The Castle of Cheer (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1916 Excerpt: ...its deprivations. To those responsible for the work and welfare of the sanatorium, however, it meant greatly increased work. The patients must not be shut off from the fresh air because it was cold; consequently there must be great additions of clothing to conserve the heat of their bodies, and all manner of devices for artificial heat. The central heating plant was so taxed that its care at this time demanded the full attention of their utility man, leaving him no time for the very essential work of cleaning the snow from the broad walks. Mary Standlaws was glad of the many extra duties which kept her too busy for gloom. She had not been troubled, so far, with further advances from Doctor Middane. She knew the reason of her reprieve. The doctor's wound, superficial though it seemed, had been quite deep in its effects upon him, perhaps because it met little resistance in a body which had long given itself to indulgences. His visit to The Castle and the long walk home had resulted disastrously, and he had been kept to his bed ever since. But certain reports from Latham Centre indicated that he was better, and Mary felt that he was to be feared. The active direction of the sanatorium was upon her shoulders, however, and its complex affairs left little time for worry. Mary did not know that she was opening her doors to the enemy when she welcomed so cheerfully an Italian labourer from Latham Centre, who desired any kind of honest work. Here was her opportunity to relieve the burdens of their overworked utility man. There was Mr. Bissington Jones shovelling snow this very minute--work sufficiently hard that no patient should be expected to do it, and to but a few could it be allowed. Bissington Jones was a very helpful patient. Others of the improved class migh...