passed by; he had only to put his pale face out of the bedroom door
and the loudest discussion, heated by drink or affection, fell to a
whisper. The surgeon, who had recognized the one dominant wish of
the hopelessly sinking man, gravely retired, leaving Gideon a few
simple instructions and directions for their use. "He'll last as
long as he has need of you," he said respectfully. "My art is only
second here. God help you both! When he wakes, make the most of
your time."

In a few moments he did waken, and as before turned his fading look
almost instinctively on the faithful, gentle eyes that were
watching him. How Gideon made the most of his time did not
transpire, but at the end of an hour, when the dying man had again
lapsed into unconsciousness, he softly opened the door of the
sitting-room.

Hamlin started hastily to his feet. He had cleared the room of his
visitors, and was alone. He turned a moment towards the window
before he faced Gideon with inquiring but curiously-shining eyes.

"Well?" he said, hesitatingly.

"Do you know Kate Somers?" asked Gideon.

Hamlin opened his brown eyes. "Yes."

"Can you send for her?"

"What, HERE?"