Kit glanced down the hall. “Didn’t I just see Ethel go into that room? She was in uniform!”
Jean sighed. “Ethel has been back all week. She and Ted just returned from their honeymoon when ... this happened. She hasn’t laid a rug or planted a flower at their new house. In fact, she hasn’t even been out there, herself, in a week.” She shook her head grimly. Then she grinned at Kit. “Well, I’d better get back to work. Give Kit something to do, Dr. Barsch. She has a strong back and a weak mind.”
Dr. Barsch studied the face of his weary, red-eyed nurse. “Why don’t you go to bed for a few hours? You’re just doing a routine check with me. I can get Miss Peckham to take your place. I sent her to bed for a few hours this afternoon, so she should be in better shape than you.”
Jean nodded, gratefully. “I’m too tired to argue with you,” she said. “I know you’ll call me if you need me.”
“And Miss Craig can go right to work down at the switchboard if she wants to. We usually have the office help go home at five, but because we couldn’t spare a nurse at night, they’ve been working night and day, too. You know how to work one?”
Kit nodded. “If it isn’t too complicated,” she said. “Someone down there can show me.”
Jean started off, but Kit caught her arm. “I have something for you which should pep you up,” Kit said, reaching in her pocket. “This came just as I was leaving the house.” She handed Jean a letter.
Jean smiled gratefully and took it. “Thanks, Kit,” she whispered. She stopped to open the envelope and then leaned against the corridor wall to read Ralph’s note:
My dearest Jeannie:
I feel like a small boy who has finally come to his senses. After I made my report here in Ottawa about my European trip, I hunted up the forestry offices and signed a government contract to supply them with wood pulp. I was amused at their reaction. For they treated me as if finally I had come to the realization of one of their greatest problems ... they were almost paternal. So I guess once again I am a Canadian in good standing because I’m prepared to help them in every way I can.
I have to make a flying trip back to the ranch to round up help for the project. You know, I’ve never hired forestry help before, and it may take a little time to find the right men for the job. Then, believe me! I’m coming straight back to Elmhurst!
Jeannie, my darling, I worry so about you! The epidemic in Elmhurst makes me almost panicky when I think of you in the midst of it. Please try to get all the rest you can. Keep your chin up. The summer may be bad for you now, but I’ll try to make it wonderful for you when I get back. Give my love to the family. I love you!
All my love,
Ralph
Jean slipped the letter into the pocket of her apron and smiled. She felt stronger, less tired than before. Then impatience spread through her. Would the summer never end, she thought.