However, it is over now--the sooner it is all over the better." "My dear fellow," the Doctor said earnestly, "don't take this thing too much to heart.

I don't wish to try and persuade you that it is not a grave misfortune, but even suppose this trouble takes the very worst form possible, I do not think you will come so very badly out of it as you anticipate.

Even assuming that you are unable to do your part in absolute fighting, there may be other opportunities, and most likely will, in which you may be able to show that although unable to control your nerves in the din of battle, you possess in other respects coolness and courage.

That feat of yours of attacking the tiger with the dog whip shows conclusively that under many circumstances you are capable of most daring deeds." Bathurst sat looking down for some minutes.

"God grant that it may be so," he said at last; "but it is no use talking about it any more, Doctor.