"I don't care. You won't disturb me any."
"'Tisn't that I'm afraid of. I want to see papa alone."
"You'll have to wait, then."
"Please go, Phebe."
"Sha'n't. I was here first." Phebe yawned, and nestled deeper into her chair.
"Babe, I think you will have to make way for Teddy," the doctor said, laughing. "You can read just as well somewhere else, and if Teddy really wants to talk—"
"I do, papa," she urged eagerly.
Phebe retired, grumbling.
"What is it, my girl?" the doctor asked, as Theodora perched herself on the arm of his chair.
"I want my own way, as usual, papa, and I want you to stand up for me when the others howl," she answered coaxingly.