"Seriously injured," answered the surgeon; "and as I live at some distance from this neighbourhood, I considered it proper to remain with the patient all night. Indeed, I have not left her for a moment since the accident occurred."
"Your attention shall be nobly recompensed, sir," said the earl. "Here is my card, and I am your debtor."
The surgeon bowed low as his eye glanced upon the name of the individual in whose presence he stood.
"And now," continued the nobleman, "answer me one question—candidly and sincerely. Will your patient be scarred by the effects of the fire?"
"My lord, that is more than I can answer for," returned the surgeon. "Fortunately, medical assistance was rendered the moment after the accident occurred; and this circumstance should inspire great hope!"
"Then I will hope," said the earl. "How long an interval do you imagine must elapse ere she may be pronounced convalescent? Or rather, I should have asked, is she in any positive danger?"
"There is always danger—great danger in these cases, my lord. But, should the fever subside in a few days, I should recommend the removal of the patient to some quiet neighbourhood—afar from the bustle of the West End."
"You said that you yourself resided some distance from hence?" observed the earl, after a few moments' reflection.
"My abode is in Lower Holloway, my lord," answered the surgeon; "and my name is Wentworth."
"Holloway is quiet and retired," said the earl; "but is not the air too bleak there at this season?"