Six little heads popped up from the bed, and six young voices piped, "Yes, she did. Ain't she clever? And she was telling us such a beautiful story!" "Be quiet, children," said Mrs. Death; and turning anxiously to Dick, "Have you any news of my husband, sir?" "I am sorry to say I have not," he replied; "but your visit to the magistrate is in the papers, and good is sure to come of it. Have you got a teaspoon?" With a pitying remembrance of Gracie's cough he had purchased a bottle of syrup of squills, a teaspoonful of which he administered to the child, who looked up into his face with gratitude in her soul if not in her eyes. "It's nice and warm," she said, rubbing her chest. "It goes right to the spot." "Let her take it from time to time," said Dick to Mrs. Death. "I will bring another bottle in a day or two. Now can I have a few words with you about your husband?" "Yes, sir, if you'll step into the next room." "I like brandy balls," cried Connie. "So do I--so do I!" in a clamour of voices from the other children. "And so do I," said Dick. "You shall have some." "Hush, children!" said Mrs. Death. "I'm ashamed of you! I hope you'll excuse them, sir. Keep them quiet, Gracie, while the gentleman and I are talking. It doesn't do, sir,"--this in a low tone to Dick as he followed her into the adjoining room--"to speak too freely before children about trouble. It will come quickly enough to them, poor things!" Dick nodded. "I wish you to believe, Mrs. Death, that I earnestly desire to help you out of your trouble, and that I may be of more assistance to you than most people. I say this to satisfy you that I am not here out of mere idle curiosity." "I am sure you are not, sir, and I'm ever so much obliged to you for the kindness you've shown. The syrup of squills has done Gracie a lot of good already; but I don't see how you can help us." "It may be in my power, if you will give me your confidence." "I'd be sorry to throw away a chance, sir. What is it you want to know?" "I want you to tell me the reason why Mr. Samuel Boyd discharged your husband." "There's not much to tell, sir. Where shall I commence?" "On Friday morning, when your husband went to the office: and don't keep anything back that comes to your mind."