about the girls."

"And you wish me to see him to-night?"

"Yes. Something ought to be done."

"What is his condition just now?" I inquired. "How did you leave
him?"

"He's been in bed nearly all day, and hasn't touched a mouthful. To
all my persuasions and entreaties he answers--'Please, mother, let
me alone. I will be better after a while.'"

"I think," said I, after musing on the case, "that, may be, the
let-alone prescription will be the best one for the present. He is
prostrated by some strong mental emotion--that seems clear; and time
must be given for the mind to regain its equipoise. If I were to
call, as you desire, it might annoy or irritate him, and so do more
harm than good. No medicine that I can give is at all likely to
reach his case."

Mrs. Wallingford looked disappointed, and demurred strongly to my
conclusion.

I'm sure, Doctor, if you saw him you might suggest something. Or,
may be, he would open his mind to you."

"I'll think it over," said I. "Mrs. Jones has sent for me to see her
baby to-night. I was just about starting when you called. On my way
back, if, on reflection, it seems to me advisable, I will drop in at