132) The Little Minister

have been his, has broken his nerve for this day,
and our side may win yet.”

“1 believe,” Gavin said, with sudden enlight-
enment, “that you brought me here for that
purpose.”

“Maybe,” chuckled the doctor; ‘“ maybe.”
Then he changed the subject suddenly. ‘ Mr.
Dishart,’”’ he asked, “‘ were you ever in love?”

“ Never!” answered Gavin, violently.

“ Well, well,” said the doctor, “don’t terrify
the horse. I .have been in love myself. It’s
bad, but it’s nothing to curling.”