“Is it true that he wanted to see me?”
“I don't know, sir.”
“Is he in his own room?”
“Yes, sir; but, I beg your pardon, sir,” said the man, “I have my lady's orders to admit no one!”
While he spoke, Richard passed him, and went straight to his father's room, which was on the ground-floor. He opened the door softly, and entered. His father lay on the bed, with the Barset surgeon and the London doctor standing over him. The latter looked round, saw him, and came to him.
“I gave orders that no one should be admitted,” he said, in a low stern tone.
“I understand my father wished to see me!” answered Richard.
“He cannot see you.”
“He may come to himself any moment!”
“He will never come to himself,” returned the doctor.