So it was understood that Jimmy was to get an education, studying
at present at home with his mother, who had received a good
education, and that Mrs. Hoffman and Paul were to be the
breadwinners. "I wish mother didn't have to sit so steadily at
her work," thought Paul, many a time. He resolved some time to
relieve her from the necessity; but at present it was impossible.
To maintain their small family in comfort required all that both
could earn.
The next morning Paul started out after breakfast for the street
stand, wondering what success he was destined to meet with.
About the middle of the forenoon Mrs. Hoffman prepared to go out.
"Do you think you can stay alone for an hour or two, Jimmy?" she
asked.
"Yes, mother," answered Jimmy, who was deep in a picture which he
was copying from one of the drawing-books Paul had bought him.
"Where are you going mother?"
"To carry back some work, Jimmy. I have got half-a-dozen shirts
done, and must return them, and ask for more."
"They ought to pay you more than twenty-five cents apiece,
mother. How long has it taken you to make them?"
"Nearly a week."
"That is only a dollar and a half for a week's work."
"I know it, Jimmy; but they can get plenty to work at that price,
so it won't do for me to complain.
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