"It's only the window," explained Elsie, going into the hall. "I'm so
sorry; but it won't stay open. Something's the matter with it."

"Did you stick the nail in?" inquired Mrs. Worrett.

"The nail? No, ma'am."

"Why, how on earth did you expect it do stay up then? You young folks
never see what's before your eyes. Look on the window-sill, and you'll
find it. It's put there a purpose."

Elsie returned, much discomfited. She looked, and, sure enough, there
was a big nail, and there was a hole in the side of the window-frame
in which to stick it. This time she got the window open without
accident; but a long blue paper shade caused her much embarrassment.
It hung down, and kept the air from coming in. She saw no way of
fastening it.

"Roll it up, and put in a pin," suggested John.

"I'm afraid of tearing the paper. Dear, what a horrid thing it is!"
Replied Elsie in a disgusted tone.

However, she stuck in a couple of pins and fastened the shade out of
the way. After that, they looked about the room. It was plainly
furnished, but very nice and neat. The bureau was covered with a
white towel, on which stood a pincushion, with "Remember Ruth" stuck
upon it in pins. John admired this very much, and felt that she could
never make up her mind to spoil the pattern by taking out a pin,
however great her need of one might be.