`` Ah , it was n't the boots or the cake or the roses , dear Miss Belle . It was the kind looks , the gentle words , the way it was done , that went right to my heart , and did me more good than a million of money . I never stole a pin after that day , for the little rose would n't let me forget how you forgave me so sweetly . I sometimes think it kept me from greater temptations , for I was a poor , forlorn child , with no one to keep me good . '' Pretty Belle looked prettier than ever as she listened , and a bright tear stood in either eye like a drop of dew on a blue flower . It touched her very much to learn that her little act of childish charity had been so sweet and helpful to this lonely girl , and now lived so freshly in her grateful memory . It showed her , suddenly , how precious little deeds of love and sympathy are ; how strong to bless , how easy to perform , how comfortable to recall . Her heart was very full and tender just then , and the lesson sunk deep into it never to be forgotten . She sat a long time watching flowers bud and blossom under Lizzie 's skilful fingers , and then hurried home to tell all her glad news to mamma . If the next day had not been full of most delightfully exciting events , Belle might have felt some anxiety about her wreath , for hour after hour went by and nothing arrived from Lizzie . Evening came , and all was ready . Belle was dressed , and looked so lovely that mamma declared she needed nothing more . But Marie insisted that the grand effect would be ruined without the garland among the sunshiny hair . Belle had time now to be anxious , and waited with growing impatience for the finishing touch to her charming toilette . `` I must be downstairs to receive , and ca n't wait another moment ; so put in the blue pompon and let me go , '' she said at last , with a sigh of disappointment , for the desire to look beautiful that night in Somebody 's eyes had increased four-fold . With a tragic gesture , Marie was about to adjust the pompon when the quick tap of a crutch came down the hall , and Lizzie hurried in , flushed and breathless , but smiling happily as she uncovered the box she carried with a look of proud satisfaction . A general `` Ah ! '' of admiration arose as Belle , mamma , and Marie surveyed the lovely wreath that lay before them ; and when it was carefully arranged on the bright head that was to wear it , Belle blushed with pleasure . Mamma said : `` It is more beautiful than any Paris could have sent us ; '' and Marie clasped her hands theatrically , sighing , with her head on one side : `` Truly , yes ; mademoiselle is now adorable ! '' `` I am so glad you like it .
I did my very best and worked all night , but I had to beg one spray from Estelle , or , with all my haste , I could not have finished in time , '' said XXXXX , refreshing her weary eyes with a long , affectionate gaze at the pretty figure before her .
Belle Evening Lizzie Marie Paris hour night pompon right toilette