"Eva knows no more about managing money than a this year's robin," said her father.
"Yet this year's robins know how to build respectable nests when their time comes," said she. "They don't bother about investments and stocks and all those things, but sing and have a good time. It all comes right for them, and I don't doubt it will for us."
"You have a decided talent for spending money most agreeably, I confess," said Mr. Van Arsdel.
"Now, papa, it's too bad for you to be running down your own daughter! I'm not appreciated. I have a world of undeveloped genius for management. Harry has agreed to teach me accounts, and as I belong to the class who always grow wiser than their teachers, I'm sure that before six months are over I shall be able to suggest improved methods to him. When I get a house you'll all be glad to come and see me, I shall make it so bright and sunny and funny, and give you such lovely things to eat; and in my house everybody shall do just as they please, and have their own way if they can find out what it is. I know people will like it."
"I believe you, Pussy," said Mr. Van Arsdel; "but houses don't grow on bushes, you know."
"Well, haven't I six thousand dollars, all my own, that grandma left me?"
"And how much of a house do you think that would buy?"
"Perhaps as big a one as you and mother began in."
"You never would be satisfied with such a house as we began in."