A HASTY PRESCRIPTION.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 14688, 24 May 1911, Page 9

A HASTY PRESCRIPTION.

The late Sir Andrew Clarke was so ardent in his crusade against over-eating and overdrinking, and so firm in his belief that in a large majority of cases diet would do far more than drugs, that he was a little too much inclined to take it for granted that his patients were self-indul-gent to the ruin of their health. Among the many anecdotes to .which his views gave rise, the following is one of the most amusing A patient came to consult him, and was at once overwhelmed with directions on the subject of the life he should lead and the diet to which he should adhere. Now, remember, only one.glass of wine at each meal," the physician concluded, " and just one cigar after dinner won t hurt you. 'Good-morning. ■Be sure you keep strickly to one cigar." ~ M One cigar ! M said the patient. But "My dear sir," broke in Sir Andrew, somewhat testily, "I must insist. If I am to treat you, you must follow my directions. I know quite well you will find it hard, but it ie absolutely necessary for your health." . The patient heaved a deep sigh. All right, Sir Andrew. Since you insist, i will do my best, Good-morning." He went his way; but his health did not improve, and at the end of a few weeks he returned to the physician's consulting room. "No better?" said the doctor, surprised. "But have yon followed all my directions?" '" . . "Absolutely," replied tho visitor. ' 1 must admit that, the cigar was rather hard work at first; and in fact, it made me feel ill but I soon got used to it, and now I rather like it." " Good heavens," said Sir Andrew, on on whom the truth dawned; "do you mean to tell me—" , , , . >, " Yes, I had never smoked before. •