‘Good God!’ cried Paul; ‘do I remember?’
‘Did you ever diagnose that case? the doctor asked.
‘No. Do you mean to say that her mind is affected, that——
‘You never guessed?’ asked Laurent, leaning across to him and grasping him by the arm—‘you never guessed? Upon your life and honour?’
‘Guessed? Guessed what?’
‘Now,’ said Laurent, ‘I am going to hurt you, and I cannot help it. I am sorry, but it must be.’
‘Speak out, man!’ gasped Paul—‘speak out!’
‘That,’ said Laurent, ‘was delirium tremens.’
They had three miles to travel, and not another word was spoken on the road; but as they passed the doctor’s house a voice called out to him, and the driver pulled up.
‘Stay with me a moment, Mr. Armstrong,’ said Laurent ‘I will but give this man an ordonnance for the pharmacien, and I will be with you. Drive home, Victor!’