I examined the books upon the table, and the pictures on the walls.

I wished myself "anywhere, anywhere out of the world," and more than once was on the point of stealing out of the house, jumping into my cab, and making off without seeing the doctor at all.

One consideration alone prevented me.

I had lost all my money, and had not even a franc left to pay the driver.

Presently the door again opened, the grave footman reappeared, and I heard the dreaded announcement:--"Monsieur le Docteur will be happy to receive Monsieur in his consulting-room." I followed mechanically.