Richard seemed to take Bobby's words as a personal affront.
"Papa, he has too, hasn't he, papa?"
"Has what?" asked Mr. Eller impatiently.
"Bobby has too a birthday, hasn't he?"
"Everybody has a birthday," replied his father.
"I told you so! I told you so!" chanted Richard, skipping about. "Bobby North has lost his birthday! Bobby North has lost his birthday and don't know where to find it!"
"Ain't not," repeated Bobby and his lower lip began to twist up. "Wouldn't lose a 'portant thing like a birthdays."
Mr. Eller and his wife approached the children. That capable woman put her hand on Bobby's head.
"Haven't they ever celebrated your birthday at the Home?" she asked.