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 . '' Esther was truly pious , and quite sincere in her advice , for she had an affectionate heart , and felt much for the sisters in their anxiety . Amy liked the idea , and gave her leave to arrange the light closet next her room , hoping it would do her good . `` I wish I knew where all these pretty things would go when Aunt March dies , '' she said , as she slowly replaced the shining rosary and shut the jewel cases one by one . `` To you and your sisters .
I know it , XXXXX confides in me .
Amy Beth Catholic God Madame Mademoiselle day good-smelling rosary solacement