“Wish you’d tell me before I go,” urged Blue, halting beside the little brother’s chair, cap in hand. “I’ve only a minute—speak quick!” he prodded playfully.
“Oh, don’t go! don’t! don’t!” pleaded Doodles with sudden passion, holding to Blue’s coat with gripping fingers.
The boy tossed his cap on the table.
“’Course I’ll stay, if you want me to; but if I do, you’ve got to tell me what ails you! And you might’s well soon as late.”
“I—can’t!”
“Yes, you can! Why not?”
“She said—”
“Who said?”
“The woman—she—”
“What woman?”