Monsieur Bause answered readily that the season being over, and the hotel comparatively empty, Colonel Dacre could have as much attention as if he were in his own home.
“Only the maid servants now sleep on the landing to which he has been moved,” pursued Monsieur Bause. “When we are full we use some of those rooms for bachelors; but there is no fear of our being put to such a necessity in August.”
“Are you quite sure? Pardon me for persisting, Monsieur Bause; but, you see, I feel Colonel Dacre to be doubly dependent upon me, as he appears to have no friends to share my responsibility. It would be a risk to move him now, perhaps; but later on it would be certain death.”
“I assure you, doctor, you need not be anxious on your patient’s account. I will watch over him myself, and see that all your orders are strictly carried out.”
And he looked so trustworthy, and capable of so much, as if he could have managed a dozen sick-rooms and his hotel at the same time. Doctor May could not help saying:
“If you promise me that, I am sure it will be all right.”
“You will have a nurse for the gentleman, doctor, I presume?”
“Most certainly. I am going off at once to see about one, and will endeavor to get her here in a few hours. Meanwhile, the young woman who has been waiting upon Colonel Dacre will be able to do what is necessary, and I shall be in and out several times.”
“The gentleman is very ill, I suppose, sir?”
“Very ill, indeed. I doubt if I can pull him through; and shall call in Doctor Forbes to consult with me, unless there is a marked improvement to-morrow morning.”