Chapter 66 Summary

After a particularly odiferous cleansing of a cow, Herriot returns to Skedale House reeking to high heaven. He goes to take a bath and spies Mrs. Hall's bath salts. Thinking they might do the trick, he pours in most of the bottle. The fragrance of flowers fills the room, and Herriot relaxes in the tub. He finally manages to drag himself out and falls asleep immediately. His slumber is interrupted at 1 a.m. by a call from Mr. Alderson. They have a calving problem and need him to come right away.

Herriot is under a great deal of stress because he wants to impress Mr. Alderson. Helen and Herriot still haven't told Mr. Alderson of their plans to marry, and Herriot knows he has to do a good job with this case or his hopes will be dashed.

Herriot arrives and examines the...