Mr. Omer shook his head.

“ Rat ⁠—tat-tat, Rat ⁠—tat-tat, Rat ⁠—tat-tat.”

“He is in his mother’s arms,” said he.

“Oh, poor little fellow! Is he dead?”

“Don’t mind it more than you can help,” said Mr. Omer. “Yes. The baby’s dead.”