"Yes. And I wish we were here any time but this. Think if this was a fine Saturday morning now, and we were going up to the Castle to see the Highlanders drilling."
"Didn't you say the Public Health Office was opposite the Cathedral?"
"I did so. But dear knows it was ridiculous of me to drag you here. Most likely her number will not be there at all. After all, she was only taken away this morning, and the doctor said there'd be no change. He said I would be just a fule to worry."
He guided her across the road and looked for the office among the shops that faced the dark shape of the Cathedral, while she hung on his arm. "You will be angry with me for dragging you for nothing out into this awful part."
"Is this it?"
"Yes, you must look, my eyes ache," she said peevishly. "Besides, her number will not be there. Richard, did ever you see a white dog like yon in the gutter. Is it not a most peculiar-looking animal?"
After a moment's silence he said steadily, "What did you say your mother's number was?"
"Ninety-three. I told you it would not be there. Richard, look at that white dog!"
His arm slipped round her. "My little Ellen," he whispered, "Ellen!"