Then the doctor examined his pulse, temperature and respiration, and even lifted the eyelids and looked at the eyes.
Then he turned to Mr. Campbell and said:
“I feel like giving up the case. I honestly confess I can make nothing of it. The man’s appetite, digestion and assimilation are excellent. His pulse is strong, his temperature normal, his respiration perfect, and yet he seems too weak to leave his bed, and he falls into delirium or stupor day and night.”
“Pray do not give up the case, doctor. If there is any one you would like to have called in consultation now——”
The rector paused.
“Well, yes, sir, there is. Sir Ichabod Ingoldsby, the great authority on the diseases of the brain and nervous system. And to get him from London to the North Riding of Yorkshire would cost at least two hundred pounds, even should his engagements permit him to come.”
“Never mind what it costs, we will send for him. The young squire has specially enjoined me to spare no expense, as he insists on footing all the bills. Give me Sir Ichabod Ingoldsby’s address. I will telegraph him at once. If his engagements will permit he may be here this afternoon.”
“Scarcely this afternoon. He will have to make arrangements. Besides, he always travels in the middle of the night to save time. If all should go well we may see him to-morrow morning. Here is his address,” said Dr. Hobbs, and he tore a leaf from his tablets and handed it to the rector. Then both gentlemen left the room.
CHAPTER XXXVII
A FLIGHT FOR FREEDOM
Gentleman Geff had heard every word spoken by the doctor and the rector. He dared not wait the inspection of the skilled London specialist, the great court physician, who would be sure to detect the deception so successfully imposed upon the simple country practitioner.