'Hasn't he the disease, then?' asked David.
'He has no disease except too much vanity and too much money.'
'While you cure him of the first, I should like to try my hand at the second,' said David laughingly.
'Oh, I'll introduce you, if you let me off.'
'You I don't ask for money, but your medical services would be invaluable. Milovka is in danger.'
'Milovka to the deuce!' cried Lerkoff. 'Our future lies not in Russia.'
'I talk of our present. Do let me appoint you army surgeon.'
'Next year—in Jerusalem!' replied the doctor airily.
VI
Lerkoff asked David to wait in another room while he saw Herr Cantberg professionally. There was an Ark with scrolls of the Law in the room, betiding a piety and a purse beyond the normal. Presently Lerkoff reappeared chuckling.