hard times" as they descended to that
darksome lower world where necessities take refuge when luxuries crowd
them out from the gayer place above.

The presence of a lady made Mrs. Sullivan's shopping very easy now, and
her one poor "bit" of flannel grew miraculously into yards of several
colors, since the shabby purse was no lighter when she went away, wiping
her eyes on the corner of a big, brown bundle. A very little thing, and
no one saw it but a wooden-faced clerk, who never told, yet it did Rose
good and sent her up into the light again with a sober face, thinking
self-reproachfully, "What right have I to more gay gowns when some poor
babies have none, or to spend time making myself fine while there is so
much bitter want in the world?"

Nevertheless the pretty things were just as tempting as ever, and she
yearned for the opal silk with a renewed yearning when she got back. It
is not certain that it would not have been bought in spite of her better
self if a good angel in the likeness of a stout lady with silvery curls
about the benevolent face, enshrined in a plain bonnet, had not accosted
her as she joined Kitty, still brooding over the wedding gowns.

"I waited a moment for you, my dear, because I'm in haste, and very glad
to save myself a journey or a note," began the newcomer in a low tone as
Rose shook hands with the most affectionate respect. "You know the great
box factory was burned a day or two ago and over a hundred girls thrown
out of work. Some were hurt and are in the hospital, many have no homes
to go to, and nearly all need temporary help of some sort. We've had
so many calls this winter I hardly know which way to turn, for want is
pressing, and I've had my finger in so many purses I'm almost ashamed
to ask again. Any little contribution ah, thank you, I was sure you
wouldn't fail me, my good child," and Mrs. Gardener warmly pressed the
hand that went so quickly into the little porte-monnaie and came out so
generously filled.

"Let me know how else I can help, and thank you very much for allowing
me to have a share in your good works," said Rose, forgetting all
about gay gowns as she watched the black bonnet go briskly away with an
approving smile on the fine old face inside it.

"You extravagant thing! How could you give so much?" whispered Kitty,
whose curious eye had seen three figures on the single bill which had so
rapidly changed hands.

"I believe if Mrs. Gardener asked me for my head I