For what reason did the farmer go to see a doctor in the town?

A farmer who lived in a small village suffered from the severe pain in his stomach. The doctor in the village had tried a number of treatments but been unable to cure him. The farmer decided to see a doctor in the nearest town. As he loved’ money badly and spent as little as possible, he thought he would find out what he would have to pay this doctor. He was told that his patient had to pay three pounds for the first visit and one pound for the second visit. The farmer thought about this for a long time. As he came into the doctor’s room, he said, "Good morning, doctor. Here I am again.   The doctor was a little surprised. Then he asked the farmer a few questions, examined his chest and took the pound which the farmer insisted on giving him. The doctor said with a smile. "Well, sir. There is nothing new. Please continue to take the same medicine I gave you the first time you came to see me."