have been ungracious to draw
attention to that.

"Yes," Mr. Denner ended, folding his little hands on the counterpane, "it
is worth while to have had this indisposition (except for the trouble it
has given others) just to see how good every one is. Gifford has been
exceedingly kind and thoughtful. His gentleness--for I have been very
troublesome, doctor--has been wonderful. Like a woman's; at least so I
should imagine."

The rector had clasped his hands upon his stick, and was looking intently
at Mr. Denner, his lower lip thrust out and his eyebrows gathered in an
absent frown.

"William," he said suddenly, "you've seen the doctor this morning?"

"Yes," Mr. Denner answered, "oh, yes. He is very kind about getting here
early; the nights seem quite long, and it is a relief to see him early."

"I have not seen him to-day," said Dr. Howe slowly, "but yesterday he
made me feel very anxious about you. Yes, we were all quite anxious,
William."

The lawyer gave a little start, and looked sharply at his old friend;
then he said, hesitating slightly, "That--ah--that was yesterday, did I
understand you to say?"

Dr. Howe leaned forward and took one of Mr. Denner's trembling little
hands in his, which was strong and firm. "Yes," he said gently, "but,
William, my dear old friend, I am anxious still. I cannot help--I cannot
help fearing that--that"--

"Stay," interrupted Mr. Denner, with a visible effort at composure,
"I--I quite understand. Pray spare yourself the pain of speaking of it,
Archibald. You are very kind, but--I quite understand."

He put his hand before his eyes a moment, and then blindly stretched it
out to his friend. The rector took it, and held it hard in his own. The
two men were silent. Mr. Denner was the first to speak.

"It is very good in you to come and tell me, Archibald. I fear it has
discomposed you; it was very painful for you. Pray do not allow yourself
to feel the slightest annoyance; it is of no consequence, I--ah--assure
you. But since we are on the subject, perhaps you will kindly
mention--how--how soon?"

"I hope, I trust," answered the rector huskily, "it may not be for
several days."

"But probably," said Mr. Denner calmly, "probably--sooner?"

Dr. Howe bowed his head.

"Ah--just so--just so. I--I thank you, Archibald."

Suddenly the rector drew a long breath, and straightened himself, as
though he had forgotten something. "It must come to us all, sooner or
later," he said gentl