duties on it went to the distinguished republic of Anchuria you may
have my hat. If you won't have another, come out and let's sit
in the cool a while. It isn't often we exiles get a chance to talk
with somebody from the outside world."

The doctor brought out another chair to the sidewalk for his new
acquaintance. The two seated themselves.

"You are a man of the world," said Doctor Gregg; "a man of travel
and experience. Your decision in a matter of ethics and, no doubt,
on the points of equity, ability and professional probity should be
of value. I would be glad if you will listen to the history of a
case that I think stands unique in medical annals.

"About nine years ago, while I was engaged in the practice of
medicine in my native city, I was called to treat a case of contusion
of the skull. I made the diagnosis that a splinter of bone was
pressing upon the brain, and that the surgical operation known as
trepanning was required. However, as the patient was a gentleman
of wealth and position, I called in for consultation Doctor--"

Smith rose from his chair, and laid a hand, soft with apology,
upon the doctor's shirt sleeve.

"Say, Doc," he said, solemnly, "I want to hear that story. You've
got me interrested; and I don't want to miss the rest of it. I know
it's a loola by the way it begins; and I want to tell it at the next
meeting of the Barney O'Flynn Association, if you don't mind.
But I've got one or two matters to attend to first. If I get 'em
attended to in time I'll come right back and hear you spiel the rest