Opening a drawer, she took out a rough balance sheet, which showed that the business was profitable and expanding fast.

Things were going very well, in spite of Bob's extravagance, and she thought she had prevented his wasting any more money.

In three or four years she could sell the hotel and store for a large sum and, as she thought of it, give herself a chance.
She was young, clever, and attractive, and had recently tried to cultivate her mind.

It was laborious work and she had not much time, but the clergyman of the little Episcopal church gave her some guidance and she made progress.

For one thing, she was beginning to talk like Bob and thought he noticed this, although she had not told him about her studies.