"I will call one immediately," said Gerald.
He left the room quickly, and soon returned with Dr. Barlow, the village physician.
"Well, Nugent," he said, "have you been trying to burn yourself up?"
"Not trying, but I nearly succeeded."
The doctor by a few simple remedies soon relieved his patient. Then he asked: "Who discovered the fire?"
"Mr. Crane and I saw it from the lake?" answered Gerald. "We got here as quickly as possible, and found Mr. Nugent lying helpless on the floor of his room."
"He must have been nearly suffocated. In all probability had you been less prompt he would have died."
"To whom am I indebted for my rescue?" asked the old gentleman. "The boy I know—it is Gerald Lane—but this gentleman is a stranger to me."
"He is the brother of my stepmother," said Gerald.
"I am deeply indebted to you both. I am not able to make proper acknowledgment now, but will you both come over this evening, when I shall be better?"