But he soon perceived he was very
coldly received by some of his old friends, and that others employed
Dr. Jones. Nobody sent for him, and he might have begun to think
that the health of the town was entirely re-established, had he not
observed that his rival appeared driven with business, and that he
rode night and day.
One evening Dr. Harvey sat in his office, wondering what could have
occasioned the sudden and surprising change in his affairs, when,
contrary to his expectations, he received a call to visit a sick
child of one of his old friends, who had lately employed his rival.
After some hesitation, and a struggle between pride and a sense of
duty, he resolved to respond to the call, and at the same time
learn, if possible, why he had been preferred to Dr. Jones, and why
Dr. Jones had on other occasions been preferred to him.
"The truth is, Dr. Harvey," said Mr. Miles, "we thought the child
dangerously ill, and as Dr. Jones could not come immediately, we
concluded to send for you."
"I admire your frankness," responded Dr. Harvey, smiling; "and shall
admire it still more, if you will inform me why you have lately
preferred Dr. Jones to me. Formerly I had the honour of enjoying
your friendship and esteem, and you have frequently told me
yourself, that you would trust no other physician.
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