“Why?”
“Why? Well, because I'm running short of coffee and a few things like that.”
A little laugh. “I don't want to keep you in coffee and things like that.”
“Nobody does. But the poor doctors have to live and you must contribute your share.” Laughter.
“All right, Doctor, but I don't want to have to contribute too much.”
“Don't be alarmed about your throat, Mrs. Channing. When I looked at it yesterday, I saw indications that the other side might be affected, but it will soon be well.”
“That sounds better. Thank you, good-bye.” When he came back to the table his wife said, “John, I shouldn't think you'd say things like that to people.”
“Well, they might believe 'em.” The doctor laughed, swallowed his cup of tea and departed.
Ting-a-ling-ling-ling. Three times.