“Gladly,” replied John heartily.
“It would save me half of the morning. Wait; I will give you the money now.”
He stepped across the room to the wall safe. Lola, looking up idly at Dr. Crossett, who was standing beside her, saw him as he put out his hand and fumbled helplessly with the combination.
“Lola,” he turned to her. “Would you mind opening this thing for me? I never can remember how to do it.”
“You had better ask Maria, father. She is the only one who really understands it,” answered Lola quietly.
“Very well.” He went to the door and called. “Maria! Maria!”
“What a gorgeous night, Doctor,” said Lola to Dr. Crossett. “Don’t you envy those people out there in their automobiles?”
“Hardly,” he replied, “but if you are so anxious as all that for a car, I fancy it won’t be long before your father can make you happy.”
“Yes, Doctor?” Maria stood in the doorway.
“Will you please open this safe for me, Maria?”