In other moods, and these more
frequent, Mr. Parish indulged in native optimism, tempered by
anxiety in matters of "hyjene." He was much preoccupied with the
laundry question.
"Now, are you quite sure, Ada, that this laundress is a
conscientious woman? Does she manage her establishment on modern
principles? I beg you will make a personal inspection. If ever a
laundress refuses to let you make a personal inspection be sure
there is something wrong. Just think how vital it is, this washing
question. We send our clothes, our personal garments, to a strange
house to be mixed with--"
And so on at great length, Mrs. Theodore listening patiently and
approvingly. With equal solicitude did they discuss the food upon
their table.
"Theo, I shall have to change our baker."
"Ah, indeed! Why?"
"I hardly like to tell you, but perhaps I had better. I have only
just found out that a sewer-trap quite close to his shop gives out a
most offensive _affluvia_, especially in this hot weather. The air
must be full of germs. I hardly know whet her we ought to eat even
this loaf.
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