WALPOLE. I’ll go, if you dont mind, Mrs. Dubedat. I have an appointment. Before I go, let me say that I am quite agreed with my colleagues here as to the character of the case. As to the cause and the remedy, thats not my business: I’m only a surgeon; and these gentlemen are physicians and will advise you. I may have my own views: in fact I HAVE them; and they are perfectly well known to my colleagues. If I am needed—and needed I shall be finally—they know where to find me; and I am always at your service. So for to-day, good-bye. [He goes out, leaving Jennifer much puzzled by his unexpected withdrawal and formal manner].
SIR PATRICK. I also will ask you to excuse me, Mrs Dubedat.
RIDGEON [anxiously] Are you going?
SIR PATRICK. Yes: I can be of no use here; and I must be getting back. As you know, maam, I’m not in practice now; and I shall not be in charge of the case. It rests between Sir Colenso Ridgeon and Sir Ralph Bloomfield Bonington. They know my opinion. Good afternoon to you, maam. [He bows and makes for the door].
MRS DUBEDAT [detaining him] Theres nothing wrong, is there? You dont think Louis is worse, do you?
SIR PATRICK. No: he’s not worse. Just the same as at Richmond.
MRS DUBEDAT. Oh, thank you: you frightened me. Excuse me.
SIR PATRICK. Dont mention it, maam. [He goes out].
B. B. Now, Mrs Dubedat, if I am to take the patient in hand—
MRS DUBEDAT [apprehensively, with a glance at Ridgeon] You! But I thought that Sir Colenso—