Chapter 26 Summary

Herriot is called out to Phin Calvert's farm to look at six steers that are acting strangely. Phin is ready for the new veterinarian to do something astounding because he is fresh out of school and full of new techniques. As Herriot watches the steers stumble around, he figures out that they are suffering from lead poisoning. Phin had just added a new panel to the barn that contains paint made with lead. The steers have been eating the paint and making themselves sick.

Herriot recommends giving the steers Epsom salts because there is no cure at this time for lead poisoning. Phin is shocked at this remedy because there is nothing new about it. He invites Herriot in for a drink and remarks to his wife that he was hoping for a more scientific cure. After fourteen days the steers are back...