The fatigue and anxiety of the last few days had had their inevitable result on his health, and though the penalty had been postponed, it was coming to account at last.
When his worthy guardian returned on the following day, he was much shocked to find his ward really ill.

He did his best.

He tried to induce the patient to make an effort to "shake off" his ailments.

He sat up late in his room at night, talking and attempting to amuse him.
He even purchased a few amateur specifics; and finally, when the boy was as ill as ill could be, called in a pettifogging practitioner, who might be trusted to bungle the case.
"Regular bad case," said that learned gentleman, after the third or fourth visit.

"May last a week with care." The good captain naturally grew concerned.