She looked very pretty as she lay , with dark lashes against the feverish cheeks , lips apart , and a cloud of curly black locks all about the face pillowed on one arm . She seemed like a brilliant little flower in that dull place , -- for the French blood in her veins gave her a color , warmth , and grace which were very charming . Her natural love of beauty showed itself in many ways : a red ribbon had tied up her hair , a gay but faded shawl was thrown over the bed , and the gifts sent her were arranged with care upon the table by her side among her own few toys and treasures . There was something pathetic in this childish attempt to beautify the poor place , and Mrs. Minot 's eyes were full as she looked at the tired woman , whose one joy and comfort lay there in such sad plight . `` My dear soul , cheer up , and we will help one another through the hard times , '' she said , with a soft hand on the rough one , and a look that promised much . `` Please God , we will , mem ! With such good friends , I never should complain . I try not to do it , but it breaks my heart to see my little lass spoiled for life , most like ; '' and Mrs. Pecq pressed the kind hand with a despondent sigh . `` We wo n't say , or even think , that , yet . Everything is possible to youth and health like Janey 's . We must keep her happy , and time will do the rest , I 'm sure . Let us begin at once , and have a surprise for her when she wakes . '' As she spoke , Mrs. Minot moved quietly about the room , pinning the pages of several illustrated papers against the wall at the foot of the bed , and placing to the best advantage the other comforts she had brought . `` Keep up your heart , neighbor . I have an idea in my head which I think will help us all , if I can carry it out , '' she said , cheerily , as she went , leaving Mrs. Pecq to sew on Jack 's new night-gowns , with swift fingers , and the grateful wish that she might work for these good friends forever . As if the whispering and rustling had disturbed her , Jill soon began to stir , and slowly opened the eyes which had closed so wearily on the dull December afternoon . The bare wall with its brown spiders no longer confronted her , but the colored print of a little girl dancing to the tune her father was playing on a guitar , while a stately lady , with satin dress , ruff , and powder , stood looking on , well pleased . The quaint figure , in its belaced frock , quilted petticoat , and red-heeled shoes , seemed to come tripping toward her in such a life-like way , that she almost saw the curls blow back , heard the rustle of the rich brocade , and caught the sparkle of the little maid 's bright eyes . `` Oh , how pretty ! Who sent them ? ''
asked XXXXX , eagerly , as her eye glanced along the wall , seeing other new and interesting things beyond : an elephant-hunt , a ship in full sail , a horse-race , and a ball-room .
French Jack Janey Jill Minot Pecq afternoon night-gowns petticoat spiders