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 "Dear me, of course I will," said Mr. Brandram. "I can get a horse here, and will be ready in a minute. Is it a case of disease?"

"Not infectious," said George hastily. "I'll explain it as we go along."

And Brandram, having got a pony saddled, came away at once.

"In the midst of life we are in death," said Brother Brandram cheerfully. "Is the sick man a relation of yours, sir?"

"Not yet," said George. "I mean he ain't."

"Is he looking very bad?" asked the minister.

"He looks the strongest man hereabouts," said George.

"How sad!" said Brandram. "Can you say what's the matter?"

"No, that I cayn't. Bill said it was caunfidential."

"Confidential!" said Brandram. "Bless me! You don't mean it's crime?"

"Oh, by no means, not at all," said George. "There ain't no one killed. But Amandy's locked up."