reb looked up out of hollow eyes, and a faint grin touched his lips.
