May I ask you--in no impertinent curiosity, but because I have had so much pleasure in your society, may never in this labyrinth of a world exchange a quiet word with you again, and wish to preserve an accurate remembrance of you and yours--may I ask you, if I have not gathered from your good wife that you have had other children ?' 'No.

No,' said Mr Meagles.

'Not exactly other children.

One other child.' 'I am afraid I have inadvertently touched upon a tender theme.' 'Never mind,' said Mr Meagles.

'If I am grave about it, I am not at all sorrowful.