Never very strong, she had developed a short, hard cough; and he had drawn upon his scanty reserves, to consult a specialist.
"There is undoubtedly lung trouble," the latter said.

"If you can manage it, I should say that she ought certainly to be taken to a warm climate.

The damage is not extensive, as yet; and it is probable that, under favourable circumstances, she might shake it off; but I fear that, if she continues to live in London, her chances are not great." This, Gregory felt, was almost equivalent to a death sentence; and he had begun to consult the advertisements in the papers, for some post abroad.

He had, unknown to her, applied for several situations, but without success.
When he first read the advertisement that morning, he had hardly thought of applying for the situation.

His pride revolted at the idea of becoming a mere messenger; but his wife's cough had decided him.
What did it matter, so that he could save her life?
"I may not get it," he said to himself, as he went out; "but my knowledge of Arabic, and the native dialect, is all in my favour.