then," he replied.
"But of course I must resign myself to giving up really serious work in
the laboratory until the case is finished. It is regrettable, for, as
you know, I am in the midst of that series of tests in regard to the
anti-toxin for tetanus. Every week I lose increases the chance of some
other fellow's finding it; there are a number of experimenters hot on
the trail. However, it can't be helped." He sighed and added to
himself, "You can't have it both ways."

It now occurred to Esther to inquire how this alteration of plans
affected her.

"Then I suppose, doctor, you won't be wanting me for the next month or
so?"

"I was coming to that. No, I shall not; and I don't know that it would
be worth my while to pay you to stay on while I have nothing for you to
do."

"Oh, no, naturally. I understand."

"If, however, you still wish to remain in Cannes, I have an offer to
make you. There is an English nurse looking after Sir Charles, but he
is going to require another. Perhaps you'd care to take on the job of
day-nurse to him?"

It was a second surprise.

"Oh! Would they like me to come?"

"It was Miss Clifford's suggestion. I believe from what she said to me
she took a liking to you when she saw you here the other day."

The detached tone in which he made this observation implied that such a
thing as taking a liking to a person did certainly exist and therefore
must be scientifically recognised, incredible as it might appear.

The image of the simple, friendly eyed, north-country woman flashed
across Esther's mental vision, obscuring the less comprehensible figure
of her sister-in-law. She thought for a moment.

"Why, yes, if you like, I'll be glad to come," she agreed.

The doctor raised a corrective hand. "It's if _you_ like," he amended.
"I can get another nurse from the British Nursing Home in an hour's
time, it is all the same to me. If you come, however, they will pay
you at the rate usual in your country--more than an English nurse gets,
as you know."

"I wasn't thinking of the money," declared Esther hastily and with
truth. "I was only wondering ... but it doesn't matter. I'll come.
When do you want me?"

"At once. How soon can you be ready?"

"Oh, I can be ready in an hour or so. I've only to pack my things and
settle my hotel bill."

"Very well, try to get to the house before lunch. I will telephone to
say you are coming. Here is the address."

He scrawled it on a