To the doctor’s consternation, Gaunt became feverish, and the fever was diagnosed to be malaria. In fact, many of the men had begun to suffer from the same disease, in spite of the quantities of quinine that had been served out. Edward Drake was glad of the opportunity for action, and busied himself in nursing the sick.
The following day the doctor announced that Gaunt’s temperature was dangerously high.
“He has a strong constitution, but it’s the two things coming together,” he said, and Drake could see that he was very anxious.
The heat was terrible although the ship was fitted with electric fans, and as he sat in the sick bay, Edward Drake felt that he too was reaching the end of his strength. But Gaunt’s voice sounded in his ears, and he was compelled to listen to his delirious ravings.
It was of the vow that he spoke and of his love for his wife. He seemed to be living again the last few weeks and for the first time Drake really understood how great was his love for Lady Mildred, and what tremendous strength of character he must possess to have been able to keep the promise that he had made.
And Gaunt must die, ignorant of whether his sacrifice of self had gained success or failure. At last the fever broke and the delirium ceased, but the millionaire was very weak and would require careful nursing.
Drake went to his cabin, but sleep was far away, for he was thinking of his brother, and of Lady Ethel. How should he face her and tell of Lindsay’s death? Now he believed that she loved his brother, and in his imagination he could see the stricken look come into her eyes.
What were they doing? Lady Mildred must have known that they were sailing on the Saxon or she would not have gone to the wharf, and it was natural to think that she would remember their talk of the Congo. They had discussed the whole scheme in her presence. Surely she would not remain inactive?
In the morning he was awakened by a summons from Gaunt and he went to him immediately.
“I am much better this morning. I was wondering if we had done enough for our purpose. They tell me that more of the men are sick. Wouldn’t it be as well to steam away from this pestilential coast?” Gaunt asked wearily.