CHAPTER XXI.
A WHISPERED SUSPICION.
Dr.West was crossing the courtyard one day, after paying his morning visit to Lady Verner, when he was waylaid by Lionel.
"How long will my mother remain in this weak state ?" he inquired.
Dr.West lifted his arched eyebrows.

"It is impossible to say, Mr.
Lionel.

These cases of low nervous fever are sometimes very much protracted." "Lady Verner's is not nervous fever," dissented Lionel.
"It approaches near to it." "The fact is, I want to be away," said Lionel.
"There is no reason why you should not be away, if you wish it," rejoined the physician.

"Lady Verner is not in any danger; she is sure to recover eventually." "I know that.

At least, I hope it is sure," returned Lionel.