Mary was in no hurry to open the shop. There was "stock to be
taken," many things had to be rearranged, and not a few things to
be added, before she could begin with comfort; and she must see
to it all herself, for she was determined to engage no assistant
until she could give her orders without hesitation.
She was soon satisfied that she could not do better than make a
proposal to Letty which she had for some time contemplated--
namely, that she should take up her permanent abode with her, and
help her in the shop. Letty was charmed, nor ever thought of the
annoyance it would be to her aunt. Mary had thought of that, but
saw that, for Letty to allow the prejudices of her aunt to
influence her, would be to order her life not by the law of that
God whose Son was a workingman, but after the whim and folly of
an ill-educated old woman. A new spring of life seemed to bubble
up in Letty the moment Mary mentioned the matter; and in serving
she soon proved herself one after Mary's own heart. Letty's day
was henceforth without a care, and her rest was sweet to her.
Many customers were even more pleased with her than with Mary.
Before long, Mary, besides her salary, gave her a small share in
the business.
Mrs. Wardour carried her custom to the Turnbulls.
When the paint was dry which obliterated the old sign, people
saw the now one begin with an _M_.
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