"So do I," added Emma; "but there is nothing that I should like better
than a work-box."

Louisa thought of many other things which she should be glad to have;
for she was apt to indulge in a foolish habit of wishing for what she
was not likely to possess. It is a bad thing to give way to this
failing; for by doing so we may often make ourselves unhappy, without
any good or real cause. People who do so should think of the words of
St. Paul: "I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be
content." Philip. iv, 11. And children, who have kind parents or
friends to provide for all their wants, should learn that it is very
sinful to let the thoughts be often dwelling upon things that they
cannot have, and do not really need. Pray for a grateful heart, that
you may rejoice in the blessings that surround you, and be thankful to
your heavenly Father, who gives you all things richly to enjoy.




CHAPTER II.


THE PRESENTS.

Mrs. Harding, the aunt of these little girls, had been paying a
farewell visit to their mamma, before going with Mr. Harding to India,
where it was likely that they would remain for some years. She had
kindly given many little presents to her nieces during her stay with
them; but they were such as Louisa and Emma would cease to value when
they became old enough to "put away childish things;" and being a