"Nothing at all, till you grow up to be a woman; and then you can take care of yourself."
"I'll take care of myself all along," said Clam. "Nobody else aint a goin' to."
"But somebody must give you clothes to wear, and a bed to sleep in, and your dinner, you know; and you must do work for somebody, to pay for it."
"To pay for my dinner?"
"Yes."
"Very good!" said Clam. "I guess I'll stand it. Will it be for you?"
"No, I think not."
"Won't you?" said Clam wishingly. "I'll do work for you."
"Thank you. Maybe you shall."
"I'm goin' home now," said Clam, getting up and shouldering her basket.