North was lying back on the sofa with his eyes nearly closed, and Mary seated near, holding his hand, and bent towards him as if listening to his breathing.
Suddenly he started—crying out wildly as his eyes opened with a dilated stare; but as he tried to rise, Mary’s soft white hand was laid upon his forehead, and he sank back with a sigh of restfulness; his eyes closed again, and he lay breathing calmly.
Salis looked at Mr Delton, but the old man did not stir. Here was the case developing itself before him, and he could not study it better than unobserved.
Salis was about to re-enter the room, when Dally came and summoned him by pulling his sleeve.
“What is it?” he said sharply, as he turned.
“Mrs Milt, to see you, sir.”
Salis hesitated.
“I will wait till you return,” whispered the old doctor. “I am well employed.”
Salis hurried to where the old housekeeper was waiting.
“I’ve just heard that master is here, sir,” cried the old woman excitedly. “Oh, I am thankful! I found these papers in the study, sir; they were in an envelope directed to me, sir, and this one for the doctor master knows in London.”