“Let me explain that I am running dead against my uncle’s wishes in seeking this interview,” protested Jack. “Believe me, I am actuated by the best of good feeling towards you and your family, sir.”

“I do credit that; but any discussion of the point must inflict unnecessary pain.”

“This is really a serious matter.”

“So is everything where your uncle and I are concerned. Come on, my dear. We cannot keep Mr. Schwartz waiting.”

The Guv’nor lifted his hat and marched away. Mam said nothing, Dolly didn’t care tuppence how her skirt draped, Minkie said that if the frost continued there would soon be thick ice, and Schwartz grinned. Dolly thought she would like to slap Schwartz, so she joined Minkie on the high path above the road, where the hens have to fly when I get after them.

[Pg 61]

[Pg 61]

“I think it’s too bad of father to snub Jack in that way,” she said, half sobbing.

“Dad is making a mistake,” agreed Minkie. “If you take my advice you will come with me this afternoon and find out what it is Jack wants to say.”

“How can I? Where can I see him? We can’t go to the Manor House.”

“I have arranged to meet Jack at half-past two near the Four Lanes.”

“You have arranged!—”

“Yes. While you were squinting up to find out if your hat was at the right tilt I was watching Jack drawing a cross and 2.30 on the gravel with his stick. I nodded, so that is all right. Are you coming?”

Dolly was flurried. “I dunno,” she murmured. “You don’t understand things, Minkie. Dad is desperately anxious that we should not offend Mr. Schwartz, who can be either a very good friend or a dangerous enemy. Oh, sis! What a happy world it would be if we had all the money we want!”

“P’raps. Schwartz is rich, and he looked happy last night, didn’t he? Jack’s uncle is [Pg 62]rolling in coin, and to-day he is nursing a foot the size of an elephant’s.”

[Pg 62]

“I am not thinking of myself, Minkie.”

“I know 

 Prev. P 29/79 next