believe that everyone is tottering on the brink of the grave; and,
upon my life, I believe she is offended if people don't fall into it!
We will show her how to make constitutions and turn pale-faced
little ghosts into rosy, hearty girls. That's my business, you know,"
he added, more quietly, for his sudden outburst had rather startled
Rose.

"I had forgotten you were a doctor. I'm glad of it, for I do want to
be well, only I hope you won't give me much medicine, for I've
taken quarts already, and it does me no good."

As she spoke, Rose pointed to a little table just inside the window,
on which appeared a regiment of bottles.

"Ah, ha! Now we'll see what mischief these blessed women have
been at." And, making a long arm, Dr. Alec set the bottles on the
wide railing before him, examined each carefully, smiled over
some, frowned over others, and said, as he put down the last: "Now
I'll show you the best way to take these messes." And, as quick as a
flash, he sent one after another smashing down into the posy-beds
below.

"But Aunt Plenty won't like it; and Aunt Myra will be angry, for
she sent most of them!" cried Rose, half frightened and half
pleased at such energetic measures.

"You are my patient now, and I'll take the responsibility. My way
of giving physic is evidently the best, for you look better already,"
he said, laughing so infectiously that Rose followed suit, saying
saucily