But came a day--as the fancy writers say when they wish to convey
the impression that a day has come, but hate to do it in a
commonplace manner--came 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 about--a 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!