"H'm—not professionally," replied Mr. Ingledew, rubbing his chin. "In point of fact, Mrs. Vane intimated to me that Miss Vane refused to see me—to see a doctor at all. I am sorry, for Miss Vane's own sake, as I think that she is not looking well at present—not at all well."
"There she goes!" cried the General. "We'll have her in, and hear what all this is about. Enid, Enid—come here!"
He had seen her in the conservatory, which ran along one side of the house. He and Mr. Ingledew were sitting in the library, and through its half-open glass door he had caught sight of the girl's white gown amongst the flowers. She turned instantly at his call.
"Did you want me, uncle?"
"Yes, dear. You are not looking well, Enid; we are concerned about you," said the General, going up to her and taking her by the hand. "Why do you refuse to see a doctor, my dear child?"
"But I have not refused, uncle."
"Oh—er—Mr. Ingledew——"
"I understood from Mrs. Vane," said the doctor, "that you did not wish for medical advice, Miss Vane."
Enid colored a little, and was silent for a moment; then she answered, in her usual gentle way—
"I had some disinclination a few days ago to consult a doctor, and perhaps Mrs. Vane has accidentally laid more stress upon my saying so than I intended. But I am quite willing—now—to consult Mr. Ingledew a little."