"Why?" inquired Charles.
"Because it would prove that we had been in it," answered the lady.
"At all events," said John, "now I shall not have to reproach myself with every extra expense, and think I ought to pay my debts first; now I may live exactly as I please."
"I do not think so," said Charles.
"Not think so!" repeated Mrs. Adams in a tone of astonishment.
"Not think so!" exclaimed John; "do I not make the money myself?"
"Granted, my dear fellow; to be sure you do," said Charles.
"Then why should I not spend it as pleases me best? Is there any reason why I should not?"
As if to give the strongest dramatic effect to Charles's opinion, the nurse at that moment opened the drawing-room door, and four little laughing children rushed into the room.