Meanwhile without intermission the work went on.
"It is no use," said the assistant at last, as he straightened his weary
frame and wiped the perspiration from his brow. "She must be dead; we
have been at it nearly three hours now."
"Patience," said the doctor. "If necessary I shall go on for four--or
till I drop," he added.
Ten minutes more passed. Everybody knew that the task was hopeless, but
still they hoped.
"Great Heavens!" said the assistant presently, starting back from the
body and pointing at its face. "Did you see that?"
Elizabeth and Mr. Granger sprang to their feet, crying, "What, what?"
"Sit still, sir," said the doctor, waving them back. Then addressing his
helper, and speaking in a constrained voice: "I thought I saw the right
eyelid quiver, Williams. Pass the battery."
"So did I," answered Williams as he obeyed.
"Full power," said the doctor again. "It is kill or cure now."
The shock was applied for some seconds without result. Then suddenly a
long shudder ran up the limbs, and a hand stirred. Next moment the eyes
were opened, and with pain and agony Beatrice drew a first breath of
returning life.
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