The Captain did not eat much dinner, and was glad when the last course had been cleared away. "Now, Elkington, see if I can go to my father."
The old man soon returned with the message that his master would like to see the Captain at once. He therefore went up the wide staircase, and crossed the landing to his father's room. The door was open, and he could see Watson standing by the bed and giving him something from an invalid cup.
"Father, I'm sorry to find you in bed," he said, as he went forward.
"Yes, Ken, I've had a bad turn this time. I'm glad you've come. Watson, you can go and get your supper; do you hear? And don't come till I ring for you."
Watson put down the cup with a bang, as if she resented being dismissed, and stalked out of the room.
"Has she gone, Ken?"
"Yes, father."
"See if she's shut the door."
No, the door was ajar, but the Captain closed it, and turned the key in the lock.
"I'm very ill, my boy."