"It takes so much to knock an idea into such stupid people's
heads. They stood gaping and asking which doctor they were to go
for, as if it signified whether it was Brown or Smith, so long as
he had his wits about him. I have no more time to waste here,
either; I was on the gallop when I caught sight of the lad; and,
now he has fairly sobbed and opened his eyes, I see no use in my
staying in this stifling atmosphere. May I trouble you with one
thing? Will you be so good as to see that the little fellow has
all that he wants? If you'll allow me, I'll leave you my purse,"
continued he, giving it to Ruth, who was only too glad to have
this power entrusted to her of procuring one or two requisites
which she had perceived to be wanted. But she saw some gold
between the network; she did not like the charge of such riches.

"I shall not want so much, really, sir. One sovereign will be
plenty--more than enough. May I take that out, and I will give
you back what is left of it when I see you again? or, perhaps, I
had better send it to you, sir.

"I think you had better keep it all at present. Oh, what a horrid
dirty place this is insufferable two minutes longer. You must not
stay here; you'll be poisoned with this abominable air. Come
towards the door, I beg. Well, if you think one sovereign will he
enough, I will take my purse; only, remember you apply to me if
you think they want more."

They were standing at the door, where some one was holding Mr.
Bellingham's horse. Ruth was looking at him with her earnest eyes
(Mrs. Mason and her errands quite forgotten in the interest of