CHAPTER XIX
[STILL WITH A SMILE]
The five stared at the three, then, after momentary inspection, as if for the purpose of satisfying herself on certain points by visual inspection, Miss Bewicke moved towards Mr Holland.
'Oh, Guy, I am so glad to see you better! I do hope that you're all right.'
The words were, perhaps, a trifle banal, possibly because, for once, the nimble-witted lady was doubtful as to what was exactly the proper thing to say. Apparently, however, it was of little consequence what she said. The gentleman was still incapable of appreciating at their just value either words or phrases. That he knew she spoke to him was probable, for he turned and regarded her with vacant looks and glassy eyes; but that he realised who she was, or what she meant, was more than doubtful. Mumbled words proceeded from his stammering lips.
'All right--yes--quite all right--nothing wrong.'
Miss Broad looked at Miss Bewicke with eyes in which the tears still trembled. She appealed to her in a whisper, in tones which quivered.
'Won't you let them fetch a doctor?'
'Let them! Stevens, fetch the man at once.'
This time Stevens went in search of medical aid.