"If my visit to Russia shall effect the recognition of my school by your Government, I shall forever thank God for sending me here. This is probably the entering wedge that shall open Europe to us, and induce the inquiry and investigation that we crave. Let our system stand or fall upon its merits."
And so the friends conversed and laid their plans for the introduction of the new medical system into Europe. The Prince also joined them in their plans, and his enthusiasm quite equaled that of the Count. Among other items, the two noble converts made arrangements to purchase a complete stock of books and drugs. Dr. Jones daily taught them the art of "taking a case," as he called it; or the examination of a patient and writing down the symptoms.
The three months had expired and Feodora's condition was far above the danger mark. She was beautiful, rosy, and blushing, romping about with Mattie, like a great school-girl. So now the morning of their departure was set. The news was heralded far and wide that the great air-ship would sail upon a certain day if the wind were favorable.
The morning had arrived, the wind was blowing within a point or two of north, and every preparation had been made for hoisting anchors. A vast concourse of people had assembled to witness their departure. The many friends of the voyagers were present in force, and they loaded them with presents, many of them very costly. Dr. Jones' practice had been lucrative beyond anything he had ever dreamed of. He found himself suddenly made a wealthy man. The gratitude of the people was boundless; and the simple-hearted man scarcely knew what to do with all the money that poured in upon him. So he caused a considerable portion of it to be distributed among the poor peasantry in the vicinity of the castle. He felt a great sense of sorrow as he looked upon the many faces that he had learned to love. But all was ready and he must away.
"I have spent some of the happiest hours of my life with yourself and daughter, my dear Count, and truly hope to visit you again and enjoy your hospitality. Good-bye, and God bless you all."
He had shaken hands with all those immediately about him, among whom were the Prince and Princess, and stepped with Mrs. Jones into the cage. It shot up to the engine-room, the anchors and cables were cast off, and the splendid globe, so long bound in chains to the earth, arose majestically into the blue vault above. Loud and mighty were the cheers that followed them. Silver Cloud, as if impatient at the long delay in Russia, rapidly ascended three thousand feet, and flew northward at tremendous speed.