to come unto me and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of
heaven."

"Our law-makers are not, I fear, of his kingdom," answered Mr.
Dinneford, gravely, "but of the kingdom of this world."

A little while after, Edith, who had remained silent and thoughtful,
said, with a tremor in her voice,

"Father, did you see my baby?"

Mr. Dinneford started at so unexpected a question, surprised and
disturbed. He did not reply, and Edith put the question again.

"No, my dear," he answered, with a hesitation of manner that was
almost painful.

After looking into his face steadily for some moments, Edith dropped
her eyes to the floor, and there was a constrained silence between
them for a good while.

"You never saw it?" she queried, again lifting her eyes to her
father's face. Her own was much paler than when she first put the
question.

"Never."

"Why?" asked Edith.

She waited for a little while, and then said,