Freddy worked very hard on his letter. When it was finished, he said: “It doesn't look as nice as it might, but I guess mother will know I tried to do my best.” His aunt replied:
“I'm sure she will, anyway, the main thing was to keep your promise and write to her.”
Presently, Freddy took his cap and went outdoors to find amusement for himself; it was a beautiful warm day, just the kind when a boy loves to go swimming, and he thought longingly of the river. But his aunt did not wish him to go alone, and for some reason Dan had failed to call for him. The next-door neighbor was mowing his lawn and Freddy asked: “Need any help?” The man answered:
“Sure, I was just wishing for a boy to rake the grass.”
Freddy set about his work whistling and the neighbor never guessed that his small helper had had a disappointment that morning. It was Freddy's happy way when he could not do one thing to find another and do that cheerily.—Written for Dew Drops by Marie Deacon Hanson.
A Good Rule.
We have the wisest teacher, and she has
given this rule
That helps us in our lessons—you can use
it in your school.
Always add a smile or two when things
are going wrong,
Subtract the frowns that try to come
when lessons seem too long,
Then multiply your efforts when the
figures won't come right,
Divide your pleasures day by day with
every one in sight
Now if you always use this rule you'll
have a happy day,
For lessons then are easy, and the hours
fly away.
[Entered at the Post Office at Elgin, Ill., as Second Class Mail Matter.]