The superintendent resumed his work.
"Have you made out the report on Miss Marsh's case?"
"Yes, sir."
The stenographer was busy searching through a mass of papers when Collins reappeared.
"Will you see Dr. Zacharie, sir?" inquired the old man.
"Yes—show him in," replied the superintendent.
Collins half opened the door and Dr. Zacharie entered, full of authority. Like most charlatans who find it necessary to deceive the world, the physician tried to cover up his shortcomings by noisy bluster. Advancing to the desk, his chest inflated with self-importance, he greeted Mr. Spencer in a patronizing tone:
"Good morning, Mr. Spencer. Well, how is she to-day?"
The superintendent shook his head, as if much discouraged.
"Rather restless, I should say." Handing a paper to the physician, he added: "Here's the report."