`` Why should I contribute to your school library ? '' demanded Mr. Campbell . This was a poser for us . Why should he , indeed ? But the Story Girl was quite equal to it . Leaning forward , and throwing an indescribable witchery into tone and eyes and smile , she said , `` Because a lady asks you . '' Mr. Campbell chuckled . `` The best of all reasons , '' he said . `` But see here , my dear young lady , I 'm an old miser and curmudgeon , as you may have heard . I HATE to part with my money , even for a good reason . And I NEVER part with any of it , unless I am to receive some benefit from the expenditure . Now , what earthly good could I get from your three by six school library ? None whatever . But I shall make you a fair offer . I have heard from my housekeeper 's urchin of a son that you are a ` master hand ' to tell stories . Tell me one , here and now . I shall pay you in proportion to the entertainment you afford me . Come now , and do your prettiest . '' There was a fine mockery in his tone that put the Story Girl on her mettle instantly . She sprang to her feet , an amazing change coming over her .
Her XXXXX flashed and burned ; crimson spots glowed in her cheeks .
Leaning change entertainment eyes feet housekeeper money proportion stories tone