‘She is gone to bed; Arthur thinks her knocked up.’
‘It is well he is come; I was much concerned at her being alone yesterday. So little Johnnie is better?’
‘Like Mother Hubbard’s dog.’
‘The croup is no joke,’ said Percy, gravely.
‘Then you think there was really something in it?’
‘Why, what do you mean? Do you think it was humbug?’
‘Not at all; but it was such a terrific account, and alarmed poor Arthur so much, that it gave one rather a revulsion of feeling to hear her laughing.’
‘I am very glad she could laugh.’
‘Well, but don’t you think, Percy, that innocently, perhaps, she magnified a little alarm?’
‘You would not speak of little alarms if you had seen Harding this morning. I met him just coming away after a fearful night. The child was in the utmost danger, but his mother’s calmness and presence of mind never failed. But I’ll say no more, for the sound wholesome atmosphere of this house must cure you of your prejudices.’