He took her little hand and shook it warmly.
"You're a plucky little girl, that's what you are—a PLUCKY—LITTLE—GIRL. I'll never forget it—NEVER. If there is anythin' I can do—at any time—anywhere—call on me. I'll be there—right on the spot."
He heard his mother's voice, speaking to Jarvis, in the room below. At the same moment he saw Ethel walking toward them along the corridor.
He said hurriedly and fervently to Peg:
"Bless you, cousin. You've taken an awful load off my mind. I was really worried. I HAD to ask you. Promised to. See you before you go! Hello! Ethel! All right? Good!" Without waiting for an answer, the impulsive young gentleman went on up to his own room to rejoice over his escape.
Peg walked over and took Ethel by both hands and looked into the tired, anxious eyes.
"Come into my room," she whispered.
Without a word, Ethel followed her into the Mauve Room.