And he thought it not impossible that this "gentleman so noble, so compassionate and tender," might be just such a man, and this "fallen angel" such a victim. And he determined to watch and observe. And he further resolved to treat the interesting patient with all the studious delicacy and respect due to a refined and accomplished woman in the full possession of her faculties. If she were really mad, this demeanor would not hurt her, and if she were not mad it was the only proper conduct to be observed toward her, as any other must be equally cruel and offensive. Her bodily health certainly required the attendance of a physician, and Traverse had therefore a fair excuse for his daily visits to her cell.
His respectful manners, his grave bow, and his reverential tone in saying—
"I hope I find you stronger to-day, Madam," seemed to gratify one who had few sources of pleasure.
"I thank you," she would answer, with a softened tone and look, adding, "Yes" or "No," as the truth might be.
One day, after looking at the young physician some time, she suddenly said:
"You never forget. You always address me by my proper title of Madam, and without the touch of irony which others indulge in when 'humoring' me, as they call it! Now, pray explain to me why, in sober earnest, you give me this title?"
"Because, Madam, I have heard you lay claim to that title, and I think that you yourself, of all the world, have the best right to know how you should be addressed," said Traverse, respectfully.
The lady looked wistfully at him and said:
"But my next-door neighbor asserts that she is a queen; she insists upon being called 'your majesty.' Has she, then, the best right to know how she should be addressed?"
"Alas! no, Madam, and I am pained that you should do yourself the great wrong to draw such comparisons."