He must have been sleeping very lightly, if he was sleeping at all; for he was broad awake the next minute after his housekeeper's light knock had sounded on the door.

In less than five minutes he came out of his room half-dressed.
Nancy had told him that Mrs.Halliday had taken fresh alarm about her husband, and wished for further advice.
"She sent you to tell me that ?" asked Philip.
"Yes." "And when does she want this new doctor called in ?" "Immediately, if possible." It was seven o'clock by this time, and the morning was brightening a little.
"Very well," said Mr.Sheldon; "her wishes shall be attended to directly.

Heaven forbid that I should stand between my old friend and any chance of his speedy recovery! If a stranger can bring him round quicker than I can, let the stranger come." * * * * * Mr.Sheldon was not slow to obey Mrs.Halliday's behest.

He was departing on his quest breakfastless, when Nancy Woolper met him in the hall with a cup of tea.

He accepted the cup almost mechanically from her hand, and took it into the parlour, whither Nancy followed him.
Then for the first time he perceived that change in his housekeeper's face which had so startled Georgina Halliday.