“Who can it be?” said Cameron. “I really don't know any nurse. Of course it can't be—Mandy—Miss Haley?” He laughed a loud laugh almost of derision as he made the suggestion.
“Ah, he's got it!” cried the nurse, clapping her hands. “As if he ever doubted.”
“Good Heavens!” exclaimed Cameron. “You don't mean to tell me that Mandy—What is poor Mandy doing here? Cooking?”
“Cooking indeed!” exclaimed the nurse. “Cooking indeed! Just let the men in this camp, from John here,” indicating the Chinaman at the rear of the tent, “to the Sergeant yonder, hear you by the faintest tone indicate anything but adoration for Nurse Haley, and you will need the whole Police Force to deliver you from their fury.”
“Good Heavens!” said Cameron in an undertone. “A nurse! With those hands!” He shuddered. “I mean, of course—you know—she's awfully good-hearted and all that, but as a nurse you know she is impossible.”
The little nurse laughed long and joyously.
“Oh, this is fun! I wish Dr. Martin could hear you. You forget, Sir, that for a year and a half she has had the benefit of my example and tuition.”
“Think of that, Cameron!” murmured the Inspector reproachfully. But Cameron only shook his head.
“Good-bye!” he said. “No, I don't think I pine for mountain scenery. Remember me to Martin and to Man—to Nurse Haley.”
“Good-bye!” said the little nurse. “I have a good mind to tell them what you said. I may. Just wait, though. Some day you will very humbly beg my pardon for that slight upon my assistant.”