For two days, Dylan remained under the influence of the numbing medication. He ran a fever most of the time, despite the care taken to prevent infection. Although Dr. Lloyd assured them all that this was a normal reaction to such a trauma, Martin could not help worrying. Even while he kept a good face on matters to reassure the children their uncle was not going to die and leave them, he battled a secret worry such a new tragedy was not impossible. He took his turns sitting with the captain since someone was required to be with him constantly. Disheartening though it was to see his hero and love lying so still and pale, he felt duty bound to do his share.
Finally, on the third day, Dr. Lloyd suggested they cease the laudanum and, unless Dylan showed marked distress, that he be allowed to
