But his reflections were quickly upset
when Alfred called from the next room, to inquire again about
Baby.
"Alfred's here!" whispered Jimmy, beginning to realise the
meaning of the women's mysterious behaviour.
"Sh! sh!" said Aggie again to Jimmy, and Zoie flew toward the
bed, almost vaulting over the footboard in her hurry to get
beneath the covers.
For the present Alfred did not disturb them further. Apparently
he was still occupied with his shaving, but just as Jimmy was
about to ask for particulars, the 'phone rang. The three
culprits glanced guiltily at each other.
"Who's that?" whispered Zoie in a frightened voice.
Aggie crossed to the 'phone. "Hello," she called softly. "The
Children's Home?" she exclaimed.
Jimmy paused in the act of sitting and turned his round eyes
toward the 'phone.
Aggie's facial expression was not reassuring. "But we can't,"
she was saying; "that's impossible."
"What is it?" called Zoie across the foot of the bed, unable
longer to endure the suspense.
Aggie did not answer. She was growing more and more excited. "A
thief!" she cried wildly, over the 'phone. "How dare you call my
husband a thief!"
Jimmy was following the conversation with growing interest.
"Wait a minute," said Aggie, then she left the receiver hanging
by the cord and turned to the expectant pair behind her.
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