"Yes, sir," I said, laughing also, "it would have been a most curious

alternative."

 

"But we could still have chaps like you taking messages back and forth, bringing

tea, that sort of thing. Otherwise, how would we ever get anything done? Can you

imagine it, Stevens? All of us rooted in the soil? Just imagine it!"

 

Just then a footman emerged behind me. "Miss Kenton is wishing to have a word

with you, sir," he said.

 

I excused myself from Mr Cardinal and moved towards the doors. I noticed M.

 

Dupont apparently guarding them and as I approached, he said:

 

"Butler, is the doctor here?"

 

"I am just going to find out, sir. I won't be a moment."

 

"I am in some pain."

 

"I'm very sorry, sir. The doctor should not be long now."

 

On this occasion, M. Dupont followed me out of the door. Miss Ken ton was once

more standing out in the hall.