“No,” he replied, not a muscle of his face relaxing. “May I ask why not?”
“It is not a matter of individual judgment.”
“But Mrs. Boatwright will refuse to see you.”
“I am sony, but Mrs. Boatwright will have to see me and at once. And not alone, if you please. I don't care to allow her to dismiss what I have to say without consideration.”
Miss Hemphill considered; finally went up into the dispensary, past the waiting unfortunates on the steps. Brachev stood erect, motionless, like a military man. After a moment, Miss Hemphill came out, followed by another woman.
“This is Dr. Cassin,” she said; adding with a slight hesitation as if she found the word unpalatable—“Mr. Brachey.”
The physician at once took the matter in hand.
“You will please tell us what you have to say, Mr. Brachey. It will be better not to trouble Mrs. Boatwright.”
Brachey made no reply to this speech; merely stood as if thinking the matter over. Then his eye caught' a glimpse of something pink and white that fluttered past an up-stairs window. Then, still without a word, he went on to the residence, mounted the steps and rang the bell.
The two women promptly followed.