Now was I doubly strengthened for
the night. There arose at this instant a wild storm-wail, that
shrieked for a brief time amid the chimneys, and around the eaves of
our dwelling, and then went moaning away, sadly, dying at last in
the far distance. The rain beat heavily against the windows. But I
did not waver, nor seek for reasons to warrant a neglect of duty. "I
must see Mary Jones's baby, and that to-night." I said this to
myself, resolutely, by way of answer to the intimidating storm.
Mrs. Jones was a widow, and poor. She lived full a quarter of a mile
away. So in deciding to make the visit that night, I hardly think a
very strong element of self-interest was included in the motives
that governed me. But that is irrelevant.
"As there is no prospect of an abatement in the storm," said I,
after returning to our cosy little sitting-room, "it may be as well
for me to see the baby at once. The visit will be over, so far as I
am concerned, and precious time may be gained for the patient."
"I will tell Joseph to bring around the horse," said my wife.
"No--I will walk.
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