"In me?" cried the damsel, indignantly.
"Yes; he thinks you look delicate," said Mr. Spolger, complacently; "indeed, he suggested several remedies. And if you would see him—"
"No, no!" interposed Marson, quickly. "Really, Jackson, I'm astonished at you. If Florry requires to see a medical man, there is Dr. Japix; but as to letting a man like that Frenchman meddle with her health—why, the very look of him is enough."
"Consumption," said Mr. Spolger, sagaciously; "he looks delicate, I know."
"I think he is a very dangerous man," said Judith, in her quiet, composed voice; "he was a great friend of—" Here she checked herself suddenly.
"Of Melstane," finished Spolger, scowling. "Yes, I know that. And talking about Mr. Melstane—"
"Don't talk about Mr. Melstane," said Marson, sharply.
"Why not?"
Florry answered him, for she was evidently struggling with a fit of hysteria, and as he spoke she arose from her seat and fled rapidly from the room, followed by Judith.
"There," said Marson, in an annoyed tone, "how foolish you are to speak of that scamp!"