This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1864 edition. Excerpt: ... eyeing Mr. Chapman, much as three inquisitors might have eyed a Jew, shook three solemn heads, and set the example of retreat. The last to linger were the rival proprietors of the theatre and the city concert-room. Each whispered the stranger--one the left ear, one the right. Each thrust into his hand a printed paper. As the door closed on them the Comedian let fall tho papers; his arm drooped to his side; his whole frame seemed to collapse. Hartopp took him by the hand, and led him gently to his own arm-chair beside the table. The Comedian dropped on the chair, still without speaking. Me. Haetopp.--" What is the matter? What has happened?" Waife.--" She is very ill;--in a bad way; the doctor says so--Dr. Gill." Me.Haetopp (feelingly).--"Your little girl in a bad way Oh, no; doctors always exaggerate in order to get more credit for the cure. Not that I would disparage Dr. Gill--fellow-townsman--first-rate man. Still 'tis the way with doctors to talk cheerfully if one is in danger, and to look solemn if there is nothing to fear." Waife.--" Do you think so--you have children of your own, sir?--of her age, too?--Eh eh " Me. Haetopp.--"Yes; I know all about children--better, I think, than Mrs. H. does. What is the complaint?" Waife.--" The doctor says it is low fever." Me. Haetopp.--"Caused by nervous excitement, perhaps." Waife (looking up).--" Yes--that's what he says--nervous excitement." Me. Haetopp.--" Clever sensitive children, subjected precociously to emulation and emotion, are always liable to such maladies. My third girl, Anna Maria, fell into a low fever, caused by nervous excitement in trying for school prizes." Waife.--"Did she die...