The servant that opened the door told me his master was very ill, and seemed to think it doubtful whether he would be able to see me.

I was not going to be baulked, however.

I waited calmly in the hall to be announced, but inwardly determined to take no denial.

The message was such as I expected--a polite intimation that Mr.Lawrence could see no one; he was feverish, and must not be disturbed.
'I shall not disturb him long,' said I; 'but I must see him for a moment: it is on business of importance that I wish to speak to him.' 'I'll tell him, sir,' said the man.

And I advanced further into the hall and followed him nearly to the door of the apartment where his master was--for it seemed he was not in bed.