"Certainly, there cannot be the slightest objection to that," replied Mr. Manners; so poor Percy's bandages were carefully removed, and the doctor examined the injured place, asking various questions as he did so.
"Did Dr. Graves consider amputation necessary here?" said he at last, in a tone which made hope suddenly spring up in Percy's heart.
"Indispensable," Mr. Manners briefly replied.
"I should wait a little longer myself," observed the doctor. "Try stronger nourishment, and a little change of air—this house lies low," he added, glancing at the tanner's yard. "I think that time and care might work wonders for him. I have known worse cases than this where the cure was complete."
Percy could not speak—Willy was breathless with delight—both looked at the attorney, and their hearts beat fast.
"If such is your decided opinion," replied Mr. Manners, "why, let no step be taken at present."
"And might I suggest," said Mr. Presgrave, with benevolent eagerness, "that if change of air be recommended for Percy, most welcome would he be to Ivy Lodge. I know that I speak the sentiments of my niece; indeed, it was but this morning that she expressed a wish to have him with her. I need not say we would watch over him as though he were our own."
Willy clapped his hands with delight at the idea.
"Would such an arrangement be advisable, Dr. Prince?" said the attorney. "I must place him in your hands."
"Nothing could be better," the doctor replied. "I could attend him at the Lodge with far greater convenience, and the air there is peculiarly favourable to his recovery. My carriage is waiting at the door—should you wish it, I would carry him there at once. It is all in my way."