“Well, I found a hatchet close to Slocum's gate.”
“I took it in to ask if it was theirs.”
“Was it?”
“No, it wasn't.”
“Who told you so?”
“Mrs. Slocum, herself, and she's about the healthiest looking invalid I've seen lately.”
“I'm much relieved. Thank you, Johnson.” And as she left the 'phone she meditated within herself, “Verily, the tender thoughtfulness of the husband drunk exceedeth that of the husband sober.”
When night came and Mary was preparing for bed she thought, “It will be very unpleasant to be called up only to tell people the doctor is not here.” She rose, went to the 'phone and called central.
“This is Mrs. Blank, central. If anyone should want the doctor tonight, or for the next two nights, please say he is out of town and will not be home until Saturday.”