He had only reached the next street, when the first of the
circumstances presented itself in the shape of a friend's carriage,
which drew up at his side. A bright benevolent face encircled by bushy
white whiskers, looked out of the window, and a hearty voice asked him
if he had completed his arrangements for a long holiday. Having replied
to this, Ovid had a question to put, on his side.

"How is our patient, Sir Richard?"

"Out of danger."

"And what do the other doctors say now?"

Sir Richard laughed: "They say it's my luck."

"Not convinced yet?"

"Not in the least. Who has ever succeeded in convincing fools? Let's
try another subject. Is your mother reconciled to your new plans?"

"I can hardly tell you. My mother is in a state of indescribable
agitation. Her brother's Will has been found in Italy. And his daughter
may arrive in England at a moment's notice."

"Unmarried?" Sir Richard asked slyly.

"I don't know."

"Any money?"