"And make it for her," added Elsie; "it hurts her eyes to sew, and you know Dinah could fit it. Mamma had her taught the trade, and says she fits and sews very nicely."
"Oh, what's the use of giving our money?" exclaimed Gertrude, impatiently. "We want it ourselves, and your mamma has such loads and loads of money; hasn't she, Eddie?" turning to him, as he stood near.
"I don't know," he answered; "she never told us she had; she never talks much about money, except to tell us it all belongs to God, who only lends it to us."
"And that we must give it to the poor and needy," said Vi.
"Because 'it is more blessed to give than to receive,'" added Elsie.
"Well, I know she has," persisted Gertrude, "for my mamma often says so, and I'm sure she knows."
"But even if she has, mamma's money is not ours, and it's a duty and a very great pleasure to give of our own."
"Every one to their taste, I haven't a bit more money than I want myself," said Gertrude, walking away with her chin in the air.
"Gerty," said Elsie, running after her, "don't be vexed; we weren't meaning to ask you for anything; but only talking about our own duty."
"Oh, I can take a hint as well as other folks," said Gertrude, tossing her head.