Chapter 11 Summary

Dr. Paymaster's dispensary is located in a miserable, crumbling neighborhood. The doctor caters to local workers who injure themselves on the job, people injured or who have taken ill in the movie theaters, the House of Cages' ladies who require periodic check-ups for licensing purposes, and families like the Nobles who have always looked to Paymaster for routine health care. The last group has been dwindling, but is Paymaster's favorite. He does not care for the prostitutes, who make him feel like a building inspector.

Gustad hates coming to the dispensary, but has no choice. He remembers the House of Cages from childhood visits to the doctor. The House of Cages is a full-service brothel catering to everyone's wallet. Peerbhoy still sits in a stall outside, looking like a swami or sage guru and, he proudly explains the benefits of the health products...