And so would the cats. No; I see quite well what we've
got to do. We must put them in baskets and leave them on people's
doorsteps, like orphan foundlings.'
'We've got three baskets, counting mother's work one,' said Jane
brightening.
'And there are nearly two hundred cats,' said Anthea, 'besides the
cow--and it would have to be a different-sized basket for her; and
then I don't know how you'd carry it, and you'd never find a
doorstep big enough to put it on. Except the church one--and--'
'Oh, well,' said Cyril, 'if you simply MAKE difficulties--'
'I'm with you,' said Robert. 'Don't fuss about the cow, Panther.
It's simply GOT to stay the night, and I'm sure I've read that the
cow is a remunerating creature, and that means it will sit still
and think for hours. The carpet can take it away in the morning.
And as for the baskets, we'll do them up in dusters, or
pillow-cases, or bath-towels. Come on, Squirrel. You girls can be
out of it if you like.'
His tone was full of contempt, but Jane and Anthea were too tired
and desperate to care; even being 'out of it', which at other times
they could not have borne, now seemed quite a comfort. They
snuggled down in the sofa blanket, and Cyril threw the fur
hearthrug over them.
'Ah, he said, 'that's all women are fit for--to keep safe and warm,
while the men do the work and run dangers and risks and things.
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