I Learn My Neighbour’s Profession
On the following morning I hurried unforgivably over my round. My excuse can be that I had no very serious cases to attend. On my return Caroline came into the hall to greet me.
“Flora Ackroyd is here,” she announced in an excited whisper.
“What?” I concealed my surprise as best as I could.
“She’s very anxious to see you. She’s been here half an hour.”
Caroline led the way into our small sitting room, and I followed.
Flora was sitting on the sofa by the window. She was in black and she sat nervously twisting her hands together. I was shocked by the sight of her face. All the colour had faded away from it. But when she spoke her manner was as composed and resolute as possible.
“ Dr. Sheppard, I have come to ask you to help me.”
“Of course he’ll help you, my dear,” said Caroline.
I don’t think Flora really wished Caroline to be present at the interview. She would, I am sure, have infinitely preferred to speak to me privately. But she also wanted to waste no time, so she made the best of it.
“I want you to come to The Larches with me.”
“The Larches?” I queried, surprised.
“To see that funny little man?” exclaimed Caroline.