human
I believe that even _you_ can be rough and violent!
gpt
Well it was only a jest! said the doctor apologetically.
human
I know that you and Jane stand half upon a war-footing; but you can become very angry now, professor! I notice that, for the last two months, you have not been the same person you used to be!
gpt
Well, to go back to the main business, began the Doctor anew--but this time in a low voice--
human
No!
gpt
You will really march to-morrow with the army?
human
In any event.
gpt
Well then--I cannot compel you, and if it cannot be otherwise, --here the doctor's patriotism broke through all resentment; he cordially extended his hand to his patient--
human
Some powerful remedy,
gpt
Certainly! A radical cure, at which you were horrified at that time. You would not take upon yourself the life of a day-laborer; but you now plunge into the military life, without asking me. Well, I should not certainly have advised so powerful a remedy as this, for we cannot cease taking it at will; if the dose is too strong, we must either bend or break! But if you are determined to venture upon it--good luck to you!
human
I have little confidence in this blood and iron cure, he said calmly.
gpt
I shall fall, I feel sure of that, either in face of the enemy, or in consequence of the unwonted exertion. But it does not matter; in any case it will be better and more speedily than to die at my writing desk after a consumption, years in duration. Do not rob me of this conviction, doctor; it is the best I take with me; I shall at least be of some use in the world!
human
Do not approach me again with your premonitions of death! cried the doctor excitedly.
gpt
To die--nonsense! We in B. forbid ourselves that idea. And so you are of no use in the world! You have written no work over which the whole learned world is beside itself in admiration, eh?
human
Do you really think so? And your article in this morning's paper, was that, too, mere nonsense? Yes, be horrified as much as you like, because I know; the whole city knows, the university also. Professor since you have written that article, I deem all things possible to you, I doubt you in nothing more!