Bessie at school

by Joanna H. Mathews

"Well, yes, mamma, I believe they do; at least most of them want it very much, and Gracie and Fanny Leroy are very anxious for it. We were talking a little about it, before I went to my music-lesson; and when Dora put us in mind that all but one would have to be disappointed, somehow I did not feel so very happy about it. But I do not feel as if I could give up trying for it. Do you think it is selfish in me, mamma?"

"No, love, not at all. So long as you are willing that the others should have an equal chance with yourself, and take no unfair advantage of them; and that, I am sure, my Maggie would not do."

"No indeed, mamma; I hope I would never be so mean. Then you think it is quite right for me to try for the prize?"

"Yes, dear. God has given to each one of us certain powers or talents which He means us to use for His service and our own improvement. Only let us be sure, 'whatsoever we do, to do it to the glory of God,' and not simply to gain some praise or some fancied good for ourselves. For although we may succeed, even with such a motive, yet it will not bring a blessing. Do your very best, not with the sole purpose of being first, or of carrying away the prize from others, but that you may please your Father in heaven, and make the most of the opportunities He has given you. Then you will be sure of the best of rewards—that of a good conscience, and the smile of God; and if the earthly reward is won too, well and good, but that is not the chief thing."

"But I'm afraid I did think it was the chief thing," said Maggie, gravely shaking her head; "and I'm afraid the reason I would like the prize so much, was because I wanted every one to say I made the best composition. I don't think I thought a bit about glorifying God. Mamma, I hope you do not think I had better not try for the prize."

"Not at all, dear," said her mother. "I should be very sorry if you did not try to gain it. Do your very best, only do it with love to God and your neighbour; not feeling jealous or envious if another does better, or too much puffed up if you should be the one to receive the prize."

"Well, I will try not to be too very anxious about it, mamma," said Maggie.

But Maggie was very anxious about this prize; so anxious, so bent upon gaining it, that her mother was almost sorry it had been offered by Miss Ashton's uncle. Morning, noon and night, it seemed to be upon her mind; everything that pleased or interested her was talked over as "a subject;" and Mrs. Bradford was not a little amused one day to find in Maggie's room, the following:—

"LIST OF PRIZE SUBJECTS.

"Elephants;
Doing unto Others;
Potry;
Mind your own Business;
A Fabel;
Sunset;
Dolls;
Churches;
Vegitables;
School;
A Letter;
A Story;
Christmas;
What can't be cured, must be endured."