"But not done? Some one is responsible for these years of pain. You do suffer?"
"Oh, my God! yes. I try to bear it." His eyes filled. "Is it too late?"
"No," said Askew, "it is not." What doubt he had he put aside.
"Then we will see to-morrow."
"An operation!" said Ann, alarmed. A look conquered her. "You will do,
James, whatever Dr. Askew wishes?"
"I will—but don't make me talk any more, Ann—my head aches."
Askew rose. "Please to send up the Drs. McGregor. May I make use of another room?"
"Yes, of course."
Ann Penhallow found Dr. Tom and his father on the porch with Leila and John. She said, "Take the doctors up to my own room, Leila, and I want to talk with John—there are some arrangements to make."
Leila, guiltily conscious of her share in securing the surgeon's interview with her aunt, was glad to accept the hint and the chance to escape.