A corner of each apron fell down, spilling the chips upon the ground.

The other hand of each twin was raised as though to wipe a furtive tear.

Dan Andersen put out his arms to them.
"Come here, little women," he said softly, and took them in his arms.
One chubby face rested against each side of his own.

His long arms tightened around them protectingly.

Tears now began to wet his cheeks, falling from the eyes of the twins.
"You--you won't tell ?" whispered Suzanne, in his right ear, and Arabella begged as much upon the left.
"No," said Dan Anderson, hugging them the tighter, "I won't tell." "It's gone!" said Suzanne, vaguely.
"Yes," said Dan Anderson, "it's gone." He turned at the sound of voices.