Page:Augusta Seaman--Jacqueline of the carrier pigeons.djvu/97

Rh with a sudden cry muttered her name in his feverish sleep. At that word the girl formed her decision.

“I will not go, Dr. de Witt. This man has been a friend to me and mine ever since I  can remember. I do not fear the plague, and even if I did it would not keep me from giving all the aid I could to Jan Van Buskirk. Moreover, I know a little about medicine myself, having read it in an old book in my possession. I have raised healing herbs, and I also possess one which has the power, they  say, to protect from such diseases if carried  about the person. I will always have it by me, for I wish to help you in nursing this my  friend back to life and health.” Dr. de  Witt looked her over for a moment in silent  astonishment. Then he spoke:

“Thou art a brave maiden, whoever thou art, and I would that there were many more  like thee! Help me thou shalt if such is thy determination, and the good God will bless  thee and protect thee from all harm. There