The last, however, was more cheerful, and not altogether without hope; as he did not hesitate openly to avow.
"For myself, I confess I think Sir Wycherly much better," he said; "although the opinion is not sanctioned by that of the medical men.

His desiring to see these ladies is favourable; and then cheering news for him has been brought back, already, by the messenger sent, only eight hours since, for his kinsman, Sir Reginald Wychecombe.

He has sensibly revived since that report was brought in." "Ah! my dear namesake," rejoined Tom, shaking his head, mournfully; "you cannot know my beloved uncle's constitution and feelings as well as I! Rely on it, the medical men are right; and your hopes deceive you.

The sending for Mrs.Dutton and Miss Mildred, both of whom my honoured uncle respects and esteems, looks more like leave-taking than any thing else; and, as to Sir Reginald Wychecombe,--though a relative, beyond a question,--I think there has been some mistake in sending for him; since he is barely an acquaintance of the elder branch of the family, and he is of the half-blood." "_Half_ what, Mr.Thomas Wychecombe ?" demanded the vice-admiral so suddenly, behind the speaker, as to cause all to start; Sir Gervaise having hastened to meet the ladies and his friend, as soon as he knew of their arrival.

"I ask pardon, sir, for my abrupt inquiry; but, as _I_ was the means of sending for Sir Reginald Wychecombe, I feel an interest in knowing his exact relationship to my host ?" Tom started, and even paled, at this sudden question; then the colour rushed into his temples; he became calmer, and replied: "_Half-blood_, Sir Gervaise," he said, steadily.