"
"Oh, I'm sorry. But I daresay it is nothing."
"But Mrs. Spires says, ma'am----"
"Yes, ma'am, the little thing seemed a bit poorly, and I being short of
money, ma'am, I had to come and see nurse. I knows right well that they
must not be disturbed, and of course your child's 'ealth is everything;
but if I may make so bold I'd like to say that the little dear do look
beautiful. Nurse is bringing her up that well that yer must have every
satisfaction in 'er."
"Yes, she seems to suit the child; that's the reason I don't want her
upset."
"It won't occur again, ma'am, I promise you."
Esther did not answer, and her white, sullen face remained unchanged. She
had a great deal on her mind, and would have spoken if the words did not
seem to betray her when she attempted to speak.
"When the baby is well, and the doctor is satisfied there is no danger of
infection, you can bring it here--once a month will be sufficient. Is
there anything more?"
"Mrs. Spires thinks my baby ought to see the doctor."
"Well, let her send for the doctor."
"Being a bit short of money----"
"How much is it?" said Esther.
"Well, what we pays is five shillings to the doctor, but then there's the
medicine he will order, and I was going to speak to you about a piece of
flannel; if yer could let me have ten shillings to go on with.
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