He had something for me to do in the world, and this was His way of saving me.
"When Jamie needed me I was here, and because you had befriended me I was prepared with God's help and with my skill and training to restore Jamie's eyesight.

There are others on the coast who need a doctor's skill just as Jamie needed it, and they have no one to help them.

I have decided that I shall be doctor to the people.

If I can help the folk, as I am sure I can, I'll be happy in the knowledge that I'm making some little return for the great deal that you have done for me." "I were never doin' much for you, Doctor Joe--just what one man would always do for another," Thomas protested.

"But 'twill be a blessin' to the folk of The Labrador to have you doctor un! We all need doctors often enough when there's none to be had, and folks die for the need of un." "Yes, folks die here for the need of a doctor," Doctor Joe agreed, "and I hope I may be the means of saving lives and giving relief." The three boys broke in upon them with their arms full of packages.
"There's a lot more!" exclaimed Jamie depositing his load upon the floor.
"Perhaps we had better help them, Thomas," suggested Doctor Joe, rising.
"Oh, no, sir," Jamie protested.