Ancient Thai massage

I discovered a clinic, through an ad in this newspaper, that claims to cure illness through ancient Thai massage.

After I talked to the owner in English (he has a Singaporean accent and a Thai sounding name) I felt confident and went to visit his clinic. At the clinic he gave me an article that was published in this paper in April. His Javanese wife, who happened to be his first patient, helps him manage the clinic. I was really impressed by this noble enterprise.

He guaranteed that my illness would be completely cured and added that there was no need to pay him until I felt completely recovered. After the massage I felt great, paid him and considered returning to his clinic for further treatment. The following day, however, I called him up and informed him that it felt like I was carrying a heavy load on back and shoulders. He replied, "Wait for a few days, you will get better."

On the third day, Monday Oct. 24, I felt the need to contact him again for further advice because I was still in great pain. I wanted to know if I should visit again. I was thoroughly surprised at his rude answer to my inquiry. That forced me to remind him of the fee I had paid.

He responded quite beyond my expectation: "You can collect your bloody money, I don't have time to talk to you."

It petrifies me that I almost relied on this man to handle my health problems.

MRS. W. E. PATERSON

Jakarta