The New-Year's Bargain : Original Text

IT seemed a long month to Max and Thekla, but at last it was over.

The 31st of January came. Grandfather was tucked up early in bed, the fire was poked, the tin can brought out, and all made ready.

The children sat in expectation. At last there came a rap at the door."Walk in," cried Max; and February entered.

He was a short, thick-set fellow, with red eyes, a red nose, and a gruff, surly voice.

Very unhappy he looked just now; and when Max pulled up a chair for him, he sat down on the edge, and began,-"Unaccustomed as I am to public speaking,"-"Hallo!" cried Max, interrupting him. "That'll never do in the world. That's a horrid beginning: you must try again.""The brothers and sister believed every word of it; but Mamma put her tongue in her cheek, and gently pointed over her left shoulder with her paw.""Oh, must I?" said February, much relieved. "I thought I had to take pains with my language. People who 'address the young' usually do. Well, if I may go ahead in my own way it's all right: you've taken a weight off my mind.""I'm glad to hear it," said Max; "but before you begin, where's the gift?"