“I left him there.”

“Does he intend to come back, or stay where he is?”

“I don’t know, but I do not see what good he can do there.”

“I hope we shall hear better news when he returns.”

“Now, Mr. Soyer, tell us about your visit to head-quarters. Did you see Lord Raglan?

“Certainly I did.”

“And how were you received?” asked the captain.

“Admirably,” I replied.

“I hear his lordship is a most amiable and kind man.”

“He is indeed, I assure you; and I cannot but express my gratitude for the reception he afforded me. I am certain he will be very sorry to hear of Miss Nightingale’s serious and sudden illness, for he inquired very kindly after her this morning.”