"A handsome bird, yes. But a nuisance with its continual squawking and chattering."
"Thank you, Mrs. Berry; I believe that's all. Pardon our intrusion.
We'll go now. Come along, Dolly."
Dolly followed Ted from the room, and he said, "Don't go back upstairs yet. Come along with me."
"Where?"
"Never mind. Come on," and, making a gesture for her to be silent, Ted piloted her down the main staircase and out of the front door.
"Gracious! I won't go another step till you tell me where we're going!"
"Of course I'll tell you. We're going next door. Come on; you don't need wraps; it's just a step."
Taking her hand, Ted led her down the Forbes' steps and up those of the house next door. He rang the bell and they waited. In a moment, shuffling steps were heard and an old man opened the door.
"That you, Joe?" said Ted, pleasantly. "Let us come in for a moment, please."
"I don't know you, young sir, but if I'm not mistaken, this is one of the little ladies from next door."