A week after this Aylmer quite unexpectedly fell ill. At first it was reported that he had taken a bad chill when out hunting, and would be all right again in a few days. Then the doctor began to look grave, and said something about sudden developments and possible danger. Keith heard the news in the mess-room, and went straight to Aylmer's quarters. He found the poor fellow tossing about, flushed and miserable, with Strause in close attendance.
"Keith!" he cried, the moment Gavon Keith entered the room. "Oh, I am glad to see you! So you have come at last!"
"At last!" cried Keith; "I only heard of your illness an hour ago."
"But I have been sending you note after note," said the poor young fellow. "I wanted you so badly last night—yes, and the night before too."
"I'll sit up with you to-night, Aylmer," said Strause.
"Oh, it was dreadful last night!" moaned the boy. "I was alone, and I got so giddy, and thought for a moment that I was dying."
"Why has he not a proper nurse?" said Keith, turning sharply round and facing Strause.
"He doesn't wish for a nurse, nor does the doctor think it necessary. I am prepared to give up all my time to him."
"O Keith, do sit down; don't go quite yet," said Aylmer. His voice was low and his breathing rapid.
Keith did sit down by the bedside. He perceived at a glance that Aylmer's blue eyes were full of suppressed trouble, and resolved, if possible, to see him when Strause was absent. Presently Aylmer gave Keith a glance full of meaning, and the next moment looked in his cousin's direction. Keith bit his lips with annoyance. Strause had evidently no intention of leaving the room. To Keith's relief, however, a moment later an orderly arrived with a message desiring Strause to go to see the colonel immediately. Strause was obliged to comply. The moment he did so Aylmer clutched Keith by the hand.