The Ghost by Arnold Bennet Chapter 5 Page 22

and risen at eleven o’clock. Must I change because of a broken thigh? In an hour’s time, and not before, my people will carry this couch and its burden to my bedroom. Then I shall pretend to sleep; but I shall not sleep. Somehow of late the habit of sleep has left me. Hitherto, I have scorned opiates, which are the refuge of the weak-minded, yet I fear I may be compelled to ask you for one. There was a time when I could will myself to sleep. But not now, not now!”

“I am not your medical adviser,” I said, mindful of professional etiquette, “and I could not think of administering an opiate without the express permission of Dr. MacWhister.”

“Pardon me,” he said, his eyes resting on me with a quiet satisfaction that touched me to the heart,