34
sequences, and, though I can do but little, I cannot
permit that.'
* That's understandable,' said Briel again, c but
have you considered another thing? Your step-
brothers are still young men, and in the natural
course of events they would choose themselves wives
and have families. Then it will be a burden on
them if they have to contribute from their earnings
for the debts of another man.'
c I have thought of that,' was the answer. c Dide-
rik is hoping to get married within the year, and
if the burden is too much for him then, he can lay
it down. It is only if we wish to do it. We mustn't
think of the money only ; the debt we are speaking
of is more than a question of mere guilders. Who
will join with me ? '
He pointed to Petronella. She nodded. Her
husband said : * Very well.' The two younger
brothers nodded, and Frans jumped up from his
chair because he wanted to go out.
"You know what you have undertaken,' said
Werendonk. * From now on every halfpenny will
be saved, and not to enrich ourselves.'
Then they all went out and left him alone.
Under this burden, borne by his elders, the child
began his life.