He looked at me out of his half-closed eyes. It struck me that he was making conversation,—saying anything for the sake of gaining time.
‘I remember reading a book entitled “Obscure Diseases of the Brain.” It contained some interesting data on the subject of hallucinations.’
‘Possibly.’
‘Now, candidly, would you recommend me to place myself in the hands of a mental pathologist?’
‘I don’t think that you’re insane, if that’s what you mean.’
‘No?—That is good hearing. Of all diseases insanity is the most to be dreaded.—Well, Atherton, I’m keeping you. The truth is that, insane or not, I am very far from well. I think I must give myself a holiday.’
He moved towards his hat and umbrella.
‘There is something else which you must do.’
‘What is that?’
‘You must resign your pretensions to Miss Lindon’s hand.’