In the twinkling of an eye the rider was off his horse, with the bridle thrown over his arm.
"Yes, I'm a doctor," he said, briskly. "Here, tie up my horse, and let me see the patient at once."
Mr. Thorn was so impressed by the confident air of the man that he readily obeyed the somewhat arrogant command, and Mrs. Thorn and Jennie were somewhat surprised at his quick return, accompanied by an utter stranger.
"I met a doctor right at the gate, wife," he explained; "so I did not go for Dr. Pillsbury."
"Here's your patient, sir," said Mrs. Thorn, turning back the gay patchwork counterpane, in which she had carefully enveloped the unconscious Queenie.
What was her surprise to see him fall upon his knees and clasp his hands, while his dark, handsome features became luminous with mingled joy and sorrow.
"Oh, my dear sister, my sweet, unhappy girl!" he exclaimed, "is it thus I find you. Oh! madam, is she indeed dead?" he inquired, turning sadly to Mrs. Thorn.
"Her heart beats just a little, sir," said Mrs. Thorn, looking at him in surprise.
"Do you know the lady, sir?" asked Jennie Thorn, a little timidly.
The man turned around, and looked at the farmer's exceedingly pretty daughter with a furtive look of admiration. Instead of answering her he spoke to the farmer.