"I'm all right," said Hilary, once more, and to prove it he stepped—not very steadily—across the threshold into the hall, and sat down on a chair which had had its place at the foot of the stairs from time immemorial. Euphrasia stood still.
"I think," said Victoria, "that Mr. Vane had better see a doctor. Have you a telephone?"
"No, we haven't," said Euphrasia.
Victoria turned to Mr. Rangely, who had been a deeply interested spectator to this scene.
"A little way down the street, on the other side, Dr. Tredway lives. You will see his sign."
"And if he isn't in, go to the hospital. It's only a few doors farther on."
"I'll wait," said Victoria, simply, when he had gone; "my father will wish to know about Mr. Vane."
"Hold on," said Hilary, "I haven't any use for a doctor—I won't see one.
I know what the trouble is, and I'm all right."
Victoria became aware—for the first time that Hilary Vane's housekeeper had not moved; that Euphrasia Cotton was still staring at her in a most disconcerting manner, and was paying no attention whatever to Hilary.
"Come in and set down," she said; and seeing Victoria glance at Hilary's horse, she added, "Oh, he'll stand there till doomsday."