“And her saucy sweet ways--wilful and almost bad--if he were not so sweet and true. But I tire you. Mothers who talk about their babies bore people. I make many good resolves not to talk Bobby, and, break every one.” “You could never tire me. I am charmed to hear about your boy. Maybe you can find him a little sweetheart in my house. Here we are.” He lifted me out of the carriage and led me into the house. “This is an old friend of mine, dear,” he said to his wife. “She is sick and in trouble, and I have brought her to you. Her father’s home used to be my home in Norfolk. Mrs. Norman is Miss Duncan that was.” She had heard of me. He began to explain how he had met me, but she interrupted. “I will come back and hear,” she said, “when I have made Mrs. Norman comfortable. She looks worn-out. I must take her to her room and see what I can do to make her more at ease.” While she was talking she had me in a chair, holding my hand, and giving me a glass of wine. Commodore Warren took my Baltimore address, and went out saying he would send the telegrams at once--a special one to Bobby all by himself. Then Mrs. Warren saw me to my room. As we passed through hallways and up the stairs, our feet sank into soft, thick carpets that gave back no sound. Through an open doorway I caught a glimpse of her own exquisite chamber and of a cozy nursery where children’s gowns were laid out for the night. Everywhere around me were evidences of wealth, luxury, and refinement. After a little rest I felt better. As I went down to dinner I heard the street door open, and Commodore Warren’s voice in the hall. Then children’s voices: “Papa! papa!” He was taking his children in his arms and kissing them, and I heard the glad murmur of his wife’s welcome. Together they took me in to their table, and showered upon me courtesies and loving-kindness. Such a delightful dining-room it was--such lovely appointments and such perfect serving! and such charming hosts they made! The children are beautiful and well trained. They were brought into the parlor after dinner, and made great friends with me. You know children always like me, Nell. This trio took possession of me. They hovered around me, leaned against me, climbed into my lap, and the youngest went to sleep in my arms, her soft golden head nestled under my chin. We decided that she is to be Bobby’s sweetheart. Their parents were afraid that I was not strong enough for such demonstrations, but I begged that they would not interrupt the little people, whose caresses really did me a world of good. But the commodore called the nurse when the baby dropped to sleep, and she took it to the nursery, the other children following her. By this time I was quite myself. A telegram had come from Isabelle, saying she was with Bobby and that Bobby was comforted.