M: It's... it's my leg, doctor. My right leg. I keep getting a strange pain in it.

W: Could you tell me what the pain is like?

M: It's like... like boiling water running down my leg. It's been getting worse lately, too. I've been losing sleep.

W: You mean the pain's been keeping you awake?

M: Yes, that's right. It's been keeping me awake.

W: Now, tell me, how long have you had this trouble?

M: The pain? For about a year now.

W: Hmm... Have you been getting tired lately after you have had a walk? For example, have you been getting a big short of breath, perhaps?

M: Why, yes! Yes, I have, doctor!

W: Hmm... I think we'd better give you a few tests here in the hospital.

M: Do you think it's serious,doctor?

W: Probably not.

M: But... Doctor Cook, my local doctor, thinks it's only that I've been working too hard lately.

W: That could be the reason. Don't worry, we'll find out soon.

What was said before this conversation?


W: Now,Mr. Martin. I've just read your own doctor's report. So you haven't been feeling very well lately, is that right?