"What is the fault of Queechy air, sir?" said Mr. Carleton, approaching them.
"Sir!" said the doctor, exceedingly taken aback, though the words had been spoken in the quietest manner possible,--'it--a--it has no fault, sir,--that I am particularly aware of--it is perfectly salubrious. Mrs. Plumfield, I will bid you good-day;--I--a--I hope you will get well again!"
"I hope not, sir!" said aunt Miriam, in the same clear hearty tones which had answered him before.
The doctor took his departure and made capital of his interview with Mr. Carleton; who he affirmed he could tell by what he had seen of him was a very deciduous character, and not always conciliating in his manners.
Fleda waited with a little anxiety for what was to follow the doctor's leave-taking.
It was with a very softened eye that aunt Miriam looked at the two who were left, clasping Fleda's hand again; and it was with a very softened voice that she next spoke.
"Do you remember our last meeting, sir?"
"I remember it well," he said.
"Fleda tells me you are a changed man since that time?"
He answered only by a slight and grave bow.