"There's always a lot of infection down in those tenements," said Dr. Surtaine lamely.
"Dad, when you made your report for the 'Clarion' did you tell us all you knew?"
"All except some medical technicalities," said the Doctor, who never told a lie when a half-lie would serve.
"I've just had a talk with the health officer, Dr. Merritt."
"Merritt's an alarmist."
"He's alarmed this time, certainly."
"What does he think it is?"
"It?" said Hal, a trifle maliciously. "The epidemic?"
"Epidemic's a big word. The sickness."
"How can he tell? He's had no chance to see the cases. They still mysteriously disappear before he can get to them. By the way, your Dr. De Vito seems to have a hand in that."