There was nothing but Mrs.Foston Rowe's empty place at the table and the cup of bouillon, to remind them of what had happened.
"Was it a faint ?" Lenora asked.
"We shall know directly," the Captain replied.

"Better keep our places, I think.

Steward, serve the dinner as usual." The man held out his hand to withdraw the cup of bouillon, but Quest drew it towards him.
"Let it wait for a moment," he ordered.
He glanced at the Captain, who nodded back.

In a few moments the Doctor reappeared.

He leaned down and whispered to the Captain.
"Dead!" The Captain gave no sign.
"Better call it heart failure," the Doctor continued.