The woman paused, flabbergasted. “With you!” she ejaculated.
“With me,” said Peter, smiling. “And after all he has heard about me,” he continued seriously, “it’s a wonder that he ventured near this cottage.”
The nurse looked at Peter. There was something in his manner that checked the outburst of indignation that was perilously near the surface.
“I’ve been that worried!” she said, and she stopped to wipe her face with a large white handkerchief.
Peter appreciated her concern. It is unquestionably [Pg 191]trying to lose a small boy entrusted to your care, especially on an exceedingly warm summer day, and have no notion what has become of him. Peter felt a bit of a culprit.
“I’m very sorry you’ve been bothered,” he said contritely. “He—” and Peter paused; he could not give Dickie away.
“I came to see him,” announced Dickie calmly, “because I wanted to find out what he was like. Now if you want me I’ll come home. Good-bye, Mr. Piper.” He held out his hand, which Peter shook gravely.
“You’re a bad boy,” said the nurse, virtuous indignation in her voice.
Dickie scorned a reply.
“He really hasn’t come to any harm,” said Peter apologetically.