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 mind though, Reuben here is worth ten doctors, so you are all right."

"But the whole family would be infected."

"Not by a jug-full! A germ cannot live long under Reuben's ruthless destruction."

Bidding the latter follow him to the sleigh for some disinfectants, Dr. Brinton went out, and when beyond hearing, said: "Reuben, my man, all your skill will be needed if we pull that fellow through. The action of his heart is decidedly bad. Stimulants, nutritious food and good nursing will do more than I can. Frankly, I never before saw a case exactly like this and am not at all sure it is diphtheria." He then went in search of Mr. De Vere.

The latter was shocked, and of course everything in the house was placed at Dr. Brinton's disposal.

"Well," said the doctor, "an ounce of prevention—you know. This may be diphtheria, and it may not. In any case it's best to be on the safe side. I don't go much on religion, as you know, so am frank to say that I think