iddle and little ones all round it, and it sparkles so, and
looks just lovely on her hand! We all admired it ever so much, and I
said I'd be wild with delight if I had such an one; then Sydney said,
'Why not give your father a hint that you'd like one for Christmas?' and
I said I was afraid you couldn't afford to give me anything that would
cost so much; but Maud said I needn't be, for you were worth millions of
money. Can you really afford to give it to me, papa? I'd like it better
than anything else if you can, but if you can't I don't want it," she
concluded with a sigh, and creeping closer into his embrace.

He did not speak for a moment, but though grave and thoughtful his
countenance was quite free from displeasure,--and when, at length, he
spoke, his tones were very kind and affectionate.

"If I thought it would really be for my little girl's welfare and
happiness in the end," he said, "I should not hesitate for a moment to
gratify her in this wish of hers, but, daughter, the ornament you covet
would be extremely unsuitable for one of your years, and I fear its
possession would foster a love of finery that I do not wish to cultivate
in you, because it is not right, and would hinder you in the race I
trust you are running for the prize of eternal life.

"The Bible tells us we can not serve both God and Mammon; can not love
him and the world too.

"'If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.' God
has entrusted me with a good deal of money, but I hold it as his
steward, and 'it is required in stewards, that a man be found
faithful.'"

"I don't know what you mean, papa," she said, with look and tone of keen
disappointment.

"That I must use the Lord's money to do his work, daughter; a great deal
of money is needed to help on the advancement of his cause and kingdom
in the hearts of individuals, and in the world at large. There are
millions of poor creatures in heathen lands who have never so much as
heard of Jesus and his dying love; and even in our own favored country
there are thousands who are sunk in poverty, ignorance and wretchedness.
Money is needed to feed and clothe them, to send them teachers and
preachers, and to build churches, schools, and colleges, where they can
be educated and fitted for happiness and usefulness.

"Suppose I had a thousand, or five thousand dollars, to spare after
supplying my family with all that is necessary for health, comfort and
happiness; could my d