it had never occurred to her that it would include this elaborate
profusion of farewell gifts.

There was a great basket of red roses from Winthrop Warner, and Bertha
had sent a box of candy. Roger had sent candy, too, and Kenneth had sent
a beautiful basket of fruit that seemed to include every known variety.
Nor were the gifts only from Patty's intimate friends. She was surprised
to learn how many of her acquaintances and relatives and casual friends
had sent a token of good wishes for her voyage. The truth is that Patty
was a general favourite and made friends with all whom she met.

Mr. Hepworth had once told her that she was a Dispenser of Happiness. If
so, she was now reaping the reward, for her friends had surely showered
happiness upon her.

And besides the table full of gifts there were many letters and
telegrams in the ship's little post-office. These delighted Patty, too,
and she laid the budget aside to enjoy after the trip had fairly begun.

Among the last to arrive was Mr. Hepworth. He brought no fruit or
flowers, but he was followed by a messenger boy fairly staggering under
the weight of his burden.

"I knew, Patty," he said, "that you'd have all the flowers and fruit and
sweets you could possibly want, so I've brought you a different kind of
gift."

"There seems to be plenty of it," said Patty as she looked at the small
boy. His arms were full of papers and magazines, which, as they
afterward discovered, included every newspaper, magazine, and weekly