A False Start

Name: A False Start
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

A young doctor, Horace Wilkinson, struggles to establish his practice in a bustling town. His first visitor, a burly man, turns out to be a gas company inspector rather than a patient, leaving Wilkinson disappointed. He prepares for patients but faces financial difficulties, feeling the pressure of his meager resources. After a series of false hopes, a gypsy woman arrives seeking help for her sick baby. Despite his initial reluctance to charge her, he provides care and medicine, ultimately giving her money instead of collecting a fee. This encounter, while financially draining, marks his first patient. Soon after, a footman arrives with an urgent request for him to attend to Lady Millbank, a wealthy woman. Confused but hopeful, he learns that he has been summoned due to a mix-up regarding his qualifications. Upon arriving at the Millbank residence, he faces an irritable husband who insists on immediate action without proper examination. Wilkinson stands firm on his professional ethics, refusing to compromise his standards. After examining Lady Millbank, he finds himself in a position of respect, as the husband, Sir John, is impressed by his confidence. However, when Dr. Mason, a more established physician, arrives, the situation becomes complicated. Sir John mistakenly believes Wilkinson to be a senior doctor, leading to a misunderstanding about his role. Despite the opportunity to take over the case, Wilkinson declines, adhering to professional integrity. Sir John, frustrated by Wilkinson's refusal, leaves, but the incident earns Wilkinson respect in the community. Ultimately, the story concludes with the establishment of a partnership between Dr. Mason and Dr. Wilkinson, leading to a successful practice. The narrative explores themes of ambition, integrity, and the challenges faced by new professionals in a competitive environment.

By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle · First published 1924 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Drama, Humor · 7,021 words

First lines

"Is Dr. Horace Wilkinson at home?"

"I am he. Pray step in."

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A False Start is listed on Textopian as a short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, dated 1924 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Date: 1924 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Drama, Humor, Medical Fiction, Short Story
Length: 7,021 words
Structure: 1 section, 114 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The narrative explores complex themes of ambition, ethics, and the struggles of a young doctor, focusing on character development and social commentary.
Drama — The story presents intense personal and professional conflicts, highlighting the protagonist's emotional journey and moral dilemmas.
Humor — The writing style incorporates wit and irony, particularly in the protagonist's interactions and the absurdity of his situation.
Medical Fiction — The plot revolves around a medical professional and includes elements of medical practice and patient care.