books
until midnight and later, studying combinations; and day after day I've
stood in the laboratory testing and trying, and two or three will prove
effective, or I've a disappointment coming."

"You haven't wasted time! I'd much rather take medicines you make than
any at the pharmacies. Several times I've thought I'd ask you if you
wouldn't give me some of yours. The prescription Doctor Carey sent does
no good. I've almost drunk it, and I am constantly tired, just the
same. You make me something from these tonics and stimulants you've been
telling me about. Surely you can help me!"

"I've got one combination that's going to save life, in my expectations.
But Ruth, it never has been tried, and I couldn't experiment on the very
light of my eyes with it. If I should give you something and you'd grow
worse as a result--I am a strong man, my girl, but I couldn't endure
that. I'd never dare. But dear, I am expecting Carey and his wife out
any time; probably they will come to-day, it's so beautiful; and when
they do, for my sake, won't you talk with him, tell him exactly what
made you ill, and take what he gives you? He's a great man. He was
recently President of the National Association of Surgeons. Long ago he
abandoned general practice, but he will prescribe for you; all his art
is at your command. It's quite an honour, Ruth. He performs all kinds
of miracles, and saves life every day. He had not seen you, and what he
gave me was only by guess. He may not think it is the right thing at all
after he meets you."

"Then I am really ill?"

"No. You only have the germs of illness in your blood, and if you
will help me that much we can eliminate them; and then it is you for
housekeeper, with first assistant in me, the drawing tools, paint
box, and all the woods for subjects. So, as I was going to tell you,
Belshazzar and I have played our game for the last time. That decision
was ultimate. Here I will work, live, and die. Here, please God,
strong and happy, you shall live with me. Ruth, you have got to recover
quickly. You will consult the doctor?"

"Yes, and I wish he would hurry," said the Girl. "He can't make me new
too soon to suit me. If I had a strong body, oh Man, I just feel as if
you could find a soul somewhere in it that would respond to all these
wonders you have brought me among. Oh! make me well, and I'll try as
woman never did before to bring you happiness to pay for it."

"Careful now," warned the Harvest