“No, sir.”
“Or give it away?”
“No, sir.”
“Then it seems that people cannot always do what they please with their own things.”
“Why, father, it seems to me, that is a very different thing.”
“I dare say it seems so to you; but it is not—it is just the same thing. No person can do anything they please with their property. There are limits and restrictions in all cases. And in all cases where children have property, whether it [pg 93]is money, hats, toys, or any thing, they are always limited and restricted to such a use of them as their parents approve. So, when I give you money, it becomes yours just as your clothes, or your wheelbarrow, or your books, are yours. They are all yours to use and to enjoy; but in the way of using them and enjoying them, you must be under my direction. Do you understand that?”
“Why, yes, sir,” said Rollo.
“And does it not appear reasonable?”
“Yes, sir, I don't know but it is reasonable. But men can do anything they please with their money, can they not?”
“No,” said his father; “they are under various restrictions made by the laws of the land. But I cannot talk any more about it now. When you have finished your work, I will talk with you about expending your money.”