Next morning she finally made up her mind; so the pony-chaise was ordered round, and she was driven into Nullington. Calling at the Vicarage on her way, she took Miss Kettle into her confidence.
"Am I doing right, Maria, think you?"
"Yes, I think you are."
"Then you must accompany me. You have no objection?"
"Not the least in the world."
Dr. Jago was at home; and the young ladies, leaving the carriage with the groom, were shown into his consulting-room. Turning round from a case he was packing, the doctor changed colour, as if from annoyance, when he saw his visitors. The transitory expression passed, however; he greeted them civilly, apologising for the disorder of the place, and invited them to sit.
"I hear that you are about to quit Nullington, Dr. Jago," began Miss Winter, as she took the chair he placed.
"True, madam," he replied. "I have purchased a more lucrative practice in London. What can I have the honour of doing for you?"
"I have called to ask you a few questions, Dr. Jago. I hope you will be able to answer them."
The Doctor bowed.