“This is Mr. Darnborough, nurse, a very great friend of his lordship. He must see him alone, as they have confidential business to transact.”
“Thank you, Jenner,” replied Jean, rather stiffly. “If his lordship wishes to see Mr. Darnborough alone he will probably tell me so.”
And, surveying the visitor with some suspicion, she ushered him to the sick man’s side.
“Ah! my dear Darnborough!” cried his lordship, gaily, as soon as he recognised him. “I’m very glad to see you. I heard that you were in Cairo a week ago. Well, how are things in Egypt?”
“Just as full of trouble as ever,” was the reply; “but——” and he glanced inquiringly at Jean.
“Oh, yes, I forgot,” exclaimed the Earl. “Nurse Jean, might I ask the favour that you leave Mr. Darnborough to talk with me alone for half an hour? I shall be all right—and my medicine is not due until five o’clock.”
Jean smiled at the pair.
“Certainly; I will come back when it is time for your lordship to have the next dose,” she answered.
And with that she passed noiselessly out of the room, the Earl’s dark eyes following her.