Caroline drew her wool coat over her stomach and leaned forward to examine the typed figures on the lower slip.

“The first notice said the delivery fees would be covered under the primary policy.”

“The primary policyholder filed an amendment removing dependents on the twelfth,” the administrator said, sliding the ledger paper under the glass slot.

“Without insurance, an admission deposit of three thousand dollars is required before a non-emergency transfer to the maternity floor.”

Caroline held the paper by its edge, looking at the bold black lettering near the bottom line.

“I can pay six hundred dollars this morning and five hundred dollars on the first of every month until the total is met.”