CHAPTER XXVII
WHAT MICHAEL THOUGHT OF IT
'Not to be solitary one must possess, entirely to one's self, a human creature, and belong exclusively to her (or him).'—Guizot.
'How, then, is one to recover courage enough for action?
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By extracting a richer experience out of our losses and lessons.'—Amiel.
Captain Burnett had finished his troublesome piece of business, and was thinking of his return home. His friend was, metaphorically speaking, on his feet again, and Michael was now free to leave London. He had waited, however, for another day or two on Kester's account; the friendly doctor who had undertaken to look into his case had already done wonders. Kester was making rapid progress under his care, and his bright looks and evident enjoyment of his town life reconciled Michael to their long, protracted stay.
'We must certainly go back to Rutherford next week,' he observed one morning, as they sat at breakfast together.
Kester had some appointment with Fred Somers that called him out early, and Captain Burnett good-naturedly left his letters unread, that he might pour out the coffee and attend to his wants.