of the front window of our house and punching up the pillows on the couch
in your library."

"And papa?"

"Splendid, and covered with glory for his last operation on the Gaylord
child. It is the talk of the town."

Theodora's eyes flashed proudly.

"Isn't he wonderful? If he had never had a patient but Billy, he might
have been content. I wish you could be half the man he is, Hu."

"I do my endeavors, Ted."

"Yes, and you are a boy to be proud of, even if you aren't a doctor," she
answered. "You look as if the last five months had agreed with you."

"They have, for I didn't have anybody around to torment me, and I grew
fat and sleek from day to day. How is Hope?"

"As well as is compatible with being Mac's mother."

"What is the matter with him? You didn't write much."

"No; for I knew you wouldn't believe the half of my tales. Hu, the boy
is an imp."

"He combines the least lovely traits of Teddy and Babe," Mr. Farrington
remarked gravely.