But I persisted, afraid as I was of cold; and when I came to Vitebsk I was glad of my one accomplishment.

For Vitebsk had not yet seen "Russian lace," and I was an acceptable teacher of the new art, though I was such a mite, because there was no other.

I taught my Cousin Dinke, of course, and I had a number of paying pupils.

I gave lessons at my pupils' homes, and was very proud, going thus about town and being received as a person of importance.

If my feet did not reach the floor when I sat in a chair, my hands knew their business for once; and I was such a conscientious and enthusiastic teacher that I had the satisfaction of seeing all my pupils execute difficult pieces before I left Vitebsk.
I never have seen money that was half so bright to look at, half so pretty to clink, as the money I earned by these lessons.