78 LAST AND WORST.

knows my heart save myself, and him who knoweth
all things; so no one can know how often I fail in all
my endeavours to be and to do what I desire. But my
heavenly Father, through his mercy in Christ Jesus,
has compassion on my weakness, and gives me the
earnest, constant desire to serve and to please him. He
pardons my manifold transgressions, and comforts me
with assurances of his love and care towards all those
who sincerely wait upon him.”

“Well, Maurice,” said Frank, “I would like to be
as good as you, and after the circus I am going to try
again, but I cannot give up that now, so good-bye.”
And off ran Frank to join the circus party.

The birth-day fete mentioned just now, was a little
festival which Mr. Harding held every year on the birth-
day of his little twin daughters, Minna and Rose.

Many of the children, with their parents, and other
friends of Mr. Harding from the village and neighbour-
ing country-seats, with all the pupils, were invited to
attend. A table was spread on the lawn under the
shade of the lofty elms. Various games were played
in which old and young participated, and everything
was done by Mr. and Mrs. Harding to make the jubilee
pleasant to the guests.
~ Minna and Rose, queens of the day, were crowned
with wreaths of flowers, and presided at the feast.
They also received from their parents and many of the
visitors, useful and beautiful gifts,