and Tilly 's eyes shone at the very thought . ` What would you buy ? ' asked Bessy , rubbing her cold hands , and longing for her mittens . ` I 'd buy a pair of large , warm blankets , a load of wood , a shawl for mother , and a pair of shoes for me ; and if there was enough left , I 'd give Bessy a new hat , and then she need n't wear Ben 's old felt one , ' answered Tilly . The girls laughed at that ; but Bessy pulled the funny hat over her ears , and said she was much obliged but she 'd rather have candy . ` Let 's look , and maybe we can find a purse . People are always going about with money at Christmas time , and some one may lose it here , ' said Kate . So , as they went along the snowy road , they looked about them , half in earnest , half in fun . Suddenly Tilly sprang forward , exclaiming , -- ' I see it ! I 've found it ! ' The others followed , but all stopped disappointed ; for it was n't a purse , it was only a little bird . It lay upon the snow with its wings spread and feebly fluttering , as if too weak to fly . Its little feet were benumbed with cold ; its once bright eyes were dull with pain , and instead of a blithe song , it could only utter a faint chirp , now and then , as if crying for help . ` Nothing but a stupid old robin ; how provoking ! ' cried Kate , sitting down to rest . ' I sha n't touch it . I found one once , and took care of it , and the ungrateful thing flew away the minute it was well , ' said Bessy , creeping under Kate 's shawl , and putting her hands under her chin to warm them . ` Poor little birdie ! How pitiful he looks , and how glad he must be to see some one coming to help him ! I 'll take him up gently , and carry him home to mother .
Do n't be frightened , dear , I 'm your friend ; ' and XXXXX knelt down in the snow , stretching her hand to the bird , with the tenderest pity in her face .
Ben Bessy Kate Tilly chin chirp girls hands left snow