What was the meaning of these significant words on his shingle, "Vivisectionist and Re-incarnator?" What was the mission of this mysterious man? To what line of surgical science did this assortment of animals contribute, whose piteous wails ever and anon emanated from his laboratory? Up to that time a chain of wonderful discoveries and marvelous achievements had been attained by profound savants in surgical and pathological subjects: The creation of life germ cells: The trepanning of skulls and the re-arrangement of the brains: The grafting of skin, nose and ear: The infusion of new blood: The pre-natal determination of sexes: The separation of mind from the body, by subjecting persons in a cataleptic state by hypnotism: And last but not least, the hibernation for an indefinite period of living bodies by suspended animation. These amazing triumphs, each more startling than the other, were the records of past achievements. Could there be anything more astounding? Even so, Dr. Hyder Ben Raaba, who was conversant with all the above mentioned exploits of experimenters, had conceived one of the boldest and extraordinarily audacious of surgical feats, the successful demonstration of which would startle the world and make men stand aghast with wonder. In fact, by the display of his professional sign, it was a foregone conclusion that he had succeeded in his experiments. By the aid of science, occultism and wonderful magic, he had transformed the sexes! CHAPTER IX A RAY OF HOPE It was the day of departure of Aurora Cunningham for London, England. Margaret had accompanied her in an automobile to the city of B---- to see her off. Their parting had an unusual sadness as they stood on the deck of the Dynamoship "Columbia"--a four-day ocean greyhound. They seemed to be paralyzed at the barrenness of the future, looking into each other's eyes as if trying to challenge sincerity to their oath of allegiance. It was extremely touching indeed, when they were compelled by the officers of the ship to take their final leave, and as the Columbia began to recede gradually from its moorings, her prow compassed to the British Isles, Aurora's lithe figure could be seen at the stern of the boat, throwing kisses and waving her handkerchief toward Margaret, until the distance grew wider and farther and the figure fainter and at last was lost to view. Left alone on the shore, Margaret did her utmost to control her emotions of parting from her beloved friend. With suppressed feelings she mounted her automobile reluctantly, and bade the chauffeur proceed to New York City, from whence, after a short repose, she intended to take the train for her home in Wyoming.