Robelot had been several times prosecuted for illegal practicing; so he thought he ought to protest against this.
"If I cure people," said he, "I'm not paid for it."
"Then your trade in herbs isn't what has enriched you."
The conversation was becoming a cross-examination. The bone-setter was beginning to be restless.
"Oh, I make something out of the herbs," he answered.
"And as you are thrifty, you buy land."
"I've also got some cattle and horses, which bring in something. I raise horses, cows, and sheep."
"Also without diploma?"
Robelot waxed disdainful.
"A piece of parchment does not make science. I don't fear the men of the schools. I study animals in the fields and the stable, without bragging. I haven't my equal for raising them, nor for knowing their diseases."