105

THE BALL.

" Even if I were not prevented by this unlooked-for engagement from accompanying you to the ballto-night, my love," said the Honourable AlfredSeymour to his beautiful young wife, " you mustnevertheless have declined it, for the child isevidently unwell; look how the pulses throb inthis little throat, Sophia!"—" So they always do,I believe. I really wish you were less of acroaker and caudle-maker, my dear; however, tomake you easy, I will send for Doctor Davis im-mediately : as to the ball, as I am expected, andhave gone to the trouble and expense of a newdress, and have not been out for such a long,long time, really I think I ought to go."

" You would not leave my boy, Lady Sophia, if"— " Not if there is the least danger, certainly;nor if the doctor should pronounce it ill; but 1