A terrible shock had sent a tremor through every nerve, and the doctor watched with painful apprehension its effect upon his reason.

Giving him an opiate and enjoining that he should be kept perfectly quiet, the doctor left the room, sought the principal, and said:-- "Mr.Bascom, here is a case that baffles my skill.

I saw that boy pass by my window not more than half an hour ago, full of animation, and now he lies hovering between life and death.

I have great apprehension for his reason.

Can you throw any light on the subject ?" Mr.Bascom hesitated.
"I am not asking you as a matter of idle curiosity, but as a physician.
I must have all the light I can get in making my diagnosis of the case." The principal arose, went to his desk, took out the letter which he had picked up from the floor, and laid it in the physician's hand.