years old and can't walk any more than a baby; but the doctor said if I
could get him into the hospital he might get well; pray, sir, how far is
it; and which way is it?
Why, missis, said Jerry, you can't get there walking through crowds
like this! why, it is three miles away, and that child is heavy.
Yes, bless him, he is; but I am strong, thank God, and if I knew the
way I think I should get on somehow; please tell me the way.
You can't do it, said Jerry, you might be knocked down and the child
be run over. Now look here, just get into this cab, and I'll drive you
safe to the hospital. Don't you see the rain is coming on?
No, sir, no; I can't do that, thank you, I have only just money enough
to get back with. Please tell me the way.
Look you here, missis, said Jerry, I've got a wife and dear children
at home, and I know a father's feelings; now get you into that cab, and
I'll take you there for nothing. I'd be ashamed of myself to let a woman
and a sick child run a risk like that.
Heaven bless you! said the woman, and burst into tears.
There, there, cheer up, my dear, I'll soon take you there; come, let me
put you inside.
As Jerry went to open the door two men, with colors in their hats and
buttonholes, ran up calling out, Cab!
Engaged, cried Jerry; but one of the men, pushing past the woman,
sprang into the cab, followed by the other. Jerry looked as stern as a
policeman. This cab is already engaged, gentlemen, by that lady.
Lady! said one of them; oh! she can wait; our business is very
important, besides we were in first, it is our right, and we shall stay
in.
A droll smile came over Jerry's face as he shut the door upon them. All
right, gentlemen, pray stay in as long as it suits you; I can wait while
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