“You mean you broke the law to save our child?”
“Well, you might say—. Anyway, I know it’ll be all right. If one obeys his conscience he doesn’t get into much trouble, does he?”
“Perhaps not. But all the same that was quite wonderful.”
She invited him into a room whose walls were lined with books. She left him there while she went for the wrapper that showed the registry number. When she had returned she penned a receipt and handed it to him.
“You must be hungry and tired,” she said. “Won’t you stay and rest? We will have some hot coffee for you at once.”
“If you don’t mind,” the boy smiled his thanks, “there are two other packages. One should be delivered without delay. It’s a priceless violin. Fritz Lieber’s own.”
“Fritz Lieber!” There was awe in her tone. “You must not go in a taxi. Our car is out. The driver has been ready to go for the medicine, if it were necessary. He shall take you.”
“That,” said Curlie as he seemed to feel the cozy comfort of a private car, “will be grand.”
“It only partly pays. If ever you are in trouble, and need a friend, please do not forget us.” She pressed his hand hard as she left him at the door.
Once more the impromptu messenger boy raced into the night.