ey, plate, and
jewels; but as it was thought then too late, they all agreed to defer
it till the next night. After laying his scheme, they all set out upon
their pranks, which greatly rejoiced Margery, as it would any other
little girl in her situation. Early in the morning she went to Sir
William, and told him the whole of their conversation. Upon which he
asked her name, then gave her something, and bid her call at his house
the day following. She also went to Sir Timothy, notwithstanding he
had used her so ill, for she knew it was her duty to do good for evil.
As soon as he was informed who she was, he took no notice of her; upon
which she desired to speak to Lady Gripe, and having informed her
ladyship of the affair she went away. This lady had more sense than
her husband which indeed is not a singular case; for instead of
despising Little Margery and her information, she privately set people
to guard the house. The robbers divided themselves, and went about the
time mentioned to both houses, and were surprised by the guards and
taken. Upon examining these wretches (one of which turned evidence),
both Sir William and Sir Timothy found that they owed their lives to
the discovery made by Little Margery; and the first took great notice
of her and would no longer let her lie in a barn; but Sir Timothy only
said that he was ashamed to owe his life to the daughter of one who
was his enemy; so true it is, "That a proud man seldom forgives those
he has injured."

IX

HOW LITTLE MARGERY WAS MADE PRINCIPAL OF A COUNTRY COLLEGE

Mrs. Williams, who kept a college for instructing little gentlemen and
ladies in the science of A, B, C, was at this time very old and
infirm, and wanted to decline this important trust. This being told to
Sir William Dove, who lived in the parish, he sent for Mrs. Williams,
and desired she would examine Little Two-Shoes, and see whether she
was qualified for the office. This was done, and Mrs. Williams made
the following report in her favor, namely, that Little Margery was the
best scholar, and had the best head and the best heart of any one she
had examined. All the country had a great opinion of Mrs. Williams,
and this character gave them also a great opinion of Mrs. Margery, for
so we must now call her.

This Mrs. Margery thought the happiest period of her life; but more
happiness was in store for her. God Almighty heaps up blessings for
all those who love him, and though for a time he