Uncle says that sort is my style , and I must not think of tragedy . But it 's so much nicer to sweep about in crowns and velvet trains than to wear everyday clothes , and just be myself , though it is so easy . ' ` Yet that is high art , child , and what we need for a time till we are ready for the masters . Cultivate that talent of yours . It is a special gift , this power to bring tears and smiles , and a sweeter task to touch the heart than to freeze the blood or fire the imagination . Tell your uncle he is right , and ask your aunt to try a play for you . I 'll come and see it when you are ready . ' ` Will you ? Oh ! will you ? We are going to have some at Christmas , with a nice part for me . A simple little thing , but I can do it , and should be so proud , so happy to have you there . ' Josie rose as she spoke , for a glance at the clock showed her that her call was a long one ; and hard as it was to end this momentous interview , she felt that she must go . Catching up her hat she went to Miss Cameron , who stood looking at her so keenly that she felt as transparent as a pane of glass , and coloured prettily as she looked up , saying , with a grateful little tremor in her voice : ' I can never thank you for this hour and all you have told me . I shall do just what you advise , and mamma will be very glad to see me settled at my books again . I can study now with all my heart , because it is to help me on ; and I wo n't hope too much , but work and wait , and try to please you , as the only way to pay my debt . ' ` That reminds me that I have not paid mine . Little friend , wear this for my sake . It is fit for a mermaid , and will remind you of your first dive . May the next bring up a better jewel , and leave no bitter water on your lips ! '
As she spoke , Miss Cameron took from the lace at her throat a pretty pin of aquamarine , and fastened it like an order on XXXXX 's proud bosom ; then lifting the happy little face , she kissed it very tenderly , and watched it go smiling away with eyes that seemed to see into a future full of the trials and the triumphs which she knew so well .
Cameron Christmas Josie art books clock fire first glance right