"Not from her." He was blazing with wrath.
"No; but from whom?"
"Never mind. From some one who knew the facts. It is the truth."
"But it is not the truth. I have been in love with Lois Huntington since I first met her."
"Then why in the name of heaven did you treat her so?"
"How? I did not tell her so because I heard she was in love with some one else--and engaged to him. God knows I have suffered enough over it. I would die for her." His expression left no room for doubt as to his sincerity.
The old man's face gradually relaxed, and presently something that was almost a smile came into his eyes. He held out his hand.
"I owe you an apology. You are a d----d fool!"
"Can I see her?" asked Keith.
"I don't know that you can see anything. But I could, if I were in your place. She is on the side verandah at my hospital--where Gates's tavern stood. She is not much hurt, though it was a close thing. The ball struck a button and glanced around. She is sitting up. I shall bring her home as soon as she can be moved."