“Now, Mr. Soyer, tell us about your visit to head-quarters. Did you see Lord Raglan?” “Certainly I did.” “And how were you received?” asked the captain. “Admirably,” I replied. “I hear his lordship is a most amiable and kind man.” “He is indeed, I assure you; and I cannot but express my gratitude for the reception he afforded me. I am certain he will be very sorry to hear of Miss Nightingale’s serious and sudden illness, for he inquired very kindly after her this morning.” My companions made many more inquiries respecting the events of the day; but I had forgotten all, I was so absorbed by this unexpected blow. It seemed likely to upset all our plans. I spoke to the captain of the several visits Miss Nightingale had paid to the sick officer at Dr. Henderson’s at the time he was so dangerously ill, remarking upon her neglect of herself by going all day without refreshment, and braving all weathers. We could not help noticing how singular it appeared, that after her hard labours at Scutari, and escaping both the cholera and fevers which raged there, she should be so suddenly taken ill at Balaklava. It was indeed very melancholy and remarkable. At last Mr. Bracebridge returned. He informed us that Miss Nightingale was a little better, but that such a violent case of fever required a certain time. “Mrs. Roberts,” he continued, “is with her, and the boy to go for the doctor, in case he should be needed.” “Poor boy!” said the captain, “how he cried when he saw his mistress carried upon a stretcher by soldiers!” “Yes,” said Mr. Bracebridge, “he is a very affectionate lad.”