“Linda,” he cried out. “Oh, mother, don’t!” “I’m not your mother. I won’t be your mother.” “But, Linda… Oh!” She slapped him on the cheek. He saw that she was going to hit him again, and lifted his arm to guard his face. “Oh, don’t, Linda, please don’t.” “Little beast!” She pulled down his arm. “Don’t, Linda.” He shut his eyes, expecting the blow. But she didn’t hit him. After a little time, he opened his eyes again and saw that she was looking at him. He tried to smile at her. Suddenly she put