CHAPTER XII.
"THE doctor likes his glass of wine," remarked one of the gentlemen as Dr.Angier left them.
"Is that so ?" "Didn't you observe his heightened color and the gleam in his eyes ?" "I noticed something unusual in his manner, but did not think it the effect of wine." "He is a reticent man, with considerable of what may be called professional dignity, and doesn't often let himself down to laymen as he did just now." "There wasn't much letting down, that I could see." "Perhaps not; but professional pride is reserved and sensitive in some persons.

It hasn't much respect for the opinions of non-experts, and is chary of discussion with laymen.

Dr.Angier is weak, or peculiar if you please, in this direction.

I saw that he was annoyed at your reply to his remark that you do not cure a thirsty man by withholding water.

It was a little thing, but it showed his animus.