Amy, the eldest, had rather a weak constitution; it was plain that neither in body nor in mind could she be called upon to exert herself.

Eleanor who came next, had musical faculties; after terrific family debates it was decided that she must give lessons on the piano, and a first pupil was speedily found.

Barbara was good for nothing whatever, save to spend money on her personal adornment; considering that she was the plainest of the family--her sisters having repeatedly decided the point--her existence appeared on the whole singularly superfluous.

Then came Jessie.

Of Jessie her father had repeatedly said that she was the only girl of his who had brains; those brains, if existent, must now be turned to account.