hall probably die.

CHAPTER XXVI.

TRIALS OF A YOUNG PHYSICIAN.

The poet Cowper, in his delineations of a candidate for the pulpit,
prescribes, as one needful condition or qualification,

"That he is honest in the sacred cause."

So, when I entered upon the medical profession, which I regarded as next
of kin to sacred, I deemed honesty quite a high recommendation; and
whatever in the abstract appeared to me to be right, I endeavored to
pursue through the routine of every-day life. Alas, that I should ever
have had occasion to doubt the policy of common honesty!

I was called to see Mrs. ----. The case was an urgent one. There was no
time for deliberation or consultation. I understood her case but very
poorly; yet I knew that in order to success I must at least _seem_ to be
wise. Besides, what was to be done must be done quickly; so I boldly
prescribed. My prescription was entirely successful, and I left the
house with flying colors. I left, moreover, with the full consciousness
of having acted in the main like an honest man.

A few days afterward I was sent for by Mrs. ----, who immediately filled
my ears with the most piteous complaints, the sum total of which was
that she was exceedingly _nervous_, and I told her so. Of course I did
not complain of culpability or crime. But I told her, very plainly, that
she needed no medicine--nothing but plenty of air and exercise, and less
high-seasoned food. My great frankness gave offence, and impaired my
reputation. She employed, in my stead, Dr. Robinson, who continued to
attend her till his bill amounted to a sum sufficient to buy a good
carriage and harness, and till his credit for skill was advanced in a
degree corresponding.

Mr. B.'s child was sick, and his wife besides. He came for my
predecessor; but, not finding him at home,--though he still remained in
the place,--he was compelled to Hobson's choice--myself or nobody; Dr.
Robinson lived at too great a distance. I was accordingly employed, and
was soon on the spot. The child was very sick; and for some little time
after my arrival I was so much occupied in the performance of my duties
that I paid no attention to any thing else. But having prescribed for
both my patients, I sat down quietly to look over the newspaper.

Presently I heard from Mrs. B. a deep groan. I was immediately at her
bedside, anxious to know the cause. "Oh, nothing at all," she said,
"except a momentary feeling of disappointmen