“I have ever so many things waiting at home for me to do.”
“At nine o’clock in the evening?”
“At whatever hour I am through at Mrs. Robeson’s.”
“I wish I could imagine something of what they are. It might relieve my mind a little.”
“Why, I will tell you,” said Rachel with great appearance of frankness. “I have to do some mending for mother, read the evening paper for father, and set the bread. Then the clothes must be sprinkled for ironing in the morning.”
The doctor studied her face in the dimming light. “Who washed the clothes?” he asked bluntly.
“Do you think you ought to ask?” said Rachel.
“Yes. I’m in the habit of asking questions.”
“Of patients——”
“Of everybody I care for. You don’t have to answer, but if you don’t I shall know who did the washing.”