The Gold-Headed Cane

"The Gold-Headed Cane" by William Macmichael is a historical journey through the lives of distinguished doctors as told by their shared gold-headed cane. Starting with its first owner, Dr. John Radcliffe, the cane narrates the experiences and practices of various physicians as it's passed down from one doctor to the next; thus reflecting on the medical world in the 17th and 18th centuries. From the perspective of the cane that now rests idly in a library, the readers learn about the personalities, medical approaches, and important contributions of these doctors, including their interactions with royalty and their influence on the evolution of medical practices. The story provides insights into the physicians, the historical context of their time, and the importance of their impact on the foundation of modern medicine.