This, Betty, her eyes straining anxiously toward Brachey, ignored.
3
Dr. Casein then abruptly, speaking in Chinese, sent the servant for Mr. Boatwright, and deliberately led the way into the front room. The others followed, without a word, and stood about silently until the appearance of Mr. Boatwright, who came in rather breathless, mopping his small features.
“How do you do?” he said to Brachey; and for an instant seemed to be considering extending his hand; but after a brief survey of the grimly silent figures in the room, catching the general depression in the social atmosphere, he let the hand fall by his side.
“Now, Mr. Braehey,” remarked Dr. Cassin, with an air of professional briskness, “every one is present. We are ready for the business that brought you here.” Brachey looked about the room; his eyes rested longest on the physician. To her he handed the letter, saying simply:
“This was written within the hour, by Po Sui-an, secretary to His Excellency Pao Ting Chuan. Will you please read it aloud, Dr. Cassin?”
Then, as if through with the others, he went straight over to Betty, who stood by the windows. Quickly and softly he said:
“Brace up, little girl! It is bad news.”
“Oh!” she breathed, “is it—is it—father?”
He bowed. She saw his tightened lips and the shine in his eyes; then she wavered, fought for breath, caught at his hand.