Martha’s eyes opened wide, and the little hands came out to grasp the treasure. Hadria stood and laughed at the sight of the gigantic Professor, helplessly tethered by his own chain to the imperious baby, in whose fingers the watch was tightly clasped. The child was in high delight at the loquacious new toy—so superior to foolish fluffy rabbits that could not tick to save their skins. Martha had no notion of relinquishing her hold, so they need not tug in that feeble way; if they pulled too hard, she would yell!
She evidently meant business, said her captive. So long as they left her the watch, they might do as they pleased; she was perfectly indifferent to the accidental human accompaniments of the new treasure, but on that one point she was firm. She proceeded to stuff the watch into her mouth as far as it would go. The Professor was dismayed.
“It’s all right,” Hadria reassured him. “You have hold of the chain.”
“Did you entice me into this truly ridiculous position in order to laugh at me?” enquired the prisoner.
“I would not laugh at you for the world.”
“Really this young person has the most astonishing grip! How long does her fancy generally remain faithful to a new toy?”
“Well—I hope you are not pressed for time,” said Hadria maliciously.
The Professor groaned, and struggled in the toils.
“Come, little one, open the fingers. Oh no, no, we mustn’t cry.” Martha kept her features ready for that purpose at a moment’s notice, should any nonsense be attempted.
The victim looked round miserably.