The man of science, when told that he suffered from palpitations and exhaustion after any “nervous strain,” the expression substituted by Cuthbert for Guy’s straightforward “when I am frightened,” and also of this means of remedy, made due examination of him, and asked various questions, eliciting that he was easily tired, and that his heart did throb sometimes after over-fatigue or over-hurry, “but not to signify at all, that didn’t matter.”
And could he foretell when periods of nervous excitement were likely to occur, so as to avoid them?
“No,” said Guy; and then he added, while his lips grew a little white, “I want to be told how to deal with the effects of it so that the remedy mayn’t be worse than the thing itself. No one can help me as to the cause.”
“Ah!” said the doctor, thoughtfully. Then he gave various directions as to avoiding fatigue, worry, or excitement. A winter abroad would be good, change of scene and occupation. There was no serious mischief at work at present; but there was need of great care and consideration. And with a gravity showing that he understood one part of the matter, severe restrictions were laid on the use of brandy and everything analogous to it, and other prescriptions substituted. “Mr Waynflete mustn’t be alarmed about himself; care for a year or two would make all the difference. He would grow stronger, and the nervous strain would lessen in proportion.”
Guy looked back at him, but said nothing; and as he took leave, Cuthbert remained for a minute or two.
“That young fellow is a good deal out of health,” said the doctor. “Hasn’t he a mother or any one to look after him?”
“Not a soul capable, except me,” said Staunton. “I’m going to do it as well as I can, and he will let me.”
“Well, remember this: whether he can avoid nervous shocks or no, he must not have them. And he can’t be too much afraid of the brandy. Get him out of whatever oppresses him. It’s the only plan. The heart is weak, and the brain—excitable.”
“Should you like a spell abroad?” said Staunton, as they sat at luncheon at his club.
“I could not go,” said Guy. “That would mean giving up having any concern with the business. And I haven’t enough money.”