The professional poise and coolness for which he was noted were gone, and he showed a degree of excitement and uncertainty that alarmed the anxious husband.

What was its meaning?
Did it indicate apprehension for the condition of his patient, or--something else?
A closer look into the young physician's face sent a flash of suspicion through the mind of Mr.Voss, which was more than confirmed a moment afterward as the stale odor of wine floated to his nostrils.
"Were you at Mr.Birtwell's to-night ?" There was a thrill of anxious suspense in the tones of Mr.Voss as he grasped the physician's arm and looked keenly at him.
"I was," replied Doctor Angier.
"Did you see my son there ?" "Yes, sir." "At what time did you leave ?" "Less than an hour ago.

I had not retired when your summons came." "Was Archie there when you left ?" "No, I think not." "Are you sure about it ?" "Yes, very sure.

I remember now, quite distinctly, seeing him come down from the dressing-room with his hat in his hand and go through the hall toward the street door." "How long ago was that ?" "About an hour and a half; perhaps longer." A groan that could not be repressed broke from the father's lips.
"Isn't he at home ?" asked the young physician, turning round quickly from the bed and betraying a sudden concern.
"No; and I am exceedingly anxious about him." The eyes of Mr.Voss were fixed intently on Doctor Angler, and he was reading every varying expression of his countenance.
"Doctor," he said, laying his hand on the physician's arm and speaking huskily, "I want you to answer me truly.

Had he taken much wine ?" It was some moments before Doctor Angier replied: "On such occasions most people take wine freely.