arm, or business of any
sort whatsoever, the money required must be paid through her lawyer
directly into the hands of the planter, farmer, or merchant concerned.

Hugo declared such an offer to be an insult. Peter replied that it was
a great deal better than he deserved or could expect; and that he,
personally, thought Miss Ross very silly to make it; but she did make
it, and attached to its acceptance was a clause to the effect that until
he could show he was in a position to maintain his family in comfort, he
was to give their aunt an undertaking that he would not interfere with
her arrangements for the welfare of the children.

"I see no reason," said Hugo, "why you should interfere between my
sister-in-law and me, but, of course, any fool could see what you're
after. _You_ want her money, and when you've married her, I suppose my
poor children are to be thrown out into the street, and me too far off
to see after them."

"Up to now," Peter retorted, "you have shown no particular desire to
'see after' your children. Why are you such a fool, Tancred? Why don't
you thankfully accept Miss Ross's generous offer, and try to make a
fresh start?"

"It's no business of yours what I do."

"Certainly not, but your sister-in-law's peace and happiness is my
business, because I have the greatest admiration, respect and liking for
her."

"_Les beaux yeux de sa cassette_," growled Hugo.

"You _are_ an ass," Peter said wearily. "And you know very little of
Miss Ross if you haven't seen by this time ..." Peter stopped.

"Well, go on."

"No," said Peter, "I won't go on, for it's running my horses on a rock.
Think it over, that's all. But remember the offer does not remain open
indefinitely."

"Well, and if I choose to refuse it and go to law and _take_ my
children--what then?"

"No court in England would give you their custody."

"Why not?"

"Because you couldn't show means to support them, and we could produce
witnesses to prove that you are not a fit person to have the custody of
children."

"We should see about that."

"Well, think it over. It's your affair, you know." And Peter went away,
leaving Hugo to curse and bite his nails in impotent rage. Peter really
was far from conciliatory.

Jan needed a fright, Hugo decided; that's what she wanted to bring her
to heel. And before very long he'd see that she got it. She shouldn't
shelter herself for ever behind that supercilious beast, Ledgard. Hugo
was quite rea