only physician in the place; and though with the gradual growth of
population two or three younger men had appeared to dispute the ground
with him, they were forced for the most part to content themselves with
doctoring the new arrivals, and with such fragments and leavings of
practice as Dr. Carr chose to intrust to them. None of the old established
families would consent to call in any one else if they could possibly get
the "old" doctor.

A skilful practitioner, who is at the same time a wise adviser, a helpful
friend, and an agreeable man, must necessarily command a wide influence.
Dr. Carr was "by all odds and far away," as our English cousins would
express it, the most popular person in Burnet, wanted for all pleasant
occasions, and doubly wanted for all painful ones.

So the news of Katy's engagement was made a matter of personal concern by
a great many people, and caused a general stir, partly because she was her
father's daughter, and partly because she was herself; for Katy had won
many friends by her own merit. So long as Ned Worthington stayed, a sort
of tide of congratulation and sympathy seemed to sweep through the house
all day long. Tea-roses and chrysanthemums, and baskets of pears and the
beautiful Burnet grapes flooded the premises, and the door-bell rang so
often that Clover threatened to leave the door open, with a card
attached,--"Walk straight in. _He_ is in the parlor!"

Everybody wanted to see and know Katy's lover, and to have him as a guest.
Ten tea-drinkings a week would scarcely have contented Katy's
well-wishers, had the limitations of mortal weeks permitted such a thing;
and not a can of oysters would have been left in the place if Lieutenant
Worthington's leave had lasted three days longer. Clover and Elsie loudly
complained that they themselves never had a chance to see him; for