r and around the
lake, the length of Singing Water, the marsh folk found voices to tell
of their lives, where it was a story of joy, rest, and love. Up the hill
ranged the Harvester, through the forest where the squirrels slept, the
owl hunted, the fire-flies flickered, the fairies squeezed flower leaves
to make colour to paint the autumn foliage, and danced on toadstool
platforms. Just so long as his voice murmured and his touch continued,
so long the Girl lay quietly, and the medicines could act. But no other
touch would serve, and no other voice would answer. If the harvester
left the room five minutes to show the nurse how to light the fire, and
where to find things, he returned to tossing, restless delirium.

"It's magic David," said Doctor Carey. "Magic!"

"It is love," said the Harvester. "Even crazed with fever, she
recognizes its voice and touch. You've got your work cut out, Doc. Roll
your sleeves and collect your wits. Set your heart on winning. There is
one thing shall not happen. Get that straight in your mind, right
now. And you too, Miss Barnet! There is nothing like fighting for a
certainty. You may think the Girl is desperately ill, and she is, but
make up your minds that you are here to fight for her life, and to save
it. Save, do you understand? If she is to go, I don't need either of
you. I can let her do that myself. You are here on a mission of life.
Keep it before you! Life and health for this Girl is the prize you are
going to win. Dig into it, and I'll pay the bills, and extra besides. If
money is any incentive, I'll give you all I've got for life and health
for the Girl. Are you doing all you know?"

"I certainly am, David."

"But when day comes you'll have to go back to the hospital and we may
not know how to meet crises that will arise. What then? We should have a
competent physician in the house until this fever breaks."

"I had thought of that, David. I will arrange to send one of the men
from the hospital who will be able to watch symptoms and come for me
when needed."

"Won't do!" said the Harvester calmly. "She has no strength for waiting.
You are to come when you can, and remain as long as possible. The case
is yours; your decisions go, but I will select your assistant. I know
the man I want."

"Who is he, David?"

"I'll tell you when I learn whether I can get him. Now I want you to
give the Girl the strongest sedative you dare, take off your coat, roll
your sleeves, and see h