flushed,--"and a person was very sick, and wanted you to consult with
another doctor, whether you would let the mere fact that you had n't been
introduced have any weight with you?" The young man silently appealed to
Grace, who darkened angrily, and before he could speak Mrs. Maynard
interposed. "No, no, you sha'n't ask her. I want your opinion. It's just
an abstract question." She accounted for this fib with a wink at Grace.

"Really," he said, "it's rather formidable. I've never been a doctor of
any kind."

"Oh, yes, we know that!" said Mrs. Maynard. "But you are now, and now
would you do it?"

"If the other fellow knew more, I would."

"But if you thought he did n't?"

"Then I wouldn't. What are you trying to get at, Mrs. Maynard? I'm not
going to answer any more of your questions."

"Yes,--one more. Don't you think it's a doctor's place to get his patient
well any way he can?"

"Why, of course!"

"There, Grace! It's just exactly the same case. And ninety-nine out of a
hundred would decide against you every time."

Libby turned towards Grace in confusion. "Miss Breen--I did n't
understand--I don't presume to meddle in anything--You're not fair, Mrs.