It was a full week and a half before she arrived at her own house.
The doctor was just coming out of the front door.
"How is my husband ?" she asked.
"Not far from well.

He is still weak, of course." "And are you sure," she said, anxiously, "that there is no danger of infection ?" "Not the slightest, madam," said Dr.Townley, coldly.
"I am so glad I can see him once more.

You cannot imagine," she exclaimed, clasping her hands, "how much I have suffered in my suspense!" The doctor remained cool and unmoved.

He didn't feel that he could respond fittingly, being absolutely incredulous.
Mrs.Preston saw it, and was nettled.

She knew that she was a hypocrite, but did not like to have the doctor, by his silence, imply his own conviction of it.
"Mine has been a hard position," she continued.
"Your husband has not had an easy time," said the doctor, significantly.
"But he has had good care--Mrs.Burke was a good nurse ?" "Admirable." "She must be paid well." "I offered her ten dollars a week." "Humph!" said Mrs.Preston, doubtfully, in whose eyes five dollars would have been liberal compensation.