her that there has been an accident; that her father is alive, but
that she must come at once without a moment's delay. She had better
ride my horse back as it will save time. She will understand from
that the importance of time. Quick!'

The lad sprang to the saddle, and was off in a flash. Whilst Harold
was speaking, the doctor had told the men, who, accustomed to hunting
accidents, had taken a gate from its hinges and held it in readiness,
to bring it closer. Then under his direction the Squire was placed
on the gate. The nearest house was only about a hundred yards away;
and thither they bore him. He was lifted on a bed, and then the
doctor made fuller examination. When he stood up he looked very
grave and said to Harold:

'I greatly fear she cannot arrive in time. That bleeding from the
ears means rupture of the brain. It is relieving the pressure,
however, and he may recover consciousness before he dies. You had
better be close to him. There is at present nothing that can be
done. If he becomes conscious at all it will be suddenly. He will
relapse and probably die as quickly.'

All at once Norman opened his eyes, and seeing him said quietly, as
he looked around:

'What place is this, Harold?'

'Martin's--James Martin's, sir. You were brought here after the
accident.'

'Yes, I remember! Am I badly hurt? I can feel nothing!'