"I wish I knew how," said Grant, perplexed.

"I am afraid I shall have to make a sacrifice," said Mrs. Thornton,
not addressing Grant, but rather in soliloquy.

Grant looked at his mother in surprise. What sacrifice could she
refer to? Did she mean that they must move into a smaller house, and
retrench generally? That was all that occurred to him.

"We might, perhaps, move into a smaller house, mother," said he,
"but we have none too much room here, and the difference in rent
wouldn't be much."

"I didn't mean that, Grant. Listen, and I will tell you what I do
mean. You know that I was named after a rich lady, the friend of my
mother?"

"I have heard you say so."

"When she died, she left me by will a pearl necklace and pearl
bracelets, both of very considerable value."

"I have never seen you wear them, mother."

"No; I have not thought they would be suitable for the wife of a
poor minister. My wearing them would excite unfavorable comment in
the parish."

"I don't see whose business it would be," said Grant, indignantly.