Felix shook his head.
'And what is your work instead?'
'Printing,' said Felix stoutly. 'It gives present payment, and we can't do without it.'
Both Marilda's hands seized on his. 'I like you!' she said. 'I wish I were you.'
They all laughed, and Felix coloured, more abashed than pleased. Lance—to make up for his ignominious rescue at their last meeting—performed a wonderful progress, holding on by his fingers and toes along the ledge of the dresser; and Marilda, setting her back (a broad one) against the ironing-board, went on talking.
'And do you know what besides?' looking round, and seeing they did not. 'One of you girls is to come and live with me, and be my sister. I wanted to have this little darling Angela to pet, but Mamma wouldn't have her, and I did so beg for Geraldine, to let her have a sofa and a pony-carriage! I do want something to nurse! But Mamma won't hear of anybody but one of you two great ones, to learn and do everything with me; and that's not half the use.'
'But is it really?' cried Alda.
'Yes, indeed! You'll be had up for her to choose from—that is, if she can. How exactly alike you are!'
'She won't choose me,' said Wilmet. 'Hark, there's Edgar coming down.'
Edgar ran in, with orders to the twins to go into the drawing-room. Wilmet hung back. 'I will not be the one,' she said resolutely. 'Let Alda go alone.'