It was early eveing when Arnold received a telephone call about Mr. Simmons. Phil answered and told Arnold he had a phone call.
"Shortman, were you expecting a phone call?"
"No. Why?"
"There's a call for you long – distance."
"From where?"
"Hawaii."
"Oh."
Arnold took the telephone from Phil and said, "Hello?"
He listened to what the woman over the telephone was telling him. He wasn't expecting a phone call from Mr. Simmons unless it was an emergency.
"Hello, Mr. Simmons," Arnold said.
"Hello, Arnold."
Arnold could tell his former teacher did't seem to be in a happy mood, so he let Mr. Simmons do the talking.
"What's wrong?" Arnold asked.
"I'm in the hospital, Arnold.'
Arnold didn't like that sort of news.
"That's no good, Mr. Simmons. Do I have to come out? I still have schoolwork ot do.'
"I know, Arnold. I guess it makes sense for you to stay behind. The doctors are telling me I have food poising."
"That's no fun, Mr. Simmons. Was it something you ate?"
"Could be, but I'm not sure what it is."
"Do you want to come back home and get some rest before you start your new job?"
"I'd like that."
"All right. Call when you're at the airport."
"I will. Before we disconnect, I was just wondering if you found a replacement."
"Yes, we found one. My friends and I don't like him. We don't seem to get along."
"Give it time, Arnold. Maybe you will change your mind about this new teacher."
"For now we're not getting along. See you when you return."
Then Arnold left the conversation. He didn't want to share this with his friends just yet, but he will. Not fun getting sick on your vacation, that's for sure.
Mr. Simmons was released from the hospital the next day. He checked out of the motel he was staying and headed for the airport. He didn't want to call Arnold when he made it safely in Hillwood. Once he made it to his house safely, he decided to rest for a while. He did have a chance to prepare for his new job for his new students.
It was Monday. He felt refreshed today then he was when he was released from the hospital. He made it to the campus before nine that morning. He hoped today would be a success. And it turned out he was right. He met the nurse and also some of the other teachers. They seemed to be friendly with him, he told himself. He wouldn't be seeing anymore of Arnold and his classmates for a while. It looked like he moved on.