Page:Gissing - The Nether World, vol. I, 1889.djvu/186

 accumulated, cunning and ferocity wrought in her for the devising of such a declaration of war as should speedily scare Pennyloaf from the field. Jane Snowdon's removal had caused her no little irritation; the hours of evening were heavy on her hands, and this new emotion was not unwelcome as a temporary resource.

As he came home from work one Monday towards the end of April, Bob encountered Pennyloaf; she had a bundle in her hands and was walking hurriedly.

"Hallo! that you?" he exclaimed, catching her by the arm. "Where are you going?"

"I can't stop now. I've got some things to put away, an' it's nearly eight."

"Come round to the Passage to-night. Be there at ten."

"I can't give no promise. There's been such rows at 'ome. You know mother summonsed father this mornin'?"

"Yes, I've heard. All right! come if you can; I'll be there."

Pennyloaf hastened on. She was a meagre,