has always been so careful. You may be sure it was a case of extremity,
which compelled her to do that."

"Why, what a sad litter they have made to be sure; I did not observe it
before. The fact is, Ellen, I have been exceedingly occupied this
morning, and did not know what the children were about, only that Agnes
kept Lewie screaming, and, at last, with the utmost rudeness, for that I
saw myself, she snatched something from his hand, and for that, I
punished her."

"Ah, yes, I see, Harriet," said Mrs. Wharton, glancing at the
yellow-covered publication on the table; "I see how it is, now; you have
been wholly absorbed in one of those wretched novels, and left little
Agnes to take care of a sick, cross baby. That child is very sick,
Harriet; do you see what a burning fever he has?"

"Ellen, do you think so?" said the mother hastily and in great
agitation. "Oh, Ellen, what shall I do; oh, what _shall_ I do! perhaps
my baby, my darling, is going to be very ill."

"Do not agitate yourself so, Harriet, I will send Matthew directly over
to the village for the doctor; but first, may I have Agnes?"

"Oh, do what you please with Agnes, only send the doctor to my baby;
call Mammy, she will bring Agnes, and do go, quick!"

The bell was rung, and Mammy was despatched to bring the little prisoner
down; she found her as we left her, sleeping with her head upon her
arms.