"Well, Jim,"--the old dame rose from the breakfast table and brushed the crumbs from her apron,--"I'll wait to hear the young man's explanation. But I am quite sure that he is honest and kind and a well-bred gentleman. Nothing will ever make me change my opinion of him."
"Wait till you hear what the trouble is."
"Do you know all about it?" demanded Mrs. Perage imperatively.
"Yes, I do."
"And you still can call Hench your friend?"
"I can. He's a rattling good chap."
"Then why the dickens should I change my opinion when I learn the truth?" said Mrs. Perage vigorously. "It can't be anything dishonourable or you would not champion Hench. Do you think you are talking to a fool, Jim Vane?"
"Oh Lord, Aunt Emma, don't get on to me. My nerves are weak."
"Your head is," retorted Aunt Emma smartly. "I wish you hadn't hinted at this trouble, Jim. I'm horribly inquisitive, and will be on tenterhooks until I know what it's all about."
"I don't expect you'll have to wait long," said Vane gloomily. "There will be the devil to pay if----"