The girls waited for him to speak, and it was with an obvious effort that he croaked:
"I—I didn't get it. Mr. Cross wouldn't even see me. He sent out word that he was too busy. He is getting ready for the first performance of 'A Matter of Friendship,' to-night."
"A matter of friendship," repeated Alice. "What a play on the words!"
"I sent in my card," explained Mr. DeVere, "and told him I must have a little money. He sent back word that he was sorry, but that he had invested so much in the play that he could spare none."
There was a period of silence. The girls looked pityingly at their father.
"Something must be done," he declared, finally. "I can try elsewhere. I will go see——"
A knock at the door interrupted him. Before Alice could speak Ruth had gained it. She tried to close it, but was not in time to prevent the caller from being heard.
"The boss says there's no use orderin' any more groceries, until youse has paid for what youse has got," said a coarse voice. "Take it from me—nothin' doin'!"
"Oh!" Ruth was heard to murmur.
Mr. DeVere started from his chair.