So I hope," she concluded, "that both of you will forgive him and help him." Once more Mrs.De Peyster did not feel called upon to make response.
"I have noted particularly that Matilda does not seem cordial and forgiving," Mary was continuing, when the prodigal brother himself dropped in.

With her pretty, determined manner, Mary renewed her efforts at reconciliation in the estranged family.

Mr.Pyecroft was penitent without being humble, and whenever a question was put directly to Mrs.De Peyster his was the tongue that answered; he was quite certain his sister Angelica would relent and receive him back into her respect and love once he had fully proved his worthiness.
"I must say, Mr.Simpson, that I think you have an admirably forgiving nature," declared Mary.

It was clear, though she was silent on the matter, that she considered his sisters to have cold, hard, New England hearts.
Mr.Pyecroft withdrew; and Mary, in the high-pitched voice required by the invalid's misfortune, read "Wormwood" for an hour--until Jack came to the door and announced that Judge Harvey had again called on them.
Alone, Mrs.De Peyster pondered her poignant problem, What should she do ?--wishful that Matilda were present to talk the affair over with her.

But Matilda was still busy in the kitchen with the odd jobs of night-end.
Toward ten o'clock Mr.Pyecroft came in again.