Page:Tom Beauling (1901).pdf/49

 "I can't keep him." said Judge Tyler; "it's out of the question. You must see that for yourself."

"No," said the doctor, "I can't imagine you bringing up a child. You are totally unsuited."

"It isn't that," said Judge Tyler, with some resentment; "but it isn't my duty to saddle myself with somebody else's brat, and I won't do it."

"Poor little beggar!" said the doctor, reminiscently. And then, in a tone of convinced agreement: "You are absolutely right; it would be ridiculous self-imposition."

"Yes, wouldn't it!" said the judge, comforted.

"Of course he must go to Dorothy," began the doctor, slowly.

"No, he sha'n't!" said Judge Tyler, firmly.

"Wait—wait," said the doctor. "You will see it in a minute. After all, Dorothy is his aunt; she has children of her own, good principles—"

"Hunh!" exclaimed the judge.