"Oh, no. I am never surprised to see anybody. I had not supposed you were sick."
"Sick! Oh, no, I'm all right. I eat well and I sleep well. What should be the matter with me?"
"I am glad to hear such good reports of you."
Was I quite sincere? I am afraid it was a disappointment to learn that my supposed patient was in no need of advice.
"Ja, I am well. I was never better, thank God!"
"Then I am to consider this a social call," I said with affected cheerfulness. "You are very kind to call upon me, Prof. Poppendorf. I appreciate it as a friendly attention."
"No, it is not quite dat."
"Is there anything I can do for you?"
"I come on a little peezness."
I was puzzled. I could not understand what business there could be between the Professor and myself.