"Yes—very long."
"What's the matter?"
"Concussion of the brain, pneumonia and shock. You are much better now, but you mustn't talk so much or you may have a relapse."
He asked no more, but passed his hand over his brow in a bewildered sort of way. Presently, he began again:
"Does my wife come to see me?"
The nurse stopped in her work and looked at him curiously. In surprise, she exclaimed:
"Your wife! Have you a wife?"
It was his turn now to be surprised. In somewhat peevish tone he said:
"Of course I've a wife—everyone knows that."
"What's her name?"