Cheaper by the Dozen (Cheaper by the Dozen, #1)

by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr.

“We’re going to have a wonderful life, Lillie. A wonderful life and a wonderful family. A great big family.” “We’ll have children all over the house,” Mother smiled. “From the basement to the attic.” “From the floorboards to the chandelier.” “When we go for our Sunday walk we’ll look like Mr. and Mrs. Pied Piper.” “Mr. Piper, shake hands with Mrs. Piper. Mrs. Piper, meet Mr. Piper.” Mother put the magazine on the seat between her and Dad, and they held hands beneath it. “How many would you say we should have, just as an estimate?” Mother asked. “Just as an estimate, many.” “Lots and lots.” “We’ll sell out for an even dozen,” said Dad. “No less. What do you say to that?” “I say,” said Mother, “a dozen would be just right. No less.” “That’s the minimum.” “Boys or girls?” “Well, boys would be fine,” Dad whispered. “A dozen boys would be just right. But … well, girls would be all right, too. Sure. I guess.” “I’d like to have half boys and half girls. Do you think it would be all right to have half girls?” “If that’s what you want,” Dad said, “we’ll plan it that way. Excuse me a minute while I make a note of it.” He took out his memorandum book and solemnly wrote: “Don’t forget to have six boys and six girls.” They had a dozen children, six boys and six girls, in seventeen years. Somewhat to Dad’s disappointment, there were no twins or other multiple births. There was no doubt in his mind that the most efficient way to rear a large family would be to have one huge litter and ge...