"Some people think a great deal of the Hay Diet," suddenly remarked Maud. "I daresay it is very good, though I myself have never had any trouble with my digestion. But Joseph has to be more careful. Rich food never agrees with him."
Sturry, who had been conferring with the footman in the doorway, approached Joseph's chair, and bent over it, murmuring bodingly: "Dr Stoke, sir."
Joseph leaned forward. "Stephen, my boy! The doctor!"
"You'd better take him up," said Stephen.
"You don't wish to be present? You have a right to be there."
"Thanks, not in the middle of dinner."
Joseph put back his chair, and rose, with what was felt to be a gallant attempt at a smile. "It shall be as you like, old fellow. I understand."
"I imagine you might."
"Hush! No bitter words tonight!" Joseph said, as he left the room.
He found the doctor in the hall, handing his coat and hat to the footman. "Stoke!" he said. "You know why you have been sent for? I needn't tell you."