In 1897 A. I. Kuprin wrote his story "the Miraculous doctor." He first published it under the title "an incident", because the events that he describes, seem even incredible. Main theme of the work is the theme of selfless kindness.

The basis of the story – the story of one poor family. Their name Mertsalova. After a serious illness father Mertsalova lost the place where was once the Manager. Now he can not find a new job. His wife is forced to care for four children, one of whom is still a baby, and walk almost to the other end of the city to wash clothes in a rich house. In addition to the troubles they have a very ill daughter, and even earlier from the disease died another girl.

Family Mertsalova lives in hopeless poverty, from which it cannot escape, despite all attempts and efforts. Their children have learned what hunger, humiliation and the cruelty of the world. One of these days, again not finding any work, the main character comes to complete despair. He even leaves the house, thinking to commit suicide. Of course, this does not help his family, but he is not able to look into the eyes of his children and wife. It seems that nothing and no one can help in this situation.

It was at this point he meets with a strange old man. The old man says that he is coming with gifts for the children of their friends, as the action of the story occurs at Christmas time. At Mertsalova this story has caused a conniption. It happened in pain and despair, not because he is an evil man. A stranger, who actually was a famous doctor Pirogov, was asked to explain what happened. After hearing what misfortunes had to face the family Mertsalova, he immediately rushed to help them.

Cakes together with the head of the family came into the room, where lived a poor family. He visited the sick Mary, wrote a prescription for medication and gave money to be able to buy it. Money also enough yet and for some products. In addition, under the saucer, he quietly left several credit cards. This act was totally unselfish. The Professor didn't even introduce himself, and his name is found only on the note from the pharmacist.

Dr. Pirogov was just a magician for family Mertsalova. After his help the family business took off. The daughter recovered, the father found work, the sons were able to arrange to learn. One of them, when grown up, became a Bank Manager. He often spoke of this marvellous story and he wanted to help people in difficult situation.

Thus, in the story "the Wonderful doctor" A. I. Kuprin has shown how important in life is kindness. Good things when possible need to be done not only for loved ones but also for strangers. Professor Pirogov was an amazingly generous man. Helping someone he did not expect any gratitude. But his good deeds inspired hope in the hearts of others, not allowing them to harden.