to the world, and as the doctor smiled incredulously, one of his visitors added:
"Like the philosopher of old, we will say to Pain:—Thou art but an idle word."
Van Swieten was doubtful, but after further explanation he invited them to come to his hospital the next morning and demonstrate their secret. When they were gone he went to Maria Theresa and told her of the interview. The Empress declared her intention of being present at the experiment.
The next day when the three young men appeared at the hospital they found Van Swieten and a veiled lady awaiting them. Certain chemicals had previously been placed in retorts by them, and a mastiff was made to inhale the product. The animal exhibited symptoms of inebriation, and soon fell on the floor unconscious. One of the strangers made a deep incision into the dog's chest and covered the wound with a surgical dressing. The animal showed no sign of pain, and shortly afterwards recovered consciousness, got on his feet, and walked about as if nothing had happened.
"This is indeed a miracle," said the Empress.
"Would you dare to operate thus on a patient?" asked Van Swieten.
"Willingly, Master," was the reply.
"Then operate on me," said the Professor.
To this proposal, however, they demurred, and the Empress supported their objection. An appointment for further experiment a few days later was made, but when the day arrived Van Swieten was ill. He died on May 18, and Maria Theresa was at the time immersed in political troubles. The sequel to that strange history has never been told, but some of the old books tell of the "Holland Oil," which is believed to have been the
