“It's beginning; but don't be anxious—she's not suffering just now. We shall send for the doctor soon. She's very plucky”; and with an unaccustomed sensation of respect and pity she repeated: “Don't be anxious, sir.”
“If she wants to see me at any time, I shall be in my study. Save her all you can, nurse.”
The nurse was left with a feeling of surprise at having used the word “Sir”; she had not done such a thing since—since—! And, pensive, she returned to the nursery, where Gyp said at once:
“Was that my father? I didn't want him to know.”
The nurse answered mechanically:
“That's all right, my dear.”
“How long do you think before—before it'll begin again, nurse? I'd like to see him.”
The nurse stroked her hair.
“Soon enough when it's all over and comfy. Men are always fidgety.”
Gyp looked at her, and said quietly: