In the course of their labor, they observed a few encouraging signals. Toby's gums, which had been uncomfortably pale due to anemia the day before, were beginning to show a tinge of pink, which was a slight but considerable improvement. They spoke to him in a low voice, prodding him to take some time off and recuperate. They comforted him by stroking his tiny head and telling him, "You are so precious, baby boy. You need to get better." Toby was gradually beginning to feel better, despite the fact that the therapy was causing him anguish and that he was exhausted to the highest degree. Even more encouraging was the fact that he had resumed eating, demonstrating an interest in digestive biscuits as well as dry food. This suggested that his body was beginning to restore some of its vigor. The people who came to his rescue maintained their optimism, kept a close eye on his progress, and were determined to nurse him back to health.
