Here, armed with a patience which
nothing could fatigue, an iron resolution that nothing could subdue, he
struggled and waited. Only those who have experienced it can understand
what sufferings are endured by the poor, proud man, who waits in a black
coat, freshly shaven, with smiling lips, while he is starving of hunger!
The refinements of civilization have inaugurated punishments which put
in the shade the cruelties of the savage. The unknown physician must
begin by attending the poor who cannot pay him. Sometimes too the
patient is ungrateful. He is profuse in promises whilst in danger; but,
when cured, he scorns the doctor, and forgets to pay him his fee.
After seven years of heroic perseverance, Herve has secured at last
a circle of patients who pay him. During this he lived and paid the
exorbitant interest of his debt, but he is getting on. Three or four
pamphlets, and a prize won without much intrigue, have attracted public
attention to him. But he is no longer the brave young enthusiast, full
of the faith and hope that attended him on his first visits. He still
wishes, and more than ever, to acquire distinction, but he no longer
expects any pleasure from his success.
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