"Oh, I have no reason, sir; only I'm a curious woman—always was. Thank you, sir."

"Did you think you knew him?"

"Oh no; but he's like some one I knew once. I'm sleepy now—I'm much better."

"Well, good night. Nurse, I don't think she's so well. Watch her carefully."

"Is the young man going to be a doctor, Dr. Vernon?" inquired the patient, suddenly.

"Yes, and a very promising student he is."

"Has he—has he—a brother?" she asked in a low voice.

"I don't know. What interests you so much in this particular student, may I ask?"

She laughed in an odd, constrained manner, and replied—

"Indeed, sir, you may ask much easier than I can answer. I have no reason at all."