Page:Firecrackers a realistic novel.pdf/135

 philosophy; under other conditions he wondered if it would be as true.

At this juncture, the knob turned slowly in the door and the brothers, muffled in scarfs and greatcoats, entered. Their manner was gloomy and solemn, and they were unaccompanied.

Hello, mother. Hello, Paul, they glumly muttered in unison.

Why, what's the matter? Mrs. Hugo dropped her spoon.

Just as bad as can be, said Robin.

Worse, Hugo moaned.

Their jaws dropped.

Well now, is your time cancelled?

Worse, Hugo jerked out.

You didn't sprain your wrist again? She felt the pulse of her physically sound husband.

Worse, Robin groaned, much, much worse.

Gunnar's left us, mother, Hugo was at last able to explain.

Gone! Robin sobbed.

The twins had seated themselves side by side on the bench against the wall, their huge shoulders meeting, the pattern of their moustaches repeating itself ridiculously on their dejected countenances.