"
Slight indisposition! What a memory some people are blessed with!
The doctor smothers his rising indignation.
"Eight visits, Mr. Palmer, and at such a distance. You will find the
charge a moderate one."
"Oh! very well; I dare say it is all right. I am sorry I have not
the money for you to-day, doctor. Very tight just at present; you
know how it is with men of business."
"It would be a great accommodation if I could have it at once."
"Impossible, doctor! I wish I could oblige you. In a week, or
fortnight, at the farthest, I will call at your office."
A week or fortnight! The disappointed doctor once more seats himself
in his chaise, and urges his horse to speed. He is growing desperate
now, and is eager to reach his next place of destination. Suddenly
he checks the horse. A gentleman is passing whom he recognises as
the young husband whose idolized wife has so lately been snatched
from the borders of the grave.
"Glad to see you, Mr. Wilton; I was about calling at your house."
"Pray, do so, doctor; Mrs. Wilton will be pleased to see you."
"Thank you; but my call was on business, to-day. I believe I must
trouble you with my bill for attendance during your wife's illness."
"Ah! yes; I recollect. Have you it with you? Fifty dollars!
Impossible! Why, she was not ill above three weeks.
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