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 'Wife,' said the old man, 'there's no harm in missy's just taking a look at 'em—eh?'

'Not a bit in the world,' bless her,' said the old woman; 'I know she'll go no further, and come back here when she's looked 'em over.'

'O, yes, indeed I will. Mrs. Stebbs, may I go?'

The old woman nodded assent, and I was soon before the window.

Splendid visions! O, the enviable position of Mr. Miller! How wonderful that he was not always playing with his toys, showing himself his magic lanterns, setting out his puzzles, and winding up his musical boxes! Still more wonderful, that he could bear to part with them for mere money!

I was lost in admiration when Mr. Miller's voice made me start. 'Wouldn't you like to step inside, miss?'

He said this so affably that I felt myself quite welcome, and was beguiled into entering. In an instant he was behind the counter. 'What is the little article I can have the pleasure, miss'—

'O!' I replied, blushing deeply, 'I do not want to buy anything this morning, Mr. Miller.'

'Indeed, miss, that's rather a pity. I'm sorry, miss, I confess, on your account. I should like to have served you, while I have goods about me that I'm proud of. In a week or two,' and he looked pompously about him, 'I should say in less time than that, they'll all be cleared out.'

'What! will they all be gone—all sold?' I exclaimed in dismay.

'Just so, miss; such is the appreciation of the Rh