EDWARD. [_with great cheerfulness._] Very well, my friend, struggle away. PEACEY. [_his voice rising high and thin._] For one thing, sir, I don't think it fair dealing on your part to dock the money suddenly. I have been counting on it most of the year, and I have been led into heavy expenses. Why couldn't you have warned me? EDWARD. That's true, Peacey, it was stupid of me. I apologise for the mistake. PEACEY _is a little comforted by this quite candid acknowledgment_. PEACEY. Perhaps things may be easier for you by next Christmas. EDWARD. I hope so. PEACEY. Then . . perhaps you won't be so particular. _At this gentle insinuation_ EDWARD _looks up exasperated_. EDWARD. So you don't believe what I told you? PEACEY. Yes, I do. EDWARD. Then you think that the fascination of swindling one's clients will ultimately prove irresistible? PEACEY. It's what happened to your father, I suppose you know. _This gives_ EDWARD _such pause that he drops his masterful tone_. EDWARD. I didn't. PEACEY. He got things as right as rain once. EDWARD. Did he? PEACEY. . . My father told me. Then he started again. EDWARD. But how did you find that out? PEACEY. [_expanding pleasantly._] Well, being so long in his service, I grew to understand your father. But when I first came into the firm, I simply hated him. He was that sour; so snappy with everyone . . as if he had a grievance against the whole world. EDWARD. [_pensively._] It seems he had in those days. PEACEY. Well, as I said, his dealings with his clients were no business of mine. And I speak as I find. He was very kind to me . . always thoughtful and considerate. He grew to be so pleasant and generous to everyone-- EDWARD. That you have great hopes of me yet? PEACEY. [_who has a simple mind._] No, Mr. Edward, no. You're different from your father . . one must make up one's mind to that. And you may believe me or not but I should be very glad to know that the firm was solvent and going straight. There have been times when I have sincerely regretted my connection with it. If you'll let me say so, I think it's very noble of you to have undertaken the work you have. [_then, as everything seems smooth again._] And Mr. Edward, if you'll give me enough to cover this year's extra expense I think I may promise you that I shan't expect money again. EDWARD. [_good-tempered, as he would speak to an importunate child._] No, Peacey, no! PEACEY. [_fretful again._] Well, sir, you make things very difficult for me. EDWARD. Here's a letter from Mr. Cartwright which you might attend to. If he wants an appointment with me, don't make one till the New Year. His case can't come on before February. PEACEY. [_taking the letter._] I am anxious to meet you in every way--[_he is handed another._] EDWARD. "Perceval Building Estate" . . that's yours too.