"It is better she should go alone," says Dr. Bland. "He would be quite unequal to two; and besides,—pardon me,—from what he has said to me I fear there were unpleasant passages between you and him."
"There were," confesses Geoffrey, reluctantly, and in a low tone. "I wish now from my soul it had been otherwise. I regret much that has taken place."
"We all have regrets at times, dear boy, the very best of us," says the little doctor, blowing his nose: "who among us is faultless? And really the circumstances were very trying for you,—very—eh? Yes, of course one understands, you know; but death heals all divisions, and he is hurrying to his last account, poor lad, all too soon."
They have entered the cottage by this time, and are standing in the tiny hall.
"Open that door, Mrs. Geoffrey," says the doctor pointing to his right hand. "I saw you coming, and have prepared him for the interview. I shall be just here, or in the next room, if you should want me. But I can do little for him more than I have done."
"You will be near too, Geoffrey?" murmurs Mona, falteringly.
"Yes, yes; I promise for him," says Dr. Bland. "In fact, I have something to say to your husband that must be told at once."
Then Mona, opening the door indicated to her by the doctor, goes into the chamber beyond, and is lost to their view for some time.