"Girls are a great expense. And then, as I said--unknown children!--
they might turn into anything. They might have evil tendencies; they
probably have. If the parents die early, it's a sign of weakness of
some sort. I've no doubt this boy's father drank. I don't want to seem
unkind, but I must say flatly and frankly that considering how hard it
is for us to make both ends meet--as you keep up a sort of free
practice--I don't think it's prudent to suggest any new
responsibilities and expenses."

"Oh, I wasn't making suggestions," William King said. "I guess we're
not the people to bring up a child. I'd spoil him, I've no doubt."

"I'm sure you would!" Martha said, greatly relieved. "It would be the
worst possible thing for him. But Willy, there's that Mrs. Richie?"

"You think his evil tendencies wouldn't hurt her?" the doctor said
dryly.

"I think she's a rich woman, so why shouldn't she do a thing like
that? I'll go and see her if you want me to--though she never makes
you feel welcome; and tell her about the boy?"

"You needn't bother; Dr. Lavendar will see her himself."

"I don't understand that woman," Mrs. King said. "She keeps herself to
herself too much. It almost looks as if she didn't think we were good
enough to associate with her!"

William made no reply.