"I have no need to consult you about my health.

I come to hear what you can tell me of my future life." "I can try," pursued the Doctor; "but I cannot promise to succeed." "I accept your conditions," the stranger rejoined.

"I never believe nor disbelieve.

If you will excuse my speaking frankly, I mean to observe you closely, and to decide for myself." Doctor Lagarde smiled sadly.
"You have heard of me as a charlatan who contrives to amuse a few idle people," he said.

"I don't complain of that; my present position leads necessarily to misinterpretation of myself and my motives.