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Gissing, George, 1857-1903

"The Unclassed"


The couple had clearly formed their own opinion as to Waymark's
interest in the accused girl, but took the position in a very
matter-of-fact way, and were eager to hear more than they succeeded
in getting out of the police.
"My main object in coming," Waymark explained, "was to look after
her cat. I see you have been good enough to anticipate me."
"The poor thing takes on sadly," said the woman. "Of course I
shouldn't have known nothing if the hofficers hadn't come, and it
'ud just have starved to death. It seems to know you, sir?"
"Yes, yes, I dare say. Do you think you could make it convenient to
keep the cat for the present, if I paid you for its food?"
"Well, I don't see why not, sir; we ain't got none of our own."
"And you would promise me to be kind to it? I don't mind the
expense; keep it well, and let me know what you spend. And of course
I should consider your trouble."
So that matter was satisfactorily arranged, and Waymark went home.
Julian spent his day at the hospital as usual, finding relief in
fixing his attention upon outward things. It was only when he left
his work in the evening that he became aware how exhausted he was in
mind and body.


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