And if it were said Angelica was too ill to see any one, then they would demand that a doctor be called in--and a doctor would mean exposure.

Their visits must be permitted; no doubt of that; but if dear Angelica were only careful, extremely careful, and kept her head, all would go well.
Yes, summarized Mr.Pyecroft, the best plan for them was to remain here for the present.

Then when the safe and appropriate moment arrived, they could make their get-away.
From quite other reasons, Mrs.De Peyster accepted this plan.

After the strain of the past week, particularly after the wild emotional oscillations of the preceding night, she wished just to lie there in the dusk, and breathe--and breathe--and breathe some more--and recover life.
Matilda suggested that she bring up breakfast for Mrs.De Peyster, and Mr.Pyecroft begged her to discover and set out something below for him, for his stomach was a torturing vacuum.

Matilda went down, leaving Mr.Pyecroft behind in the room, discussing further details of their immediate campaign; and presently she returned, trembling, with a tray, Jack and Mary just behind her.