In a few moments Dr. Bright was succeeded by Dr. Wiseman, the least important of the three medical examiners.
He saw Mr. Berners, came right up to him and grasped his two hands with both his own, and with the tears springing to his eyes, exclaimed:
"I hope to heaven our examination of this lady may eventuate in her release from captivity."
There was something in the delicacy of the physician's words, as well as in the earnestness of his manner, that deeply affected Sybil's husband. He pressed the young doctor's hands as he replied:
"I thank you very much for your earnest sympathy; and I need not say how devoutly I join in your prayer that this investigation may terminate in the release of my dear and most innocent wife."
The physician then passed into the cell, which was opened for his admittance, and then closed as before.
A half hour went by, and he came out again.
"I do not know what conclusion my colleagues have come to, Mr. Berners; but for myself, I do not think this lady is, or has been for some time, a responsible agent," he said, in passing Sybil's anxious husband.
"You hold your consultation immediately?" inquired Mr. Berners.
"Yes, immediately, in the warden's private parlor, which Mr. Martin offered for our use," answered Dr. Wiseman, as he bowed and went down stairs.