For a year or two--that is, until he reaches an age susceptible of tuition--I shall mature a scheme of discipline, which--" "My dear sir," the Doctor interposed, "surely all this is somewhat precipitate." "Not at all.

My resolution was taken the instant you entered the room." "That hardly seems to me to prove--" The little man waved aside the interruption and continued: "Tristram--for I shall have him christened by that name--" "He'll be called Jeremiah," decided Captain Runacles shortly.
"I've settled upon Tristram.

The name is a suitable one, and signifies that its wearer is a child of sorrow." "Jeremiah also suggests lamentations, and has the further merit of being my own name." "Tristram--" "Jeremiah--" "Gentlemen, gentlemen," cried Dr.Beckerleg, "would it not be as well to see the infant ?" "I can imagine," Captain Barker answered, "nothing in the infant that is likely to shake my resolution.

My scheme of discipline will be based--" "Decidedly, Jack, I shall have to run you through," said his friend gloomily.

Indeed, the Doctor stood in instant fear of this catastrophe; for Captain Runacles' temper was a byword, and not even his customary dark flush looked so dangerous as the lustreless, sullen eyes now sunk in a face that was drawn and pinched and absolutely wax-like in colour.