‘Well, well, do you agree with me? do you think my plan will make matters easier?’
‘Oh, won’t they just!’ said Mrs Franklin, tears now brimming over in her eyes. ‘You’re a good man, Mr Martin, and God will bless you, sir.’
* * * * *
‘Mother,’ said Flossy, when at last she got home, ‘it’s all right about Dickory. We took her to the lady what cried.’
Mrs Franklin had Flossy in her arms when she made this remark. Now she pressed her close with one arm, and with the other drew Peter to her side.
‘Tell me the whole story, my darlings,’ she said.
Which they did, Mr Martin himself coming into the kitchen and listening to them.
‘Why, I know Mrs Ross,’ he said suddenly. ‘It’s a splendid chance for the infant, a splendid chance. Miles better than a baize door and thick curtains. Only you won’t forget that I made you the offer, Mrs Franklin?’
‘No, sir. I’m never likely to forget that.’
‘It’s a splendid chance,’ repeated Mr Martin. ‘The Rosses are wealthy, and she’s just that eccentric, generous, impulsive creature who would be sure to take to a child brought to her so. I consider you a very clever little girl, Flossy Franklin.’