"Faith I'll jist take him in me lap an' say whir he's hurted for meself," said Mrs. O'Malligan briskly and forthwith laid her energetic hand upon the little fellow. At her well meant but rough handling, the child cried out, turning white to the lips.
"Howly Mither, forgive me," cried Mrs. O'Malligan.
Miss Ruth turned away to hide her tears. "Have you had a doctor yet?" she inquired.
"No, I had just gotten here a moment ahead of you," explained Mr. Dilke.
"Well," said Miss Ruth, decidedly, "whether it proves serious or not, he ought to go to St. Luke's and be properly nursed, and if there happens to be a free cot vacant, I will have no trouble getting him in."
Mr. Dilke turned quickly. "Don't stop for that," he said, "use me,—I mean,—don't let the cost of it interfere,—I'll be very glad,—you know——"
Miss Ruth beamed at the young man whom she knew to be very rich indeed. "Just take charge of a Free Kindergarten, Mr. Dilke, if you ever really want to properly appreciate your blessings and privileges," she said, "I am never so sordid in my desire for wealth, as when I stand helpless, with the knowledge of the suffering around me, that money can remedy or at least, alleviate."
"Let me walk with you to St. Luke's," begged Mr. Dilke, "and you can tell me something more about it all if you will." And leaving Joey to Mrs. O'Malligan, until their return, the two started off.
"You've evidently been very good to Joey," Miss Stannard remarked graciously, as they went along.
Mr. Dilke blushed furiously, "Who? I? No more than the other men in the Regiment. Now a fellow could hardly help liking the little chap, could he?" and he regarded his pretty companion as if seeking justification in her answer.