It came about in this wise.
When we had been married something over two years my wife found herself expecting to become a mother.

As the event drew near she expressed great anxiety that I should attend upon her.

To this, however, I objected strenuously--first, because I cannot bear to see any one to whom I am attached suffer pain, and, secondly, because I knew that my affection and personal anxiety would certainly unnerve me.

Except in cases of the utmost necessity no man, in my opinion, should doctor himself or his family.

Whilst I was wondering how to arrange matters I chanced to meet Sir John Bell in consultation.