`` No one shall part us , mamma ; and if I can only get something to do we can be independent and happy in spite of our losses ; for now the first shock and worry is over , I find a curious sort of excitement in being poor and having to work for my living . I was so tired of pleasure and idleness I really quite long to work at something , if I could only find it . '' But though Clara spoke cheerfully , she had a heavy heart ; for during the month which had followed the discovery that they were nearly penniless , she had been through a great deal for a tenderly nurtured girl of three-and-twenty . Leaving a luxurious home for two plainly furnished rooms , and trying to sustain her mother with hopeful plans , had kept her busy for a time ; but now she had nothing to do but wait for replies to her modest advertisements as governess , copyist , or reader . `` I do wish I 'd been taught a trade , mamma , or some useful art by which I could earn our bread now . Rich people ought to remember that money takes to itself wings , and so prepare their children to face poverty bravely . If half the sums spent on my music and dress had been used in giving me a single handicraft , what a blessing it would be to us now ! '' she said , thoughtfully , as she sewed with rapid fingers , unconsciously displaying the delicate skill of one to whom dress was an art and a pleasure . `` If you were not so proud we might accept Cousin John 's offer and be quite comfortable , '' returned her mother , in a reproachful tone . `` No ; we should soon feel that we were a burden , and that would be worse than living on bread and water . Let us try to help ourselves first , and then , if we fail , we can not be accused of indolence . I know papa would wish it , so please let me try . '' `` As you like ; I shall not be a burden to any one long . '' And Mrs. Barlow looked about for her handkerchief . But Clara prevented the impending shower by skilfully turning the poor lady 's thoughts to the new cap which was ready to try on . `` Is n't it pretty ? Just the soft effect that is so becoming to your dear , pale face . Take a good look at it , and tell me whether you 'll have pale pink bows or lavender . '' `` It is very nice , child ; you always suit me , you 've such charming taste . I 'll have lavender , for though it 's not so becoming as pink , it is more appropriate to our fallen fortunes , '' answered her mother , smiling in spite of herself , as she studied effects in the mirror .
`` No , let us have it pink , for I want my pretty mother to look her best , though no one sees her but me , and I 'm so glad to know that I can make caps well if I ca n't do anything else , '' said XXXXX , rummaging in a box for the desired shade .
Barlow Clara John copyist deal first handicraft independent mirror shock