“The DeVerne operation!” she gasped. “Here—now?”
“Not here and now. In a lonely cabin, away up in the mountains. We shall have to travel all night, by auto and part of to-morrow by boat. But it can be done—it shall be done! These young men have come to call me to save the life of Professor Snodgrass. So we will go.
“You will please see that everything is ready. Remember we shall need many things, so do not omit any. Tell my sister. She will go with us. You will need relief if you are to nurse this case. Ah, the DeVerne operation!” and the doctor rubbed his hands as though he welcomed the surgical knot he must soon loosen.
“Very well, doctor,” answered Miss Payson. Evidently she knew when she had sufficiently objected.
“I will be with you inside of an hour,” Dr. Wright told Jerry. “Certain preparations must be made. Meanwhile you had better rest and refresh yourselves. Have you room to carry three of us? My sister will go along as assistant nurse to Miss Payson.”
“We have plenty of room,” replied Jerry, quietly. “We will be ready for you in an hour.”
The preparations of the two youths were simple. They washed in the hotel lavatory, and ate—Bob especially doing the latter. Then, as they had a night auto trip before them, they carefully examined every part of the machine. The tires were blown up afresh, a thorough oiling was given to every part, and, in addition to the main gasoline tank being filled, an extra five-gallon can was taken along.
Punctual to the minute was Dr. Wright. He had with him a bag of instruments, and other things needful for the operation. Miss Payson and Miss Wright were carrying valises containing their personal belongings.
“We are ready, boys,” said the great surgeon, calmly. “From now, until we reach the cabin, we are in your hands.”
“And we’ll get you there,” promised Jerry.