Martha had no sooner returned home, after the policeman found he could elicit no further information from Peggy, than the telephone rang. The operator asked her to hold on. She had a long-distance call.
Experiencing the faint sickness she always felt when she was excited, Martha said, “Mother? Mummy, is that you?”
“Honey,” the voice came back, warm and imperturbable, “how are you both? How are Peggy and Dickie?”
“Were all fine. You called to say you’re coming, didn’t you? It had better be that. Peggy couldn’t bear another disappointment and the baby won’t recognize you.”
“Well no, honey, not exactly. That is, we’ll come just as soon as Dad can get away—”
“Oh, Mother. Drag him away. How is he? Is he dieting? How’re Betty and Rory and the children?”
“Fine. Martha, now please don’t get
