At one time she had determined to become a musician, and had spent, unsuccessfully, many hours and much money in her endeavours, but at last she was obliged to admit that her talents did not lie in that direction.

Later on she had tried painting, and notwithstanding discouraging results, she had felt sure of her artistic ability for a long time, until at last she had proved to her own satisfaction that she was not meant to make pictures; and now, when she asked the above question in a serious tone, Patty felt sure that some new scheme was fermenting in her cousin's brain.
"What's up, Marian ?" she said.

"Out with it, and we'll promise to help you, if it's only by wise discouragement." "I think," said Marian, unmoved by her cousin's attitude, "I think I should like to be an author." "Do," said Patty; "that's the best line you've struck yet, because it's the cheapest.

You see, Nan, when Marian goes in for painting and sculpture and music, her whims cost Uncle Charley fabulous sums of money.
But this new scheme is great! The outlay for a fountain pen and a few sheets of stamps can't be so very much, and the scheme will keep you out of other mischief all winter." "It does sound attractive," said Nan.

"Tell us more about it.