She had no medical training beyond the ordinary knowledge of a woman who had spent years caring for a sick mother and treating the injuries of farmworkers.
But she understood that Gideon’s condition could not be ignored.
She also understood that pulling at something lodged deep inside an ear with sewing tweezers could cause permanent damage.
She would not risk making him worse.
She covered him with a blanket, helped him remain still, and prepared warm water and clean cloths while he rested against the pillows.
Then she examined the old notebook again.
The last entry contained a name and an address.
Dr. Samuel Whitcomb, a physician in the town of Bell Creek, nearly thirty miles away.
Beside the address, Dr. Mercer had written:
He understands delicate ear surgery. Trust his judgment.
The storm was still raging.
Rosalie could not safely take Gideon through the mountains that night, but she could prepare for the journey.
