Why can't I,
Mamma?"
"Perhaps you could; but my dear child, I am afraid you
wouldn't like the business."
"Yes, I should; indeed, Mamma, I should like it dearly, if I
could help you so. Will you let me try, Mamma?"
"I don't like, my child, to venture you alone on such an
errand, among crowds of people; I should be uneasy about you."
"Dear Mamma, what would the crowds of people do to me? I am
not a bit afraid. You know, Mamma, I have often taken walks
alone — that's nothing new; and what harm should come to me
while I am in the store? You needn't be the least uneasy about
me; — may I go?"
Mrs. Montgomery smiled, but was silent.
"May I go, Mamma?" repeated Ellen. "Let me go at least and try
what I can do. What do you say, Mamma?"
"I don't know what to say, my daughter, but I am in difficulty
on either hand. I will let you go and see what you can do. It
would be a great relief to me to get this merino by any
means."
"Then shall I go right away, Mamma?"
"As well now as ever. _You_ are not afraid of the wind?"
"I should think not," said Ellen; and away she scampered
upstairs to get ready. With eager haste she dressed herself;
then with great care and particularity took her mother's
instructions as to the article wanted; and finally set out,
sensible that a great trust was reposed in her, and feeling
busy and important accordingly.
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