Chapter IX.
Mrs. Peck's Communication
Mrs. Peck was surprised and a little disconcerted when, on the evening of the day on which she had so nearly confided her secret to Elsie, Mr. Brandon walked into her lodgings unannounced; but she concealed her chagrin with her usual duplicity. Though she was desirous of further communication with Elsie, she preferred it to be with herself, and not through a person who had spoken so uncivilly to her.
"You did not think it worth while for me to give Miss Melville and you my address, but I see that you are making use of it without delay," said she.
"Yes, I am, for I want to know if I cannot transact the business which I interrupted," said Brandon.
"You! No; certainly not. I only deal with principals."
"Miss Alice Melville empowers me to act for her in this matter, and this letter from her to me should satisfy you of that. It will not do for a girl to treat personally with a woman who compromises her by her company."
"Oh, is that it?" said Mrs. Peck, who disliked the exchange of a simple young girl for a man of the world in the bargain she wished to make. "Well, if I must deal with you, what do you offer?"
"If you can give the inheritance of Cross Hall to Jane and Alice Melville, a thousand pounds," said Brandon.