I wish you to examine all the papers, certificates of stock, bonds, deeds, mortgages, and so forth." "Oh, papa!" she cried, lifting her hands in dismay, "what a task.

Please excuse me.

You know all about it, and is not that sufficient ?" "No, the property is yours; I have been only your steward, and must now render up an account to you for the way in which I have handled your property." "You render an account to _me_, my own dear father," she said low and tremulously, while her face flushed crimson; "I cannot bear to hear you speak so.

I am fully satisfied, and very, _very_ thankful for all your kind care of it and of me." He regarded her with a smile of mingled tenderness and amusement, while softly patting and stroking the small white hand laid lovingly upon his.
"Could I--could any father--do less for his own beloved child ?" he asked.
"Not you, I know, papa.

But may I ask you a question ?" "As many as you like." "How much are you worth?
Ah! you needn't look so quizzical.