of her worst headaches--the extra special, we call 'em. This time
it's lasted more than three days, and not one minute of rest has the
poor thing got."

Warburton was all sympathy; he inquired about the case as though it
were that of an intimate friend. Change of air and repose were
obvious remedies; no less obviously, these things were out of the
question for a working woman who lived on a few shillings a week.

"Do you know of any place she could go to?" asked Warburton, adding
carelessly, "if the means were provided."

Mrs. Hopper squeezed herself more tightly than ever between door and
jamb. Her head was bent in an abashed way, and when she spoke it was
in a thick, gurgling tone, only just intelligible.

"There's a little lodging 'ouse at Southend, sir, where we used to
go when my 'usband could afford it."

"Well, look here. Get a doctor's opinion whether Southend would do;
if not, which place would. And just send her away. Don't worry about
the money."

Experience enabled Mrs. Hopper to interpret this advice. She
stammered gratitude.

"How's your other sister--Mrs. Allchin?" Warburton inquired
kindly.

"Why, sir, she's doing pretty well in her 'ealth, sir, but her baby