The Brotherhood of the Seven Kings | Page 2

the way, how is Cecil?"
"I have come here to speak about him. You know, of course, the
wonderful change in his fortunes?"
"Yes," I answered.
"He has succeeded to the Kairn property, and is now Lord Kairn. There
is a large rent-roll and considerable estates. You know, Norman, that
Cecil has always been a most delicate boy."
"I hoped you were about to tell me that he was stronger," I replied.
"He is, and I will explain how in a moment. His life is a most important
one. As Lord Kairn much is expected of him. He has not only, under
the providence of God, to live, but by that one little life he has to keep a
man of exceedingly bad character out of a great property. I allude to

Hugh Doncaster. Were Cecil to die, Hugh would be Lord Kairn. You
have already doubtless heard of his character?"
"I know the man well by repute," I said.
I thought you did. His disappointment and rage at Cecil succeeding to
the title are almost beyond bounds. Rumours of his malevolent feelings
towards the child have already reached me. I am told that he is now in
London, but his life, like yours, is more or less mysterious. I thought it
just possible, Norman, that you, as an old friend, might be able to get
me some particulars with regard to his whereabouts."
"Why do you want to know?" I asked.
"I feel a strange uneasiness about him; something which I cannot
account for. Of course, in these enlightened days he would not attempt
the child's life, but I should be more comfortable if I were assured that
he were nowhere in Cecil's vicinity."
"But the man can do nothing to your boy!" I said. "Of course, I will
find out what I can, but ÑÑ"
Mrs. Kenyon interrupted me.
"Thank You. It is a relief to know that you will help me. Of course,
there is no real danger; but I am a widow, and Cecil is only a child.
Now, I must tell you about his health. He is almost quite well. The
most marvellous resurrection has taken place. For the last two months
he has been under the care of that extraordinary woman, Mme. Koluchy.
She has worked miracles in his case, and now to complete the cure she
is sending, him to the Mediterranean. He sails to-morrow night under
the care of Dr. Fietta. I cannot bear parting with him, but it is for his
good, and Mme. Koluchy insists that a sea voyage is indispensable."
"But won't you accompany him?" I asked.
"I am sorry to say that is impossible. My eldest girl, Ethel, is about to
be married, and I cannot leave her on the eve of her wedding; but Cecil

will be in good hands. Dr. Fietta is a capital fellow Ñ I have every faith
in him."
"Where are they going?"
"To Cairo. They sail to-morrow night in the Hydaspes."
"Cairo is a fearfully hot place at this time of year. Are you quite sure
that it is wise to send a delicate lad like Cecil there in August?"
"Oh, he will not stay. He sails for the sake of the voyage, and will come
back by the return boat. The voyage is, according to Mme. Koluchy, to
complete the cure. That marvellous woman has succeeded where the
medical profession gave little hope. You have heard of her, of course?"
"I am sick of her very name," I replied; "one hears it everywhere. She
has bewitched London with her impostures and quackery."
"There is no quackery about her, Norman. I believe her to be the
cleverest woman in England. There are authentic accounts of her
wonderful cures which cannot be contradicted. There are even rumours
that she is able to restore youth and beauty by her arts. The whole of
society is at her feet, and it is whispered that even Royalty are among
her patients. Of course, her fees are enormous, but look at the results!
Have you ever met her?"
"Never. Where does she come from? Who is she?"
"She is an Italian, but she speaks English perfectly. She has taken a
house which is a perfect palace in Welbeck Street."
"And who is Dr. Fietta?"
"A medical man who assists Madame in her treatments. I have just seen
him. He is charming, and devoted to Cecil. Five o'clock! I had no idea
it was so late. I must be going. You will let me know when you hear
any news of Mr. Doncaster? Come and see me soon."
I accompanied my visitor to the door, and then, returning to my study,

sat down to resume the work I had been engaged in when I was
interrupted.
But Mrs. Kenyon's visit had