He's not like that horrid Spilman and that mean Madame Clarice."
"But, Polly, if you write to your father, he'll be sure to send you
what you want to clear off those two debts. You have often told us he
has lots of money."
"My dears, he has more tin than he knows what to do with; but do you
think I am going to have the poor old dear worried? When I was coming
here he said, Polly, you shall have thirty pounds every term to spend
as pocket money; not a penny more, not a penny less. And you must keep
out of debt on it; mind that, Polly Singleton.' I gave the dear old
dad a hug. He's the image of me-- only with redder hair and more
freckles. And I said, I'll do my best, dad, and, anyhow, you sha'n't
be put out whatever happens.'"
"Then you didn't tell him you'd keep out of debt?"
"No, for I knew I'd break my word. I've always been in debt ever since
I could remember. I wouldn't know how it felt not to owe a lot of
money. It's habit, and I don't mind it a bit. But I don't want dad to
know, and I don't want Miss Eccleston to know, for perhaps she would
write to him. If those old horrors won't wait for their money till
next term, why there's nothing for it but an auction. I have some nice
things and they'll go very cheap, so there's a chance for you all,
girls.
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