of his, "Well, child, how goes it?" "Pretty well,
sir." "That's brave"; and with his warm handshake he went on, leaving
me both proud and happy, though I have my trials. He is like a great
fire where all can come and be warmed and comforted. Bless him!

Had a talk at tea about him, and fought for him when W. R. said he was
not a Christian. He is my _sort_; for though he may lack reverence for
other people's God, he works bravely for his own, and turns his back on
no one who needs help, as some of the pious do.

_Monday, 14th_.--May came full of expectation and joy to visit good
aunt B. and study drawing. We walked about and had a good home talk,
then my girl went off to Auntie's to begin what I hope will be a
pleasant and profitable winter. She needs help to develop her talent,
and I can't give it to her.

Went to see Forrest as Othello. It is funny to see how attentive all
the once cool gentlemen are to Miss Alcott now she has a pass to the
new theatre.

_November 29th_.--My birthday. Felt forlorn so far from home. Wrote
all day. Seem to be getting on slowly, so should be contented. To a
little party at the B.'s in the eve. May looked very pretty, and
seemed to be a favorite. The boys teased me about being an authoress,
and I said I'd be famous yet. Will if I can, but something else may be
better for me.

Found a pretty pin from father and a nice letter when I got home. Mr.
H. brought them with letters from mother and Betty, so I went to bed
happy.

_December_.--Busy with Christmas and New Year's tales. Heard a good
lecture by E. P. Whipple on "Courage." Thought I needed it, being
rather tired of living like a spider--spinning my brains out for money.

Wrote a story, "The Cross on the Church Tower," suggested by the tower
before my window.

Called on Mrs. L., and she asked me to come and teach A. for three
hours each day. Just what I wanted; and the children's welcome was
very pretty and comforting to "Our Olly," as they called me.

Now board is all safe, and something over for home, if stories and
sewing fail. I don't do much, but can send little comforts to mother
and Betty, and keep May neat.

_December 18th_.--Begin with A. L., in Beacon Street. I taught C. when
we lived in High Street, A. in Pinckney Street, and now Al; so I seem
to be an institution and a success, since I can start the boy, teach
one girl, and take care of the little invalid. It is hard work, but I
can do it; an