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 be bitten by a poisonous snake whose venom was an antidote; but, to perfect a cure, he must take vapor baths from the boiling waters of 'Stinking Spring.' He went to Shushan, allowed himself to be bitten repeatedly by the venomous serpents there, carried out the directions of his guardian spirit, and in less than a year, his body became strong. One foot and three fingers had dropped off."

For the first time Hernando became interested, but only for an instant. "What does it matter now?" he said with dull apathy. "I have ruined this entire family and God knows how many others! all because I was a blind fool. Venomous snakes and 'stinking springs' cure a disease that has baffled science since creation? A bullet through the heart is the best antidote for me!"

"Will you put yourself in my hands?"

"Would a post mortem on my carcass further the cause of science?" said Hernando bitterly.