tell you.

NICHOLLS (_a look of apprehension coming over his face_). Is it--about
her sickness?

GAYNOR. Yes.

NICHOLLS. Then--it's serious?

GAYNOR. It's pulmonary tuberculosis--consumption.

NICHOLLS (_stunned_). Consumption? Good heavens! (_After a dazed
pause--lamely._) Are you sure, Doctor?

GAYNOR. Positive. (Nicholls _stares at him with vaguely frightened
eyes._) It's had a good start--thanks to her father's blind
selfishness--but let's hope that can be overcome. The important thing
is to ship her off to a sanatorium immediately. Carmody wouldn't hear
of it at first. However, I managed to bully him into consenting; but I
don't trust his word. That's where you can be of help. It's up to you
to convince him that it's imperative she be sent away at once--for the
safety of those around her as well as her own.

NICHOLLS (_confusedly_). I'll do my best, Doctor. (_As if he couldn't
yet believe his ears--shuddering!_) Good heavens! She never said a word
about--being so ill. She's had a cold. But, Doctor--do you think this
sanatorium will----?

GAYNOR (_with hearty hopefulness_). Most certainly. She has every
chance. The Hill Farm has a really surprising record of arrested
cases--as good as any place in the country. Of course, she'll never be
able to live as carelessly as before, even after the most favourable
results. She'll have to take care of herself. (_Apologetically._) I'm
telling you all this as being the one most intimately concerned. I
don't count Carmody. You are the one who will have to assume
responsibility for her welfare when she returns to everyday life.

NICHOLLS (_answering as if he were merely talking to screen the
thoughts in his mind_). Yes--certainly. Where is this sanatorium,
Doctor--very far away?

GAYNOR. Half an hour by train to the town. The sanatorium is two miles
out on the hills--a nice drive. You'll be able to see her whenever
you've a day off. It's a pleasant trip.

NICHOLLS (_a look of horrified realisation has been creeping into his
eyes_). You said--Eileen ought to be sent away--for the sake of those
around her----?

GAYNOR. That's obvious. T.B. is extremely contagious, you must know
that. Yet I'll bet she's been fondling and kissing those brothers and
sisters of hers regardless. (_Nicholls fidgets uneasily on his chair._)
And look at this house sealed tight against the fresh air! Not a window
open an inch! (_Fuming._) That's what we're up against in the fight
with T.B.-