They had a long interview with Mrs. Archbold first, for fear they
should carry a naked eye into the asylum. Mr. Bartlett, acting on
instructions, very soon inquired about Alfred; Mrs. Archbold's face put
on friendly concern directly. "I am sorry to say he is not so well as he
was a fortnight ago--not nearly so well. We have given him walks in the
country, too; but I regret to say they did him no real good; he came back
much excited, and now he shuns the other patients, which he used not to
do." In short, she gave them the impression that Alfred was a moping
melancholiac.
"Well, I had better see him," said Mr. Bartlett, "just to satisfy the
Board."
Alfred was accordingly sent for, and asked with an indifferent air how he
was.
He said he was very well in health, but in sore distress of mind at his
letters to the Commissioners being intercepted by Mrs. Archbold or Dr.
Wolf.
Mrs. Archbold smiled pityingly. Mr. Bartlett caught her glance, and
concluded this was one of the patient's delusions. (Formula.)
Alfred surprised the glances, and said, "You can hardly believe this,
because the act is illegal.
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