But when she was a mile or two from Callendar, she saw a boy on a pony. The boy, who must have known her by sight, stopped and handed her a telegram. She had to pay several shillings for the delivery, or intended delivery of the message, so far from the station. The boy galloped away, congratulating himself on having been spared a long ride, and Miss Rowan tore open the envelope left in her hands. The message was brief: "Mr. Carr is seriously ill. Come at once. You will be met in London." Madeline did not scream or faint. She gave one low moan of pain, set her teeth, and with the face of one in a dream drove as quickly as she could to Callendar, straight to the railway station. Fortunately, or rather unfortunately, she had money with her, so she did not waste time in going to Mr. Douglas. In spite of the crushing blow she had received the girl had all her wits about her. A train would start in ten minutes' time. She took her ticket, then found an idler outside the station, and paid him to take the pony and carriage back to the farm, with the message as repeated to Carriston. The journey passed like a long dream. The girl could think of nothing but her lover, dying, dying--perhaps dead before she could reach him. The miles flew by unnoticed; twilight crept on; the carriage grew dark; at last--London at last! Miss Rowan stepped out on the broad platform, not knowing what to do or where to turn. Presently a tall well-dressed man came up to her, and removing his hat, addressed her by name. The promise as to her being met had been kept. She clasped her hands. "Tell me--oh tell me, he is not dead," she cried. "Mr. Carr is not dead. He is ill, very ill--delirious and calling for you." "Where is he? Oh take me to him!" "He is miles and miles from here--at a friend's house. I have been deputed to meet you and to accompany you, if you feel strong enough to continue the journey at once." "Come," said Madeline. "Take me to him." "Your luggage?" asked the gentleman. "I have none. Come!" "You must take some refreshment." "I need nothing. Come!" The gentleman glanced at his watch. "There is just time," he said. He called a cab, told the driver to go at top speed. They reached Paddington just in time to catch the mail. During the drive across London Madeline asked many questions, and learned from her companion that Mr. Carr had been staying for a day or two at a friend's house in the west of England. That yesterday he had fallen from his horse and sustained such injuries that his life was despaired of. He had been continually calling for Madeline. They had found her address on a letter, and had telegraphed as soon as possible--for which act Miss Rowan thanked her companion with tears in her eyes.