“How can I recollect it?
“Oh, very well: women remember things you never think of: poor souls! they’ve good cause to do so. Ten years ago, I was sitting up for you, - there now, I’m not going to say anything to vex you, only do let me speak: ten years ago, I was waiting for you, and I fell asleep, and the fire went out, and when I woke I found I was sitting right in the draught of the keyhole. That was my death, Caudle, though don’t let that make you uneasy, love; for I don’t think you meant to do it.
“Ha! it’s all very well for you to call it nonsense; and to lay your ill conduct upon my shoes. That’s like a man, exactly! There never was a man yet that killed his wife, who couldn’t give a good reason for it. No: I don’t mean to say that you’ve killed me: quite the reverse: still there’s never been a day that I haven’t felt that key-hole. What?
“Why won’t I have a doctor?
“What’s the use of a doctor? Why should I put you to expense? Besides, I dare say you’ll do very well without me, Caudle: yes, after a very little time you won’t miss me much - no man ever does.
“Peggy tells me, Miss Prettyman called to-day.
“What of it?
“Nothing, of course. Yes; I know she heard I was ill, and that’s why she came. A little indecent, I think, Mr. Caudle; she might wait; I shan’t be in her way long; she may soon have the key of the caddy, now.
“Ha! Mr. Caudle, what’s the use of your calling me your dearest soul now? Well, I do believe you. I dare say you do mean it; that is, I hope you do. Nevertheless, you can’t expect I can lie quiet in this bed, and think of that young woman - not, indeed, that she’s near so young as she gives herself out. I bear no malice towards her, Caudle, - not the least. Still, I don’t think I could lie at peace in my grave if - well, I won’t say anything more about her; but you know what I mean.
“I think dear mother would keep house beautifully for you when I’m gone. Well, love, I won’t talk in that way if you desire it. Still, I know I’ve a dreadful cold; though I won’t allow it for a minute to be the shoes - certainly not. I never would wear ’em thick, and you know it, and they never gave me a cold yet. No, dearest Caudle, it’s ten years ago that did it; not that I’ll say a syllable of the matter to hurt you. I’d die first.