"And, pray, how long is it since you took up the trade of a physician, Mr. Carleton?" said Constance.
"It is just about nine years, Miss Constance," he answered, gravely.
But that little reminder, slight as it was, overcame the small remnant of Fleda's self-command the vinaigrette fell from her hands, and her face was hid in them; whatever became of pain, tears must flow.
"Forgive me," said Mr. Carleton, gently, bending down towards her, "for speaking when I should have been silent Miss Evelyn, and Miss Constance, will you permit me to order that my patient be left in quiet."
And he took them away to Mrs. Evelyn's quarter, and kept them all three engaged in conversation, too busily to trouble Fleda with any attention, till she had had ample time to try the effect of the quiet and of the vinegar both. Then he went himself to look after her.
"Are you better?" said he, bending down, and speaking low.
Fleda opened her eyes and gave him, what a look! of grateful feeling. She did not know the half that was in it; but he did. That she was better, was a very small item.
"Ready for the coffee?" said he, smiling.
"Oh, no," whispered Fleda "It don't matter about that never mind the coffee!"
But he went back with his usual calmness to Mrs. Evelyn, and begged that she would have the goodness to order a cup of rather strong coffee to be made.