"The truth of the matter is, Percy has got a young woman?" George suggested. "That's it," said Nellie. "And he's naming the new tomato after her." "Because it matches her complexion, I suppose. What has he got to be married on?" "It's not love, he says. It's money. I am so thankful." "It is love, Miss Sophy. Love on both sides, at first sight, and all the way." "Of course it is, my dear. Poor dear Percy! He was such a gentleman, and he did work so hard. If I could have seen him once more, just to tell him how happy I am--" "Now you are not to say anything more until you have eaten your breakfast," Nellie ordered, as she rose to supply the old lady with a fresh handkerchief and a piece of buttered toast. That morning George wrote a curt and final note to Mr. Hunter, announcing his intention of leaving Highfield within the next few days, and enclosing the receipt duly signed. He then approached Nellie, informed her duty was calling him elsewhere, and explained that, before his departure, a little cheque from Miss Yard would be acceptable. "You know the rules," she said. "I have to give an account of my stewardship to the trustees." "Yes, but Aunt Sophy owes me rent, and you mustn't allow her generous nature to be restrained if she wishes to add a few pounds by way of bonus," said George. "There are to be no additions whatever," she said firmly. "I'll let Miss Sophy give you a quarter's rent, but no more. She can't afford it, as her bank account is low." "Because she gives all her money to Percy. You let her do that," cried George wrathfully. "How can I prevent it? Mr. Taverner does bleed her frightfully, but he's a trustee, and her nephew." "So he can levy blackmail, grab all his aunt's money, ransack my home! He's above the law, while I'm crushed down by it. The kindest thing I can say about Percy is to call him a kleptomaniac, though I believe he's a pirate." "I want you to tell me who really does own the house and furniture. And why are you going? I'm sure you wouldn't leave Highfield unless you had to. I promise not to tell anyone," said Nellie eagerly. "Not even Sidney Brock?" "You are not to mention his name to me. You know quite well I never see him now that he's given up the choir," said Nellie, flushing with shame, indignation, and other things. "I should have said nothing if he hadn't written to you. I saw the postmark was Highfield--and of course I felt jealous," said George composedly. "Yes, he did write, and asked me to meet him again. Just a selfish letter," snapped Nellie. "I'm not going to answer it. Now I've told you my secrets, and I expect to hear yours." "I never did like the idea of keeping anything from you," said George doubtfully. "Especially as Mr. Hunter would tell me everything, if I liked to write and inform him I cannot undertake my new duties until I have the whole position explained to me." "If you tell Kezia and Bessie there will be a fearful rumpus."