"I'll write the check, mother, and I'll promise to do my best hereafter about Anne and old Tempy.

And what's more, I'll not punch Percy's nose, so you needn't be afraid he'll turn it up at us." The pen scratched vigorously across the check.

His mother was regarding him with a queer expression in her eyes.

She had not moved while he was expressing himself so feelingly about Anne.

Was it possible that after all there was something fine in this boy of hers?
His simple, genuine outburst was a revelation to her.
"I trust this may be the last time that you will come to me for money in this way, George," she said levelly.