Miss Briggs and Grace consulted aside. At the conclusion of their consultation, carried on in low tones, Elfreda turned to the mountain woman.
"These children must have a doctor without delay, Mrs. Thompson. Where is the nearest doctor to be found?"
The woman said the nearest one was at Holcomb Court House.
"We passed through there on our way here, did we not?" asked Elfreda.
"Yes," replied Grace. "It must be twenty miles or so from here. Have you any one that you can send there for the doctor?"
Mrs. Thompson shook her head.
"Mah man's gone awa' an' won't be back till t'-morrow. Ain't no one else that Ah knows 'bout."
"Do you think it would be safe to wait until morning, Elfreda?" asked Grace.
"No. The little one's heart is not acting right. We must have treatment for her as soon as possible."