“But, indeed, beyond the weakness of her limbs, due to her one single malady, she has good health. She never suffers in mind or body. She has a good appetite, fine spirits, and she enjoys life oven more than we do, I fancy. Think of that, Mr. Harcourt.”
“Yes—I know—but——”
“But she has her illusions, you mean to say? Well, these illusions never disturb her; they soothe and satisfy her. We should accept them.”
“Is she under medical treatment?”
“Dr. Wall attended her during her severe illness, and Dr. Lathrop was called in as consulting physician when disease of the brain began to develop. Dr. Wall has lately ceased his visits, as unnecessary, but Dr. Lathrop comes two or three times a week. He has retired from practice, but he comes to Mrs. Harcourt, because he is something of a specialist on nerves and brain, and also he comes to her for old neighborhood’s sake.”
“What is his opinion of her condition?”
“He thinks that she requires only tonics, full nutrition, fresh air, and such passive exercise as we can give her. He thinks that she may live many years in this condition, but that her final recovery can scarcely be hoped for.”
Harcourt sighed profoundly, and after some little delay said:
“Will you pardon me, madam, if I venture to speak of business?”
“What a question! Of course, business must be spoken of,” said the kindly but very practical hostess.