They hurried forward and presently stood at the door of Cadworthy.
"You'd best knock afore you enter," said the elder. "We're both in disgrace here, and come as strangers. I had a difference with your father last time we met. Ned Baskerville is tokened to that woman that killed Mark. I could not hear and keep dumb. I cursed my brother in my rage, and I owe him an apology."
Rupert knocked at the door, and his sister May answered it. Her eyelids were red with tears and her manner agitated.
"How's your father?" asked Humphrey.
"Very bad, uncle. 'Tis a great doubt if he'll get better, doctor says."
"Then be sure he will. I've come to see him."
Mrs. Baskerville appeared behind May. She was very pale, but appeared collected.
"I'm sorry—terrible sorry," she said. "I've told dear master that I'd sent for Rupert and for you, Humphrey, but he won't see neither of you. 'Tis no good arguing about it in his state; but I pray God he'll change his mind to-morrow."
Rupert kissed his mother.
"Bear up," he said. "With his strength and great courage he'll weather it, please God. You know where I am—not five mile away. I'll come running the moment he'll see me."