Jack went at once to unfasten the linen bands. The twins, Monica and Grace, stood watching from the doorway. Mary was at his side to help.
"Don't let 'em come in," said Herbert, looking into Jack's face.
Jack nodded and went to the door.
"He wants to be left alone," he said.
"Mustn't we come, Bow?" said Monica, making queer yellow eyes at him.
"Best not," he said. "Don't let anybody come. He wants absolute quiet."
"All right." She looked at him with a heavy look of obedience, as if making an offering. They were not going to question his authority. She drew Grace away: both the girls humble. Jack slowly and unconsciously flushed. Then he went back to the bed.
"I want something," murmured Herbert wanly. "Send that other away."
"Go away, Mary. He wants a man to attend to him," said Jack.
Mary looked a long, dark look at Jack. Then she, too, submitted.