"Yes, madam." The doctor looked up suddenly. "What makes you ask?"
"It ran in my mind that before your wife died she murmured something about her name being Laura."
"Poor dear! she was truly out of her mind," replied the surgeon. "But it is not to be wondered at—considering what happened to me." And he proceeded to make use of his handkerchief again.
Mrs. Ruthven sank into a chair and gave herself up to bitter reflection. What if this man should take Jack from her? The plantation would seem very lonely without him.
Voices were now heard in the garden, and looking out of the window the lady of the house saw Jack approaching, accompanied by Marion and Old Ben. St. John had taken himself off, in order to get home and exchange his wet clothing for dry garments.
"Oh, Jack! what does this mean?" cried Mrs. Ruthven when she saw that our hero was dripping wet.
"He saved St. John's life, mamma," exclaimed Marion.
"Saved St. John's life?"
"Yes. St. John's boat struck on the rocks, and he went overboard. The current was strong, and he would have been swept away only Jack leaped overboard and went to his assistance."
"You noble boy!" murmured Mrs. Ruthven, and as he came in, by way of one of the long veranda windows, she caught him by both hands.