Page:Bad Girl (1929).pdf/133

 doctors in New York who do it without ever having a comeback from the patient, and those men charge from a hundred and fifty up."

"What do you mean, comeback?" asked Dot.

"Blood poison for one thing, and there's a lot of other things that happen, too."

Eddie struck a match and lit his cigarette.

Great tears streamed down Dot's face. "Oh, God," she said. "What can I do?"

Edna turned to Eddie. "See here, Kid, don't be too smart. Just because you don't like me isn't a reason for not using my knowledge. If you're worried about Dot, remember this: there's pain and danger in either direction. One way you're dealing with a good doctor, and nature is on your side. The other way you've got a guy that couldn't make a living the way other doctors do, and you've got nature fighting you. Besides, the last way you have no baby, you're out fifty or seventy-five dollars, and in case you have a religion, you've sinned against it."

"Aw, tell it to Dot," said Eddie.

"Aren't you interested?" asked Edna.

Then Eddie called Edna a name which makes up in venomous intent what it lacks in accuracy. It is guaranteed to leave a wife and her well-meaning friend in consternation. Eddie picked up his hat and walked out of the apartment.

Dot's tears fell faster. "What else can happen?" sho sobbed. "I'll bet he doesn't come back all night."

"Don't cry. I'll stay till he comes back."

"Oh, Edna, you mean well, but it's all wrong. I can't have a baby, and please leave me alone about it."

"No, Dot, I can't. I must convince you that an illegal operation isn't as easy as it sounds. Maude's a coward, Dot. Honest to God she is. It's not a pleasure, but it isn't so bad as some women make out. Listen, Dot, I went with