It took just under an hour for Doc to remove the bullet and return with Festus. The nurse who assisted him in the operating room maintained an icy silence, but she followed his directions with dispatch. After it was over, Doc pushed the rolling table back to the room himself and he and Newly transferred Festus back to his bed.
"Well, Doc?" asked the young man.
Doc took the deputy's wrist, then bent over him with a stethescope. He pulled up the blanket and straightened with a satisfied expression. "His color's good, his pulse is stronger..." He smiled wearily. "He's just fine." He looked around the room, surprised. There were two extra beds and a big screen across a corner. "Newly..."
Newly smiled. "Dr Harrington sent in three beds and that screen for Miss Kitty. The marshal and her went to sleep right after we ate...he sent dinner too."
"Dinner!" Doc was suddenly aware of how long it was since he ate. "Is there anything left?"
"No, sir, but the man who brought the food told me to let him know as soon as you got back and he would get you something." Newly left and Doc went over to Matt. The marshal lay on his side, so fast asleep he didn't wake when the old man examined him. All the signs were good and he returned to Festus. The deputy was still deep under the ether and Doc sighed and sat down next to him.
"Well, old boy, it looks like we made it," said Doc softly. "I don't mind telling you I was worried about you, but I'm only saying so because I know you can't hear me." A little smile crossed the deputy's face and Doc leaned forward, but his friend must have been dreaming because he didn't move again.