“He was feverish before he received the wound,” said Marian, in a whisper.  “I fear he has been going far beyond his strength.”

“I entreat you, sir, not to leave him,” said Mr. Vosburgh, “until you can give us more hope.”

“Rest assured that I shall not.  I am the family physician, and I shall secure for him in the morning the best surgical aid in the city.  All that can be done in these times shall be done.  Hereafter there must be almost absolute quiet, especially when he begins to notice anything.  He must not be moved, or be allowed to move, until I say it is safe.  Perhaps if all retire, except myself and Thomas, he will be less agitated when he recovers consciousness.  Margy, you make good, strong coffee, and get an early breakfast.”

They all obeyed his suggestions at once.

The servant showed Mr. Vosburgh and his daughter into a sitting-room on the same floor, and the poor girl, relieved from the necessity of self-restraint, threw herself on a lounge and sobbed and moaned as if her heart was breaking.

Wise Mr. Vosburgh did not at first restrain her, except by soothing, gentle words.  He knew that this was nature’s relief, and that she would soon be the better and calmer for it.

The physician wondered at the presence of strangers in the Merwyn residence, and speedily saw how Marian felt towards his patient; but he had observed professional reticence, knowing that explanations would soon come.  Meanwhile he carefully sought to rally his patient, and watched each symptom.

At last Merwyn opened his eyes and asked, feebly:  “Where am I?  What has happened?”

“You were injured, but are doing well,” was the prompt reply.  “You know me, Dr. Henderson, and Thomas is here also.  You are in your own room.”

“Yes, I see,” and he remained silent for some little time; then said, “I remember all now.”

“You must keep quiet and try not to think, Mr. Merwyn.  Your life depends upon it.”

“My mind has a strong disposition to wander.”

“The more need of quiet.”

“Miss Vosburgh is here.  I must see her.”

“Yes, by and by.”

“Doctor, I fear I am going to be out of my mind.  I must see Miss Vosburgh.  I will see her; and if you are wise you will permit me to do so.  My life depends upon it more than upon your skill.  Do what I ask, and I will be quiet”

“Very well, then, but the interview must be brief.”

“It must be as I say.”

Marian was summoned.  Hastily drying her eyes, she tried to suppress her strong emotion.

Merwyn feebly reached out his hand to her, and she sat down beside him.

“Do not try to talk,” she whispered, taking his hand.

“Yes, I must while I am myself.  Dr. Henderson, I love and honor this girl, and would make her my wife should she consent.  I may be dying, but if she is willing to stay with me, it seems as if I could live through everything, fever and all.  If she is willing and you do not permit her to stay, I want you to know that my blood is on your hands!  Marian, are you willing to stay?”