Those words were repeated as if with them a weight of lead had fallen on the listener's heart, and stunned it.
Eustace Trevor stood transfixed for a moment, in silent thought; then turning from the doctor's inquisitive gaze, took two or three turns along the grass, with folded arms, and head sunk low upon his bosom.
At last he paused, and stood once more before the doctor, who still remained steadfastly regarding him.
"I suppose, at any rate, that now, Sir, there can be no reason for my remaining any longer under your charge?"
"I hope, indeed, Mr. Trevor, that there may be but a very little time necessary."
"Necessary! No, I should think not. To-night, Sir, it is my wish to leave your establishment."
The doctor smiled soothingly.
"Come, my dear Sir, not quite so fast as all that—you are not quite—quite well yet."
"Quite well, Sir, as far as concerns your branch of the profession; and when I tell you that, it is my firm conviction that I never ought to have been here, and that I shall take care to make this generally known, I think you will see the expediency of making no attempt to detain me, contrary to my inclination."
The doctor again smiled compassionately. When were his unhappy patients ever known to remain, according to their own pleasure, within those walls?