“The crisis has arrived! He’s not dying—we can yet save him. Don’t get excited—don’t lose your head. Roll that hot stone in a blanket, and place it to his feet. That’s right—you’re as steady as a clock. Heat another blanket to wrap around him. Have no fear—we shall save him. Now get me the flask of brandy and the small white powders that are in the pocket of my hunting-shirt. What a brave little woman you are!”
Her hands were shaking like aspen leaves; but she obeyed his orders. When the medicines were in his possession, Bradford poured out a quantity of the fiery liquid and dropped into it the white powder. Then quickly mixing the two, he forcibly poured the whole down the dying man’s throat.
Silently he watched for the effects of the powerful draught. They were not long in showing themselves. The rigor passed; and a warm glow suffused the patient’s neck and face, and rose to his temples. Pulse and respiration gradually grew steadier—stronger; and feet and hands regained their accustomed warmth. A natural moisture overspread the body. And the sick man sank into a deep, dreamless sleep.
For an hour the two nurses sat by Ross’s side—neither speaking a word. At last Bradford yawned and remarked:
“He’s all right now, little girl. The worst is over. I’m going to finish my nap. Don’t disturb him—let him sleep as long as he will. When he awakes he’ll be conscious. Call me, if he rouses before I do. Be brave a little longer; and all will be well.”
For hours the two men slept. La Violette scarcely dared to breathe, for fear of waking her charge. Noon came. Bradford arose, and, approaching the couch, closely inspected the sleeper.
“He’s doing nicely,” he said. Then noting La Violette’s pallid face:
“Come—you must get out of here. I don’t care to take charge of another patient just now. I never did like the practice of the profession. Take a turn in the open air—and get something to eat while you’re gone.”
But she resolutely shook her head, as she replied:
“I will stay by him until he awakes. You go—you need air and exercise more than I.”