@@@@@I'm scared half-witted if truth be knownThe
@@@@@I'm scared half-witted if truth be
knownThe contractions aren't any stronger, or closer together,
eitherI'm not getting anywhere at allAt least the mattress feels
better than the table, but what's going to happen when it gets soaked
through, too? Is the storm getting worse or am I just spooked? Rain
was buffeting the windows now, propelled by a mighty windColum O
'Hara was nearly knocked down by a branch torn from a tree in the
wood
near the houseHe climbed over it and moved on, bent against the
windThen he remembered, turned around, was blown onto the limb,
fought for a foothold in the quagmire mud of the drive, dragged the
limb to one side, fought against the wind again towards the house
"What time is it?" said Scarlett
"Scarlett darling, is it very bad?"
"Oh, Colum!" Scarlett pushed herself to half sitting"Is the doctor
with you? The baby's not kicking as much as before
"I found a midwife in DunshaughlinThere's no getting to Trim, the
river's over the roadLie back, now, like a good motherDon't tire
yourself more than you have to' "Where is she?"
"On the wayMy horse was faster, but she's close behindShe's
brought hundreds of babies, you'll be in good hands
"I've had babies before, ColumThere's some- thing bad wrong
"She'll know what to do, lamb The midwife bustled
in just after eightHer starched uniform was limp with wet, but her
competent manner was as crisp as if she hadn't been rushed on an
emergency at all"A baby, is it? Ease your mind, missus, I know
everything there is to know about helping the little dear things into
this vale of tears She took off her cape and handed it to Colum
"Spread that out near the fire so it can dry," she said in a voice
accustomed to command"Soap and warm water, missus, for me to
wash my
hand