“It is an awful responsibility. I don't know why I do it—so many people seem to expect it as a matter of course—”
“It's a great deal easier for each person to deliver his own message than for you to have a half dozen on your mind at once. I wouldn't do it. You'll be a raving lunatic by the next time I see you.”
“At least I'll have ample time in which to become one,” laughed Mary.
“I'm going,” announced her friend, suddenly rising. “I could spare five or ten minutes more but if I sit here you'll forget that 'phone again. But take my advice, Mary, and institute a change in the order of things.”
When she had gone Mary sat for a few minutes lost in thought. Then, remembering, she sprang up and went to the 'phone. No answer to her ring. “Dear me! Will I never get that message delivered and off my mind.” Soon a ring came.
“Isn't he back yet?”
“I 'phoned about three minutes ago and failed to get him. By the way, Mr. Nelson, will you just 'phone the doctor at the office, please? That will be a more direct way to get him as I seem to fail altogether this morning. I am sure that he can't be gone much longer,” she said very pleasantly and hung up the receiver. The responsibility had been gracefully shifted and she was free for a while. Other occasions would arise when she could not be free, but in cases of this kind her friend's clear insight had helped her out.
Ting-a-ling-ling-ling. Ting-a-ling-ling-ling.
“Hello.”