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Strindberg, August, 1849-1912

"Married"

The husband
made her repeatedly undergo medical examinations, but the doctors were
unable to discover the cause of her malady. In the end he became so
accustomed to her constant complaints that he paid no more attention
to them.
"I know it's unpleasant to have an invalid wife," she said.
He admitted in his heart that it was anything but pleasant; had he
loved her, he would neither have felt nor admitted it.
Her emaciation became so alarming, that he could not shut his eyes to
it any longer, and had to consent to her suggestion that she should
consult a famous professor.
Adeline was examined by the celebrity. "How long have you been ill?"
he asked.
"I have never been very strong since I left the country," she replied.
"I was born in the country."
"Then you don't feel well in town?"
"Well? Who cares whether I feel well or not?" And her face assumed an
expression which left no room for doubt: she was a martyr.
"Do you think that country air would do you good?" continued the
professor.
"Candidly, I believe that it is the only thing which could save my
life."
"Then why don't you live in the country?"
"My husband couldn't give up his profession for my sake."
"He has a wealthy wife and we have plenty of lawyers.


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