So I had to take over the
whole business myself, and when we made up our balance-sheet, it
became evident that there was practically nothing left as my
mother's share. And when mother died soon afterwards, of course
Martha was left penniless.
Johan: Poor Martha!
Bernick: Poor! Why? You surely do not suppose I let her want for
anything? No, I venture to say I am a good brother. Of course she
has a home here with us; her salary as a teacher is more than
enough for her to dress on; what more could she want?
Johan: Hm--that is not our idea of things in America.
Bernick: No, I dare say not--in such a revolutionary state of
society as you find there. But in our small circle--in which,
thank God, depravity has not gained a footing, up to now at all
events--women are content to occupy a seemly, as well as modest,
position. Moreover, it is Martha's own fault; I mean, she might
have been provided for long ago, if she had wished.
Johan: You mean she might have married?
Bernick: Yes, and married very well, too. She has had several
good offers--curiously enough, when you think that she is a poor
girl, no longer young, and, besides, quite an insignificant
person.
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