though don't let that make you uneasy, love; for I don't think you
meant to do it.

"Ha! it's all very well for you to call it nonsense; and to lay your
ill conduct upon my shoes. That's like a man, exactly! There never
was a man yet that killed his wife, who couldn't give a good reason
for it. No: I don't mean to say that you've killed me: quite the
reverse: still there's never been a day that I haven't felt that
key-hole. What?

"WHY WON'T I HAVE A DOCTOR?

"What's the use of a doctor? Why should I put you to expense?
Besides, I dare say you'll do very well without me, Caudle: yes,
after a very little time you won't miss me much--no man ever does.

"Peggy tells me, Miss Prettyman called to-day.

"WHAT OF IT?

"Nothing, of course. Yes; I know she heard I was ill, and that's why
she came. A little indecent, I think, Mr. Caudle; she might wait; I
shan't be in her way long; she may soon have the key of the caddy,
now.

"Ha! Mr. Caudle, what's the use of your calling me your dearest soul
now? Well, I do believe you. I dare say you do mean it; that is, I
hope you do. Nevertheless, you can't expect I can lie quiet in this
bed, and think of that young woman--not, indeed, that she's near so
young as she gives herself out. I bear no malice towards her,