the books all rustled open as she went to the front. Matilda gave
Comfort a sympathizing poke and Miss Tabitha an indignant scowl under
cover of the reading-class, but Comfort sat still, with the tears
dropping down on her spelling-book. She had never felt so guilty or
so humble in her life. She made up her mind she would tell her mother
about it, and put the ring back in the box that night, and never take
it out again until her finger grew to it; and if it never did she
would try to be resigned.

When it was time for recess Miss Tabitha sent them all out of doors.
"I know it's cold," said she, "but a little fresh air won't hurt any
of you. You can run around and keep warm."

Poor Comfort dreaded to go out. She knew just how the boys and girls
would tease her. But Matilda Stebbins stood by her, and the two
hurried out before the others and ran together down the road.

"We've got time to run down to the old Loomis place and back before
the bell rings," said Matilda. "If you stay here they'll all tease
you dreadfully to show that ring, and if you do she'll whip you. She
always does what she says she will."

The two girls got back to the school-house just as the bell rang,
and, beyond sundry elbow-nudges and teasing whispers as they went in,
Comfort had no trouble. She took her seat and meekly opened her
geography.

Once in a while she wondered, with a qualm of anxiety, if her ring
was safe. She dared not even feel of her pocket under her dress.
Whenever she thought of it Miss Tabitha seemed to be looking straight