human
Doctor --there was a troubled look on his visitor's face--
gpt
I wish you would call in to-day and examine a lump on Mrs. Carlton's neck. It's been coming for two or three months. We thought it only the swelling of a gland at first, and expected it to go away in a little while. But in the last few weeks it has grown perceptibly.
human
How large is it?
gpt
About the size of a pigeon's egg.
human
Indeed! So large?
gpt
Yes; and I am beginning to feel very much concerned about it.
human
Is there any discoloration?
gpt
No.
human
Any soreness or tenderness to the touch?
gpt
No; but Mrs. Carlton is beginning to feel a sense of tightness and oppression, as though the lump, whatever it may be, were beginning to press upon some of the blood-vessels.
human
Nothing serious, I imagine, replied Dr. Hillhouse, speaking with a lightness of manner he did not feel.
gpt
I will call about twelve o'clock. Tell Mrs. Carlton to expect me at that time.
human
This may seem a light thing in your eyes, doctor, but I cannot help feeling troubled. I am afraid of a tumor.
gpt
What is the exact location?
human
On the side of the neck, a little back from the lower edge of the right ear.
gpt
Do you think it a regular tumor, doctor?
human
It is difficult to say. I can speak with more certainty after I have made an examination,
gpt
If it should prove to be a tumor, cannot its growth be stopped? Is there no relief except through an operation--no curative agents that will restore a healthy action to the parts and cause the tumor to be absorbed?
human
There is a class of tumors, replied the doctor,
gpt
Much depends on the location of a tumor, said Mr. Carlton.
human
The extirpation may be safe and easy if the operation be in one place, and difficult and dangerous if in another.
gpt
It is the surgeon's business to do his work so well that danger shall not exist in any case,
human
I shall trust her in your hands, said Mr. Carlton, trying to assume a cheerful air.
gpt
But I cannot help feeling nervous and extremely anxious.
human
You are, of course, over-sensitive about everything that touches one so dear as your wife, replied the doctor.
gpt
But do not give yourself needless anxiety. Tumors in the neck are generally of the kind known as 'benignant,' and are easily removed.