human
How is that?
gpt
Mr. Allinson arranged about the house. Perhaps I shouldn't have allowed this, but when he was wounded in the war my husband carried him out of reach of the Boer fire.
human
Ah! Andrew ought to have made that clear. But won't you go on with the explanation?
gpt
Mr. Allinson told me that no papers were needed, I was to pay the rent to a man called Judson. He came here and said that there had been some mistake. The rent was ten pounds more and I must share the cost of the alterations, while the field adjoining, which must go with The Firs, would be another extra. When I declared I couldn't pay all this he said I was undoubtedly liable, but he could find another tenant who would take the house off my hands.
human
I see a clerical finger in this pie, said Wannop half aloud, and smiled at his hostess.
gpt
I beg your pardon. I suppose you didn't know that this is Andrew Allinson's house.
human
I did not know. But if it is, I can't understand why his agent--
gpt
Somebody is back of him. Now we had better be candid. I venture to believe you can confide in me.
human
What proof can I have of that? You are a connection of the Allinsons, who seem bent on persecuting me. Have they sent you here?
gpt
Hilda did, Wannop replied with quiet good-humor.
human
Perhaps I had better say that on some points she and I are not quite in accord with the rest of the family. I suppose Andrew promised your husband to look after you until his return?
gpt
I think you should stay here and fight it out until he comes back, he said.
human
After all, your neighbors are honest as far as they see, and you'll find them ready to make amends.
gpt
I'm afraid I can't hold out. They have attacked me where I'm weakest.
human
Will you leave the matter of the house to me? It can be put right.
gpt
Why are you willing to take the trouble?
human
For one thing, I enjoy putting a spoke in the parson's wheel; for another, Andrew made you a promise, and the Allinsons like to keep their word.
gpt
I'll have a talk with Mr. Judson. Show your courage and hold your ground. You'll be glad you did so by and by.