Do not doubt me, my dear girl, I know what I am
talking about. Up to a few days ago my memory was obscured, but now I am
in my right senses and fully capable of using all of my reasoning
faculties to their fullest extent. Some day I shall explain many strange
things to you, of which you know nothing. But now I must devote all of
my thoughts and forces toward regaining my former physical strength, and
likewise increase my moral and mental vigor for a future great work."
Arletta said no more at that time, but to my great surprise, the next
day I was transferred from the charity ward to a paid private room in
another part of the hospital. The furnishings of this room were of the
most luxurious description, and the nurse informed me that it was the
very best and highest priced apartment in the building. I afterwards
learned that the cost of renting this room, including attendance, was
one hundred dollars per week. Arletta had secured it for me. It was
really remarkable how quickly the value of my life increased in the eyes
of those hospital attendants, by the expenditure of a little money. From
a worthless proletariat I was suddenly transformed into a man of great
importance. There were two private nurses to wait on me, and they moved
with the celerity of antelopes in response to my slightest bidding. They
appeared to be bubbling over with kindness and attention, and seemed to
anticipate my every want. The orderlies treated me as if I were the
crowned ruler of the universe, while the doctors displayed an unnatural
politeness that was almost amusing.
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