My Husband is by no means a swearing man, but I distinctly heard from his unwonted lips at that moment a muttered blasphemy that would make a stevedore blush for shame.
Despite all her terrible stress and strain Ann Woltor smiled— actually smiled.
My Husband gasped. The cause of that gasp was only too evident. Once again we saw Rollins's ominous gaze fixed with unalterable intent on Ann Woltor's face. What was meant to be an ingratiating smile quickened suddenly in his eyes.
"Truly, Miss Woltor," he said, "tell me, why don't you get it fixed!"
For an instant I thought Ann Woltor would scream. For an instant I thought Ann Woltor would faint, then quicker than chain lighting, right there before our eyes we saw her make her great decision. It was as though her brain was glass and we could see its every working.
"All right," said Ann Woltor, very quietly. "All right—you— Damn fool—I will tell you! I will tell everybody!"
For the first time in his life I saw Rollins stagger!
But Rollins could not remain prostrate even under such a rebuff as this.
"Why—er—thank you—thank you very much," he rallied with his first returning breath. "Shall I—shall I call the others?"
"By all means, call them quickly," said Ann Woltor.