to be at home." And then, as if scared by some
possible admission in her words, she added, "It makes it so much more
lively...."

Downstairs a little silence had followed the girls' departure, which
Peter Digby broke with a half-sigh.

"Wish I was married," he said laconically. "I've been looking for a girl
like your wife for the last ten years, Nick!"

Forrester laughed.

"There are plenty of girls in the world," he said.

"Yes, but not the right sort," Digby objected. "Where did you meet her?"

Forrester coloured slightly.

"Oh, it's a long story. I'll tell you some other time." And to change
the subject he asked, "What do you think of Peg--Miss Fraser?"

Digby hesitated.

"Handsome girl," he said at last. "Very different to Mrs. Forrester. Bit
of a rough diamond I should think, if you won't be offended with me for
saying so."

The Beggar Man was lighting a cigarette. He blew a big puff of smoke
into the air before he answered with deep earnestness: "She's a rough
diamond as you say, but I admire and respect her more than any woman I
know. She's got a heart of gold."

CHAPTER X

Peter Digby seemed to begin a new chapter of life for the entire
household. He took it for granted, whether intentionally or in
ignorance, that his friend's marriage was a normal one, and proceeded to
organize amusements and means of enjoying his stay with them to the
full.

He booked theatre seats and arranged dinners, and refused to listen when
Forrester protested.

"My dear chap!" he said, "I've got plenty of money, and I'm going to
enjoy myself in my own way. I landed myself on you, and as I don't
suppose you'll allow me to pay for my board and lodging I'm going to get
my own back by taking the girls about as much as I can. Hang it all,
I've never enjoyed anything so much in my life. What's the matter with
you, you old bear?"

Forrester laughed and shrugged his shoulders. He had been quick enough
to see that both Faith and Peg had unanimously taken his friend to
their hearts, and were having every bit as good a time with him as he
was with them. Faith had never looked so well or so happy. The colour
had come back to her cheeks and her eyes danced. She always seemed happy
and light-hearted, and it gave the Beggar Man a stab of pain to know
that Peter Digby had succeeded where he himself had so completely
failed.

After the first few days he began to excuse himself from accompanying
them on their pleasure trip