He
had not taken off his gloves, and a certain air of purposeful gravity
replaced his usual leisurely manner.
"Good-morning, Mrs. Levice," he said, taking her hand in his, and looking
searchingly down at her. "How are you feeling this morning? Any starts or
shakes of any sort?"
"No; I am beginning to feel as impassive and stupid as a well-fed animal.
Won't you sit down, Doctor?"
"No; I have a consultation in a very short time. Keep right on as you have
been doing. I do not think it will be necessary for me to call for several
days now; probably not before Friday."
"And to-day is Tuesday! Am I to see no one till then?"
"No one but those you have seen. Pray do not complain, Mrs. Levice," he
continued rather sternly. "You are a very fortunate invalid; illness with
you is cushioned in every conceivable corner. I wish I could make you
divide some of your blessings. As I cannot, I wish you to appreciate them
as they deserve. Do not come down, Miss Levice," as she moved to follow
him; "I am in a great hurry. Good-morning."
"How harassed he looked! I wonder who is his patient!" observed Mrs.
Levice, as Ruth quietly returned to her seat. A sunbeam fell aslant the
girl's preoccupied face. The doctor's few words had given her food for
thought.
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