At ten minutes to three James rang the bell. Isabel answered the door, invited them in, and took their coats just like they were real rich ladies and gentlemen. Betsy looked around her with eyes wide open with wonder. "What a beautiful house," she said softly. "Yes it is," said Miss Pettigrew, who just then stepped into the hall way. "I welcome you to my home. Dinner is not yet ready, so shall we go into the living room?" She led them to a double door at the end of the hall, which she opened to reveal a large room in which stood the biggest and most beautifully decorated Christmas tree Betsy and James had ever seen. "I think there might be something under the tree for you two." said Miss Pettigrew. "Why don't you look while I

speak to your parents for a moment." And while Betsy and James went to the pile of parcels by the tree, she led Mother and Father from the room. "I have something to propose to you..." and that was all Betsy heard. "Here is a parcel with your name," said James, handing her a big red and gold box. Betsy opened it carefully, not wanting to tear the lovely paper. "Ooooh," she breathed in wonder as she lifted out a doll with blue eyes and golden hair wearing a lacy blue dress. "This is the most beautiful doll ever in the whole world!" There were more parcels: James got a new shirt, Betsy a new dress, and there were many more toys and games.

Betsy and James were busy playing when the doors opened and little Mimi came running in. She was followed by Mother and Father, who were both wiping tears from their eyes. "Why are you crying?" asked Betsy. "We are crying from happiness dear," said Mother. "Miss Pettigrew has made us a most kind and wonderful offer. Father is to come and work for her and we will all live here in the house." "In this beautiful house?" Betsy couldn't believe her ears. "Yes, right here," said Father." There is a whole apartment upstairs for us with bedrooms for each of you, and a separate living room and kitchen. But now it is time for dinner, but

first, if everyone will take a glass of punch." And they all took a glass from the punch bowl with nonalcoholic punch, and then Father made a toast: "To Mimi, our little Christmas Angel"