74 



to them, but went on talking about the plans. Suddenly 

 my brother broke silence. 



" Sister, is it true then that you intend to build a 

 greenhouse? " 



" Yes, I had thought of it." 



"Thanks again, Mrs. Jacques. I'll remember this." 

 This to myself. 



" But do you think it a wise plan? Is it not likely to 

 prove a foolish waste of money ? " 



" I think not. It is designed to bring money, not sink it." 



" Perhaps it is not designed to sink money, but it will; 

 you, your money, house, and everything else." 



" Remember your children," said Charlotte. 



" I do, they are always in my thoughts. For them do 

 I labor with my hands." 



Then Mr. Dooless spoke. " Does your conscience ap- 

 prove of this plan, Mrs. Gilman? " . 



" I never do what it does not, sir." 



{ c But, sister, how do you ever expect to get back the 

 money you embark in this scheme ? " 



" By selling the flowers I produce." 



At this the minister gave a pitying smile, and Charlotte 



tossed up her pretty nose in scorn. 







" Sell the flowers ! How horrid ! I'm ashamed of you, 

 Maria." 



"Are you, madam?" said Mr. Felix. "Some people think 

 it an honorable employment," 



