“She might, now that she is in such desperate circumstance,” said Miss Gordon thoughtfully. “Why not go to her and—”
“No, that would never do. She would refuse to see me.”
“How stupid!” exclaimed Sunny.
“If Mrs. Myles is that proud, I don’t think she deserves any help,” declared Jane, tossing her pigtails.
Mr. Vincent smiled. “You don’t understand,” he said quietly. “My acquaintance with Mrs. Myles goes back a long, long time. The story is one I hesitate to tell.”
“We don’t wish to pry into personal affairs,” Miss Gordon said quickly. “Please don’t feel that you need to explain anything, Mr. Vincent.”
“Nevertheless, you must wonder why I take such an interest in Mrs. Myles.”
“I’m sure she needs help. It’s very generous of you to concern yourself.”
“Oh, I’m not such a charitable person by and large,” Mr. Vincent belittled himself. “The truth is, I have a special reason for thinking of Mrs. Myles’ welfare.”
The Brownies listened attentively, certain that the carpenter was about to make an interesting revelation.