“Yes. I hear that a cousin of Mrs. Brent occupies it. I shall call and inquire after her.”
“Very well, Philip. Go when you please. You may be sure of a welcome when you return.”
In Planktown, though his home relations latterly had not been pleasant, Philip had many friends, and when he appeared on the street, he met everywhere glances of friendly welcome. One of the first to meet him was Tommy Kavanagh.
“Where did you come from, Phil?” he asked.
“I am glad enough to see you. Where are you staying?”
“Nowhere, Tommy, at present. If your mother can take me in, I will stay at your house.”
“Take you? Yes, and will be glad enough to have you stay with us. You know we live in a small house, but if you don't mind——”
“What do you take me for, Tommy? Whatever is good enough for you and your mother will be good enough for me.”
“What are you doing, Phil? You don't look as if you had hard work making a living.”
“I am well fixed now, but I have had some anxious days. But all's well that ends well. I am private secretary to a rich man, and live in a fine brown-stone house on Madison Avenue.”