“Look like an old professional man, Aunt,” he said, laughing, but with a touch of bitterness in his tone. “So much the better for me. The world goes by appearances. It does not like boyish looking surgeons.”
“Ah! it’s a very foolish world, my dear. But now, look here. I am going to have a little extra dinner to-day because Sir Cheltnam is coming, and I want you to promise to come and take your father’s place.”
“Ask Alison.”
“No, my dear; you are the elder, and I ask you. Time after time I’ve had nice things got ready, and you have refused to dine with us. Now promise me you will come this evening.”
“Oh, very well, Aunt, if it will please you.”
“Thank you, my dear; that’s very good of you. It will please me very much.”
“That’s right, then. And, by the way, Aunt, I shall be going back in a few days.”
“Going back, my dear?”
“Yes; my father can be left now.”
“Then the nurse will go with you?” she said, with a look of suspicion in her eyes.