I thought you might be pleased to give your niece a
little pleasure."
"Go to a dance--unchaperoned?"
"My mother and sisters will be there."
"A child of her age?" said Mrs. Chichester.
"CHILD is it?" cried Peg vehemently. "I'd have ye know my father
lets me go anywhere--"
"MARGARET!" and the old lady attempted to silence Peg with a
gesture. Peg changed her tone and pleaded:
"Plaze let me go. I'll study me head off tomorrow, if ye'll only let
me dance me feet off a bit tonight. Plaze let me!"
The old lady raised her band commanding Peg to stop. Then turning to
Jerry she said in a much softer tone:
"It was most kind of you to trouble to come over. You must pardon me
if I seem ungracious--but it is quite out of the question."
Peg sprang up, eager to argue it out.
Jerry looked at her as if imploring her not to anger her aunt any
further. He shook Mrs. Chichester's hand and said:
"I'm sorry. Good night." He picked up his hat and coat and went to
the door.
"Kindly remember me to your mother and sisters," added Mrs.
Chichester gently.
"With pleasure," and Jerry opened the door.
"Good night, Misther Jerry," called Peg.
He turned and saw Peg deliberately pointing to the pathway and
indicating that he was to meet her there.
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