the elders which might involve some nervous strain for Ronald Grange. Basil was about the house pretty constantly for some time after the baby's birth, informing Teresa that he couldn't yet settle down to work. He kept a sharp eye on the nurse, and if Teresa fed the baby too early or too late he knew it. He kept many visitors away from Ronald Grange, and Teresa's Aunt Sophy went away in a passion because, after three visits, she had not yet succeeded in seeing the baby. Teresa, however, took advantage of Basil's occasional absences. She herself was not allowed to hold the baby any longer than was strictly necessary. But several times when Basil was well away she actually played with Ronald Grange, tickled the soles of his feet, kissed the back of his neck, and once, the Major arriving in the midst of such an orgy, she took pity on the poor old man and let him have his share. That day Ronald Grange was trotted on the Major's knee, chucked under the chin, poked in the ribs, and whistled to. Teresa felt guilty, and watched Ronald for some days for signs of nervous prostration. But there was now a bond of crime between her and the Major, and they continued at intervals to furnish the baby with contraband amusement.
Mrs. Perry had been, in Florida for February and March. When she returned to town she came at once to see Teresa. Basil was not at
