Besides, I had argued
that Josephine was the proper person to propose a departure from the
established method, in conformity with which conclusion I had paid out
a handsome round sum for a coming-out party and a social wardrobe for
my eldest girl. But now I felt in conscience bound to prick up my ears.
"She doesn't know herself what she wishes to do," said my wife,
dejectedly. "She is daft on the subject of books and education."
"Is not that rather to her credit?" I ventured to inquire.
Josephine gazed at me as though my words had stung her.
"Of course it is to her credit," she replied, almost fiercely. "You
know perfectly well, Fred, I have encouraged the girls to study and
cultivate their minds in every conceivable manner, and that I have
always said they should have equal advantages in the way of education
with their brothers so far as it was possible to procure them. I have
just told you that if Josie had wished to be a student and to go in for
a career of some kind, I should have been perfectly willing; yes, I
should have been glad. But it does seem hard that they should change
places, and the one who is a radiant beauty, and sure to be universally
admired, should take it into her head to cut loose from society. I
remember saying when she was christened that we were gambling with
Divine Providence in giving her such an individualizing name, for fear
she would grow up a fright.
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