It probably did him the world of good.

As for the collars--he may have been noticing Dr.Callandar's.

Mrs.Sykes says the doctor sends all his laundry to the city." "You don't say?
And is it different from ours ?" "I--yes, I think it does look different." "How did you happen to notice it?
Oh, Esther, you aren't really carrying on with that strange young man, are you ?" The girl's cheek flamed.

The question, she knew, was void of offence.
"Carrying on" meant nothing, but the homely phrase seemed suddenly very displeasing--horribly vulgar! Her very ears burned.

What if, some time, he should hear a like phrase used to describe their wonderful friendship?
The thought was acute discomfort.