Helen flushed at her husband's tone.
"But Deforrest is away," she argued timidly. "I feel I ought to do something."
Madelene went hastily to her brother's side.
"Don't let her go, Ebbie," she gasped. "It's an awful place; a little bit of a hut—"
"I've been in it many times," interrupted Helen, with dignity, "and I do feel, Ebenezer—"
"I want no argument about the matter," said Waldstricker, sternly. "If she's in the condition Madelene says she is, then her home is no place for my wife.... It's shameful, absolutely shameful!"
"But, Ebenezer, she's probably been unfortunate. Poor little child! I wish you'd—"
Waldstricker cut her plea in two with an angry gesture.
"I command you not to go there," said he, sharply.
"Very well," sighed Helen. "Of course, I'll do as you wish."