At these words Helen uttered a cry, flung herself violently between Benedict and the doctor, and proudly holding out her bare arm to the surgeon, said to Benedict:
"You have done enough for him already. If human blood is to pass from another into the veins of my beloved Karl it shall be mine; it is my right."
Benedict fell on his knees before her and kissed the hem of her skirt. The less impressionable doctor merely said:
"Very well! We will try. Give the patient a spoonful of some cordial. I will go home and get the instruments."
CHAPTER XXXV
THE MARRIAGE IN EXTREMIS
The doctor rushed from the room as rapidly as his professional dignity would allow.
During his absence Helen slipped a spoonful of a cordial between Karl's lips while Benedict rang the bell. Hans appeared.
"Go and fetch a priest," said Helen.