'I hope—' began Marilda eagerly.
'Never mind me. The best part of it is that nest-egg for those babies.'
'It is indeed,' said Felix; 'I cannot express how thankful I am, especially for poor Theodore's sake.'
'It will not do much in the funds,' said Marilda, gratified; 'but leave it in our hands, and little Stella shall have quite a fortune. You will judge of our security when you look into our books.'
Marilda's habit of identifying herself with the firm had begun half in play years ago; and in fact, the house now chiefly consisted of herself, her mother, and grandmother, with Spooner, who had shares enough to give him a personal interest in the transactions.
'You do not mean to go on with the business?' asked Felix.
'Why not? I have worked at it, and like it much better than the piano or bead-work—and I can, can't I, Mr. Spooner?'
'We all know your competence, Miss Underwood. I would not wish for a more sagacious head, if—'
'Yes, if,' said Marilda more sadly; 'but you see, Felix, you may trust me. Let me keep your own and the twins, for you.'
'For the twins, I do not know how the law stands. Mr. Harford will tell me; but for myself, it may make a great difference to have this capital just now,' said Felix, who had already perceived what it might do for him.