"Oh, yes—the kitchen maid."
"Miss Beth Cameron," insisted Peter frigidly, "who has just done me the honor of promising to marry me."
"Oh! I see——"
Beth stared from one to the other, aware of the meaning of the visitor's manner and of Peter's reply.
"That is not true," she said very quietly, her deep voice vibrant with emotion. "I come here often. Mr. Nichols is teaching me music. I am very proud of his friendship. But I did not promise to marry him."
Peggy McGuire turned on her heel.
"Well, it's almost time you did," she said insultingly.
Peter, now pale and cold with fury, reached the door before her and stood blocking the passageway. "Miss McGuire, I'll trouble you to be more careful in addressing my guests," he said icily.
"Let me pass——"
"In a moment."