A. Well, it would be well for an operator to understand metallurgy and mechanics.

Q. And have you to cultivate the graces of the person?

A. Certainly; you must be of a pleasing and courteous presence. You must be fitted by nature and art to obtain the confidence of those who pay you a professional visit. You must be tender and true. You must be able to converse on every subject under the sun, and distract the attention of a sufferer from his pains by causing him to listen to your anecdotes.

Q. It seems, then, you must be an admirable Crichton?

A. Well, yes, in a small way.

Q. Then what are you called? May I put down an archbishop, or a Lord Chief Justice, or a Prime Minister?

A. No, neither. I do not aspire to be a person of so much importance.

Q. Then what are you?

A. Why, merely a dentist!