"Go and do as I said," whispered Guest; and after a while the refreshments were brought, partaken of, and, in spite of his friend's protests, Guest insisted upon passing the night in an easy-chair, dropping off to sleep occasionally, to dream that Stratton was threatening to destroy his life, and waking to find him in his easy-chair thrust back to the side of the fireplace between him and the panelled door. CHAPTER TWENTY FOUR. TWO NIGHTS OF WATCHING. "Thank goodness!" said Guest to himself, as he moved slightly and saw that his companion appeared to be sleeping heavily; but as he rose Stratton followed his example, looking very pale, but more like himself. "Morning; how are you?" said Guest. "Better--much better." "You should have undressed and gone to bed, and you'd have been better still. How's the shoulder?" "Gave me a good deal of pain several times in the night, but it is easier now." "Glad of it, but take my advice; let's have in a doctor, and let him dress it properly." "There's no need," said Stratton quietly. "A wound only needs to be kept from exposure to the air to heal itself." "Well, of all the obstinate fellows!" "Oh, no," said Stratton, with a wan smile. "You see I have been very obedient. If the wound is disposed to turn bad, as I shall soon know, I will have medical advice. If there is no need, surely you can spare me the annoyance of answering a surgeon all kinds of questions, and being tied-down to his routine." "Well, I will not worry you, old fellow, for you do seem to be better." "Much," said Stratton quietly. "I only want to be at peace for a time. I think I shall go into the country." "Will you?" "Y-e-s, I think I will." "With me. Then we'll go as soon as you can start." "No, no," cried Stratton excitedly. "I should be poor company, and would rather go alone." "Not fit. Look here. Happy thought. I'll ask Brettison in." "No, no!" cried Stratton excitedly. "But he's the very man. Quiet, calm, and don't talk. Go and pick buttercups and daisies along with him for a few days, and then come back to me quite _compos mentis_, and we'll see what can be done." Guest made toward the door, but Stratton intercepted him. "I tell you no," he said firmly, "and--and--Brettison is out." "Out?" "Gone into the country." "Humph!" ejaculated Guest, looking at his friend curiously, for there was something in his manner which puzzled him. But Stratton said cheerfully: "Nearly nine. Will you order some breakfast from the tavern?" "Eh, to be sure. Let's go. No; afraid you are not well enough. I'll send Mrs Brade. But no nonsense," said Guest. "I give you my word," said Stratton quietly. "I take it;" and after a visit to the bedroom Guest came back, looking refreshed and ready to go out and order the meal to be brought.