Marie bent over and held Patrick’s hands, with the infant’s feet on the ground. “It’s time you were learning to walk, wee man!”
Patrick looked downward, looking at his feet. He made a little gurgling sound, lifted both legs and swung back and forward.
“That’s not walking,” Marie said with mock severity. “Try again!”
Patrick swung harder, laughing as he lifted his feet further from the floor.
“I don’t think he’s ready to walk yet,” Watters watched from his chair by the fire.
“No, maybe you’re right.” Marie lifted the baby onto her hip. “A pity. I was going to send him for the messages. It’s time he earned his keep.”
“Maybe tomorrow,” Watters suggested.
“Maybe.” Marie settled herself on her chair with Patrick on her lap. “This little man is still coughing, George. I’m worried. How is
