When the wealthy businessman choked on a fish bone at a
restaurant, he was fortunate that a doctor was seated at a nearby table.
Springing up, the doctor skillfully removed the bone and
saved the man's life.
As soon as the fellow had calmed himself and could talk
again, he thanked the surgeon enthusiastically and offered to pay him for his
services.
"Just name the fee," he croaked gratefully.
"Okay," replied the doctor. "How about half
of what you'd have offered when the bone was still stuck in your throat?