"Jist as readily, my lord, as he wad gang to ony tramp 'at sent for 'im at sic a time," returned Malcolm, who did not relish either the remark or its tone.
"What do you mean by that? You don't think it such a serious affair, do you?"
"My lord, ye haena a chance."
The marquis was dumb. He had actually begun once more to buoy himself up with earthly hopes.
Dreading a recall of his commission, Malcolm slipped from the room, sent Mrs. Courthope to take his place, and sped to the schoolmaster. The moment Mr. Graham heard the marquis's message he rose without a word and led the way from the cottage. Hardly a sentence passed between them as they went, for they were on a solemn errand.
"Mr. Graham's here, my lord," said Malcolm.
"Where? Not in the room?" returned the marquis.
"Waitin' at the door, my lord."
"Bah! You needn't have been so ready. Have you told the sexton to get a new spade? But you may let him in; and leave him alone with me."
Mr. Graham walked gently up to the bedside.