But when he entered the sitting-room there lay his lordship on the sofa fast asleep.
The sleep lasted for a couple of hours, during which Gammon sat in the room, bearing tedium as best he could.

He was afraid to go away, lest an opportunity of learning something important should be lost; but never had time passed so slowly.

Some neglect of business was involved, but fortunately he had no appointment that could not be postponed.

As he said to himself, it was better to "see the thing through," and to make the most of Greenacre's absence.
When Lord Polperro at length awoke he had command of his intellect (such as remained to him), but groaned in severe pain.

His first inquiry was whether any letter or telegram had arrived.