"I don't know—wait," said Mary sharply.
Lavery was at the steps, came forward; but Jim sprang out and gave his hand to Mary. Lavery looked pale and worried.
"You'll just have the time to pack a bag.... The doctor isn't positive yet, but looks like typhoid—he's got a high fever."
The coachman was told to wait and they all hurried into the house.
"How long has he been ill?" demanded Mary.
"Well, since we went in, but—"
"Why didn't some one let me know?"
"He didn't want me to.... Now you better get ready. I'll talk to you on the train."
He turned away, perhaps to avoid further questions. Why had he come for her instead of telegraphing?... But she was already on her way upstairs, followed by the three boys and Anna. They stood about in her room and tried to help while she got out her leather bag and put the necessary things in it. She changed her silk dress for one of dark cloth, tied her bonnet with shaking fingers; it was hard for her to hurry. Jim went down and brought her a glass of sherry and some crackers.