THE GOOD SISTER.
"Come, Charles, and I will tell you all the tales I can think of: so be still, and hear me."
Janet was left an orphan, very young; and she had a little brother and a little sister to share her sad fate. It was a pretty sight to see her and them; she, working at a table, with a basketful of work upon it; little Paul trying to read; and little Jessy standing by him, helping him to spell, and find out the hard words. Janet, when she found herself alone in the world, was very sad, but she had no time for sorrow, she had to take care of her dear little ones, teach them, work for them, play with them; she hired a small neat room in which they all lived; and the smiles and kisses of Paul and Jessy were her sweetest comfort and reward. She used to rise early; and, whilst they yet slept, she was busy. Jessy was very proud, when she could do anything to help her dear sister; and Paul was all joy, when he had a job to do for her, or an errand to run on. The neighbours were very kind to the orphans; for when people behave well and help themselves, every body is willing to help them. What a seemingly small service is welcome to the poor and friendless! a basket of fruit, a half worn garment, even a few kind words. But Janet was not idle, nor wholly leaning on her friends for food and raiment. No, she earned a little money by her needle, and she made the best of all that was given her; and an old uncle used to send her a crown every Monday. How much good did this crown produce! Part of it paid the rent; and the rest was spent in bread and milk, fuel, soap, and candles. Ah! how many things we want, before we deem ourselves in comfort. Janet was thankful to procure those most needed, and without a sigh gave up all else. "If I can but keep myself in health to work for my two dear ones, and if I can but see them well and merry, I shall be content." So said Janet; and, when the weather was fine, she would send the children out to play in the fields, and sometimes go with them herself, as a treat. I think, we must call this story, "The Good Sister."