To this Dr.Ebers appends this note.

"An ignorant critic took exception to the use of the diminutive form of names (as for instance 'Irenchen', little Irene) in 'The Sisters,' as an anachronism.

It is nevertheless a fact that the Greeks settled in Egypt were so fond of using the diminutive form of woman's names that they preferred them, even in the tax-rolls.

This form was common in Attic Greek.] Oh, if you could but know what I endured before I came out here! Forgive me, Mary; be my sweet, dear little Mary once more.

Indeed and indeed you are much better than I am.