78 Tom Seven Years Old.

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“T know he can,” said his aunt; “for he
wrote a letter to the Queen not long ago.”
“Why,” cried Tom, looking up, “that’s
what I did. How funny !”
“Well,” said she; “and I bought it for

3

you.

“Did you?” asked Tom, delighted. “ You
have guessed right! When I saw Bobs, I
wanted one at once exactly like it; and it Is,
I do believe.”

“Not quite,” said Bob. “I have examined.
The key is a little different in shape, and my
sealing-wax is black, and not red.”

“But I think mine is the prettiest!” cried
Tom. “Oh! I do hope Richard and-the
gardener will like their presents as much as |
like mine.”

“Tam quite sure they will,” said his aunt.

“Are you?” answered Tom, kissing her.
“Then I'll not be afraid. You’ve guessed
right once, so it’s not likely you would guess
wrong a second time; is it ?”

Tom wanted very much to see his mamma,

and his hen, and his rabbits, and Richard,