It seems as if I'd tried about a thousand New Years and birthdays to turn over that leaf." Grandma smiled, but did not interrupt Susy.
"I think I should be real good," continued the child, "if it wasn't such hard work.

I can't be orderly, grandma--not much; and then Dotty upsets everything.

Sometimes I have to hold my breath to keep patient.
"Well, grandma, my birthday comes to-morrow, the 8th of April.

I like it well enough; only there's one reason why I don't like it at all, and that is a Bible reason.

It's so dreadful that I can't bear to say it to you," said Susy, shuddering, and lowering her voice to a whisper; "I don't want to grow up, for I shall have to marry Freddy Jackson." Grandma tried to look serious.
"Who put such a foolish idea into thy head, child ?" "Cousin Percy told me last night," answered Susy, solemnly.