Elsie Leslie was nine years old, and was a great celebrity on the stage.

Jean was astonished and awed to see that little slip of a thing sit up at table and take part in the conversation of the grown people, capably and with ease and tranquillity.

Poor Jean was obliged to keep still, for the subjects discussed never happened to hit her level, but at last the talk fell within her limit and she had her chance to contribute to it.

"Tom Sawyer" was mentioned.

Jean spoke gratefully up and said, "I know who wrote that book--Harriet Beecher Stowe!" One evening Susy had prayed, Clara was curled up for sleep; she was reminded that it was her turn to pray now.