THE FLOWER GIRL

Dominion, Volume 23, Issue 80, 28 December 1929, Page 24

THE FLOWER GIRL

» • • Mrs. Chester sighed deeply. Before her lay a pretty little envelope containing an invitation to a children’s fancy dress ball on Christmas Eve. “I know the children would love to go,” she said aloud. "Clarrie could wear the Indian costume that he wore last year, but Violet ” and she sighed again. From across the road a gramophone started to play, and the tune of an old song raced across her memory. "Won't You Buy My Pretty Fowers?” hummed Mrs. Chester. Then, suddenly, she stopped. “Why, I know 1 A flower girl!” Violet Chester, clad in an old silk frock and carrying a basket of flowers on her arm, stood on the doorstep to wish' her mother good-bye. Then she and Clarence ran down to the gate. The children were kindly greeted by the hostess, who led them into a room filled with children, laughter, and the banging of crackers. Such a party it was! Both the Chester children had a dip in the bran tub, which was full to overflowing. Then came tea —Cream puffs, meringues, iced cakes, sweets. When It was over the hostess rose to make a speech. “I am going to give a prize to the wearer of the best dress, and I have decided that the winner is Violet Chester. Come here, my dear, and accept this little gift” Blushing, Violet dropped a curtsey and took the parcel from her hostess. “Three cheers for Violet,” cried a boy. “Hip, hip, hip, hurrah!”—By “Nut Mayde,” Ppngaroa (aged 11 years);