time. Her ordinary household arrangements were upset. He might
possibly be ill, and then there would be a mess and confusion. The
thought of sickness was intolerable to her, because it "put
everything out." Rising up at the back of these two emotions came,
haltingly, a third when she looked her husband in the face. She
could not help it, and she did really pity him.

"I am sure it is very kind of you," she replied.

Zachariah had as yet spoken no word, nor had she moved towards him.
The stranger was departing.

"Stop!" cried Zachariah, "you have not told me your name. I am too
faint to say how much I owe you for your protection and kindness."

"Nonsense. My name is Maitland--Major Maitland, 1A Albany. Good-
bye."

He was at the top of the stairs, when he turned round, and looking at
Mrs. Coleman, observed musingly, "I think I'll send my doctor, and,
if you will permit me, will call in a day or two."

She thanked him; he took her hand, politely pressed it to his lips,
and rode off in the coach which had been waiting for him.

"What has happened, my dear? Tell me all about it," she inquired as
she went back into the parlour, with just the least colour on her
cheek, and perceptibly a little happier than she was five minutes
before. She did nothing more than put her hand on his shoulder, but
he brightened immediately. He told her the tale, and when it was