“Well,” said Dulcie, “it seems to me that you each say the right thing, always.”
“Thank you, my dear,” said Doctor Trigg.
“Har!” said Doctor Sims.
Long shadows spent themselves across the lagoon as they returned to Friedrichshafen. Mr. Hammond and David, accompanied by their host of the afternoon, were driven at once to the hospital, where Mr. Hammond gave last instructions for the care of his two officers. Back to the hotel, then, and at seven dinner was served.
The many bells in the city had struck nine before the company rose. Dulcie and David wandered out into the lobby.
“Gold lace,” remarked Dulcie, glancing about. “Did you ever see so much of it?”
“Someone told me that there is much less than in the days of the Empire,” said David.
“Well, it must have been sewed all over them,” sighed Dulcie. “It must be heavy stuff to wear.”
“What do those huskies care for a little weight more or less?” demanded David. “Gosh, they are big fellows!”
“They are no larger than you,” said Dulcie. “And very little larger than Red, and daddy is taller than a lot of them, but not so thick. Only Wally looks small.” She giggled wickedly. “Really, doesn’t he look funny? The way he scowls, and stares up at them! But then,” she went on gloomily, “look at me! I’m shorter than Wally. See how I have to look up at ’em.”