"Aweel, Lucy Corbet, what think you of my doctor from Newcastle?" asked the old lady when we were in her parlor once more. "Has he not been worth more than all the bitters and bark for our patient?"
"Then you sent for Mr. Cheriton!" said Sir Julius, rather dubiously.
"I suppose, nephew, I can invite what guests I please to my own house!" answered the old lady, drawing herself up.
"Of course, of course, aunt, you have done the best thing possible, and just what I should have proposed, had I been here!" said Sir Julius. "I am very much obliged to you."
"It's a pity you had not thought as much before matters came to this pass!" muttered the old lady, who was rather apt to think aloud. "But, however, all's well that ends well, only remember, nephew, that you have given your consent to the wedding of these young ones, and cannot in honor withdraw a second time."
"I have no wish to withdraw at all!" returned Sir Julius, peevishly. "I wonder why every one takes me for a weak fool with no mind of my own."
"'Tis a wonder indeed!" said the old lady gravely. "But you must have refreshment after your ride. Alice, will you see if the meal is ready?"
Before dinner was served, Mr. Cheriton came down stairs, looking pale and worn enough, but very happy.
"She has taken half a cup of broth, and is sleeping quietly!" said he. "I hope the crisis is safely past, but she is very weak."
"We must try to strengthen her!" said Lady Thornyhaugh.