No, don't kiss me, I believe these vile sore-throats
are contagious.'
'But your lips are so hot and parched! And to think of your
coming this journey, on such a night!'
'Good old Biffen came to the station with me. He was angry
because I had kept away from you so long. Have you given me your
heart again, Amy?'
'Oh, it has all been a wretched mistake! But we were so poor. Now
all that is over; if only Willie can be saved to me! I am so
anxious for the doctor's coming; the poor little child can hardly
draw a breath. How cruel it is that such suffering should come
upon a little creature who has never done or thought ill!'
'You are not the first, dearest, who has revolted against
nature's cruelty.'
'Let us go up at once, Edwin. Leave your coat and things here.
Mrs Winter--Edith's mother--is a very old lady; she has gone to
bed. And I dare say you wouldn't care to see Mrs Carter to-
night?'
'No, no! only you and Willie.'
'When the doctor comes hadn't you better ask his advice for
yourself?'
'We shall see. Don't trouble about me.'
They went softly up to the first floor, and entered a bedroom.
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