The active stimulant taken half an hour before was losing its effect and his nerves beginning to give way.
He was no longer master of the situation, and the last and, as it proved, the most vital thing in the whole operation was done imperfectly.
At the end of thirty-five minutes the patient, still under the influence of ether was carried back to her chamber and laid back upon her bed, quiet as a sleeping infant.
"It is all over," said Doctor Hillhouse as the eyes of Mrs.Carlton unclosed a little while afterward and she looked up into his face.

He was no longer the impassive surgeon, but the tender and sympathizing friend.

His voice was flooded with feeling and moisture dimmed his eyes.
What a look of sweet thankfulness came into the face of Mrs.Carlton as she whispered, "And I knew nothing of it!" Then, shutting her eyes and speaking to herself, she said, "It is wonderful.

Thank God, thank God!" It was almost impossible to, restrain Mr.Carlton, so excessive was his delight when the long agony of suspense was over.

Doctor Hillhouse had to grasp his arm tightly and hold him back as he stooped down over his wife.