“My dear child,” said Susie, “you have worked much harder than you will by-and-by, and much harder than I ever wish to see you; but Clara, I think we will dismiss Ellen. We can send out the greater part of the linen, and I can do the rest.”
“I have never done any washing,” said Clara, “but I am a great bringer-in, sprinkler, and folder of clothes. I used to do that for Dinah; so count on me for that part. I do not like the system of servants. It jars upon my nerves to have any one in the family who has no interest in it. We have decided, Annie,” she continued, glancing at Susie, “to make you a partner in our flower business, if, after a year, you are as well pleased with us and the flowers as you are now. Meanwhile, I see no better adjustment of matters than to pay you a salary, as we are now doing.”
“Oh, you are too kind to me!” said Annie. “I do not feel that I can ever deserve so much as you are doing for me.”
“Not too kind; that is absurd,” said Susie. “We both came into the business without any capital but our willing hands. Why should not you, also? Our idea is to build up a great industry for poor women who wish to gain an independent position.” At this point in the conversation, the doctor came into the conservatory, where the three women, and even Min, were busily engaged. Susie was cutting tube-roses and other flowers, while Min held a basket to receive them. The other two were making bouquets. Clara told the doctor that the firm intended to make Annie a partner.
“Well, that’s a good chance for you, Annie,” he said, as he shook hands with her. “Have you quite forgiven me for that resurrection?”
“Indeed, sir, you know I am glad that I live, and every hour of my life is pleasant to me. If some good angel had only sent me here that night when I sat on the Common——”
“It was not written, Annie. By the way, have you paid that hotel bill?”
“Certainly she has,” answered Clara. “She paid it the first time she went into the street.”
“You do not say who gave me the money,” replied Annie.
“Why, no one,” answered Clara. “You borrowed it, and have already paid me. You need financial training, I see.”