In fact, I was in no condition for the performance of any operation.

I committed a great indiscretion in going to Mr.Birtwell's last night.

Late suppers and wine do not leave one's nerves in the best condition, as you and I know very well, doctor; and as a preparation for work such as we have had on hand to-day nothing could be worse." "Didn't I hear something about the disappearance of a young man who left Mr.Birtwell's at a late hour ?" asked Doctor Kline.
"Nothing has been heard of the son of Wilmer Voss since he went away from Mr.Birtwell's about one o'clock," replied Doctor Hillhouse, "and his family are in great distress about him.

Mrs.Voss, who is one of my patients, is in very delicate health and when I saw her at eleven o'clock to-day was lying in a critical condition." "There is something singular about that party at Mr.and Mrs.
Birtwell's, added Doctor Hillhouse, after a pause.

I hardly know what to make of it." "Singular in what respect ?" asked the other.
The face of Doctor Hillhouse grew more serious: "You know Mr.Ridley, the lawyer?
He was in Congress a few years ago." "Yes." "He was very intemperate at one time, and fell so low that even his party rejected him.