"Charity, according to the juggler's wife, who was told by the ayah, was born in Simla." Mrs. Pelham Odin frowned, and then waved her hand. "There can be no relationship between the two girls."
"I think that there will be--when we learn the truth."
"Major Rebb will not tell it."
"Oh yes, he will, when I prove Mavis guiltless and force him to give up the money. Sooner than remain in ignorance I shall ask Mavis to bribe him into confession."
Mrs. Pelham Odin thought for a few moments, being as sharp as a needle to see the pounds, shillings, and pence side of things. "Mr. Haskins," she finally remarked, "this likeness may be a freak of nature--we have heard of such things before."
"Quite so, but so exact a likeness as this is can only come from the two girls being born of the same mother."
"Well, you seem to be so certain that they are, Mr. Haskins, that, for the sake of argument, we will grant it. In that case--and presuming that Major Rebb confesses such is the case--Charity certainly ought to have half the income."
"I quite agree with you," rejoined the young man unhesitatingly, "and I am quite sure that, if we can prove the relationship, Mavis--being guided by me--will be quite ready to hand over three thousand a year to Charity. That would only be fair."
Mrs. Pelham Odin hopped off the sofa, very much excited. "Now you talk common-sense, you show me in which way my duty lies. I am willing to see this girl."
"And to help her against her enemies?"