He opened the cabin door and disappeared within, while Isaacson walked on to the first saloon.
He had to wait in it for nearly ten minutes before he heard Mrs. Armine coming. But he would not have minded much waiting an hour. He felt within him the determination of an iron will now completely assured. And strength can wait.
Mrs. Armine came in and shut the door gently behind her.
"I'm sorry to keep you waiting," she said. "I was taking my husband to his cabin. He's going to bed. Where is Doctor Hartley?"
"He's gone to his cabin."
Something in Isaacson's tone seemed suddenly to strike her, and she sent him a look of sharp enquiry.
"Will you sit down for a minute?" he said.
She sat down at once, still keeping her eyes fixed upon him. He sat down near her.
"Doctor Hartley is going away to-morrow morning," Isaacson said.
"He promised to stay several days with us to preside over my husband's convalescence."