"Yes," he said, "I am. Now, what are we going to do about it?"
"Do about it? Why, everything! Oh,—wait a minute,—let me take it in,—let me think what it will mean——"
"To father? Yes, I know."
These two, so lately strangers, were immediately at one. Zizi, with her instantaneous understanding and quick appreciation saw the whole situation at once, and realized fully its tragedy.
"It can't be, you know," she cried out; "it mustn't be! Think of the——"
"I know," returned Peter, "I've thought."
Instead of being appalled at the knowledge that his secret was out, Peter felt a positive relief, a sudden let-down of his strained nerves, and a queer sensation of confidence in this strange girl's powers to set things right.
Peter's intuitions were quick and true; Zizi was not only charming, but gave an effect of capability and efficiency that were as balm and comfort to poor, harassed Peter.
He was willing to nail his colors to her mast; to give his affairs and perplexities into her hands; to abide by her decisions.
And Zizi accepted the tremendous responsibility gravely.