A cursory examination satisfied me that, whatever might be the cause of his fall, congestion of the brain had occurred, and that but few chances for life remained.

So I informed Mrs.Allen.At the words, I could see a shudder run through her frame, and an expression of something like terror sweep over her face.
"His father died of apoplexy," said she in a hoarse whisper, looking at me with a side-long, almost stealthy glance, not full and open-eyed.
"This is something more than apoplexy," I remarked; still observing her closely.
"The fall may have injured him," she suggested.
"The blow on his temple has done the fearful work," said I.
There was a perceptible start, and another look of fear-almost terror.
"For heaven's sake, doctor," she said, rousing herself, and speaking half imperatively, "do something! Don't stand speculating about the cause; but do something if you have any skill." Thus prompted, I set myself to work, in good earnest, with my patient.
The result was in no way flattering to my skill, for he passed to his account in less than an hour, dying without a sign.
I shall never forget the wild screams which rang awfully through the old mansion, when it was announced to Mrs.Allen that the Captain was dead.
She flung herself upon his body, tore her hair, and committed other extravagances.

All the slumbering passions of her undisciplined nature seemed quickened into sudden life, overmastering her in their strong excitement.

So it would have seemed to a less suspicious observer; but I thought that I could detect the overacting of pretence.

I may have done her wrong; but the impression still remains.