See here!" And she brought forth some of the hidden portfolios and boxes, saying, "These will be of great use to you, my darlings, in helping you to earn your living, and they would bring almost nothing at auction." They thanked their careful friend for her foresight.

But when she brought forward their mother's gold watch and diamond ring, Rosa said, "I would rather not keep such expensive things, dear friend.

You know our dear father was the soul of honor.

It would have troubled him greatly not to pay what he owed.

I would rather have the ring and the watch sold to pay his debts." "I will tell the creditors what you say," answered Madame, "and they will be brutes if they don't let you keep your mother's things.