"You cannot afford to spend so much money, especially as we have a move before us," said Nellie quietly.
"Oh, I'll take a hundred pounds," said Percy.
"Miss Sophy cannot afford that either."
"That's what she always says, but I tell her I can afford it," said Miss Yard crossly.
Percy began to feel uncomfortable, as this was the first time his golden goose had been prohibited from egg laying. He made up his mind that Nellie was developing into an offensive young person; honest no doubt, and admirably suited to control Miss Yard; but with mistaken notions as to the dignity of a nephew and trustee. He sought, therefore, a secret interview with the young lady, in order that he might caution her against any further opposition, and remind her that in all financial matters his word must be the last; and this interview was granted very willingly.
"Sit down, please," he began, when they had entered the dining room.
"If you stand, I shall too," replied Nellie, who was holding a small article wrapped in paper.
"Just as you like," said Percy. "Is that Miss Yard's passbook?"
"No," she replied. "But if you want to see the passbook I will fetch it. Miss Sophy has a little over two hundred pounds at present."
"Another dividend is due next month. My aunt is quite able to pay a hundred pounds for the furniture."