But do not force it on her, or you will do her more harm than good.

She had better sleep before she eats." Mrs.Lucas begged him to come every morning; and, as he was going, she shook hands with him, and the soft palm deposited a hard substance wrapped in paper.

He took it with professional gravity and seeming unconsciousness; but, once outside the house, went home on wings.

He ran up to the drawing-room, and found his wife seated, and playing at reading.

He threw himself on his knees, and the fee into her lap; and, while she unfolded the paper with an ejaculation of pleasure, he said, "Darling, the first real patient--the first real fee.