Sallie had been buying silks, and Meg longed for a new one, just a handsome light one for parties, her black silk was so common, and thin things for evening wear were only proper for girls.

Aunt March usually gave the sisters a present of twenty-five dollars apiece at New Year's.

That was only a month to wait, and here was a lovely violet silk going at a bargain, and she had the money, if she only dared to take it.

John always said what was his was hers, but would he think it right to spend not only the prospective five-and-twenty, but another five-and-twenty out of the household fund?
That was the question.

Sallie had urged her to do it, had offered to lend the money, and with the best intentions in life had tempted Meg beyond her strength.