"I know; thou wouldst ask many things, perhaps, had I time to listen.
Amongst others thou wouldst ask if there is any chance of thy giving an
heir to thy husband. Is it not so?"
"Yes, it is," replied the lady, fetching her breath.
"So do I perceive by this book; but let me put one question to thee.
Wouldst thou have blessings showered on thee, yet do no good? Thou art
wealthy--yet what dost thou and thy husband do with these riches? Are
ye liberal? No. Give, and it shall be given. I have said."
Aristodemus waved his hand, and the lady rose to withdraw. A guinea was
in her fingers, and her purse in her hand; she took out four more, and
added them to the other, and laid them on the table.
"'Tis well, lady; charity shall plead for thee. Artolphe, let that
money be distributed among the poor."