Only if the sun happened to shine at given moments could any of its light fall directly into the room I speak of; this afternoon, however, all circumstances were favourable, and behold the floor chequered with uncertain gleam.

The workers were arranged in groups of three, called 'parties,' consisting of a learner, an improver, and a hand.

All sat with sleeves pushed up to their elbows, and had a habit of rocking to and fro as they plied their mechanical industry.

Owing to the movement of a cloud, the sunlight spread gradually towards one of these groups; it touched the skirt, the arms, the head of one of the girls, who, as if gladdened by the kindly warmth, looked round and smiled.

A smile you would have been pleased to observe--unconscious, gently thoughtful, rich in possibilities of happiness.