But some God of vengeance fought upon his side, the hand of doom was over me, and a power I could not resist dragged the answer from my lips.
"I think, sir," I replied, "that, as the chairman has told you, the whole of my public record is an answer to your question.

I have often expressed my views upon this matter; I see no reason to change them." Ernest Merchison turned to the audience.
"Men of Dunchester," he said in such trumpet-like and thrilling tones that every face of the multitude gathered there was turned upon him, "Dr.Therne in answer to my questions refers to his well-known views, and says that he has found no reason to change them.

His views are that vaccination is useless and even mischievous, and by preaching them he has prevented thousands from being vaccinated.

Now I ask him to illustrate his faith by baring his left arm before you all." What followed?
I know not.

From the audience went up a great gasp mingled with cries of "_yes_" and "_shame_" and "_show him_." My supporters on the platform murmured in indignation, and I, round whom the whole earth seemed to rush, by an effort recovering my self-control, rose and said:-- "I am here to answer any question, but I ask you to protect me from insult." Again the tumult and confusion swelled, but through it all, calm as death, inexorable as fate, Ernest Merchison stood at my side.