Whether it
were fibrous or albuminous, "benignant" or "malignant," he was not
able in his first diagnosis to determine.
Dr. Hillhouse could not so veil his face as to hide from Mr. Carlton
the doubt and concern that were in his mind.
"Deal with me plainly," said the latter as he stood alone with the
doctor after the examination was over. "I want the exact truth.
Don't conceal anything."
Mr. Carlton's lips trembled.
"Is it a--a tumor?" He got the words out in a low, shaky voice.
"I think so," replied Doctor Hillhouse. He saw the face of Mr.
Carlton blanch instantly.
"It presents," added the doctor, "all the indications of what we
call a fibrous tumor."
"Is it of a malignant type?" asked Mr. Carlton, with suspended
breath.
"No; these tumors are harmless in themselves, but their mechanical
pressure on surrounding blood-vessels and tissues renders their
removal necessary."
Mr. Carlton caught his breath with a sigh of relief.
"Is their removal attended with danger?" he asked.
"None," replied Dr. Hillhouse.
"Have you ever taken a tumor from the neck?"
"Yes. I have operated in cases of this kind often."
"Were you always successful?"
"Yes; in every instance."
Mr. Carlton breathed more freely. After a pause, he said, his lips
growing white as he spoke:
"There will have to be an operation in this case?"
"It cannot, I fear, be avoided," replied the doctor.
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