Two dozen bonnets and gowns, well made after the pattern furnished by
the hospital, were the result of the interest of that class. While the
girls sewed they talked. They discussed in simple girlish fashion the
problems of poverty and illness and the duty of one part of society to
the other. In this sort of informal discussion they expressed themselves
far more freely than in their Sunday-school class or their classroom at
school. By the expression of high and generous thoughts they
strengthened their own ideals and placed themselves in the presence of
their friends and companions on the side of Christ-like living.

About a week after the last bonnet and gown made by the class had been
sent to the hospital the teacher was surprised by a visit from Arline, a
heedless and hitherto disinterested member of the class. It was a bitter
cold day, the sunless air penetrating even the warmest garments.

"I brought you this box of things to give away," the girl said as the
teacher tried to conceal her surprise. "There must be a good many babies
in the river district who need warmer clothing these cold days. I had
some time for sewing and my aunts helped."

The teacher found three bonnets and gowns carefully made, three tiny
flannel petticoats, six pairs of warm stockings and three small hot
water bottles.

"I bought the things with my own money," said the girl. "It is the first
time I ever did anything like this. I enjoyed it."

The church visitor found a needy place for each thing and told Arline
most heartily how grateful she was for the help she had been able to