that a feather may turn the scale. So we must try all we can to gain a
little time, and then trust to God's mercy after all. Well, now, what
do you say? Will you help me keep it from her, till the tenth of March,
say? and then I will break it to her by degrees. Forget she is your
mistress. Master and servant, that is all very well at a proper time;
but this is the time to remember nothing but that we are all one flesh
and blood. We lie down together in the churchyard, and we hope to rise
together where there will be no master and servant. Think of the poor
unfortunate creature as your own flesh and blood, and tell me, will you
help me try and save her, under this terrible blow?"

"Ay, doctor, that we will," said the footman. "Only you give us our
orders, and you will see."

"I have no right to give you orders; but I entreat you not to show her
by word or look, that calamity is upon her. Alas! it is only a reprieve
you can give her and to me. The bitter hour MUST come when I must tell
her she is a widow, and her boy an orphan. When that day comes, I will
ask you all to pray for me that I may find words. But now I ask you to
give me that ten days' reprieve. Let the poor creature recover a little
strength, before the thunderbolt of affliction falls on her head. Will
you promise me?"

They promised heartily; and more than one of the women began to cry.

"A general assent will not satisfy me," said Dr. Philip. "I want every
man, and every woman, to give me a hand upon it; then I shall feel sure
of you."

The men gave him their hands at once. The women wiped their hands with