Leonard tried to smile, but only succeeded in keeping back a sob; and
the Doctor discharged his memory of the messages of love of which he
had been the depositary. Leonard recovered his composure during
these, and was able to return a smile on hearing of Ella's conquest
of Tom, of their Bible prints on Sunday, and their unwearied French
billiards in the week. Then he asked after little Mab.

'She is all a dog should be,' said Dr. May. 'Aubrey is her chief
friend, except when she is lying at her ease on Ethel's dress.'

The old test of dog-love perhaps occurred to Leonard, for his lips
trembled, and his eyes were dewy, even while they beamed with
gladness.

'She is a great comfort to Aubrey,' the Doctor added. 'I must beg
you to send that poor fellow your forgiveness, for he is exceedingly
unhappy about something he repeated in the first unguarded moment.'

'Mr. Bramshaw told me,' said Leonard, with brow contracted.

'I cannot believe,' said Dr. May, 'that it can do you any real harm.
I do not think the prosecution ought to take notice of it; but if
they do, it will be easy to sift it, and make it tell rather in your
favour.'

'Maybe so,' said Leonard, still coldly.

'Then you will cheer him with some kind message?'