His loose string tie was the first thing Siward could remember about the doctor; and that the doctor had permitted him to pull it when he had the measles, at the age of six.
"What's all this racket ?" said the little old doctor harshly.

"Got colic?
Got the toothache?
I'm ashamed of you, Stephen, cutting capers and pounding the furniture! Look up! Look at me! Out with your tongue! Well, now, what the devil's the trouble ?" "You--know," muttered Siward, abandoning his wrist to the little man, who seated himself beside him.

Dr.Grisby scarcely noted the pulse; the delicate pressure had become a strong caress.
"Know what ?" he grunted.

"How do I know what's the matter with you?
Hey?
Now, now, don't try to explain, Steve; don't fly off the handle! All right; grant that I do know what's bothering you; I want to see that ankle first.

Here, somebody! Light that gas.