"Get up and make your curtsey; I suppose you know how," said her Majesty.
"Oh yes, Miss Primmer always makes us curtsey when we come in and go out," answered Nellie, getting up and making the best one she could.
"That is not very graceful. This is the way," the Queen said, coming forward and showing her how to do it. "Only you see I have to keep my head steady to keep the crown on, so it's rather awkward."
Nellie bowed as she was directed, and the Queen returned the bow with great dignity. Nellie was much impressed. Fancy the Queen bowing to her! What lovely tales she would have to tell to-morrow!
"What are you going to do with your new sixpence?" asked her Majesty, when she had seated herself again.
"I thought I'd buy a lamb, and then I could make a pair of socks for Pa with the wool."
The Queen smiled. "Very sensible indeed," she said, patting Nellie on the head; "and you might make me a pair too, you know."
Nellie's eyes sparkled. "And will you really wear them?" she asked eagerly.
"I always wear stockings," said the Queen in an offended tone. "You don't suppose I go about barefoot, do you?"
"I did not mean that!" cried Nellie, aghast. The bare idea of such a thing!