“Oh! oh! oh! it’s the loveliest thing I ever saw!” was Blanche’s excited exclamation. “Did you say Uncle George gave it to us! I don’t see how he could afford it, for it must have cost a mint of money.”
“He said we were to have it at wholesale price and take the money to pay for it from him.”
“Oh!” gasped Blanche, “I hope he won’t ruin himself.”
“No danger, my dear; for though very, very generous he is exceedingly careful too; as a business man should be.”
“Or a business woman, or any other kind of man or woman,” added Ethel with a smile. “I think both our uncles are exceedingly kind to us all. I often wish it were in my power to make them some adequate return.”
“Perhaps it may be some day,” said Blanche; “or, if not to them, to their children.”
“Yes,” said Dorothy, “there are so many ups and downs in this world; perhaps I might say particularly in this country. I must go home now, girls; it won’t do to leave Aunt Sarah alone all day. But see that you are ready for your turn at shopping early to-morrow morning, Blanche, if the weather is at all suitable. Better make out a list of necessary articles, so that we won’t forget and spend the money on the wrong ones. By the way, girls, I shouldn’t buy any more handsome dresses—except of course Blanche’s travelling suit—till we see what your Uncle Albert will do to get even with his brother in that line.”
“Yes, he too is exceedingly generous,” said Ethel; “but I think he should remember that he has more children of his own to provide for than Uncle George has.”
“Yes; and not the most economical ones in the world either,” laughed Dorothy as she stood before the glass, putting on her hat. “I must go now,” she said, picking up her satchel, “and I’ll expect you bright and early in the morning, Blanche. You’d better come for me so that you can take a look at the silk for the wedding dresses.”
“So I will; I want to see it, as who wouldn’t if she expected to be married in it?” returned Blanche as she and Ethel went with Dorothy to the door.