e is in a high fever and a
little inclined to be delirious. The children and I were so frightened
that we sent for you at once. If you will follow me I will take you to
the general's bedroom."

She led the way down a series of corridors to the chamber of the sick
man, which was situated in the extreme wing of the building.

It was a carpetless, bleak-looking room, scantily furnished with a small
truckle bed, a campaigning chair, and a plain deal table, on which were
scattered numerous papers and books. In the centre of this table there
stood a large object of irregular outline, which was covered over with a
sheet of linen.

All round the walls and in the corners were arranged a very choice and
varied collection of arms, principally swords, some of which were of
the straight pattern in common use in the British Army, while among
the others were scimitars, tulwars, cuchurries, and a score of other
specimens of Oriental workmanship. Many of these were richly mounted,
with inlaid sheaths and hilts sparkling with precious stones, so that
there was a piquant contrast between the simplicity of the apartment and
the wealth which glittered on the walls.

I had little time, however, to observe the general's collection, since
the general himself lay upon the couch and was evidently in sore need of
my services.

He was lying with his head turned half away from us. Breathing heavily,
and apparently unconscious of our presence. His bright, staring eyes and
the deep, hectic flush upon his cheek showed that his fever was at its
height.

I advanced to the bedside, and, stooping over him, I placed my fingers
upon his pulse, when immediately he sprang up into the sitting position
and struck at me frenziedly with his clenched hands. I have never seen
such intensity of fear and horror stamped upon a human face as appeared
upon that that which was now glaring up at me.

"Bloodhound!" he yelled; "let me go--let me go, I say! Keep your hands
off me! Is it not enough that my life has been ruined? When is it all to
end? How long am I to endure it?"

"Hush, dear, hush!" said his wife in a soothing voice, passing her
cool hand over his heated forehead. "This is Doctor Easterling, from
Stranraer. He has not come to harm you, but to do you good."

The general dropped wearily back upon his pillow, and I could see by the
changed expression of his face that his delirium had left him, and that
he understood what had been said.

I slipped my