"He is being very brave," she said. "But of course, naturally, he is nervous."
He nodded. "Well, I guess we needn't wait for Jake. Let's go up! He'll keep a stiff upper lip if you're there."
He got up with the words; his bony, yellow hand closed upon her arm, kindly, reassuringly, confidently.
The burden of her anxiety grew magically lighter. She felt immensely comforted by reason of that friendly pressure. She prepared to lead the way.
Capper paused a moment. "I am going to have five minutes' talk with the patient," he said to Dr. Burrowes. "Will you be kind enough to follow on when the time is up? Raff, you can make your anatomical study right now, but be at my disposal in five minutes! Lord Saltash, maybe you will stay behind and show them the way."
He made his dispositions with the calm air of a man accustomed to obedience; and then, his hand still upon Maud's arm, he turned with her to ascend the stairs.
A great shivering fit assailed her as they went. She fought it resolutely down.
"Say, you're not worrying any?" he questioned. "It seems to me that it's you Jake ought to be thinking about. What have you been doing since I saw you last?"
"Nothing, nothing," she said hastily.
Capper grunted. "That's a very unhealthy occupation, especially for a woman."