“ What’s that ? ” exclaimed Hartway, 
jumping up. He simulated an expression 
of amazement. “ Only a year to live I 
Nonsense ! I’m as sound as a bell ! ” 
“ 1 have given you my opinion,” said Howe, 
quietly. 
Hart wav began to bluster. 
“ Absurd ! ” he said. “ Ridiculous ! 
Look at me ! Lve never had a day’s illness 
in my life. It’s preposterous to make such a 
prognosis ! Do you really mean that 
seriously ? ” 
“ Yes/' 
“ Do you mean that you arc certain ? ” 
persisted Hartway, keeping up the pose of 
incredulous surprise. 
“ Absolutely.” 
Tnwardly Hartway felt he owed the doctor 
another cheque for the admirable way in 
which he was acting his part. 
“ Pah ! ” he exclaimed. “ It’s nonsense. 
I never heard such arrant nonsense before.” 
He sat dowm again , frowning. 
“ Don’t blame the doctor,” said William. 
“ He’s only done his duty.” 
Oh, well, I suppose he has. Thank 
