"Mercy! did you?" answered the child, in confusion. "My, but you're
the talker, Julia! What would the likes of her care to hear about
that!"

The store kept open till half-past eleven Christmas Eve; but at length
the last customer was gone, and the employees were allowed to choose
their presents. Katy skipped around with joy when the doll was put
into her arms. After a moment, however, Julia whisked it away again,
and sent it to be packed in a box. The box proved to be large and
clumsy, but this was accounted for upon the plea of haste.

"Well, good-night and merry Christmas, Julia!" said the little
cashgirl, gratefully. "I don't know how to thank you enough for being
so good, and helping me so much,--indeed I don't!"

"Never mind trying," answered Julia, brightly, but with an earnestness
unusual to her. "Isn't this Christmas Eve, and didn't the Infant Jesus
come to help us, and teach us to do what we can for one another? Just
say a prayer for me at Mass to-morrow; that is all I ask."

"You may be sure I will," Katy responded, heartily.

"Good-night! Merry Christmas to you all, and especially to Ellie!"
added Julia, hurrying away.

Katy's father was waiting for her at one of the entrances of the store.
After a slight demur, she allowed him to carry the package, while she
trudged along at his side. The stores were closed, the gay throng of
shoppers had disappeared. People were still abroad upon the great