A Call

The door was pulled open from inside, and the maid stared at Carroll for a long time. Then, she rushed and shouted, "Mr. Carroll is here." I raised my head and whispered to Carroll, "Are you familiar with that maid?" "No," Carroll said. "Why does she look excited as if her father was home?" Dissatisfied, I led Carroll to the dining room.  With contempt on his face, Carroll said, "I don't want an old nanny to be my daughter." Amused, I burst into laughter. Behind me, Odette became sullen.  The other members of the Smith family were sitting at the dining table.  At the sight of Carroll, Madonna stood up with excitement. "Carroll? What a distinguished guest! Odette, why are you still standing there? Entertain Mr. Carroll!" "Do you really consider it a good idea for Odette to entertain her brother-in-law?" Carroll asked in a cold voice. "We're all here. Dinner begins." Madden changed the topic. I pulled Carroll to sit down. Opal, who sat next to me, whispered, "Are you tired of living?" "A