Mrs. Perry and Jeanette arose shakily. "I don't think there are any bones broken," said Jeanette.
"And I think I'm all right," added Mrs. Perry, "except that I am suffering from shock."
"I'm never shocked," said Mr. Furniss gloomily. "You see, I always expect the worst, and——"
"Oh, please stop that pessimistic talk," pleaded Jeanette. Then to Mrs. Perry: "Don't you think we had better go out and see what has happened?"
Mr. Furniss shook his head. "Now you ladies stay right here and I will bring you the report. I expect there may be scenes that women folks wouldn't like to see."
Mrs. Perry caught Jeanette's arm and moved toward the door.
"No, Mr. Furniss," she said. "I begin to be superstitious of people who expect the worst; and as Jeanette and I expect the best we will do our own investigating."
"Besides," added Jeanette, "we may be able to help, if there is need."
Tom Furniss sank back in his chair with the feeling that some one had thrown a pail of water over him.
"I never could bear women folks," he muttered querulously. "If a man gets snappy with you, there's a way of settling him; but when a woman floors you with a word or two there's no come-back."