“Perhaps she’s hungry, Nan; what ought she to eat?”
“Anything simple. Ask Louise for some milk and crackers.”
But Middy did not seem hungry. She took but a sip of the milk and a mere nibble of the cracker. She seemed happy, and though she beamed impartially on everybody, she said little.
“She ought to have something to play with,” decreed Patty. “There isn’t a thing in the house. I ransacked the attic rooms for that last missionary box. I haven’t any favours or toys left. Nan, I’m going to take her out to buy some, and maybe we’ll meet her distracted mother looking for her.”
“Maybe you won’t! But go along, if you like. I’ll go with you as far as Gordon’s.”
Putting on the baby’s wraps again, Patty started off. The child was delighted to go in the car.
“Nice au’mobile,” she said, patting the cushions.
“Hear her patronising tone!” laughed Nan. “Middy have au’mobile at home?” she inquired.
“No, no,” was the reply as the tiny white teeth showed in a sunny smile.
“You’re a lovely-natured little scamp, anyway,” declared Patty, hugging the morsel to her, and Middy crowed in contentment.