“Yes, madam, but I must obey Mr Elthorne. A nurse dare not depart from the doctor’s instructions. Even a slight lapse might mean a serious injury to the patient in her charge.”
“I will take all the responsibility,” said Aunt Anne haughtily. “Have the goodness to allow me to pass.”
Nurse Elisia’s eyes dropped, and there was a faint twitching at the corners of her eyes, but she did not stir.
“Are you aware that the mistress of this household is speaking to you?”
“Hush, madam, pray!”
“Oh, it is insufferable,” cried Aunt Anne, whose anger was rising fast, when she saw a quick, eager look of satisfaction animate the pale set face before her, and at that moment a familiar voice said in a low tone:
“What is the matter, Aunt?”
“Ah, my dear,” she cried; “you are there. I am glad. I declare it is insufferable. I was going in to sit by your father and talk to him.”
“I told Mrs Barnett, sir, that Mr Elthorne was asleep.”
“Yes, my good woman,” said Aunt Anne, “and I told you I should go in and sit with him till he awoke. And, then, really it is insufferable for a hired servant to take so much upon herself.”