In this manner they waited, with that dull senselessness to the flight of
time which follows on a great shock.
They all heard the clatter of horses' feet on the gravel of the avenue,
and probably they all divined that Mark Ruthine had sent for medical
help.
To Dora the sound brought a sudden boundless sense of relief. Amidst this
mental confusion it came as a practical common-sense proof that the
tension of the last year was over. The burden of her own life was by it
lifted from her shoulders; for Jem was here, and nothing could matter
very much now.
Presently Ruthine came into the room. As he went towards Arthur he
glanced at Dora and then at Mrs. Agar, but the young fellow was evidently
his first care.
While he was kneeling by the low chair examining Arthur's eyes and face,
Mrs. Agar suddenly rose and crossed the room.
"Is he dead?" she said abruptly.
"Who?" inquired Mark Ruthine, without looking round.
"Seymour Michael."
"Yes."
"Quite?"
"Yes."
"Then Arthur killed him?"
"Yes.
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