Frances consenting, they went back to the barge, and Nelly, returning to the tavern, sought Betty. Hamilton was not to be seen, and in reply to Nelly's inquiries, Betty told her that he had fainted at the pump and had been taken upstairs to a room.
"His wounds are deeper than he supposed," said Betty, "and the loss of blood has been very great. We have sent for a surgeon."
"I'll go to see him," said Nelly.
"No," returned Betty, shaking her head emphatically. "Father says that fever may set in, and that Master Hamilton must not be disturbed. You cannot see him."
"Have your way, Betty," answered good-natured Nell. "And Betty dear, I was only teasing you about the table linen."
"I understand. Just a little sport with the barmaid," returned Betty, a note of sarcasm ringing sharply in her usually soft voice.
"Yes, Betty. I'm sorry. Forgive me. Here are two guineas."
"I don't want them," answered Betty, clasping her hands behind her.
"Again forgive me," said Nelly. "I have been wrong altogether in my opinion of you. You are a good, beautiful girl, and I'm coming back to see you very soon."
"Please don't come on my account, Mistress Gwynn," returned Betty.