"And life, you know, is a precious thing--even a baby's life." And I turned a meaning glance upon the calm, sweet face of our latest born, as she lay sleeping in her cradle.

That was enough.

I saw the tears spring instantly to the eyes of my wife.
"I have not a word to say.

God forbid, that in the weakness of love and care for you, dear husband, I should draw you aside from duty.

Yes--yes! The life of a baby is indeed a precious thing!" And bending over the cradle, she left a kiss on the lips, and a tear on the pure brow of our darling.