Norton fairly drew a low whistle and sat down to consider the matter.
"And this is what keeps you away so. Judy will be obliged to you, I hope. She doesn't deserve it. And grandmamma don't know! Well, Pink, I always said you were a brick."
Matilda smiled and took up her mending.
"But how are you going to be ready for Christmas?"
"O I think about it, Norton, while I am working."
"Yes, but thinking will not buy your things."
"That won't take very long. I do not think I shall get a great deal now. O Norton, I have found something else that wants money."
"Money! I dare say," said Norton. "Everything wants money. What is it, Pink? It isn't Lilac lane, anyhow."
"No, Norton; but worse."
"Go on," said Norton. "You needn't stop and look so.I can stand it. What is it?"