"Lord save us!" exclaimed Matthew. "I've been a deal worse myself, and got well again; don't be a frightening yourself in that way, or belike you'll think you've one foot in the grave." Then he poured some of the medicine in the glass, and held it towards her. "Here," said he, "here's what'll make you think different, and send away the dismals." "I won't take none of it," she replied; "not one drop. It weren't given to me for the fiery pains I've got about me now." "Come, Missus, come, don't'ee quarrel with the only thing that can do'ee good," said Matthew, coaxingly. "Do me good!" she exclaimed, with a sudden return of energy. "It's my belief yer trying to pisin me. Be off and fetch the doctor!" The doctor! Matthew stared in astonishment. "What are you gaping at? Do you take me for a fool, or yourself, which? Be off, I tell yer, and don't let yer shadow darken this door again without him. Maybe he'll be able to say what's ailing me." Away went Matthew, in a ludicrous state of bewilderment. His wife must be bad indeed to send for the doctor; why he had never known her do such a thing since they married. What a trouble he had had only a few months ago to get her to see young Mr. Blane, and now she wanted him to come at once. Matthew began to think his wife was crazy, as well as Jane; perhaps she had sent him on a fool's errand. He insensibly slackened his steps as he neared the village, and bethought him what he should say, as he suddenly recollected he had received no instructions whatever. The more he thought the more perplexed he grew, and seeing some boys playing at marbles, Matthew drew near, and leaning against the railings, watched them, and turned over again in his mind what he should say; but loiter as he would, he could think of nothing save his wife's angry face, as she had bade him begone; so, after a short delay, Matthew faced the danger by boldly ringing the surgery bell. "Is the Maister at home?" asked he, fervently wishing he might be miles away. Yes, Mr. Blane was in, and Marks followed the boy sorrowfully. "Good morning, Mr. Marks. Come for some medicine? Where's the bottle?" "No, thank'ee, Sir," said Matthew, twirling his hat about uncomfortably. "My wife's took worse, and wants to know if so be ye'd make it convenient to come and physic her?" Yes; Mr. Blane could go at once, having no other call upon his time just at present. "And what's the matter with Mrs. Marks?" asked he, when they were fairly on their way. "That's more nor I can tell, Sir. She's all over like a live coal, and 'ud drink a bucket full if ye'd give it her." "Has she taken the medicine regularly?" This was a poser. Matthew scratched his head, took off his cap; he was in no way prepared for such a question. What should he say?