Sometimes the patient will discover that the “memorandum” he is signing is a note, and may say:
“Why this is a note, Doctor?”
“Well, it is in note form, but you will see that it is payable to your own order, Mr. ——,” the doctor will say. “I don’t think it will be of much use to anybody else. It is put in this form for your own protection.”
This is usually sufficient, unless the patient is a city banker, or an unusually smart man of business. Should this latter be the case, which is not likely as men of this class invariably pay cash in advance, an explanation is readily forthcoming to the effect that it is merely an evidence of good faith on the maker’s part, etc. Occasions of this kind are very rare, however, as most men are so thoroughly hypnotized at the moment that they readily do whatever the doctor suggests.
The smart man is as a rule the easiest to get a good fee from. His business education has been such that he is not looking for something for nothing. If a thing is really good he knows it must be paid for, and that the price must be in accordance with its merits—or supposed merits. Strong belief in actual merit is a matter of education, the doctor acting as instructor and demonstrator.
One holiday when the office was closed the writer and the physician with whom he was associated in business were sitting in the doctor’s private room discussing ways and means for getting in more patients. The main entrance door was locked. Suddenly the knob was heard to turn and it was evident somebody was trying to get in. Going to the door the writer opened it and stood face to face with one of the best known and wealthiest men in Chicago, a man noted for being extremely close in his financial deals. Affecting not to know him the writer said:
“What can I do for you, sir?”
“I’d like to see Dr. ——.”
“The office is not open for the reception of patients to-day, but the doctor happens to be here for a moment. If you will step in and take a seat I will ascertain if he can see you.”
When the caller was seated the doctor was hurriedly notified as to his identity and financial means, and word was sent out to show the gentleman in. After a consultation of twenty minutes the caller left, and the doctor had his check for $2,500. As he handed it to the writer the doctor said: