Gordon, she might
have been excusable for cherishing such pride; but she was a poor
girl; she was actually in want.
"Michael, you are so good, that I will tell you my story," said
she, conquering her repugnance.
"Just come in the house, then;" and he led her into the
sitting-room; being, in the absence of the mistress, the lord and
master of the mansion, and feeling quite at home in that
position.
In a few words she explained to him her situation, though her
rebellious pride caused her to paint the picture in somewhat
brighter colors than the truth would justify. She stated her
intention to borrow twenty dollars of Mrs. Gordon, and offer her
the watch as security, at the same time exhibiting the cherished
treasure.
"Now Michael, if you will lend me three dollars till Mrs. Gordon
returns, I will pay you then, for I know she will let me have the
money; or at least let me have enough to pay you," continued she,
when she had finished her narrative.
"Indeed I will, Katy!" exclaimed he, promptly pulling out his
wallet. "And if you will come at this time to-morrow, you shall
have the whole twenty dollars."
"Thank you, Michael."
"There's six dollars; take it, Katy, and my blessing with it."
"Only three dollars, Michael," replied Katy, firmly.
Michael insisted, but all his persuasion would not induce her to
accept more than the sum she had mentioned, and he was
reluctantly compelled to yield the point.
Pages:
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
188
189
190
191