The consultation was held, and Nichol (as he may be more properly named hereafter) was closely questioned and carefully examined.  The result merely confirmed previous impressions.  It was explained, as far as explanation can be given of the mysterious functions of the brain, that either the concussion of the exploding shell or the wound from a flying fragment had paralyzed the organ of memory.  When such paralysis would cease, if ever, no one could tell.  The power to recall everything might return at any moment or it might be delayed indefinitely.  A shock, a familiar face, might supply the potency required, or restoration come through the slow, unseen processes of nature.  Martine believed that Helen’s face and voice would accomplish everything.

He was well known to the medical authorities and had no difficulty in securing belief that he had identified Nichol.  He also promised that abundant additional proof should be sent on from Alton, such certainty being necessary to secure the officer’s back pay and proper discharge from the service.  The surgeon then addressed the man so strangely disabled, “You know I’m in charge of this hospital?”

“I reckon,” replied Nichol, anxiously, for the brief experience which he could recall had taught him that the authority of the surgeon-in-chief was autocratic.

“Well, first, you must give up the name of Yankee Blank.  Your name hereafter is Captain Nichol.”

“All right, Doctor.  I’ll be a gin’ral ef you sez so.”

“Very well; remember your name is Captain Nichol.  Next, you must obey this man and go with him.  You must do just what he says in all respects.  His name is Mr. Hobart Martine.”

“Yes, he tole me las’ night, Hob’t Ma’tine.  He took on mighty cur’ous after seein’ me.”

“Do you understand that you are to mind, to obey him in all respects just as you have obeyed me?”

“I reckon.  Will he tek me to anuther hospital?”

“He will take you where you will be well cared for and treated kindly.”  Having written Nichol’s discharge from the hospital, the surgeon turned to other duties.

Martine informed his cousin, as far as it was essential, of the discovery he had made and of the duties which it imposed, then took his leave.  Nichol readily accompanied him, and with the exception of a tendency to irritation at little things, exhibited much of the good-natured docility of a child.  Martine took him to a hotel, saw that he had a bath, put him in the hands of a barber, and then sent for a clothier.  When dressed in clean linen and a dark civilian suit, the appearance of the man was greatly improved.  Hobart had set his teeth, and would entertain no thought of compromise with his conscience.  He would do by Nichol as he would wish to be done by if their relations were reversed.  Helen should receive no greater shock than was inevitable, nor should Nichol lose the advantage of appearing before her in the outward aspect of a gentleman.