"Patient in the office, sir," announces the attendant.
The doctor utters a half-impatient exclamation; but the wife
expresses only thankfulness that it is an office patient.
"Fine night for a sick person to come out!" muttered the doctor, as
he unwillingly lays down his book, and rises from the comfortable
lounge.
But he is himself again by the time his hand is on the door of the
office, and it is with real interest that he greets his patient.
"Tooth to be extracted? Sit down, sir. Here, Biddy, bring water and
a brighter lamp. Have courage, sir; one moment will end it."
The hall door closes on the relieved sufferer, and the doctor throws
himself again on the lounge, and smilingly puts the bright half
dollar in his pocket.
"That was not so bad, after all, Mary. I like to make fifty cents in
that way."
"Cruel creature! Do not mention it."
"Cruel! The poor man blessed me in his heart. Did I not relieve him
from the most intense suffering?"
"Well, never mind. I hope there will be no more calls to-night."
"So do I. Where is the book? I will read again." No more
interruptions. Another hour, and all, are sleeping quietly.
Midnight has passed, when the sound of the bell falls on the
doctor's wakeful ear. As quickly as possible he answers it in
person, but another peal is heard ere he reaches the door.
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