After our business was over, developing an unusual geniality of manner, he proposed to walk a little way with me.
"I understand, my dear Therne," he said, "that there is an interesting event expected in your family." I replied that this was so.
"Well," he went on, "though we may differ on some points, I am sure there is one upon which we shall agree--that no man should doctor his own flesh and blood.

Now, look here, I want you to let me attend upon your good wife.

However much you go-ahead young fellows may turn up your noses at us old fossils, I think you will admit that by this time I ought to be able to show a baby into the world, especially as I had the honour of performing that office for yourself, my young friend." For a moment I hesitated.

What Sir John said was quite true; he was a sound and skilful obstetrician of the old school.

Moreover, he evidently intended to hold out the olive branch by this kind offer, which I felt that I ought to accept.