time began. He could impose on his sons, but to his daughter he was "sweet father," and no amount of bug-a-boo words could make her believe anything else. If she had to sit still, she could pleasantly while away the time by pretending he was a "nogre."
These thoughts flashed through Alice's mind as Tom returned. He swung along with the stride of a man who has accomplished much.
"Just taken Robert away where you can't hear him making a baby of himself," he announced, "but they have not peeped. This house has been quiet as a church!" He looked at her with eyes full of smiles. "Any time you want a quiet afternoon just call on me, and I'll keep 'em quiet."
He was all good nature, beaming over his work well accomplished. The deep simplicity of man touched Alice to her heart. She kissed Tom tenderly and thanked him for his contribution to her peace.
