A successful venture

A family of siblings resolves to support themselves after encountering reluctance from a nearby relative; the elder sisters take charge of finances, discard an impractical boarding-school scheme, and establish a day school while younger members have smaller adventures. Their efforts bring practical setbacks, an accident, secret decisions, and unexpected generosity from neighbors, and interpersonal tensions and community encounters repeatedly test their determination. Through thrift, resourcefulness, and mutual support they confront obstacles, adjust plans, and eventually prompt a change in the relative's attitude toward their independence.