A little sigh followed the words, and Belle put her own plump hand
on the delicate one that held the crutch, saying, in her cordial
young voice:

"I'll come and take you to drive sometimes, for you are too pale,
and you'll get ill sitting here at work day after day. Please let
me; I'd love to; for I feel so idle and wicked when I see busy
people like you that I reproach myself for neglecting my duty and
having more than my share of happiness."

Lizzie thanked her with a look, and then said, in a tone of interest
that was delightful to hear:

"Tell about the wreath you want; I should so love to do it for you,
if I can."

Belle had forgotten all about it in listening to this sad little
story of a girl's life. Now she felt half ashamed to talk of so
frivolous a matter till she remembered that it would help Lizzie;
and, resolving to pay for it as never garland was paid for before,
she entered upon the subject with renewed interest.

"You shall have the flowers in time for your ball to-morrow night. I
will engage to make a wreath that will please you, only it may take
longer than I think. Don't be troubled if I don't send it till
evening; it will surely come in time. I can work fast, and this will
be the happiest job I ever did," said Lizzie, beginning to lay out
mysterious little tools and bend delicate wires.

"You are altogether too grateful for the little I have done. It