“And I know of a place that would suit cook beautifully,” said Cecilly.
“That’s well,” said Aunt Jane, “they are easily disposed of. When they are gone, you must find a little girl.”
“No, no!” we both called out. “We will do everything ourselves.”
“Hear me out, my dears,” said Aunt Jane quietly, “and then raise your objections. I say you must have a girl just for one hour in the morning to clean the boots.”
“Oh, I had forgotten the boots!” sighed Cecilly.
“I would have said a boot-boy, but a girl can clean your doorsteps, for you must not do that.”
“Why not?” asked Cecilly. “I see nothing to be ashamed of in any work.”
“Neither do I, my dear; but your mother would object to that, I am sure, and as you must have someone for the boys’ boots, the someone may as well clean your steps.”
“Why can’t the boys clean their own boots?” Cecilly began, but I stopped her, for I saw Aunt Jane was looking vexed at her interruptions, and I knew mother would not like the boys to do such work while they were going to school among other boys.
“Next,” continued Aunt Jane, “I should advise you to do away with your kitchen range and have a gas stove.”