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  but our voices failed to reach him above the swash alongside.

Poor lad!' said Burton, in a low voice. 'He were better dead, Doctor. I. . . I. . . I did not think to see him abide by it. . . . There was a vague disappointment in the old man's voice which irritated me.

" 'I agree with you that he would be better off himself if he were dead,' I answered curtly, 'but there are others than himself to consider.'

"Burton shook his head.

’Twould be better for him if he were dead,' he answered; 'he can no longer contribute to their support; and as far as sentiment is concerned, why, do you not see, Doctor'

" 'Do I not see what?' I asked testily, the more so because I saw very well, and I felt that it was my work.

That he is no longer the same man,' said Burton. 'Look at the face of him as he turns [ 294 ]