"I have not the slightest doubt you will be entirely recovered in a few days at most," said Sir John reassuringly; "you have caught a severe cold."
"Nothing of the sort, I assure you. I have had colds before, and I know better."
"What, better than your doctor?" The stern face relaxed, and Sir John laughed.
"Well, better than my future son-in-law. Now I beg you not to be obstinate. Give me something potent—one of those drugs that work such instantaneous wonders."
"I fear they are not in the Pharmacopoeia."
"I don't think it is kind of you to discourage me."
"But if I make you well in a week, will not that satisfy your Grace?"
"I shall be radiant."
"I will write you a prescription."
"Thanks! What an invaluable husband you will make with all that knowledge at your finger ends! I need have no misgivings as to Ethel's health, and she has always been so subject to chills. The risk of entrusting one's daughter to an unobservant man is shocking, but to a physician! To have for one's daily companion a great and renowned doctor, what an advantage—what a security!"