Page:Digger Smith (C.J. Dennis, 1918).djvu/28

20 'Ome-comfort, peace, the picter uv me wife 'Appy at work, me neighbours gathered round All friendly-like—wot more is there in life? I've searched a bit, but better I ain't found. Doreen, she seems content, but in 'er eye I've seen reel pity when the talk gits 'igh.

This ev'nin' we 'ad started off reel 'ot: Two little slams, an' Poole, without a score, Still lookin' sore about the cards 'e'd got— When, sudden-like, a knock comes to the door. "A visitor," growls Begg, "to crool our game." An' looks at me, as though I was to blame.

Jist as Doreen goes out, I seen 'er grin. "Deal 'em up quick!" I whispers. "Grab yer 'and, An' look reel occupied when they comes in. Per'aps they'll 'ave the sense to understand. If it's a man, maybe 'e'll make a four; But if"—Then Missus Flood comes in the door.

'Twas ole Mar Flood, 'er face wrapped in a smile. "Now, boys," she sez, "don't let me spoil yer game. I'll jist chat with Doreen a little while; But if yeh stop I'll be ashamed I came." An' then she waves a letter in 'er 'and. Sez she, "Our Jim's a soldier! Ain't it grand?"