The slow, steady throb reassured him.

He opened the door of the study.
"John," said Sir Timothy, "would you kindly come out here and speak to me for a moment?
Dr.Blundell, would you have the goodness to await me a little longer?
You will find the London papers there." "I have them," said Dr.Blundell, from the armchair by the study fire.
John Crewys closed the door behind him, and looked rather anxiously at his cousin.

It struck him that Sir Timothy had lost some of his ruddy colour, and that his face looked drawn and old.
But the squire placed himself with his back to the log fire, and made an effort to speak in his voice of everyday.

His slightly pompous, patronizing manner returned upon him.
"You are doubtless accustomed, John, in the course of your professional work," he said, "to advise in difficult matters.

You come among us a stranger--and unprejudiced.