"Yes. To establish a hospital there--a cosmopolitan hospital in which government is interested. It is a terrible place, but a medical man knows how to take care of himself. He would have to engage for five years; the pay is very high; and he would have to devote himself to his task, above all in trying to ameliorate--cure if he can, and I believe it possible--the local disease, which is increasing fast. I do not conceal from you that there will be risks; but the man who goes out there for a few years and works, will come back to be loaded with honours, and take a very high position in his profession. A knighthood will probably follow. If I were a young man I would go, but I must content myself at my age with my ward in London. Now, then, there is plenty of time for consideration, but I should like to go back with some idea. I have not spoken yet to a soul, and I need not tell you that it would be a wrench to part with you; but it is your opportunity, and, as I have your future success at heart, I want to see you rise. Will you go?" "I, Sir Denton? It is the opening for a physician." "As much for a surgeon, my dear boy. He must be both. You are as good a surgeon as I am." "Oh, Sir Denton!" "You need not exclaim. I am not blind. I have had vast experience, but I am getting old and weaker. You have all that my experience has taught you, and, in addition, youth and a thoughtful, originating brain. I tell you frankly, because you are not a weak fool who would be puffed up: long before you are my age you will stand far higher than I do. I don't want to send you out there because I am jealous of you," he added laughingly. "But I should not be equal to the task from the medical point of view." "Nonsense, my lad! If I wanted medical help, I would far rather come to you for it than to any man in our hospital. Now, don't decide rashly; take time to think it over. You would not have to go for two or three months. There, I need say no more save repeating this: it is a terrible place from a health point of view, but the man who goes will be able to do something to lessen the risks, and government will help him in his movements for sanitation. Now, I must be off. Pick me a few flowers. Aha! That is charming," he cried, as he saw Isabel waiting with a bunch she had hastily cut in one of the houses. "Thank you, my dear child. Those shall stand in water in my room in memory of a delightful visit. I envy you your life in this charming old place. Good-bye." He shook hands with Isabel again, and walked back to the carriage with Neil, who looked very thoughtful. "You can write and ask any questions," said Sir Denton, "and in a week you will give me your decision." "I will give it you now, Sir Denton," said Neil gravely. "It is no." "Are you sure?" "Quite." "You will not alter your mind?" "No; I shall stay in England--with you."