"Yes, of course," she said shortly; "the master can't be left."
The Captain noticed that she omitted the usual "sir" in speaking to him; but Watson's bad temper was well-known to him, and he was not surprised.
"Call me, Watson, if I can be of any use."
But Watson pretended not to hear, and began putting coal on the fire, and noisily rattling the fire-irons as she did so. The old man had closed his eyes, and was apparently fast asleep. So the Captain crept out of the room and softly closed the door behind him.
On the landing outside, he found the old butler.
"How is the master, sir?"
"No worse, I think, Elkington; he seems to be sleeping now. My old room, I suppose?"
"Yes, sir; your bag is there."
"Good night, Elkington."
"Good night, sir. I hope you'll find all comfortable."