Before he reached home he had made up his mind to talk with Laura that very night.

He drew out his latchkey, opened his door, shut it firmly and strode into his house.

In the hall they were putting down the new carpet.

Cautiously picking his way upstairs, he inquired for Laura and was told she was dressing for dinner.

He knocked at her door.
"Yes ?" came her voice.
"It's I," he said, "your father." "Oh, hello, dad," came the answer gaily, in that high sweet voice of hers.
"I'm frightfully rushed.