It is a condition of life essentially for those who have
reached maturity in nature and in character. I am preparing a paper
on it for the Croydon Ethical Society and--"
Whatever else Mr. Hawkes might have said in continuation of another
of his pet subjects was cut abruptly short by the appearance of Peg.
She was still dressed in one of Mrs. Chichester's gifts. She had not
had an opportunity to change into her little travelling suit.
Hawkes looked at her in delighted surprise. She had completely
changed. What a metamorphosis from the forlorn little creature of a
month ago! He took her by the hand and pressed it warmly, at the
same time saying heartily:
"Well, well! WHAT an improvement."
Peg gazed at him with real pleasure. She was genuinely glad to see
him. She returned the pressure of his hand and welcomed him:
"I'm glad you've come, Mr. Hawkes."
"Why, you're a young lady!" cried the astonished solicitor.
"Am I? Ask me aunt about that!" replied Peg, somewhat bitterly.
"Mr. Hawkes wishes to talk to you, dear," broke in Mrs. Chichester,
and there was a melancholy pathos in her voice and, in her eyes.
If neither Alaric nor Mr. Hawkes could deter her, what would become
of them?
"And I want to talk to Mr.
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