Monsieur the Sub-Prefect observed:
"There is a young man full of health."
These words angered me, but I nevertheless replied respectfully:
"I am lame, Monsieur the Sub-Prefect."
The surgeon examined me, and the one from the hospital, to whom Monsieur the Commandant had doubtless spoken of me, said:
"The left leg is a little short."
"Bah!" said the other; "it is sound."
Then placing his hand upon my chest he said, "The conformation is good. Cough."
I coughed as feebly as I could; but he found me all right, and said again:
"Look at his color. How good his blood must be!"