However, I meddle not in politics.

If the poor lady dies, as methinks is well-nigh certain, Bertha and I will bring up the boy as our own.

I have talked it over with my wife, and so far she and I are not of one mind.

I think it will be best to keep him in ignorance of his birth and lineage, since the knowledge cannot benefit him, and will but render him discontented with his lot and make him disinclined to take to my calling, in which he might otherwise earn a living and rise to be a respected citizen.

But Bertha hath notions.