"Yes. And if you really think it wise to visit the scene of disaster this morning, will you not permit me to accompany you?"
"Wise!" she said, with a look of wonder and a cheerless little laugh. "My family is not conspicuous for its wisdom. But I shall be very glad to have you go with me. I am going immediately. Will you see my father first?"
"Yes," he said, rising.
Dr. Underwood had already heard the news. He was up and nearly dressed when he answered Burton's knock at his door.
"So you think you're all right again," the latter said.
"It doesn't make any difference whether I am all right or not," the doctor said impetuously. "I've got to get out. You've heard about the fire?"
"Yes."
"I would have given my right hand to prevent it."
"You weren't given the choice," said Burton coolly, "so your hand is saved to you and you will probably find use for it. What's more, you are going back to bed, and you will stay there until I give you leave to get up."
"The devil I am! What for?"