But remember, I will not do
this until I am sure that you have done your part faithfully. This
is a miniature copy of the fountain I am willing to erect."
At a word from him Jacob quickly threw the covering from the
package which he had placed on the desk, and the boys exclaimed
with delight at the beautiful model of a fountain which was
displayed.
They surrounded it in an instant, and were quick to admire every
detail--the great horse with his shaggy mane on top, the tiny mug
hung at the faucets for wayfarers, the wide trough for horses and
cows, and the four little basins for dogs and birds.
"This is the model of the fountain you are to earn," said their
new friend pleasantly. "You may keep it in your schoolroom as a
reminder."
Just didn't these boys cheer. The schoolhouse fairly shook with
the noise and tumult they made. They gathered like bees about
their friend to promise him that they would earn the fountain
faithfully, and to thank him a dozen times over for the beautiful
books.
At this, Almira Jane, who had been listening with a happy smile to
the little speech, suddenly threw off the cover of her basket; and
there, lying on white napkins, were layers of the crispest
doughnuts and dozens of molasses cookies of her most delicious
make.
The boys needed no invitation to fall to, for the sight of the
dainties was quite enough; and Dick took care that Billy, whose
hungry eyes were looking in at the door, should have a share as
well.
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