No. 19, Robinson, did many a little friendly office for other figures, received their thanks, and, above all, obliging these figures warmed and softened his own heart.
You might hear such dialogues as this:
No. 24. “And how is poor old No. 50 to-day (Strutt)?”
Mr. Eden. “Much the same.”
No. 24. “Do you think you will bring him round, sir?”
Mr. Eden. “I have great hopes; he is much improved since he had the garden and the violin.”
No. 24. “Will you give him my compliments, sir? No. 24's compliments and tell him I bid him 'never say die'?”
Mr. Eden. “Well, ——, how are you this morning?”
“I am a little better, sir. This room (the infirmary) is so sweet and airy, and they give me precious nice things to eat and drink.”
“Are the nurses kind to you?”