such a place for beautiful things."

"You think it will do, then?" said her mother.

"For me, Mamma! You don't mean to give it to me? Oh, mother,
how good you are! But I know what is the best way to thank
you, and I'll do it. What a perfect little beauty! Mamma, I'm
too happy!"

"I hope not," said her mother; "for you know I haven't got you
the box for your pens and paper yet."

"Well, Mamma, I'll try and bear it," said Ellen, laughing.
"But do get me the plainest little thing in the world, for
you're giving me too much."

Mrs. Montgomery asked to look at writing-desks, and was shown
to another part of the store for the purpose.

"Mamma," said Ellen, in a low tone, as they went, "you're not
going to get me a writing-desk?"

"Why, that is the best kind of box for holding writing
materials," said her mother, smiling; "don't you think so?"

"I don't know what to say!" exclaimed Ellen. "I can't thank
you, Mamma; — I haven't any words to do it. I think I shall go
crazy."

She was truly overcome with the weight of happiness. Words