28 THE FIRST GLASS OF WINE;

 

I will tell you a true story, that came within —
my own knowledge many years ago.”

The boys, delighted with the proposal,
took their accustomed places, and Mrs. Mor- |
timer began, | | |

‘Tt was a winter evening. ‘The pave- |
ments of the great city of New York were
covered with snow, and the wind whistled
shrilly through the streets. It was the
night before Christmas, and many a happy
circle gathered about the bright firesides

within the tall, brick houses; many a merry

 

game was played by joyous children, and — a

many a well-filled pantry was only awaiting
_ the morrow to be despoiled of its burden of |
gifts and goodies. :
: «In one house in “particular, gladness
and gayety seemed to reign triumphant.

It was not such a very handsome house, but |