"I did not hear you come in," she murmured with that trace of accent which lent charm to her speech.
"I tried to be quiet because I thought he might be just dropping off."
"Yes, I think he is asleep. I slipped in to have a little look at him."
She glanced again at the motionless figure, then impulsively drew her arm through Esther's and led her towards the far side of the room.
"Tell me, nurse," she whispered with a little confidential appeal.
"Just how long does this illness last? Usually, I mean?"
"About six weeks, as a rule, Lady Clifford," Esther replied, puzzled, thinking surely the questioner must have found out all this.
The French woman gave a sigh which suggested nerves frayed to the breaking point.
"Six weeks! What an endless time to be in suspense!"
"But you won't be in suspense the whole of that time," Esther hastened to assure her. "If he passes a certain point safely, we needn't be anxious. Unless, of course, he should have a relapse."
"Ah, yes, yes, I remember! And when exactly does that point you speak of come?"