Her expostulations ceased abruptly, however--as did the man's maledictions--and a new voice fell upon the hearing of the two friends.
"Now, my good people, do you want anything here? If you will wait a few moments you shall be attended to."
Then Jim and Koko saw the doorway of the surgery proper filled by a portly form.
"You are Mr Mortimer, I believe?" said the new arrival. "I am Dr Taplow. I am greatly obliged to my friend Sir Savile for obtaining your services for me, and must thank you for acting as my locum tenens to-day. I am accompanied, however, by the gentleman I myself have appointed to take charge of the practice, and so I shall not require you after to-day."
Jim bowed. "Very good, sir," he replied.
"By the way--are you hurt?" inquired Dr Taplow.
"It's only a scratch," said Jim, reaching down his hat.
"Indeed! I was afraid it was something worse ... er--if you will let me know what I owe you, I will send you a cheque ... er ... come in, Dr Perkins, come in ... er--good evening, Mr Mortimer!"
CHAPTER XI.
MR MAYBURY'S RESOLVE.