"Now I wonder would O’Connor mind?" Tom reflected, when they discussed the matter after Garth had gone to bed.  "I don’t believe he’s close-fisted—and, though he probably wouldn’t admit it, he’s very proud of ’Possum.  Do you know, I think a lot of women are afraid to ask their men-folk for money, when there’s really no need to be afraid?  Most men like to see their daughters decently turned out."