The surgeon then addressed the
man so strangely disabled, "You know I'm in charge of this
hospital?"
"I reckon," replied Nichol, anxiously, for the brief experience
which he could recall had taught him that the authority of the
surgeon-in-chief was autocratic.
"Well, first, you must give up the name of Yankee Blank. Your name
hereafter is Captain Nichol."
"All right, Doctor. I'll be a gin'ral ef you sez so."
"Very well; remember your name is Captain Nichol. Next, you must
obey this man and go with him. You must do just what he says in
all respects. His name is Mr. Hobart Martine."
"Yes, he tole me las' night, Hob't Ma'tine. He took on mighty
cur'ous after seein' me."
"Do you understand that you are to mind, to obey him in all
respects just as you have obeyed me?"
"I reckon. Will he tek me to anuther hospital?"
"He will take you where you will be well cared for and treated
kindly." Having written Nichol's discharge from the hospital, the
surgeon turned to other duties.
Martine informed his cousin, as far as it was essential, of the
discovery he had made and of the duties which it imposed, then
took his leave.
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