"Emaciated, and as obstinate as——"
Mr. Chandos checked the loud voice; and the doctor, turning into the parlour, caught sight of me.
"I never was famous for civility you know, Mr. Harry, but I confess I ought not to abuse Lady Chandos before this young lady: I was going to say 'obstinate as a mule.' Your mother is obstinate."
"I know it," replied Mr. Chandos, lifting his eyes to the doctor's. "That is one of the worst features of the case. They are all bad enough."
"And it can't be remedied. Unless—but there might be danger attending that. Besides—well, well, we must do the best we can; it would not answer to try experiments on Lady Chandos."
Up to the word "besides," Dr. Laken seemed to be forgetting that I was in the room; with the recollection he stopped, making the break. Mr. Chandos rang for refreshments to be served, and I gathered up my work to leave them alone.
"I wish you could remain for the night, Dr. Laken."
"So do I. But it's of no use wishing it, Mr. Harry. I'll see what I can do towards spending a couple of days here next week."
They were the last words I heard. In half an hour the pony carriage was ordered round, and the doctor went away, Mr. Chandos driving.