human
O Max, said Lulu,
gpt
Humph, I should think so, said Max,
human
No, indeed! Gracie and I wanted a Christmas tree ever so much, and begged and coaxed for one, even if it was but a wee bit of a thing; but she wouldn't let us have it, said it was just nonsense and a wicked waste.
gpt
Just like her, remarked Max, in a tone of mingled aversion and contempt;
human
pulling it out and gazing on it with pride and delight.
gpt
Isn't it a beauty?
human
Yes; and I'm as glad as I can be that you have it, Max, Lulu responded affectionately.
gpt
And wasn't it good in him to give gold thimbles to Gracie and me? I shall try very hard to learn to sew nicely, to show him I'm grateful for it and all he does for me.
human
That's right, Lu; let's both do our best to improve all our opportunities, so that we will make his heart glad. And we can do that in another way, too.
gpt
How?
human
By loving Mamma Vi, and being as good to her as ever we know how.
gpt
I do mean to, for she is good and kind to us,
human
You were vexed at papa at first for marrying her, remarked Max, with a roguish look;
gpt
O Max! cried Lulu, her eyes flashing,
human
I don't believe he would, but Ann told me once she knew Mrs. Scrimp would be glad enough to take him if he'd give her the chance. What would you have done if he had?
gpt
I don't know, and it isn't worth while to consider, replied Lulu, with a grown-up air she occasionally assumed, much to Max's amusement.
human
But my writing's done, and I'm going to bed, for I'm tired and sleepy. So good-night.
gpt
Good-night, returned Max.
human
I sha'n't be in a hurry to get to bed, for it won't be worth while to get up early to catch other folks, as all the things have been given to-night. I almost wish they had let us wait till to-morrow morning.
gpt
Merry Christmas,