Page:Sparrow, the tramp (IA sparrowtramp00wess).pdf/223

 to you that you must take care of her and protect her. She has done her part, and has been a faithful mother to your children; but how have you done yours? Flying around here and there, flirting with this one and rollicking with that one. I know your ways. Your family would have starved long ago if it had not been for your little wife there."

"He has been a very good husband indeed," said the bright-eyed sparrow warmly. "I have nothing to complain of."

"It is very loving of you to defend your husband, my dear, but he doesn't really deserve it. I saw you, last evening, looking out for him so anxiously, and I heard him, too, come home this morning just before daybreak, and I knew you had words about it. You make up, I know, and are very affectionate until the next out-*break occurs; but you may take my word for it that every quarrel you have weakens