第 7 节
作者:双曲线      更新:2021-02-21 11:26      字数:1825
  memory! Dropping in one morning to replace the wrappings Doctor Z
  said I might smoke in moderation。  So the nurse brought me a cigar;
  and I lit it and took one deep puff; but only one。  I laid it aside。
  I said to the nurse:
  〃A mistake has been made here。  I do not want a cooking cigar; you
  understand。  I desire a cigar for personal use。  This one is full
  of herbs and simples; I think。  It suggests a New England boiled
  dinner; and not a very good New England boiled dinner at that。
  Let us try again。〃
  She brought another cigar。  It was not satisfactory either。  Then
  she showed me the boxan orthodox box containing cigars of a
  recognized and previously dependable brand。  I could only conclude
  that a root…and…herb doctor had bought an interest in the business
  and was introducing his own pet notions into the formula。
  But came a dayas the fancy writers say when they wish to convey
  the impression that a day has come; but hate to do it in a
  commonplace mannercame a day when my cigar tasted as a cigar
  should taste and food had the proper relish to it; and my appetite
  came back again and found the old home place not so greatly changed
  after all。
  And then shortly thereafter came another day; when I; all replete
  with expensive stitches; might drape the customary habiliments of
  civilization about my attenuated frame and go forth to mingle with
  my fellow beings。  I have been mingling pretty steadily ever since;
  for now I have something to talk abouta topic good for any
  company; congenial; an absorbing topic。
  I can spot a brother member a block away。  I hasten up to him and
  give him the grand hailing sign of the order。  He opens his mouth
  to speak; but I beat him to it。
  〃Speaking of operations 〃 I say。  And then I'm off。  Believe me;
  it's the life!
  End