Neil remained silent for a few minutes, and Sir Denton rose to go.
“There, then, my dear boy,” he said in a different tone, “I consider, then, that the appointment is settled and you will go?”
“Yes, Sir Denton. My preparations will be very few. I shall be ready to go by this vessel if the authorities are willing.”
“And God speed you in your work!”
“And God speed me in my work!” said Neil solemnly.
Sir Denton grasped the young surgeon’s hand, holding it firmly.
“Come and dine with me to-night, and we’ll have a long chat over it. I dare say I can give you a few useful hints. I must go to the hospital now. Good-bye for the present.”
But Neil held his hand firmly still.
“Wait a moment,” he said hoarsely. “You accuse me of want of confidence in you. I am not the kind of man who babbles about the strongest feeling of his nature.”
“No, no, my dear boy; forgive me. And I ought not to have torn open your wound again by my thoughtless question.”