You can't hush the matter up." "No," said Herbert.

"You did quite right.

Hadn't you better mention exactly what's the matter with me ?" "If I did, you wouldn't understand it," said the doctor, who generally adopted a cheerful, half-humorous tone.

"In plain English, you have two ribs broken, besides a number of contusions, and I'm inclined to suspect your nervous system has received a nasty shock." "And the cure ?" "Complete rest, patience, and perhaps a change of scene when you're able to get about." "That means I'll have to drop all active interest in my business for some time ?" "I'm afraid so; by and by we'll consider when you can resume it." It struck the doctor that Herbert was not displeased with the information; and that seemed strange, considering that he was a busy, energetic man.

He lay silent a while with an undisturbed expression.
"I wonder if you would write a telegram and a letter for me ?" he asked at length.
"With pleasure, if you don't think you have talked enough.