“Oh, Parker,” she said, “poor Mr. Carp has had a most unfortunate accident.”
Parker glanced at my hands.
“Yes, that’s the trouble,” said Mrs. Lorton. “Isn’t it awkward for him?”
Parker looked at me with genuine sympathy.
“Oh, poor gentleman,” she said, “it must be.”
“You see,” said Mrs. Lorton, “as a Xtian gentleman he’s quite unable to let them go.”
“Oh quite,” said Parker, “quite—except for a moment, perhaps, just to get a firmer hold.”
Mrs. Lorton opened the door.
“So perhaps you’ll help him,” she said, “all you can.”
Parker glanced at her inquiringly.