To-night is the first time since the birth of our second child that she will grace a public entertainment with her presence; and unfortunately her appearance will be a brief one, for the infant is not yet wholly weaned." He shut the door and lowered his voice.

"You have had some experience of doctoring, you say; I should like a word with you in your medical capacity.

The thing is this.

My wife has persisted, contrary to my wishes, in suckling both children herself." "Quite right, too," said Mahony.

"In a climate like this their natural food is invaluable to babes." "Exactly, quite so," said Turnham, with a hint of impatience.