But at the sound of the woman's voice which came back over the wire, Ethel gave a start of dismay.

For it had a jarring quality, and although it was prompt in its exclamations of shocked surprise and sympathy and proffers of help--the words, "You poor child, I'll come over at once!"-- made Ethel inwardly beseech her, "Oh, no, no! Please stay away!" Aloud she said, "Thank you," put up the receiver and stood staring at the wall.

Was this Amy's best friend?
"I want some one I know!" She thought of Susette.

She went at once to the nursery, kissed the wee girl and sat down on the floor.

And as they built a house of blocks, Ethel could feel herself softening, the strained tight sensation going.