They were expecting him that evening at Dr Drummond's, and there it was his intention to go.

But on his way he would call for a moment to see Advena Murchison.

He had something to tell her.

It would be news of interest at Dr Drummond's also; but it was of no consequence, within an hour or so, when they should receive it there, while it was of great consequence that Advena should hear it at the earliest opportunity, and from him.

There is no weighing or analysing the burden of such a necessity as this.