"How old were you then?" he asked.

"Twenty-four."

"And now?"

"Thirty-eight. A good deal happened in that fourteen years, as you may
guess. And now," reaching for the photograph and putting it carefully
back in the book, "state your proposition and I'll listen to it, because
you have listened so patiently to me."

Mr. Merrick in simple words explained the plan to take a hospital ship
to Europe, relating the incidents that led up to the enterprise and
urging the need of prompt action. His voice dwelt tenderly on his girls
and the loyal support of young Jones.

Dr. Gys smoked and listened silently. Then he picked up the telephone
and called a number.

"Tell Hawkins I've abandoned that fishing trip," he said. "I've got
another job." Then he faced Mr. Merrick. His smile was not pretty, but
it was a smile.

"That's my answer, sir."

"But we haven't talked salary yet."

"Bother the salary. I'm not mercenary."

"And I'm not sure--"

"Yes, you are. I'm going with you. Do you know why?"

"It's a novel project, very appealing from a humanitarian standpoint
and--"

"I hadn't thought of that. I'm going because you're headed for the
biggest war the world has ever known; because I foresee danger ahead,
for all of us; but mainly because--"

"Well?"

"Because I'm a coward--a natural born coward--and I can have a lot of
fun forcing myself to face the shell and shrapnel. That's the truth; I'm
not a liar. And for a long time I've been wondering--wondering--" His
voice died away in a murmur.

"Well, sir?"

Dr. Gys roused himself.

"Oh; do you want a full confession? For a long time, then, I've been
wondering what's the easiest way for a man to die. No, I'm not morbid.
I'm simply ruined, physically, for the practice of a profession I love,
a profession I have fully mastered, and--I'll be happier when I can
shake off this horrible envelope of disfigurement."

CHAPTER IV

THE HOSPITAL SHIP

The energy of Doctor Gys was marvelous. He knew exactly what supplies
would be needed to fit the _Arabella_ thoroughly for her important
mission, and with unlimited funds at his command to foot the bills, he
quickly converted the handsome yacht into a model hospital ship. Gys
from the first developed a liking for Kelsey, the mate, whom he found a
valuable assistant, and the two came to understand each other perfectly.
Kelsey was a quiet man, more thoughtful than experienced in medical
matters, but his common sense