“And after all it is the will of Providence. Mors Deo.”
“Quite so.”
During this classical and historical retrospect Mr. Ferdinand had finished his task and quitted the apartment. As soon as he had gone Madame Sagittarius continued,—
“As the mother of Corona and Capricornus I feel it my duty to ask you, sir—that is, Mr.—”
“Vivian.”
“Mr. Vivian, whether the illness in your house is really only ankles as the gentleman who opened the door assured me?”
“It is only that.”
“Not catching?”
“Oh, dear, no.”
“There, Sophronia!” said Mr. Sagittarius. “I told you it was merely the prophecy.”