The doctor, with his usual bluntness, did not hesitate to make it known that this unusual visit was of a private nature.

Caroline promptly withdrew, and the two men were left alone in the great hall.

The lights in the billiard-room and drawing-room were extinguished.

Every one in the house except a few servants had retired.
"Sir Everard," the doctor began, "this return of Lady Dominey's has taken me altogether by surprise.

I had intended to-morrow morning to discuss the situation with you." "I am most anxious to hear your report," Dominey said.
"My report is good," was the confident answer.