"Quite so."
"Then, would it not be well to write to Mrs. Preston? Not that I mean to give up my good nurse just yet; that is, if she is willing to stay."
"I will stay as long as you need me, sir."
"That is well; but Mrs. Preston may wish to return, now that there's no further danger."
"I will write to her at once."
"Thank you."
The following letter was dispatched to Mrs. Preston:
"MRS. PRESTON:—
"Dear Madam: It gives me great pleasure to inform you that
your husband is so far recovered that there is no danger now
of infection. You can return with safety, and he will,
doubtless, be glad to see you. He has been very ill,
indeed—in danger of his life; but, thanks to the devotion of
Mrs. Burke, who has proved an admirable nurse, he is now on
the high road to recovery. Yours respectfully,
"John Townley."
"I think that will bring her," said the doctor.
But he reckoned without his host.