Stooping, he looked very closely at the condition of her skin; then shook his head, and said something in an under tone.
"Do you think her seriously ill ?" inquired Mr.Dexter.
"Has there been any unusual exposure; or any strong mental disturbance ?" asked the doctor, not seeming to have heard the question.
"There has been mental disturbance," said Mr.Dexter.
"Of a violent character ?" "She was strongly agitated last night, at something that happened." "Was it of a nature to leave a permanent impression on her feelings ?" "Yes." The answers were made with evident reluctance.
"Her condition is an unusual one," said the doctor, musing; and he resumed his examination of the case.
"Dr.R--, from Boston, arrived to-day;" he looked up, and presented a very grave face to the now seriously alarmed husband.

"I think he had better be consulted." "Oh, by all means," said Mr.Dexter.

"Shall I go in search of him ?" "Do you know him ?" "I do not." "I will go then.

It may save time, and that is important." The doctor went out hurriedly, and in less than five minutes returned with Doctor R--.

The two physicians conferred for some time, speaking in under tones.