“No; but it has been close shaving sometimes. However, it would have been that anyway. I am afraid I have not the faculty for keeping money, and I might have spent it to worse purpose.”
“And is the little thing grateful?” asked Graeme.
“Oh! yes; I suppose so. She is a good little thing, and is always glad to see me in her quiet way.”
“It’s a pity she’s no’ bonny,” said Marian.
“Oh! she is bonny in German fashion; fair and fat.”
“How old is she?” asked Mrs Nasmyth.
Norman considered.
“Well, I really can’t say. Judging by her inches, I should say about Rosie’s age. But she is wise enough and old-fashioned enough to be Rosie’s grandmother. She’s a queer little thing.”
“Tell us more,” said Rose; “do you go to see her often?”
“As often as I can. She is very quiet; she was the only girl among the eight, and a womanly little thing even then. You should hear her talk about her little business matters. My dear Mrs Nasmyth, you need not be afraid of my being extravagant, with such a careful little woman to call me to account.