“Not limited, except in the immediate present,” he made haste to say; “and don't you see, to send him East to some preparatory school would be a great trial to you? Might it not be dangerous as well? He might form undesirable associations, for instance.”
“For that reason, perhaps, I should prefer Dr. Long's school!”
But Benson was opposed to this purpose to which she was evidently only too willing to devote a part of her slender income. Stephen if he were properly ambitious, would do very well in the public schools.
“I don't wish to urge my opinion,” he said apologetically.
“Tell me, Mr. Benson, what I really have to look forward to in the way of money; I have never quite understood.”
“Well, there is the income from the farm, Mrs. Landray, and the rent from the mill; of course, part of this is absorbed by the interest you are paying.”
Virginia gazed at him thoughtfully.
“Of course,” she said slowly, considering the question, “the interest on the money that has been borrowed must be paid, and the money, too. Am I extravagant, do you think I am?”
“Oh, no!” and he smiled at the idea. “But you are inclined to be too generous where others are concerned.”
“Please tell me just what I owe?”