"Won't you see him, doctor?"
I did not answer at once, for I was in the dark as to what was best
to be done. If I had known the origin of his trouble, I could have
acted understandingly. As it was, any intrusion upon the young man
might do harm rather than good.
"He has asked to be let alone," I replied, "and it may be best to
let him alone. He says that he will come out right. Give him a
little more time. Wait, at least, until to-morrow. Then, if there is
no change, I will see him."
Still the mother urged. At last I said--
"Go to your son. Suggest to him a visit from me, and mark the
effect."
I listened as she went up stairs. On entering his room, I noticed
that he ceased walking. Soon came to my ears the murmur of voices,
which rose to a sudden loudness on his part, and I distinctly heard
the words:
"Mother! you will drive me mad! If you talk of that, I will go from
the house. I _must_ be left alone!"
Then all was silent. Soon Mrs. Wallingford came down. She looked
even more distressed than when she left the room.
"I'm afraid it might do harm," she said doubtingly.
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