With a tragic gesture, Marie was about to adjust the pompon when the
quick tap of a crutch came down the hall, and Lizzie hurried in,
flushed and breathless, but smiling happily as she uncovered the box
she carried with a look of proud satisfaction.
A general "Ah!" of admiration arose as Belle, mamma, and Marie
surveyed the lovely wreath that lay before them; and when it was
carefully arranged on the bright head that was to wear it, Belle
blushed with pleasure. Mamma said: "It is more beautiful than any
Paris could have sent us;" and Marie clasped her hands theatrically,
sighing, with her head on one side:
"Truly, yes; mademoiselle is now adorable!"
"I am so glad you like it. I did my very best and worked all night,
but I had to beg one spray from Estelle, or, with all my haste, I
could not have finished in time," said Lizzie, refreshing her weary
eyes with a long, affectionate gaze at the pretty figure before her.
A fold of the airy skirt was caught on one of the blue clusters, and
Lizzie knelt down to arrange it as she spoke. Belle leaned toward
her and said softly: "Money alone can't pay you for this kindness;
so tell me how I can best serve you.
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