nce, and the Doctor at
once became the center of attraction for those already assembled, and
continued so during the evening. He told his latest stories, and I told
one occasionally, bringing in "Pocahontas," "Stove-pipe bracket," "Irish
patient," "Brass watches," etc., etc., any one of which had the tendency
to keep the Doctor "riled up," and in constant fear lest I should dwell
on facts or go into particulars.

At last he called me out on the porch, and said:

"Now sir ---- you, I am among aristocratic friends, who have always
honored and respected me; and you have come about as near telling some
of your cussed miserable stories about me as I want you to to-night. So
now be guarded, sir. Remember I am among my friends, and not yours; so I
warn you to be careful."

I assured him that I meant no reflection on him, and would be guarded.

Directly the musicians came, and all was ready to begin. The Doctor was
one of the first to lead out, with the hostess for a partner.

Everything went on smoothly. Hard cider flowed freely, and the Doctor
indulged often. The gentlemen all kept their hats on, including the
Doctor and myself, as etiquette didn't seem to require their removal.

More cider, plenty of music and constant dancing, warmed up everybody;
and very soon the gentlemen removed their coats, the Doctor and myself
following suit. The more we danced, the more we wanted to dance; and the
Doctor never missed a single set.

We were both introduced to the belles of the neighborhood. The Doctor
was a general favorite with them, which fact caused considerable
jealousy among not a few of the young gentlemen present.

Taking in the situation, I took special pains to say to all the boys
that the Doctor was a nice old fellow, and meant no harm.

Finally, about ten o'clock, the Simon-pure aristocracy appeared on the
scene. This was a young lady who had a very handsome face and a
beautiful figure. But she was very cross-eyed. In spite of this defect
she was very attractive, and being a graceful dancer, had no lack of
offers to dance. I received an introduction to her, and soon after, the
Doctor was introduced as per his request.

[Illustration: THE DR. AND HIS CROSS-EYED GIRL.--PAGE 351.]

He became much infatuated with her, and she didn't seem to dislike him
very much. At any rate, they danced nearly every set together. When
supper was announced he waited upon her. It so happened that the Doctor
sat at the end of the tab