Each one of the fourteen massive buildings was a gem of architectural beauty, and was devoted to a special line of study or practice. The entire group worked harmoniously toward the same end.
In the course of their journey Mr. World and Miss Church-Member drew nigh to this great college, but the shrewd and wicked Mr. World remained silent, waiting for the first words of his companion. Miss Church-Member, however, as she looked upon the stupendous edifices, was so filled with wonder and admiration at the long stretches of masonry, and the perfect symmetry of parts, that she offered no comment until they were quite near the first building.
“For what purpose is this group of great structures used?” were her words that broke the brief silence.
“All for the sake of the eyes,” he carelessly answered, as he called her attention to the King’s Highway and the throngs of people that were admiring and entering the college from those parts.
“It is indeed wonderful,” she commented, “that so small a thing as the eye should demand the service of such great edifices.”
“The buildings are not too large nor too well equipped. Your surprise would not be so great were you to witness the large number from the two great highways that come here daily for treatment. You can see them now moving by thousands to and from the buildings. It might be wise for us to enter for consultation. My eyes, at least, may need some expert attention.”
She, being anxious to see the interior of at least one of the buildings, offered no objection to his shrewd suggestion.
The building was so easy of access that there was not one step to climb. An electric elevator served to carry them to the sixty-fourth floor which formed a part of the huge dome into which the upper portion of the great structure converged. This style of architecture not only added to the beauty of the appearance, but also proved to be perfectly adapted to the uses of the college.
The confidence of Miss Church-Member was fully won by the appearance of the interior and the courteous attention she received from the managers.
The consulting physician examined the eyes of Mr. World, then congratulated him upon the clear vision he enjoyed, and informed him that his eyes required no immediate treatment.