Now I'm sure you
wouldn't desire to have command of large sums of money before you
are twenty-one? Just so; your grandfather didn't intend it. Well,
first let me ask you this question. Would you rather live with--
with your stepmother, or with your excellent friend Mrs. Byass? I
see what your answer is, and I approve it; I fully approve it. Now
suppose we arrange that you are to have an allowance of two pounds a
week? It is just possible--just possible--that I may have to go
abroad on business before long; in that case the payment would be
made to you through an agent. Do you feel it would be satisfactory?'
Jane was thinking how much of this sum could be saved to give away.
'It seems little? But you see--'
'No, no, father. It is quite enough.'
'Good. We understand each other. Of course this is a temporary
arrangement. I must have time to think over grandfather's ideas.
Why, you are a mere child yet, Janey. Seventeen! A mere child, my
dear!'
Forgetting the decorum imposed by his costume, Joseph became all but
gay, so delightfully were things arranging themselves. A hundred a
year he could very well afford just to keep his conscience at ease;
and for Jane it would be wealth.
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