'What is this for?' asked Evangeline, looking a good deal surprised.
'It's one of the magic counters, you know,' said Mary, 'and I want you to tell me a story—a fairy story, please.'
Now as this was the first time she had used the magic counter, Mary felt a little anxious to see how it would act, and at all events she hoped Evangeline would give it back to her again, although she did not feel at all sure about it. She was greatly relieved to see Evangeline smile and look at the watch which she wore on her wrist.
'You can put this back in your purse again,' said Evangeline, and entering the room she sat down and drew Mary to her side.
'You'll tell me the story all the same,' answered Mary, as she put the magic counter back into her purse.
'Oh yes, I must, you see!' cried Evangeline with a laugh; 'only it will have to be rather a short one. You said nothing about the length.'
'Not too short,' said Mary, 'and about fairies, please;' and then she nestled snugly against Evangeline as she began the tale.