rom which
this extract is adapted, was published in 1870, and is one of her most
popular books.

1. Polly hoped the "dreadful boy" (Tom) would not be present; but he was,
and stared at her all dinner time in a most trying manner.

2. Mr. Shaw, a busy-looking gentleman, said, "How do you do, my dear? Hope
you'll enjoy yourself;" and then appeared to forget her entirely. Mrs.
Shaw, a pale, nervous woman, greeted her little guest kindly, and took
care that she wanted for nothing.

3. Madam Shaw, a quiet old lady, with an imposing cap, exclaimed, on
seeing Polly, "Bless my heart! the image of her mother--a sweet woman--how
is she, dear?" and kept peering at the newcomer over her glasses till,
between Madam and Tom, poor Polly lost her appetite.

4. Her cousin Fanny chatted like a magpie, and little Maud fidgeted, till
Tom proposed to put her under the big dish cover, which produced such an
explosion that the young lady was borne screaming away by the
much-enduring nurse.

5. It was, altogether, an uncomfortable dinner, and Polly was very glad
when it was over. They all went about their own affairs; and, after doing
the honors of the house, Fan was called to the dressmaker, leaving Polly
to amuse herself in the great drawing-room.

6. Polly was glad to be alone for a few minutes; and, having examined all
the pretty things about her, began to walk up and down over the soft,
flowery carpet, humming to herself, as the daylight faded, and only the
ruddy glow of the fire filled the room.

7. Presently Madam came slowly in, and sat down in her armchair, saying,
"That's a fine old tune; sing it to me, my dear. I have n't heard it this
many a day."

8. Polly did n't like to sing before strangers, for she had no teaching
but such as her busy mother could give her; but she had been taught the
utmost respect for old people, and, having no reason for refusing, she
directly went to the piano and did as she was bid.

9. "That's the sort of music it's a pleasure to hear. Sing some more,
dear," said Madam, in her gentle way, when she had done.

10. Pleased with this praise, Polly sang away in a fresh little voice that
went straight to the listener's heart and nestled there. The sweet old
tunes that one is never tired of were all Polly's store. The more she
sung, the better she did it; and when she wound up with "A Health to King
Charlie," the room quite rung with the stirring music made by the big
piano and the little maid.

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