Laurence tried to say something to Mrs. Price. "You look well."
"Yes, and Winnie has gotten along very nicely with me. How is your mother? How are the children?" She did not look at him, and while she talked she moistened her lips that were like paper under her tongue.
In the waiting room they met Mr. Price. He had arrived at the train a few moments late and the confusion of the incoming crowd had carried them past him before he knew it.
He was gruff and short with Laurence. "How-do, * * * * * Farley?" He turned quickly to Winnie. "Well, Winnie, you're back, are you? How is she, Vivien? Mother and I are going to keep a tight hold on you, my young lady. We are going to see that your health is taken care of after this."
"You'll let us take you and Winnie home in the carriage?" Mrs. Price said to Laurence.
"I have a taxicab for Winnie, Mrs. Price." He took Winnie's arm. She protested a little.
"It seems so absurd," Mrs. Price demurred, preserving her well-bred poise, but plainly irritated.
Laurence, pretending not to hear, dragged Winnie on.
Winnie pouted and hung back. "You'll come to see me this afternoon, Mother," she called over her shoulder.
Mrs. Price nodded and smiled.