“Perfectly, sir.”

“Of course,” said the Doctor. “To be sure. He’s pretty well, too.”

“Has he come home, sir?” I inquired.

“From India?” said the Doctor. “Yes. Mr. Jack Maldon couldn’t bear the climate, my dear. Mrs. Markleham⁠—you have not forgotten Mrs. Markleham?”

Forgotten the Old Soldier! And in that short time!