"A chill first. Bronchitis, with complications. He cannot last many hours now. At this moment he is not conscious."
"Will he know me?"
"I hope so. He has asked for you incessantly, poor little lad. Theodosia would not consent, until yesterday afternoon, to have you sent for. I feared then that it might be too late. The boy was so distressed that she had to give way."
Lettice shivered at the thought of Theodosia; not with reference to herself. "It is terrible for Mrs. Bryant!" she murmured.
"Yes; and the boy has seemed to turn from her in this illness. It has been most painful. My dear, will you take off your wraps; and then you must have supper. After that you shall see him."
"O let me go to him first. We had supper at home."
"You must take something more now."
She had no choice as to submission, and obedience was the quicker mode. Fatigue could not be thought of; and she had no desire for sleep. Felix at least was glad to avail himself of the food provided; and Lettice did her best to satisfy Dr. Bryant.
"You are looking well in health. Not the worse for London!" he said, after an earnest scrutiny.
"Felix takes such care of me."