"Yes, I think it would perhaps be the wisest way."

"And besides," said Rosie, "mamma is going to give us young ones a
chance to earn money for benevolence by paying us for good behavior. I
know we ought to be good without other reward than that of a good
conscience, but I'm quite delighted with the plan for all that."

"I too," said Walter, looking greatly pleased.

"Thank you, mamma dear. How much is it you're going to give us?"

"Twenty-five cents for every day on which I have no occasion to find
fault with either your conduct or recitations."

"A new idea, daughter, isn't it?" queried Mr. Dinsmore.

"Yes, sir; and not original. I learned at Woodburn to-day, that the
captain was going to try the plan with his children. I trust it meets
your approval? I might better have consulted with you before announcing
my intention to adopt it."

"That was not at all necessary," he returned pleasantly. "But I quite
approve, and trust, you will find it work to your entire satisfaction."

"Talking of helping the blacks, and thinking of the advice so often
given, 'Do the work nearest at hand,' it strikes me it would be well for
us to begin with those in our own house and on the plantation,"
remarked Edward.

"I think they have never been neglected, Edward," said his grandfather;