Pagina 780 van 896

"He first laughed at my words, and then frowned at them. He moved

a chair with his foot near to mine, ordered the woman away, and

said in a subdued voice,

"'Doctor, finding my brother in this difficulty with these hinds,

I recommended that your aid should be invited. Your reputation is

high, and, as a young man with your fortune to make, you are

probably mindful of your interest. The things that you see here,

are things to be seen, and not spoken of.'

"I listened to the patient's breathing, and avoided answering.

"'Do you honour me with your attention, Doctor?'

"'Monsieur,' said I, 'in my profession, the communications of

patients are always received in confidence.' I was guarded in my

answer, for I was troubled in my mind with what I had heard and

seen.

"Her breathing was so difficult to trace, that I carefully tried

the pulse and the heart. There was life, and no more. Looking

round as I resumed my seat, I found both the brothers intent upon

me.

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