Just then Peter entered the room, and looked at Gilbert with surprise
and wrath, remembering his recent discomfiture at the hands of the young
visitor.

"My stepson, Peter," announced Dr. Crawford.

"Peter and I have met before," said Gilbert, smiling.

"What are you here for?" asked Peter, rudely.

"Not to see you," answered Gilbert, turning from him.

"My mother'll have something to say to you," went on Peter,
significantly.

"She will have something to say to you," retorted Gilbert. "She has
found out who stole her money."

Peter's face turned scarlet instantly, and he left the room hurriedly.

"Perhaps I ought not to have said that, Dr Crawford," added Gilbert,
apologetically, "but I dislike that boy very much, and couldn't help
giving him as good as he sent."

"It is all very unpleasant," responded Dr. Crawford, peevishly. "I don't
see why I can't live in peace and tranquility."

"I won't intrude upon you any longer," said Gilbert, "if you will kindly
tell me whether you will consent to make Carl a small weekly allowance."