though she saw more and more clearly that there was nothing in him
that she could lean upon.

Gus's parents, who knew that the Allens were immensely wealthy, urged
on the match, but Mr. Allen, aware that the Elliots were living to the
extent of their means, discouraged it, plainly telling Edith his
reasons.

"But," said Edith, at the same time showing her heart in the practical
suggestion, "could not Gus go into business himself?"

"The worst thing he could do," said the keen Mr. Allen. "He has tried
it a few times, I have learned, but has not one business
qualification. He could not keep himself in toothpicks. His mother and
sisters have spoiled him. He is nothing but a society man. Mr. Elliot
has not a word to say at home. His business is to make money for them
to spend, and a tough time he has to keep up with them. You girls must
marry men who can take care of you, unless you wish to support your
husbands."

Mr. Allen's verdict was true, and Edith felt that it was. When a boy,
Gus could get out of lessons by running to his mother with a plea of
headache or any trifle, and in youth he had escaped business in like
manner. His father had tried him a few times in his office, but was
soon glad to fall in with his wife's opinion, that _her_ son "had
too much spirit and refinement for plodding humdrum business, that he
was a born gentleman and suited only to elegant leisure," and as his
gentleman son only did mischief downtown, the poor over-worked father
was glad to have him out of the way, for he with difficulty made both
ends meet, as it was. Hoping he would do better with strangers, he