I was alarmed last night, and if I had not been forced to hurry away to a dying patient, I certainly would not have left you; but my mother herself is something of a doctress, and Martha an excellent nurse.

I saw the case was a fainting-fit, not necessarily dangerous.

What brought it on, I have yet to learn, and all particulars; meantime, I trust you really do feel better ?" "Much better," I said calmly.

"Much better, I thank you, Dr.John." For, reader, this tall young man--this darling son--this host of mine--this Graham Bretton, _was_ Dr.John: he, and no other; and, what is more, I ascertained this identity scarcely with surprise.

What is more, when I heard Graham's step on the stairs, I knew what manner of figure would enter, and for whose aspect to prepare my eyes.