“I will see that your rules are followed, doctor,” said Paul, finding it hard to hide the disgust he felt at this characteristic manifestation of the old man’s miserly disposition. “I see you are a sensible boy,” said the doctor, approvingly. “Perhaps I had better speak to you privately.” “Very well, doctor. As we have no other room, will you step into the entry?” The doctor followed Paul out. “Before you give your instructions,” said the telegraph boy, “I want to say that Jerry--he is not my grandfather--is a miser, and has deliberately deprived himself of the necessaries of life.” “Has he money?” “He has enough, I am sure, to pay what is needful, but it will be hard to get him to spend it.” “He must have nourishing food, and stimulating medicines, or he cannot recover. His life is at stake.” “Will he need a nurse?” “I suppose you can’t attend to him?” “No; I prefer to attend to my regular business, and hire some one.” “Then do so, for the old man will require some weeks, at least, to recover from the low point to which he has brought himself.” “I think I can get Mrs. Hogan to take care of him. You may give her your directions.” First, however, Paul made the proposal to the good woman. “I’ll see that you are paid,” he said. “If I can’t get the money out of Jerry, I will pay it myself.” “But, Paul, dear, I wouldn’t want to take the little you have. You’ve no more than enough for yourself.” “I will show you something, Mrs. Hogan, if you won’t let Jerry know.” “Shure I won’t.” Paul produced the hundred dollar bill, and filled the soul of Mrs. Hogan with amazement. “Where did you get it?” she asked, in wonder. “It was given me by a gentleman whom I saved from being robbed of a good deal more,” he answered. “You see, Mrs. Hogan, I am not so poor as you suppose. I will pay you seven dollars a week, if that will satisfy you, for your care of Jerry, but I will try to get him to repay me the money, for his life depends on what we are able to do for him.” The doctor, upon Mrs. Hogan’s acceptance of the office of nurse, gave her instructions. To begin with, though late, he directed that some tea and oatmeal should be prepared and administered to his patient to reinforce his failing strength. It was nearly one o’clock when Paul threw himself down on the lounge with his clothes on, and fell into a sound sleep. Old Jerry did not immediately improve. His strength was so far reduced that it required time to rebuild his enfeebled constitution. Mrs. Hogan proved a good nurse. Indeed, in her younger days she had acted in that capacity, and was not ignorant of the duties. When Paul came home the next evening, he found the nurse waiting to speak to him. “The doctor says Jerry must be undressed, and not lay with his clothes on,” she said, “but old Jerry is so obstinate that he won’t agree to it.” “Jerry, you will feel a great deal better to take off your clothes,” said Paul, in a tone of expostulation.