"Is there any association with the Gardens which led Mrs. Zant to make that request?""Some association, I believe, with the memory of her husband. By the way, I wish to be sure of finding her at home, when I call to-morrow. Did you say (in the course of your interesting statement) that she intended--as you supposed--to return to Kensington Gardens to-morrow? Or has my memory deceived me?""Your memory is perfectly accurate."
"Thank you. I confess I am not only distressed by what you have told me of Mrs. Zant--I am at a loss to know how to act for the best. My only idea, at present, is to try change of air and scene. What do you think yourself?""I think you are right."
Mr. Zant still hesitated.
"It would not be easy for me, just now," he said, "to leave my patients and take her abroad."The obvious reply to this occurred to Mr. Rayburn. A man of larger worldly experience might have felt certain suspicions, and might have remained silent. Mr. Rayburn spoke.
"Why not renew your invitation and take her to your house at the seaside?" he said.
In the perplexed state of Mr. Zant's mind, this plain course of action had apparently failed to present itself. His gloomy face brightened directly.