The child was so young and so feeble, it seemed doubtful whether it would live.

What need then to grieve the old earl by the story of his folly and his disobedience?
Let the secret remain.
Stephen Letsom quite agreed with him in this; no one knew better than himself how dangerous was the telling of bad or disagreeable news to a sick man.

And then Lord Charlewood added: "You have indeed been a friend in need to me, Dr.Letsom.Money can no more repay such help as yours than can thanks; all my life I shall be grateful to you.

I am going now to Italy, and most probably shall remain there until the earl, my father, grows better, or the end comes.

When I return to England, my first care shall be to forward your views and prospects in life; until then I want you to take charge of my child." Stephen Letsom looked up, with something like a smile.
"I shall be a rough nurse," he observed.
"You understand me," said Lord Charlewood.