There was the garnet set which Aunt March wore when she came out , the pearls her father gave her on her wedding day , her lover 's diamonds , the jet mourning rings and pins , the queer lockets , with portraits of dead friends and weeping willows made of hair inside , the baby bracelets her one little daughter had worn , Uncle March 's big watch , with the red seal so many childish hands had played with , and in a box all by itself lay Aunt March 's wedding ring , too small now for her fat finger , but put carefully away like the most precious jewel of them all . `` Which would Mademoiselle choose if she had her will ? '' asked Esther , who always sat near to watch over and lock up the valuables . `` I like the diamonds best , but there is no necklace among them , and I 'm fond of necklaces , they are so becoming . I should choose this if I might , '' replied Amy , looking with great admiration at a string of gold and ebony beads from which hung a heavy cross of the same . `` I , too , covet that , but not as a necklace . Ah , no ! To me it is a rosary , and as such I should use it like a good catholic , '' said Esther , eyeing the handsome thing wistfully . `` Is it meant to use as you use the string of good-smelling wooden beads hanging over your glass ? '' asked Amy . `` Truly , yes , to pray with . It would be pleasing to the saints if one used so fine a rosary as this , instead of wearing it as a vain bijou . '' `` You seem to take a great deal of comfort in your prayers , Esther , and always come down looking quiet and satisfied . I wish I could . '' `` If Mademoiselle was a Catholic , she would find true comfort , but as that is not to be , it would be well if you went apart each day to meditate and pray , as did the good mistress whom I served before Madame . She had a little chapel , and in it found solacement for much trouble . '' `` Would it be right for me to do so too ? '' asked Amy , who in her loneliness felt the need of help of some sort , and found that she was apt to forget her little book , now that Beth was not there to remind her of it . `` It would be excellent and charming , and I shall gladly arrange the little dressing room for you if you like it . Say nothing to Madame , but when she sleeps go you and sit alone a while to think good thoughts , and pray the dear God preserve your sister . ''
XXXXX was truly pious , and quite sincere in her advice , for she had an affectionate heart , and felt much for the sisters in their anxiety .
Beth Esther God Madame bijou bracelets good-smelling right rosary solacement