“There’s something in what you say, Father. I’ve always held out for my own opinions and tastes in the most unimportant matters, and I see now, that’s one reason why they call me ‘stuck-up’ and ‘proudy.’ ”
Mr. Forbes smiled. “I remember from my own schooldays, those are the most awful faults a child can have. I advise you, Honey, to quit such an attitude, and acquire the habit of agreeing. If Maisie May likes blue hair-ribbons and you like pink, say the blue are pretty. That can’t hurt your conscience, for they are pretty. And it will make Maisie feel far more friendly, than if you deride the blue.”
“Of course, Dad, your hair-ribbon example is a silly one, but it does express the idea. I’ve been too dictatorial, and self-sufficient. Now, I’m going to turn over a new leaf. I’m going to agree with everybody—”
“In trifles, Bernie. Don’t go so far as to misrepresent yourself in any matter of importance or any question of right or wrong. If any one tells you it’s a fine day you needn’t say you think it raw and disagreeable. But if any one says it’s a fine day, and it’s pouring buckets,—then say it’s raining and stick to it.”
“I see, Dad,” and Bernice laughed. “I’ve got sense enough to understand what you mean. And I’m going to profit by it. Is this the sort of thing you don’t do?”
“I’m afraid it is, girlie. I have a naturally contrary disposition, and if any one says anything, it’s my first impulse to contradict him. I’ve tried to correct this, but I’m too old a dog to learn new tricks. But you’re young, and you ought to mend your ways, where mending is needed. Myself,—I think you’re perfect, just as you are,” and Mr. Forbes smiled fondly at his pretty daughter.
“Dear old Dad! But I might be a better girl if you taught me more about behaviour and such things, than if you just approve of me.”
“Can’t do it, Honey. To me you’re a piece of perfection,—the apple of my eye. And all I ask is that you shall be happy and have everything you want. Is there anything I can give you, Dearie, that you don’t possess?”
“No, you dear old Father. But some day, soon, perhaps, I may ask a favour of you, a strange one, too.”
“All right, it’s granted in advance. To the half of my kingdom,—and then, the other half!”