"Yes," answered the child, placing her hand confidingly in his.
"Then make as little noise as possible. We don't want them to wake up. If they do they will prevent your going away."
"Will you take me back to my papa, certain sure?"
"Yes."
"Oh, I am so glad."
"Clip," said Bob, warningly, "mind you remain perfectly quiet. We must go through the room where the man and woman are sleeping. Any little noise might wake them up."
"Don't be afeared for me, Massa Bob," said Clip.
The staircase led into the main room below, so that, as Bob said, it was necessary to pass through it.
Entering the room on tip-toe, they witnessed a reassuring, but disgusting spectacle. Joe Springer was stretched out on the floor on his back, breathing heavily; while his wife, seated in a chair, rested her head on the kitchen table. She, too, seemed to be in a drunken stupor.
The little girl regarded the woman nervously, remembering the harsh treatment she had received from her.