"Oh, well, now, dear me," remonstrated Mr. Denner feebly, "Miss Lois must not have a moment's uneasiness about me,--not a moment's. Pray tell her I am doing nicely; and it is really of no consequence in the world,--not the slightest." Then Mr. Denner began to speak of Gifford's kindness, and how good every one in the village had been to him; even Mary had softened wonderfully in the last few days, though of this the sick man did not speak, for it would seem to imply that Mary had not always been all she might be, and, in view of her present kindness, it would have been ungracious to draw attention to that. "Yes," Mr. Denner ended, folding his little hands on the counterpane, "it is worth while to have had this indisposition (except for the trouble it has given others) just to see how good every one is. Gifford has been exceedingly kind and thoughtful. His gentleness--for I have been very troublesome, doctor--has been wonderful. Like a woman's; at least so I should imagine." The rector had clasped his hands upon his stick, and was looking intently at Mr. Denner, his lower lip thrust out and his eyebrows gathered in an absent frown. "William," he said suddenly, "you've seen the doctor this morning?" "Yes," Mr. Denner answered, "oh, yes. He is very kind about getting here early; the nights seem quite long, and it is a relief to see him early." "I have not seen him to-day," said Dr. Howe slowly, "but yesterday he made me feel very anxious about you. Yes, we were all quite anxious, William." The lawyer gave a little start, and looked sharply at his old friend; then he said, hesitating slightly, "That--ah--that was yesterday, did I understand you to say?" Dr. Howe leaned forward and took one of Mr. Denner's trembling little hands in his, which was strong and firm. "Yes," he said gently, "but, William, my dear old friend, I am anxious still. I cannot help--I cannot help fearing that--that"-- "Stay," interrupted Mr. Denner, with a visible effort at composure, "I--I quite understand. Pray spare yourself the pain of speaking of it, Archibald. You are very kind, but--I quite understand." He put his hand before his eyes a moment, and then blindly stretched it out to his friend. The rector took it, and held it hard in his own. The two men were silent. Mr. Denner was the first to speak. "It is very good in you to come and tell me, Archibald. I fear it has discomposed you; it was very painful for you. Pray do not allow yourself to feel the slightest annoyance; it is of no consequence, I--ah--assure you. But since we are on the subject, perhaps you will kindly mention--how--how soon?" "I hope, I trust," answered the rector huskily, "it may not be for several days." "But probably," said Mr. Denner calmly, "probably--sooner?" Dr. Howe bowed his head. "Ah--just so--just so. I--I thank you, Archibald."