"Oh, what does he say?" asked Betty. But the question was asked mentally, because little Mrs. Guthrie was happy and must not be made jealous.
Putting on her glasses with great deliberation, Mrs. Guthrie picked up a book, and with a smile of pride and excitement hunted through its pages and eventually produced the cable form, which she had used as a marker.
"Do hurry, mother, dear!" cried Belle. News from Peter meant news from Nicholas.
"Now please don't fluster me, Belle. Of course I would unfold it the wrong side up, wouldn't I? Well, this is what he says: 'Expect to dock day after to-morrow, dearest Mum. All my love.'"
"Is that all he says? Is there nothing about his—his friend?"
Ethel gave a quiet chuckle, of which Belle coldly took no notice.
"There are a few more words," replied Mrs. Guthrie, "and I expect they were very expensive."
"Oh, mother, darling; do go on!"
"Let me see, now. Oh, yes. 'And to Betty.'"
"Oh, thank you," said Betty. "Oh, Peter, my Peter!" she cried in her heart.