"But what I want to know is this," continued the maiden; "how is it to be about that five hundred pounds which my mother left me?"
"But, my dear, your mother had not five hundred pounds to leave."
"Nor did she make any will if she had," said Robinson.
"Now don't put in your oar, for I won't have it," said the lady. "And you'd show a deal more correct feeling if you wasn't so much about the house just at present. My darling mamma,"—and then she put her handkerchief up to her eyes—"always told William that when he and I became one, there should be five hundred pounds down;—and of course he expects it. Now, sir, you often talk about your love for your children."
"I do love them; so I do. What else have I?"
"Now's the time to prove it. Let me have that sum of five hundred pounds, and I will always take your part against the Joneses. Five hundred pounds isn't so much,—and surely I have a right to some share. And you may be sure of this; when we're settled, Brisket is not the man to come back to you for more, as some would do." And then she gave another look at Robinson.
"I haven't got the money; have I, George?" said the father.
"That question I cannot answer," replied Robinson. "Nor can I say how far it might be prudent in you to debar yourself from all further progress in commerce if you have got it. But this I can say; do not let any consideration for me prevent you from giving a dowry with your daughter to Mr. Brisket; if she loves him—"
"Oh, it's all bother about love," said she; "men and women must eat, and they must have something to give their children, when they come."
"But if I haven't got it, my dear?"