“It would have been awfully handy,” she said. “I want such a lot of things.”

“And there might have been time to go to the toy department and have tea in a shop.” Iris’ voice was resigned. “But these things are sent to try our spirit.”

Donald laughed.

“I recognize Mrs. Honeywell’s quotation, but it’s trying Janet’s spirit more than yours, I believe.”

“It’s tiresome having nothing in the way of books and things,” Janet explained.

“Well . . .” Donald started, and then broke off as Gladys, carrying a glass of barley water, came in.

“You here, Donald! I should have thought you’d be too busy to sit about in the morning.”

Donald got up.

“I am, too, but I had to see how Iris was. Besides, I have to go into town this afternoon, and I thought I’d take Janet and Iris along with me.”

Gladys put down the glass on the table by the bed.

“Out of the question. Iris will stop where she is for twenty-four hours at least. I’ve nursed her through one bad illness and I don’t want to nurse her through another, thank you.”

“As a matter of fact, Gladys,” Iris broke in, “I’m not feeling at all like measles. It was only a little sick I felt, and I wouldn’t have told you except I had to have the basin in case. I don’t feel so well since you did me good, but that’ll be better when it’s worked. It’s going round and round just now.”

Gladys tidied the child’s sheets and pillow.

“Anyway, you’re staying where you are.”

“I don’t see why Janet shouldn’t go and get my lesson things with Daddy,” Iris suggested. “I’ll miss her, of course, but I’ll read a book.”

Gladys spoke sharply.

“I’ve no time to wait on you this afternoon. I’m rushed off my feet.”

“Nobody doesn’t have to wait on me. I’ll read a book. Mrs. Honeywell will look in; she always does if I’m in bed.”

“Mrs. Honeywell’s leaving early this afternoon.” Gladys turned to Donald. “It’s out of the question.”

“Now he’ll crawl,” thought Janet, “and agree with her at once.” But Donald did not seem to notice Gladys’ tone.

“I don’t see that it’s out of the question. The car is going in; it’s only sense to use it. I won’t be going again for days and Janet wants the books and things.”

Gladys patted and pulled at Iris’ bed things, then she seemed to come to a decision.

“You’re quite right, Donald; as a matter of fact, I think I’ll take advantage of the car going in and come with you too.”

Iris did not lift her head from her drawing, but her voice was reproachful.

“Who’s going to give me my tea?”

“Mrs. Honeywell, of course.”

Iris raised her eyes.

“You said she was leaving early.”

Gladys flushed; she was behaving like a fool, but she could not stop herself.

“Surely you can wait for tea until we come back.”