“Very considerate of him,” Mr. Parker remarked ironically. “Now that we have three cars, and a double garage, where do you propose to keep Lena?”
“Oh, anywhere. In the back yard.”
“Not on the lawn, young lady. And what do you plan to do with two cars?”
“The maroon one for style, and Lena when I want a good time. Why, Dad, she bears the autographs of nearly all my school friends! I should keep her as a souvenir, if for no other reason.”
“Penny, it’s high time you learned a few lessons in finance.” Mr. Parker spoke sternly although his mouth twitched slightly. “I regret that I cannot assume your debts.”
“But Dad! I’m a minor—under legal age. Isn’t it a law that a father has to support his child?”
“A child, but not two cars. If you decide to take the case to court, I think any reasonable judge will understand my viewpoint. I repeat, the debt is yours, not mine.”
“How will I pay?” asked Penny gloomily. “I’ve already borrowed on my allowance for a month ahead.”
“I know,” said her father. “However, with your ingenuity I am sure you can manage.”
Penny drew a deep breath. Argument, she realized, would be utterly useless. While her father might be mildly amused by her predicament, he never would change his decision.