CHAPTER XXIV
FLOWERING OF THE LOTUS
Dr. Cairn led the way into the library, switching on the reading-lamp upon the large table. His son stood just within the doorway, his arms folded and his chin upon his breast.
The doctor sat down at the table, watching the other.
Suddenly Robert spoke:
"Is it possible, sir, is it possible—" his voice was barely audible—"that her illness can in any way be due to the orchids?"
Dr. Cairn frowned thoughtfully.
"What do you mean, exactly?" he asked.
"Orchids are mysterious things. They come from places where there are strange and dreadful diseases. Is it not possible that they may convey—"