The bet was consigned to writing on the very piece of paper that suggested it.

The doctor went out and captured it himself.

On the back of it the conditions of the wager were formally drawn up and signed by both of us.

Then we opened the window and the paper was cast forth again.

The doctor solemnly promised not to interfere with it, and I gave him a convalescent's word of honor to report progress honestly.
Several days elapsed, and I no longer found time heavy on my hands.