HALCYON DAYS.

long row of bee-hives stood beneath a window overhung
with honeysuckle and jasmine.
 "And how is little Mary to-day, Mrs. Graysley ?"
asked Miss Forster, as the good woman came out
curtseying to assist her and the children from the
chaise.
 Much better, thank you kindly, ladies; she's get-
ting on finely now. I'm sure we're very much beholden
to you for your goodness in coming to see her; but
pray come in and sit down, ma'am."
 The little girl was propped up by pillows in a low
comfortable chair, and at her feet lay a large and rather
ugly dog-ugly, except in the expression of his honest
face and mild eyes, which were fixed on the counte-
nance of his young mistress, whose every movement he
watched. Her pale face lighted up with a smile of
welcome, as the visitors entered, and her dim eyes
quite sparkled with delight, when Minnie unwrapped
the paper parcel she carried, and presented a pretty
doll to her.
 "There, Mary," said the little girl, you said
last week you wished you had one-do you like
this ? "
 "Oh it is so beautiful !" laughed the child, I
never saw anything so beautiful before."
 "Yes, it is rather prettier than this ugly old dog
you have always by your side," said Louisa, glancing
disdainfully at the poor animal.
 "Don't speak so of poor Rover, please don't; and
Mary's eyes filled with tears.
 No, miss," said Mrs. Graysley, pray don't; for
we look upon him as a dear friend."
 "A faithful dog has a right to be considered such,"
observed Miss Forster; "but has Rover shown his
attachment in any very striking manner ?"