I couldn't think of nothin' else."

It was a wonder that Prudy's candy had not spoiled some of the nice
presents.

Susy received several pretty things; and though she did not talk quite
so much as Prudy, she was just as happy. For one thing, she had what she
had not dreamed was possible for a little girl--a bottle of otto of
rose; "just like a young lady."

This was a real delight to Susy: but Prudy, sniffing at it, said,
coolly, "O, ho! it smells 's if it didn't cost more'n a cent! 'Tisn't
half so sweet as pep'mint!"

Before Dotty could be put to bed, she had contrived to break several
toys, all of which happened to be Susy's--a sugar temple, a glass
pitcher, and a small vase.

This was an evening long to be remembered; but the most remarkable event
of all was to come.

"Susy, my daughter," said Mr. Parlin, "have you been wondering why you
don't see a present from me?"

Susy blushed. She had certainly expected something handsome this year
from her father.

"I haven't forgotten you, my dear; but the present I have chosen
wouldn't sit very well on the shoulders of such a little fellow as Santa
Claus."