The doctor looked at her in some doubt for a few moments, and then placed his hand on her shoulder.
"My dear young lady," he said gravely, "I will tell you what I have not dared to tell your father."
"What?" she asked in a low voice, her face growing pale.
"His heart is affected."
"And there is great danger?"
"Yes, great danger. In the event of any sudden shock—" he hesitated.
"Yes—"
"He would probably drop down dead."
"My God!"