At the mention of the policeman's name, Sister had given a gasp. No one noticed her as Daddy Morrison pushed back his chair and went into the hall.
"I wonder what he wants?" mused Mother Morrison, helping Ralph to blackberries.
"Sister, you're spilling juice on the tablecloth," reproved Dick. "Look out, there goes another spot."
Sister was trying to eat her berries, and also plan what to say when the policeman should send for her. She was sure that he had heard about the broken case of butterflies, for Jimmie, when greatly provoked at her long ago, had threatened to tell Mr. Dougherty of her next misdeed.
"I like Mr. Dougherty," announced Brother sweetly.
No broken butterflies lay heavy on HIS conscience.
Louise and Grace finished their dessert and were excused to go upstairs. The others lingered at the table because Daddy Morrison and Mr. Dougherty had gone into the living-room and they did not wish to disturb them.
"Lelia," called Daddy Morrison presently, "will you come here for a moment?"
Leila was Mother Morrison's name, and she rose and went across the hall quickly.
There was a low murmur of talk, an exclamation from Mother Morrison, and then the voice of Mr. Dougherty in the hall.