"Yes, he is in; but I regret to say he is exceedingly engaged this
morning. His business is frequently of a nature which cannot suffer
interruption. He would have been pleased to have seen you."
The doctor's pocket-book is produced, and the neatly drawn bill is
presented.
"If convenient to Mr. Lawton, the amount would be acceptable."
"I will hand it to him when he is at leisure. He will attend to it,
no doubt."
The doctor sighs involuntarily as he recalls similar indefinite
promises; but it is impossible to insist upon interrupting important
business. He ventures another remark, implying that prompt payment
would oblige him; bows, and retires.
On, on goes the faithful horse. Where is to be our next
stopping-place? At the wealthy merchant's, who owed so much to the
doctor's skill some two months since. Even the doctor feels
confidence here. Thousands saved by the prevention of that fever.
Thirty dollars is not to be thought of in comparison.
All is favourable. Mr. Palmer is at home, and receives his visiter
in a cordial manner. Compliments are passed. Now for the bill.
"Our little account, Mr. Palmer."
"Ah! I recollect; I am a trifle in your debt. Let us see: thirty
dollars! So much? I had forgotten that we had needed medical advice,
excepting in my slight indisposition a few weeks since.
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