with soft white hair. Beneath the head a long face, sallow of hue; in
either cheek a pit; between them a dominating nose carrying
eyeglasses. A long, spare body in an alpaca coat; long thin legs;
brown morocco slippers without heels--upon the lap the peerless Rose
of Sharon.

"Time for the Rose to go in," Mrs. Major softly suggested.

"The Rose," said Mr. Marrapit, passing a hand gently over the
creature's exquisite form, "is, I fear, still ailing. Her sleep is
troubled; she shivers. Her appetite?"

"It is still poorly." The expression was that of a true distressed
gentlewoman.

"She has need," Mr. Marrapit said, "of the most careful attention, of
the most careful dieting. Tend her. Tempt her. Take her."

"I will, Mr. Marrapit." Mrs. Major gathered the Rose against her
bosom. "You will not stay long? It is growing chilly."

"I shall take a brief stroll. I am perturbed concerning the Rose."

"Let me bring you a cap, Mr. Marrapit."

"Unnecessary. Devote yourself, I pray, to the Rose. I am anxious.
Nothing could console me should any evil thing come upon her. I am
apprehensive. I look to you. I will take a stroll."

Outside the wire fence Mr. Marrapit and Mrs. Major parted. The