She had been in the habit of sending him frequent telegrams as to her patient's condition.

They had been invariable so far: "No difference; mind still a blank," or some code word significant of the same.

But a new word was necessary now.

She must look it up, and formulate her telegram before she did anything else.
The code-book was in her top tray.

She hunted and hunted for it, without being able to lay her hands on it.