Tessie sat on Abe Mangel’s lap: sideways and still with her feet tossing. He caressed her neck with a soft and meaty hand.
“Well, dearie—well, dearie, are you happier?” he crooned.
Susan and Jim Statt were close together on the sofa, looking before them, saying no word to each other. And the large Mr. Mark, his manners like his sumptuous prim coat, chatted with Clara, and Fanny, listening, added an easy word.
At a late hour they got up said good-by, and were gone.
* * *
Fanny saw them again and again. She had little talks with each of them, alone. She found she was fond of them all.
“It’s good to come here, Clara,” Statt stalked in. “I told Susan to come, too.... Here, Broaddus, up here.” The door stayed open. A young big patrolman in uniform (Statt wore plain clothes always) mounted the stair, puffing. He deposited a case in the hall.
“Champagne ... and good,” said Statt.
The patrolman, red faced, soft with blue eyes somewhat dimmed, went down.
“Brought them for you,” Statt turned to Fanny ... “set you up.... From Diggens.”