CHAPTER XXI. NELSON MAKES A PRESENT.
In some manner of her own Mrs. Kennedy had found out that that day was Gertrude's birthday, and she had concocted a scheme with Nelson and Gladys to give her a surprise.
"Sure an' the poor dear deserves a bit av pleasure," said the old Irishwoman. "This humdrum life is almost a-killin' av her. We'll buy her a few things, and have a bit av a party supper."
"She shall have my best bouquet," said the flower girl. She loved Gertrude dearly.
Nelson was in a great state of perplexity concerning what to give Gertrude. One after another, different things were considered and rejected.
"You see, she's a regular lady," he said to George Van Pelt, "and I want to give her something that just suits. Now a common girl would like most anything, but she's—well, she's different; that's all."
"Most girls like dresses and hats," suggested Van Pelt.
Nelson shook his head.
"It won't do. Her dresses and her hat are better than I could buy. Besides, I want to give her something she can keep."