"Yes—I remember," Annie found herself saying. "He had to take a long holiday—and—But—but that is not—not—"
"It is essential that he should greatly lessen work now. I tell you both honestly, I don't like these attacks; and this is the third, I believe, within a fortnight."
Annie looked bewildered, even while scarcely taking in the full sense of his words. She could only feel that something more terrible lay behind, something not yet touched upon. But for her father's sake, she dared not ask questions, till she should see Mr. Rawdon alone.
Doubtless, Mr. Rawdon too purposed putting off until then the needful telling. Mr. Wilmot was of a different mind.
"Annie, my child, did you happen to hear what Mr. Rawdon and I were talking about when you came in?"
"Yes, father," she whispered.
"That comes of stealing in upon folks without warning," said Mr. Rawdon.
"What did you hear?" Mr. Wilmot asked.
Annie hid her face in her hands.
"Wilmot, I don't like this for you," the doctor said.