Once Nellie had been conscious, had asked "Is he safe?" and, receiving her answer, had closed her eyes again. Ethel Roberts was in no danger; the shock would pass. Of Janet there came no news, save that she was alone with her mother, and cried to be alone even from her mother. James Roberts, in his frenzy, had indeed wrought havoc, and Philip, as he walked and smoked, vehemently, though silently, cursed the ways of this world.
Presently Mrs. Hodge came out in her bonnet.
"Nellie is well looked after," she said. "I am going down to see how that poor little Roberts is."
Philip did not offer to go with the good woman. He watched her heavy figure hastening down the hill, wondering that she seemed almost happy in her busy services of kindness. He could do nothing but fret, and smoke, and try to keep out of the way.
A smart brougham drove up. It stopped by him, and Tora Smith jumped out.
"How is she?" she cried.
"Spink thinks she will pull through," answered Philip; "but of course she's in great danger still."
"May I go to her?" asked Tora.
"She sees no one," he replied in surprise.
"Oh, I don't mean to see her. I mean to stay and help—to nurse her, you know."