The gentlemen now appeared. Mason, supported by Mr. Rochester and the surgeon, seemed to walk with tolerable ease: they assisted him into the chaise; Carter followed.

“Take care of him,” said Mr. Rochester to the latter, “and keep him at your house till he is quite well: I shall ride over in a day or two to see how he gets on. Richard, how is it with you?”

“The fresh air revives me, Fairfax.”

“Leave the window open on his side, Carter; there is no wind⁠—goodbye, Dick.”

“Fairfax⁠—”

“Well what is it?”

“Let her be taken care of; let her be treated as tenderly as may be: let her⁠—” he stopped and burst into tears.