"I am thankful I have: some pride left, Katy."

"But mother, we can't be poor and proud. We haven't got any money
to proud with."

"I am proud, I know; I wish I could banish it," replied Mrs.
Redburn, with a deep sigh.

"Let me try the plan, mother, and if I can't get along with it, I
will give it up."

"It will subject you to a great many trials and temptations."

"I can manage them, mother."

"Can you submit to the insults of evil-minded persons?"

"Yes, mother; no decent person would insult me and I don't care
for others. I can pity them, and run away from them. I am not
afraid of anything. Do let me try."

Mrs. Redburn saw that Katy was too earnest to be thwarted; that,
impelled by a noble purpose, she had set her heart upon making
the attempt, and she did not like to disappoint her. It is true,
she keenly felt the degradation of such a life, and even feared
that Katy might be led astray while pursuing such an occupation;
but she gave a reluctant consent, trusting that one or two
experiments would disgust her with the business.

Katy clapped her hands with joy as her mother's scruples gave