—SIR HUGH WALPOLE,FORTITUDE DEVLIN SAT IN the massive library at Ravensmoore contemplating, for the thousandth time, his decision to leave medicine. Only weeks away from completing his education and he’d quit. That’s what it came down to. He missed medicine. Misery had befriended him. “You have visitors, sir,” announced Hummel, the butler. “A Dr. Melton and Countess Gilling. They appear most anxious to see you.” “Most anxious, indeed.” Melton stood in the doorway. “We must talk with you at once, Ravensmoore.” Melton gently pulled Hally in after him as Hummel quietly withdrew. Devlin rose to his feet, bowing graciously to his guests. “This is an unexpected surprise. I’m happy to see you, but from the stricken look on your faces I know this is not a social visit. Come, sit down and tell me what is wrong.” Devlin showed them to a cozy arrangement of chairs. “Now, what is it?” Melton looked at Hally. “I think Lady Gilling should explain. Tell him all of it.”
