A bolt clicked behind the metaphysical healer, who turned with the alarm of a trapped mouse and essayed to push the door. Then, remembering what seemed more profitable game in front, she repeated her question, but in a ruffled tone, "Some member of your family?"
Charley laughed in spite of himself.
"Not of my family, but a relative," he said. "It is my cousin who is sick in this room, and I called to get you outside of the door. I beg your pardon for the seeming rudeness."
Miss Bowyer now pushed on the door in vain.
"You think this is a gentlemanly way to treat a lady?" she said, choking with indignation.
"It doesn't seem handsome, does it?" he said. "But do you think you have treated Mrs. Martin in a ladylike way?"
"I was called by her husband," she said.
"You are now dismissed by the wife."
"I will see Mr. Martin at once, and he will reinstate me."
"You will not see Mr. Martin. I shall not give you a chance. I am going to report you to the County Medical Society and the Board of Health at once. Have you reported this case of diphtheria, as the law requires?"