“Greenlaw is there?” Carlyon interrupted.
“Yes—oh, yes! Well, of course, as soon as I knew what had occurred I ran instantly to fetch him. I thought you would say I should do so, though I never supposed it was anything but what might be easily mended. But Greenlaw says he will not last the night, and—”
“Are you telling me that Eustace is still alive?” Carlyon asked sharply.
“I don’t know, but I fancy so. Greenlaw said it could not be many hours, but—”
“Good God, Nicky, why did you not tell me this before? It puts quite a different complexion on the matter!”
“Does it make it better?” Nicky asked hopefully.
“Most certainly it does! One evil consequence may at least be averted. How came you here? In Hitchin’s gig?”
“Yes—and now I come to think of it I have left it standing outside, so I had best—”
“Matthew may drive it back to Wisborough Green. Tell him so! You will find my traveling carriage in the stable yard. Desire Steyning to convey you to the Hall, and say I shall not need him again tonight. Now go, Nicky! And mind you do not talk of this to any save John!”
“Yes, but, Ned, I had as lief—”