But Doctor Hartley interrupted with quiet firmness. One quality he seemed to have in the fullest abundance. He seemed to be largely self-possessed.
"It always clears the ground to be frank, I find," he said, smoothing out some creases in his ducks. "I don't require a consultation, Doctor Isaacson. I don't consider it a case that needs a consultation at present. Directly I do, I shall be glad to call you in."
Isaacson looked down at the rug beneath his chair.
"You consider Mr. Armine going on satisfactorily?" he asked, looking up.
"It's a severe case of sunstroke. It will take time and care. I have decided to stay aboard for a few days to devote myself entirely to it."
"Very good of you."
"I have no doubt whatever of very soon pulling my patient round."
"You don't see any complications in the case?"
"Complications?"
The tone was distinctly, almost alertly, hostile. But Isaacson reiterated coolly: