“Indeed, doctor,” cried her ladyship, “she shall have everything she can wish for. As to peace of mind, why what is there to disturb it? It is our peace of mind that suffers. Poor Sir Grantley Wilters is half distracted about her.”
“Is he?” said the doctor, bluntly. “Why, what has it got to do with him?”
“Hush, doctor! Fie!” exclaimed her ladyship, smiling. “There, you are making somebody blush. It is too bad.”
Maude darted an indignant glance at her mother, and with flaming cheeks and eyes full of tears left the room.
“Poor girl, she is so hysterical,” said her ladyship. “Ah, these young girls, these young girls! Of course you will stay lunch, doctor?”
“Yes,” he said shortly, “I intended to. I’m precious hungry, and you’ve put me out of my usual course.”
“I’m so sorry,” said her ladyship; “but it was very good of you to come,” as the door opened and the earl came toddling into the room.
“Ah, doctor,” he said, “doosed glad to see you. Did you hear my leg was threatening again?”
“No,” said the doctor, shaking hands. “We must have a consultation.”
“And forbid so many good things, doctor,” said her ladyship, with asperity.