But for the man who deliberately goes to work to undermine another; who takes advantage of some temporary absence of the regular physician to ingratiate himself; who, appreciating the fact that people worried nearly to death by the illness of a loved one, will forget every obligation and desert every old friend in the hope that the new one may offer some encouragement or extend some hope, is ready for these emergencies. He carries satchels full of hope for all cases and occasions. He prescribes it liberally, diluted, however, to the point of despair because he was called in an hour too late, or because the case had already been damaged beyond his power of repair. This gentleman advances not only by his own deceit, but uses the power of church, of politics, of family influence and social opportunity, to lift himself along. Verily he has his reward, but it is not in peace of mind, not in the honor and respect of his community, but the contempt of every honest man, be he of the profession or laity. Not the least of the perplexing questions which beset the man who is trying to lead an ethical life is his duty in his relation as consultant. Indeed, there is scarcely a situation in professional life that at times presents more embarrassing possibilities, or calls for the exercise of more tact. It is a pleasure to be able to bear witness to the ability of the man who has called you to his aid, to assure the family that everything has been done that care in diagnosis and skill in treatment could demand. But what of the cases where gross carelessness or blind ignorance have hastened what might easily have been delayed or averted? There is only one way here, only one duty. Treat the man as his carelessness or his ignorance deserves. Again, you are called in consultation with a thoroughly good man who has given ungrudgingly of the best that is in him. Perhaps your superior skill in certain lines, perhaps your superior opportunity to observe a certain line of cases, have taught you something that he has not had the chance to learn. As before it was your duty to expose the careless ignorance of one, now it is your place to so give your opinion and explain your position that no possible reflection can be cast upon the other. Don't approach a consultation with the manner of a priest of Delphi. Don't pose as the fountain of all wisdom and of all experience. Indeed, in this work you will be surprised how often you will learn from him you are called upon to assist. He has seen the case for days, where you can spend but minutes with it. It is his part to bear the blame, yours to share his fame should success crown your combined efforts.