Sir John, he said, had been seized with a fainting fit, but had been got to bed, and was being attended by Dr.
Empson, a physician who chanced to be present among the visitors.
I at once left the hall and hurried to my brother's room.

On the way I met Mrs.Temple and Constance, the latter much agitated and in tears.
Mrs.Temple assured me that Dr.Empson reported favourably of my brother's condition, attributing his faintness to over-exertion in the dancing-room.

The medical man had got him to bed with the assistance of Sir John's valet, had given him a quieting draught, and ordered that he should not be disturbed for the present.

It was better that I should not enter the room; she begged that I would kindly comfort and reassure Constance, who was much upset, while she herself returned to her guests.
I led Constance to my bedroom, where there was a bright fire burning, and calmed her as best I could.

Her interest in my brother was evidently very real and unaffected, and while not admitting her partiality for him in words, she made no effort to conceal her sentiments from me.