She would become a little candy merchant.

She felt sure she could find purchasers enough, if her merchandise only looked clean and good.

It was a great deal better than begging, and she thought her mother would consent to her making and selling the candy.
What a glorious idea! If she could only make money enough to support her mother and herself, how happy she should be! Full of enthusiasm at the idea of accomplishing such a vast project, she scarcely heeded the crowds of people that thronged the street and rudely jostled her.

If she saw them at all, it was only to regard them as so many purchasers of molasses candy.

With her brain almost reeling with the immensity and magnificence of her scheme, she reached Temple Street.