said Alan; "I don't like leaving Flora alone with him," and he was
gone.

"How fortunate that that youth is here," said Mr. Wilmot--"he seems
to be quite taking Richard's place."

"And to feel it as much," said Mr. Ward. "He has been invaluable
with his sailor's resources and handiness."

"Well, what shall I tell poor Richard?" asked Mr. Wilmot.

"Tell him there is no reason his father should not do very well, if
we can keep him from agitation--but there's the point. He is of so
excitable a constitution, that his faculties being so far confused is
the best thing, perhaps, that could be. Mr. Ernescliffe manages him
very well--used to illness on that African coast, and the doctor is
very fond of him. As to Miss May, one can't tell what to say about
her yet--there's no fracture, at least--it must be a work of time to
judge."

Flora at that moment half-opened the door, and called Mr. Ward,
stopping for a moment to say it was for nothing of any consequence.
Mr. Wilmot and Norman were left together. Norman put his hands over
his face and groaned--his master looked at him with kind anxiety, but
did not feel as if it were yet time to speak of consolation.

"God bless and support you, and turn this to your good, my dear boy,"
said he affectionately, as he pressed his hand; "I hope to bring your
brother to-morrow."