I shall go at once and see the director of the hospital, and get an order for your discharge." The next morning they set out.

Desmond had to be assisted downstairs.

There he was laid on a litter, packed with soft rugs.
This was raised and placed between two horses, ridden by two of de la Vallee's men.

De la Vallee himself took his place by the side of the litter, Mike rode on ahead leading Desmond's charger, and the other two servants fell to the rear, in readiness to change with those bearing the litter, when half the day's journey was done.
Seeing that the exertion of being moved had exhausted his friend, de la Vallee rode for some time in silence.

Then, when Desmond opened his eyes and smiled at him, he said: "I hope you are feeling comfortable ?" "Perfectly.