servants; but no matter. I'll try them: they are human, I suppose. I'll
hit them between the eyes like a man. Go to the kitchen, Mrs. Briscoe,
and tell them I wish to speak to all the servants, indoors or out."

"Yes, sir."

She stopped at the door, and said, "I had better get back to her, as
soon as I have told them."

"Certainly."

"And what shall I tell her, sir? Her first word will be to ask me what
you wanted me for. I saw that in her eye. She was curious: that is why
she sent me after you so quick."

Dr. Philip groaned. He felt he was walking among pitfalls. He rapidly
flavored some distilled water with orange-flower, then tinted it a
beautiful pink, and bottled it. "There," said he; "I was mixing a new
medicine. Tablespoon, four times a day: had to filter it. Any lie you
like."

Mrs. Briscoe went to the kitchen, and gave her message: then went to
Mrs. Staines with the mixture.

Dr. Philip went down to the kitchen, and spoke to the servants very
solemnly. He said, "My good friends, I am come to ask your help in a
matter of life and death. There is a poor young woman up-stairs; she
is a widow, and does not know it; and must not know it yet. If the blow
fell now, I think it would kill her: indeed, if she hears it all of a
sudden, at any time, that might destroy her. We are in so sore a strait