Page:The mislaid uncle (IA mislaiduncle00raym).pdf/37

 break over my fixed rules of looking out for number one and minding my own business? Well, I'll get through this meal somehow, and then rid my hands of the matter. I'm not the only woman in our car. Let some of the others take a chance. The idea! sending a little thing like that to travel alone. It's preposterous—perfectly preposterous."

Unconsciously she finished her thought aloud, and Josephine heard her, and asked:

"What does it mean, that big word, Mrs. Kimono?"

"It means—my name is—isn't—no matter. Are you better? Can you eat? It's small wonder you were upset after the supper that foolish doctor gave you. What is your breakfast at home?"

"Oatmeal and fruit. Sometimes, if I'm good, some meat and potato."

"I will order it for you."

"Thank you, but I can order for myself. Mamma always allows me to. She wishes me to be myself, not anybody else," returned the child.

"Oh, indeed! Then do so."