and, slipping from the saddle, walked quickly to him, leading the colt, which was warm and panting as if he had carried her a good distance at that pace.

“Oh, Doctor Thryng, we need you right bad. That’s why I took this way home. Have you been to the house?”

“Yes. I have just come from there.”

“Is mother all right?”

“Doing splendidly.” He waited, and she lifted her face to him anxiously.

“We need you bad, Doctor.”

“Yes — but not you — you’re not — ” he began stupidly.

“It’s Mr. Irwin. I went there to see could I help any, and seemed like I couldn’t