broken thighs would not explain. I must observe, and endeavor to discover the cause. In the meantime I have only one piece of advice. You know that in certain cases we have to tell women patients that a successful issue depends on their own willpower: I say the same thing to you.”

“Receive my thanks,” he said. “You have acted as I hoped. As for the willpower, that is another matter,” and a faint smile crossed his handsome, melancholy face.

I rose to leave. It was nearly three o’clock.

“Give me a few moments longer. I have a favor to ask.”

After speaking these words he closed his eyes, as though to recall the opening sentences of a carefully prepared speech.