We placed it, according to your
directions, on the door-step of a poor family in New York, and they
have since cared for it as their own. I suppose you have not
forgotten that."
John Somerville deliberated. Should he deny it or not? He decided to
put a bold face on the matter.
"I remember it," said he, "and now recall your features. How have
you fared since the time I employed you? Have you found your
business profitable?"
"Far from it," answered Peg. "We are not yet able to retire on a
competence."
"One of your youthful appearance," said Solmerville, banteringly,
"ought not to think of retiring under ten years."
Peg smiled. She knew how to appreciate this speech.
"I don't care for compliments," said she, "even when they are
sincere. As for my youthful appearance, I am old enough to have
reached the age of discretion, and not so old as to have fallen into
my second childhood."
"Compliments aside, then, will you proceed to whatever business has
brought you here?"
"I want a thousand dollars."
"A thousand dollars!" repeated John Somerville. "Very likely, I
should like that amount myself. You have not come here to tell me
that?"
"I have come here to ask that amount of you."
"Suppose I should say that your husband is the proper person for you
to apply to in such a case."
"I think I am more likely to get it out of you," answered Peg,
coolly.
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