"Good morning, ma'am," I said, not venturing to be too familiar with the lady, for I was at once struck with my inferiority to this saintly vision.
"Good morning, sir. Do you feel well to-day?"
"Yes, ma'am," said I; "I have never been ill."
A low, pleasant laugh, like the soft trill of a muffled music box, greeted my statement.
"I believe you," she said. "You will soon be out again."
"Am I in? Where am I in?"
"This is Bellevue Hospital," said she. "But you'll soon be gone from here. You're as tough and strong as rawhide and wrought iron."
Here was a woman who could size me up. I took her word for it and tried to turn over and get up, but nothing happened.
"Tush, tush! Don't get lively now! Think what you've been through. Take it easy. Dr. Hanley says you are a wonderful fellow; that he will always be proud of you."
"Is the pickle coming?" I asked expectantly, as if I had heard it knock on the door.