Norwich bulletin., 1910-12-24
MARJORIE FLEMING'S CHRISTMAS

ng-machine, wh1cn was her main de-
 pendence. But Christmas was ap-
 preaching, and nothing had been heard from her husband, and she found her self losing heart and hope as day after day went by in rapid succession. To- day she was especially depressed, for, returning with her work for the day, so many happy faces and busy throngs of Christmas shoppers had passed her on the street and the lovely goods at
 tractively displayed made her wish she could have some of them for her darl-
 ing boy. And now she feared her strength and courage were failing her, and if they gave way what would be- come of them. So once more she reused herself to the task and tried to make the most of the little daylight remaining to her But all her efforts could not revive her Tagging strength, and with final prayer for help she
 sank forward on the machine and be- came ohlivious to her surroundings.
 Softly the door opened and in crept cautiously a trio of Kings Daughters, bent on conveying Christmas cheer to many lonely hearts. Marjorie would never have told her needs, but a kin neighbor had directed attention to her; hence the invasion of these guests, while at their heels came a young lad bearing a well-laden bask- ct of supplies. One glance about the room revealed the need of help, and looks of tender sympathy were eX- changed among the visitors as gentle hands revived the weary worker and cared for the infant who was loudly protesting against the seeming neglect of his usually devoted mother So busy were they about their tasks that they did not notice the entrance of an-
 oher actor upon the scene, until he made his presence known by an ejac- ulation of surprise more forcible than
 elegant. Great Scotti Can this be my Marjorie! and I've searched for her all day. What can it mean!" The sound of that voice did more for Mar
 iorie than all else, and with a cry of joy she reeled toward the manly fig
 ure who caught her in his arms, ex- claiming again, What does it mean, Wife! How can you have been brought to this state of things!"
 A few words revealed the identity or the stranger, and the Kings Daughters
 turned to go feeling themselves no longer needed. Not, however, until Tom Fleming had obtained their names and thanked them heartily for what they had done, giving them, their Christmas work. But what have we here?' asked Tom, as he took in for the first time the cradle and it's occupant Your Christmas present, if you please, Tom junior" responded Marjorie, as she introduced her son to
  fort to me; but for him should have given up long ago"
 Far into the night they talked, clear ing all the tangles of the past year, T felt sure you would come for Christmas, Tom, and I do not see how I happened to give out so suddenly, and there is my work that should have been returned" Work be hangedl" :" said Tom fiercely. No more work for my Marjorie for many a day"
 A merry Christmas they had, after all, with the friendly Kings Daugh- ters as their guests in the comfortable quarters where Tom made it his first duty to install his wife and boy, and Marjorie forgot all her sorrows in the joy of returning happiness and pros ! perity Twill make me more thoughtful for others, Tom,'' she said, ito have known all this trial and hard work and poverty and grief" T am sure of one thing" replied Tom, 'I'I
 never leave you to your own devices again. no matter what inducement may be offered me. One year of separation is enough for a lifeline. Thank God I came when l did"
 AN IDLER.