"Harrison 3731," he said. "Say, 'This is George Norman,' and ask for 'Jennie.'"
The telephone was on the night table. Merriam sat down on the edge of the bed and raised the instrument. He realised that he had not the slightest idea what to expect. Rockwell sat beside him, close enough to hear what should come through the receiver.
In a moment Merriam had the connection. A not unmusical voice said: "Who is it, please?"
"This is George Norman. Is Jennie there?"
"Why, Georgie, boy! Don't you know me? You always do. And you ought to!" A tender little laugh followed, which thrilled Merriam in spite of himself.
"I didn't at first," he answered and stopped at a loss.
Rockwell put his mouth close to Merriam's ear and formed a tunnel from the one orifice to the other with his hands. "Can I see you to-night, dearie?" he prompted.
"Can I see you to-night, dearie?" Merriam obediently repeated.
"Oh, can you come? Goodie! But"--the unmistakably loving voice was lowered--"you must be careful, Georgie."
"Careful?" Merriam queried cautiously.