"Child, I believe you have bicycles on the brain," said Agatha.
"But, sister, you do mean that we shall be better off, and I shall be
able to go on with my education?"

"Yes, my dear, I think I can promise you so much," said Magdalen,
caressing the serge shoulder.

"O thanks! Girton?" cried Agatha.

"There is much that I must inquire about before I decide--"

Again came, "Elsie Warner has a bicycle, and she is no older than me!
Please, sister!"

"Hush now, my little Thekla," said the sister kindly; "I will talk to
Mrs. Best, and see whether she thinks it will be good for you."

Thekla subsided with a pout, and Magdalen was able to explain her
circumstances and plans a little more in detail; seeing however that
the girls had no idea of the value of money, Paulina asked whether it
meant being as well off as the Colonel and Lady Mary -

"Who keep a carriage and pair, and a butler," interposed Vera.

"Oh no, my dear. If I keep any kind of carriage it will be only a
basket or governess cart, and a pony or donkey."

"That's all right," said Agatha. "I would not be rich and stupid for
the world."