“Good girl! Now then, I want you to know that you will be doing not only a great favor to me, but you will be earning five dollars, for that is what is paid for the music.” “Oh, but, Mr. Todd, I couldn’t take any money when I am simply acting in your place; besides, see how much in your debt I am already.” “Nonsense, nonsense! There is no question of debt. I have enjoyed our lessons more than I can tell you, and am I to be paid for receiving pleasure? No, no, that is out of the question. Moreover, I shall stay at home unless you are willing to make this a matter of business. Do you want to deprive me of that which I have longed for during all these years?” “No, no, I don’t want that; of course I don’t; I want you to go. I’ll not do anything to keep you.” “Then it’s settled. You take my place and I go to the festival with joy. It will be one of the happiest experiences of my life. Now I will tell you that I hoped for this long ago, when you first asked me to think of some way in which you could earn money. Perhaps you have wondered why I have been so particular about these wedding marches. I wanted to prepare you for some such occasion. Now I am perfectly satisfied that you will do me credit, and I can go off with a clear conscience.” “How can I thank you? It is perfectly wonderful,” said Ellen with shining eyes. “It is wonderful for me. Now, how are you going to spend the money? You have said that you longed to do something for Rindy. What is it to be?” “A party. She shall have a birthday party. She has never had one in her life. Of course it can’t be a very stylish affair, but it will be in June, rose time, and there will be flowers to dress up the house with.” “All you want from our bushes. Great scheme, Ellen. I’ll help all I can.” It was just the sort of thing to appeal to Jeremy. “We mustn’t let her know till the last minute, or she will throw cold water on the plan. She will say it is extravagant, and I mustn’t spend money on her. But is it extravagant to do her honor, to give her a good time when she has never had any? Is it foolish, Mr. Todd?” “It is not, and you will be giving others a good time, too, so the circle widens. I approve heartily.” So from this time on Ellen began to scheme. She made out her list of invitations and went around to deliver them herself. “It is a sort of surprise party,” she told Miss Rindy’s friends; “at least she is not to know about it till the day. I am giving her the party for a birthday present.” “You are? Well, I call that real nice of you,” said Mrs. Todd, who was the first to be approached. “I don’t suppose you’d mind if I sent in a birthday cake, would you?” “Oh, no, indeed. I’d be only too delighted to have it. Thank you very much indeed, Mrs. Todd, for thinking of it. You are sure it won’t be too much trouble for you?” “No, it will be a pleasure. Now Jeremy is away I only have myself to cook for, you know.”