"I've been thinking," she said, with an effort. "I've been thinking that—that though you've been very kind, I...." She could not go on.
Peg looked up, a gleam of fire in her eyes. She knew without further words what it was that Faith was trying to tell her.
"You mean you want me to clear out?" she said bluntly.
Faith wavered for a moment; then she thought of the way in which Forrester had refused her request five minutes ago, though yesterday he had been so easily persuaded by Peg. "You need not put it like that," she said hoarsely, "but ... yes, that is what I mean."
The crimson blood swept Peg's face and died away again, leaving her as white as marble. It was the last thing of which she had ever dreamed that this child—this baby—would ever turn her out of the house!
Her loyal heart felt as if it must burst with shame and pain, but she shrugged her shoulders with a brave display of indifference.
"Well, I'll see what Mr. Forrester says," she answered coolly. "If he wants me to go—well.... He's master of the house, isn't he? I came here because he asked me to, and so I guess I'll take my marching orders from him."