86 Pussy Meow 
“ We do,” said mistress, “ but it is the money that 
is wisely expended, after all, that brings the largest 
returns. To many people, no doubt, our modern 
flats are a great boon, affording comfort and safety 
that they could not possibly secure elsewhere. But 
to my mind, the landlord who banishes children 
from his flat is a public benefactor, however selfish 
may be his motives. A child should have a home 
in the truest sense of that precious word, a home 
with lawn and garden, with room for pets and tools 
and playthings, affording him ample opportunity to 
give wholesome expression to his feelings. It is the 
life lived day by day in the home that moulds and 
fashions a child’s character, rather than any training 
he receives in school. Spend your money right 
now in forming correct ideas, and encouraging ex- 
pression of them, rather than save it by ignoble 
economy, only to be spent later in the vain attempt 
to reform a character perverted and dwarfed 
through narrow and contracted living.” 
“ I have never before had my thoughts turned to 
this subject,” said Mrs. Cotton, looking very ear- 
nestly into mistress’ face, “ but I believe what you 
say is true. I am so thankful my children are still 
young, that I may profit by your excellent ideas. 
