THE FIRST STRAWBERRY.


How bright and red it looked, half-concealed as it was by the green
leaves! It was the first strawberry of the season. Mary gathered it
with delight, and ran with it to her mother.

"Here is something for you, mother," she said, holding up the rosy
treasure.

"Thank you, my dear!" said Mrs. Dudley, smiling upon her daughter. She
ate it with a double relish. She was very fond of the fruit, and she
was gratified by this expression of the thoughtful, unselfish love of
her dear child.

How much more Mary enjoyed that look of love, and that approving
smile, than she would have enjoyed eating that luscious strawberry
herself!

Every day, Mary, Willie, and Eddie search for the fruit as it ripens,
and almost every evening their father and mother find a saucer of
berries, with sugar and cream, beside their plates at the tea-table.

How pleasant it is to see children think so much of their parents! I
hope they will continue obedient and attentive, for there is no more
beautiful sight than an affectionate, united family.

God will bless those who honour their parents.