“Is that you, Elsie?” asked the mother. “I thought I heard voices. Was Harvey here?”
“Yes,” replied the girl in confusion, “he has just gone.”
“You didn’t see anything of your father, did you?”
Elsie shook her head. “You—you don’t suppose dad’s drinking again?” the girl asked anxiously.
“I suppose so,” replied the mother wearily. “He hasn’t been here all day.”
“Oh, mother,” the girl wailed. “What shall we do?” She sank down on the seat.
Her mother took her in her arms. “Don’t cry,” she said. “Come in and help me get supper.”
“I’m waiting for Patience,” replied the girl. “I’ll be in the house in a moment. You go ahead with the work. When Patience comes we’ll both help you.”
Mrs. Welcome walked back into the cottage. As the door closed behind her Druce reappeared. He had not missed a word of the conversation between Elsie and her mother; as he now approached he outlined in his mind an immediate plan of attack.
“Elsie,” he said softly. The girl started.