"Indeed, I do, pussy. I do not wish to take from my little girl any of the credit she deserves, and you need not look so distressed. You are much more careful than you were six months ago; you have tried hard, and improved very much; but you have still something to do in that way, dear. I think you will find the old faults quite troublesome enough without wishing for new ones to cure."
"Yes, ma'am," said Maggie, "but then—"
"Well, dear, but then—what?"
"Why, mamma, I wouldn't feel as if it was quite right to wish to be paid twice over for curing myself of the same fault, and Grandpapa Duncan might think it was not fair."
"You are right, Maggie," said Mrs. Bradford, "and I am glad to hear you say that; but I should like to understand why you and Bessie wish for a great deal of money. If it is for a good purpose, I think I can put you in the way of earning some."
"Oh, would you, mamma? That would be so nice! Bessie,"—as her little sister came into the room, dressed for her walk, and followed by Jane with Maggie's hat and sack in her hand,—"Bessie, mamma thinks she can let us earn some money."
"Thank you, mamma," said Bessie; "that is delighterful. I am so glad."
"I will tell you what it is for, mamma," said Maggie.
"Not now, dear," said Mrs. Bradford; "it is time for your walk, and you must let Jane put on your things. When you come home, you shall tell me, and meanwhile, I will be thinking in what way I can help you. But remember, I only promise to do so if I think well of your plan. You may think it a very wise one, while I may think it very foolish."