The pigeons were flying all over the Judge, lighting on his head, his shoulders, his arms, and gently tapping him with their beaks.
“They are becoming tamer every day,” he said. “It is wonderful what kind treatment will do in developing the intelligence of the lower order of creation.”
“I suppose Titus pets these birds very much.”
“O, yes, he and Bethany are indefatigable. I watched him at first, for I thought he might neglect them, but he does not.”
“I used to keep pigeons,” said Berty, wistfully. “I was very fond of them.”
“I am sure Titus would give you a pair or two, if you wish to start again. He won’t let everybody have them, but he would be sure of your devotion to them.”
“I should love to have some,” she said, enthusiastically. “By the way, Judge, tell me about his stammering. Is he really cured?”
“You noticed that he spoke slowly.”
“Yes, I did.”
“He is trying to cure himself, really trying hard now. He got a shock the other day that started him in the right direction. It was after Airy Tingsby’s last visit here. Just as soon as she went away I called him to me. ‘Titus,’ I said, ‘did you notice that Airy stammered quite often during dinner, and in the evening?’