"Do you never get up, little one?" he asked.
"Never, sir. But I am not lonely now I have Rose."
"I am glad you find her companionable." Then, turning to the mother, he remarked:
"She had an accident, I think you said?"
"Yes, sir. Her spine was injured. I have not been able to afford a doctor lately, but—"
"Will you allow me to make an examination? I am a medical student, and interested in spinal complaints."
Mother and child both consented, and Jim proceeded to examine the little girl's back most carefully.
"There!" he said at last. "I don't think I've hurt you much, have I? Mrs. Blundell, I should like our senior house surgeon to see your little girl. He's very clever. You could not have a better man for the case."
"But, sir, I am not able to pay—"
"There will be no question of payment. May I bring him? I see I may. He's such a good fellow, and used to be a personal friend of my poor father's."