So in deciding to make the visit that night, I hardly think a very strong element of self-interest was included in the motives that governed me.

But that is irrelevant.
"As there is no prospect of an abatement in the storm," said I, after returning to our cosy little sitting-room, "it may be as well for me to see the baby at once.

The visit will be over, so far as I am concerned, and precious time may be gained for the patient." "I will tell Joseph to bring around the horse," said my wife.
"No--I will walk.

Poor beast! He has done enough for one day, and shall not be taken out again." "Horse-flesh is not so precious as man-flesh," Constance smiled entreatingly, as she laid her hand upon my shoulder.

"Let Tom be harnessed up; it won't hurt him." "The merciful man is merciful to his beast," I made answer.