A good deal surprised, Ruth went into the house and reappeared in two or three minutes warmly wrapped up.
"That's right," the doctor said; "jump in."
Ruth Powlett was the first to speak.
"I suppose it is true, sir, that poor Mr. Carne is dead?"
"Yes, he died at two o'clock. Ruth, I have a curious thing to tell you about him; but I will wait until we get through the village; I have no doubt that it will surprise you as much as it surprised me."
Ruth said nothing until they had crossed the bridge over the Dare.
"What is it?" she asked at last.
"Well, Ruth, at present it is only known to Mr. Vickery, Mr. Volkes, and myself, and, whatever happens, I want you to say nothing about it until I give you leave. Now, Ruth, I have some sort of idea that what I am going to tell you will relieve your mind of a burden."
Ruth turned pale.
"Relieve my mind, sir!" she repeated.