Page:Old ninety-nine's cave.djvu/256

 "'Old Ninety-Nine's' will more than pays me," returned the doctor in a tone so decided as to preclude further discussion. "And," the doctor continued, "as an 'immune,' Hernando's assistance will be invaluable to me, should he decide to give it."

At this both De Vere and Genung started. "Surely, Doctor, you will not again part us!" they exclaimed.

"Not soon at any rate—perhaps never."

It was nearly train time and the doctors arose to leave with,—"Just let us slip off quietly. There has been quite enough excitement in the family for one day."

"But you will not desert us, Doctor?" De Vere protested.

"No indeed. In the fall I propose going abroad for six months, but my earnest desire is that our friendly relations continue." And with a parting hand-shake they were gone.

Who can describe Hernando's feelings as in his own room, so dainty and wholesome, he sat before the fire on this chill March night? We are told that in this life perfect