"I was not consulted in the matter," was the response. "My daughter came down with food for Rachel, and finding her alone remained to be of service."
"Good gracious, what could she do? Tillie left as soon as she found what was the matter. Nobody knows where the old woman contracted the disease. I brought Hannah here with me to nurse her. She has had it and therefore is not afraid of it. I must say, though, that I hadn't bargained for this complication. Has Beatrice had it?"
"I think not, doctor."
"Then she must be gotten out of there. Come, Hannah! We will go in now."
"I fear that you will find some difficulty in doing so, doctor. Beatrice has locked the door to keep me out."
"Thunderation!" exclaimed the doctor. "I can't be delayed by any such nonsense. Open this door," he commanded pounding upon it with his fists.
The door rattled violently under his vigorous shaking. Bee knew that she must open it, but she resolved to win the doctor to her side if possible.
"Doctor Black," she called.
"Well? Are you going to keep me out here all night, young lady?" he demanded bluntly. "I've had a busy day, and I want to get home. Quit your fooling, and unlock this door."
"Yes, doctor; but do you think it wise for father to come in? Promise to keep him out and I'll open it. Otherwise,—" The pause was so significant that the physician chuckled.