When the examination was over, the
two men withdrew and stared at each other.
"Of course there is no doubt that the symptoms all point to slow
arsenical poisoning," said the consulting doctor.
"Yes," said Ruysdael quickly, "yet it is utterly inexplicable, both as
to motive and opportunity."
"Humph!" said the other grimly, "young ladies take arsenic in minute
doses to improve the complexion and promote tissue, forgetting that the
effects are cumulative when they stop suddenly. Your young friend has
'sworn off' too quickly."
"But it is impossible," said Doctor Ruysdael impatiently. "She is a mere
child--a country girl--ignorant of such habits."
"Humph! the peasants in the Tyrol try it on themselves after noticing
the effect on the coats of cattle."
Doctor Ruysdael started. A recollection of the sleek draught horse
flashed upon him. He rose and hastily re-entered the patient's room. In
a few moments he returned. "Do you think I could remove her at once to
the mountains?" he said gravely.
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