“Yes,” chimed in Aggie, who was now bending over the crib. “What made you so long?”
“See here!” answered Jimmy hotly, “if you two think you can do any better, you're welcome to the job,” and with that he threw off his overcoat and sank sullenly on the couch.
“Sh! sh!” exclaimed Zoie and Aggie, simultaneously, and they glanced nervously toward Alfred's bedroom door.
Jimmy looked at them without comprehending why he should “sh.” They did not bother to explain. Instead, Zoie turned her back upon him.
“Let's see it,” she said, peeping into the bassinette. And then with a little cry of disgust she again looked at Jimmy reproachfully. “Isn't it ugly?” she said. Jimmy's contempt for woman's ingratitude was too deep for words, and he only stared at her in injured silence. But his reflections were quickly upset when Alfred called from the next room, to inquire again about Baby.
“Alfred's here!” whispered Jimmy, beginning to realise the meaning of the women's mysterious behaviour.
“Sh! sh!” said Aggie again to Jimmy, and Zoie flew toward the bed, almost vaulting over the footboard in her hurry to get beneath the covers.
For the present Alfred did not disturb them further. Apparently he was still occupied with his shaving, but just as Jimmy was about to ask for particulars, the 'phone rang. The three culprits glanced guiltily at each other.
“Who's that?” whispered Zoie in a frightened voice.
Aggie crossed to the 'phone. “Hello,” she called softly. “The Children's Home?” she exclaimed.