Stories from Heaven's Library - Vol. 14
For Young and Old
Featuring:
Jamie, Amy, and the Three Little Pups
In a Robin's Nest
The Kiss
JAMIE, AMY, AND THE THREE LITTLE PUPS
The river glistened and sparkled as it slowly followed its curving, scenic path through the Heavenly City. Jamie and Amy were on one of the river boats which ferried people up and down that majestic River of Life. Their hearts swelled with joy as they rounded every bend, eagerly taking in the breathtaking sights that were visible on the bank of the river.
"Oh, it's just wonderful," Amy said. "Thank You, Jesus."
"Yes, it is," Jamie answered. "Even though we've taken this trip many times, we still see new things every time. It really is a thrill!"
"Amy," Jamie thoughtfully said, "the school is just around the corner. Shall we fly the rest of the way? Then we can stop by our favorite fruit tree for a snack."
"Good idea," Amy said. "But let's not take too long because I'm interested in seeing our classmates' reactions when we tell them about our last trip to Earth and rescuing Little Brown--especially Mary and Terry. You know how Mary loves puppies."
"Yes," Jamie replied, "She always has some little pup, squirrel or cub around her."
When Jamie and Amy arrived at the school, they quickly ran to find the others. Just as Jamie was expecting, most of the boys were outside playing football and other games. But they all eagerly gathered round to hear the exciting adventures that Jamie and Amy had to tell.
Just then an angel approached. "Hi, children, how are things going?"
"Great!" They all responded cheerily.
"My name is Jason," the angel continued, "and I have a small request. You see, I'm one of the many guardian angels helping to look after a certain Family Home. Right now, one of the little babies in this Home is sick. A few of the Family members have just gotten together to pray for him, and in their prayer they asked specifically for him to feel comforted.
"So I brought this request to Jesus and He suggested that maybe two of you would like to go and help comfort this little one."
Eager to be of service, they all raised their hands. They knew that life's greatest joys come through helping others. The angel selected a team, thanked the rest of the children for their willingness to help, and continued on his way. He then explained more details about the situation to the two children he had chosen.
As soon as they had left, Mary turned to Amy and said, "You mentioned that at the dog pound where Little Brown was, there were three other sad little puppies, too."
"Oh yes," said Amy. "Lord help me. I was so into getting Little Brown back to Danny that I hardly had time to give them the encouragement and attention that they needed."
"Yes, me too," Jamie said.
Just then Terry spoke. "Well, isn't there something we can do for them? Maybe we can help find them a home, too, where they will be happy and have someone who can give them the love that they need."
"That's a great idea!" the others chimed in. "Let's go do it!"
Excitedly they ran to share their idea with their teacher. After clearing the children's proposed excursion to Earth with Jesus, he gave them some instructions, and sent them on their way. Jamie, Amy, Terry and Mary got together and thought of the dog pound and bing! They were there.
It was early evening on Earth. The caretaker had just finished filling the puppies' food bowls, and was now walking back over to his house for the night.
The four of them strolled over to the kennel where they found the three little pups with their heads buried in their food bowls, their tails wagging in contentment.
"Oh, they're so cute!" Mary said, as she passed through the bars and sat down next to them, stroking their fur.
The first one was light brown with long wavy hair and ears that drooped down over the sides of his head.
"I think I'll call this one Shaggy," Mary said, as she tenderly cuddled it. Then she stroked the next one. Its legs were longer, its fur shorter, but by far the most outstanding feature of this one was its paws. With his off-white coat and black splotches, his black paws made it look like he was wearing shoes.
"I'll call you Paws," Mary said, smiling. Then giving it a hug, she turned to the last one. "Oh, this one is so cute, it definitely has some Alsatian* in it with its pointed ears, such nice soft fur, white and gray and brown. Oh, I wish I could keep all three of you for myself. Well, let's see you can be called Fluffy. Okay, so we have Shaggy, Paws and Fluffy."
The others looked on smiling as Mary was naming the pups. Then Jamie said, "I think we need to start looking for a place for them."
"Maybe we could start with the little girl who found Little Brown and wanted to keep him. She really wanted to have a puppy," Amy offered.
"That's a good idea," said Jamie. "I think her name was Alice."
Arriving at her house, they quickly passed through the front door and went up to her bedroom where she lay fast asleep. Gathering around her bed they discussed different ways they could communicate with her.
Finally Terry, who so far had been rather quiet, said "Well, let's see if we can get through in her dreams first."
The others agreed. Mary leaned forward and whispered into Alice's mind, making her remember the fun she had with Little Brown. She then gave Alice pictures of her running and playing with a puppy all of her own.
Morning came all too soon as Alice was awakened by her mother's call. "Breakfast time, Alice! Get ready and come downstairs. The school bus will be here in 20 minutes."
Alice groggily* crawled out of bed, and headed downstairs. Jamie sighed and looked at the others. "It doesn't look like she remembers any of the dream."
"Well, we just have to keep on trying," said Terry. "Why don't Amy and I go with her to school, and you and Mary stay here to try and prepare her mother?"
"That sounds like a good idea," Jamie answered, and looked over at Mary, who nodded in agreement.
"Okay, we'll see you after school then," Terry said, as he motioned for Amy to follow him as Alice was leaving.
The bus ride was quick as the school was not far away. Not wanting to distract her from her studies, Terry and Amy waited till lunch break before trying again, and this time they seemed to get through.
Alice suddenly began feeling happy inside, as she thought of having a little puppy of her own. "But what will Mom think? Will she let me have a puppy?"
On the bus ride home, Alice couldn't stop thinking about how much she wanted a little puppy. She tried to think up different ways that she could ask her mom. Little did she know that Jamie and Mary had been preparing her mom's heart for it already.
Alice slowly walked through the back door into the kitchen where her mom was just finishing preparations for the evening meal. She sat down at the little round table that was off to one side of the kitchen and nibbled on some nuts that were in a bowl on the center of the table.
"What are you thinking about?" asked her mother. She noticed that Alice was more quiet than usual, and knew that something must be on her mind.
"Oh," Alice said, "I was just thinking how nice it would be to have a pet all of my own. You know, like a little puppy or something like that."
Her mom smiled. "That's what I thought you were thinking about. It's been on my mind too, all afternoon, and guess what? After thinking about it, I decided that maybe a pet would be good for you. It could help you to learn responsibility, and how to take care of others. I called around to a few places, and someone suggested we try the pound. So I called them, and they said they have a few puppies we could choose from. I've already made an appointment for this afternoon, and I finished up the cooking early so we don't have to be in a rush."
Alice sat there speechless. It was like a dream come true. She jumped up, ran over and hugged her mom. "Oh thank you, Mom! Thank you!"
"Good work!" Terry congratulated Jamie and Mary, who smiled back, obviously pleased with how well it had gone in arranging for Alice's mother to call the pound.
"Now remember," Alice's mom said, "you have to take care of the puppy. When it's hungry, you need to feed it. When it's dirty, you need to give it a bath."
"Oh, I will! I will!" Alice said. "I promise to be a good caretaker."
"Okay, go change out of your school uniform and then we can leave."
Alice dashed upstairs, changed her clothes, and was soon joined by her mom in the car. The ride seemed so long for Alice, as the car drove along the winding streets. With each passing moment, Alice's anticipation grew.
"Are we almost there, Mom?" Alice asked.
"Yes, Honey. Only a few more blocks."
Alice's heart pounded as they drove up the gravel driveway leading to the pound. The caretaker stood to one side. After exchanging a few words of greeting, he slowly led them to the kennel with the puppies, and opened the door.
The three of them scampered out, happy for a chance to run about. Alice played with them, stroked them, cuddled them, fed them, but couldn't decide which one she wanted.
Finally, pointing at the two that had the fluffier hair, she said, "Mom, I think I like these two the best."
Her mom looked over sympathetically. "Yes, I do too. But don't you think our house is a little small to have two dogs?"
"Yes," Alice said, "but I have another idea. You see, tomorrow is Ben's birthday, and since his house is right next to ours, what if we take one of the pups for him. We can give it to him as a birthday present, and then the puppies can play together when I go to visit him."
Alice's mom smiled. "You really think of everything, don't you? So, when are you going to give it to him?"
"Well, remember we were invited to his birthday party after school? If we take him home now, I can wash him, comb his hair and maybe even put a nice ribbon on him so he looks like a real present."
"Hmm," said her mom. "Let me just go make a phone call, and I'll be right back. Just stay here with the puppies for a minute."
"Alright, Mom!" Alice agreed, as she turned to cuddle one of the puppies that had climbed onto her lap.
"Okay," her mom said with a beaming smile, as she came out of the pound office. "Take the two puppies. It's time to go now. It's getting late and your father's going to be home soon."
Climbing into the car with the two pups tenderly cradled in her arms, she thought of what she would call them. Mary moved closer and popped a thought into her head of two very fitting names.
Alice looked up happily and said, "What do you think, Mom? This one can be Shaggy, and this one can be Fluffy."
"Great," said her mom. "But I think you'd better check with Ben about what name he would like to give his dog. But he might like your idea." She started the engine and drove off for home.
Jamie, Amy, Terry and Mary watched the car go down the street. Amy then turned to the others and said, "Wow, this is going better than we thought. Only one left--little Paws."
The sun was barely beginning to set over the little city as the four of them continued searching for someone who would love and care for Paws. From street to street and house to house they slowly glided along. They weren't looking for just anyone. They wanted someone who needed Paws just as much as he needed them.
It was then that they spotted two ladies out for an evening stroll. Drawing near, they could overhear them talking.
"I just don't know what else to do with Jimmy," one lady said to the other. "He's been with us at the orphanage for a week already, but he still doesn't join in with the others in any of the activities. He often just sits in the corner cuddling some toy. I wish I knew what to do for him."
"Yes, I know what you mean," the other lady said. "There must be a way to bring some spark back into his life. I think that more than anything he needs love, someone to hold him and comfort him and be his friend. But with 30 other young and active orphans, and just the two of us, it's hard to spend as much time with him as we would like to."
The two ladies continued talking as they unlatched the metal gate of a playground and walked through, then onto a porch and into a house. Jamie, Amy, Terry and Mary followed them inside.
The children were just settling down for the night, and the ladies walked over and thanked the helpers from the nearby university who had been there that day to help. Then they proceeded on up the stairs to prepare the classes for the next day.
Jamie, Amy, Terry and Mary walked over to Jimmy's bed. He was fast asleep, curled up in a ball under his blanket, clutching a teddy bear close to his chest. He looked about six years old and in definite need of comfort. Finally Amy spoke.
"I think Paws will be just perfect for him. You know, Paws has such a sweet and understanding spirit. I just know they would get along great."
"I agree," Terry said. "There's just one problem. They don't usually let pets into places like this, and it would be unlikely that the teachers would ever think of bringing Paws here."
"But they are concerned about Jimmy," added Mary, "and at this point I'm sure they would do anything to help him. So if there was some way we could bring Paws here and have Jimmy meet him, I think the teachers would see the good effect that he could have on him. Oh, I'm sure that they will let him keep Paws."
"It's worth a try," said Jamie. "I guess since Amy and I already have some experience in leading dogs, we could try to bring Paws here."
"Okay," Terry said. "Mary and I will stay here to see what we can do to comfort Jimmy's heart and prepare him for Paws' arrival. If you can, try to get him here by morning recess, as I think that would probably be the best time for Paws to show up."
"Okay!" Jamie said, as they floated up and flew back to the pound.
Daily recess was a loud and active event at the orphanage. No sooner would the bell ring than the doors would burst open and 30 rambunctious* kids would rush out to the little playground--and today was no different.
Jimmy was the last one out as he slowly walked, hands in his pockets and eyes toward the ground. Resting his hands on the bars of the gate, he sadly looked out into the street, almost as if he was looking out from a prison cell, when suddenly he felt something cold and wet touch his leg.
He looked down to see little Paws affectionately licking his leg. Being small, Paws had easily slipped through the bars of the gate, and now he found himself in Jimmy's arms.
Happily Jimmy stroked the little pup as he said, "You look just like the dog I saw in my dreams last night! You must be mine."
The bell had rung again, and as quickly as the kids had come, they went back into the school, leaving Jimmy on his own as he laughed and played with the little dog.
One of the teachers noticed his absence and hurried outside to look for him. When she saw him, she quickly called the other teacher.
"Look!" she said, "That's the first time I've seen Jimmy smile and laugh."
"Yes, me too," answered the other. "But where did that little dog come from? It doesn't seem to have a collar. I'll call the pound and see if they know anything about it."
The other teacher stopped her. "What if it doesn't belong to anyone? Is it possible that Jimmy could keep it? He seems to be attached to it already."
"Well, it is against school policy," the other teacher began, "but, I guess in this case we could make an exception, don't you think?"
"I agree. I'll call the pound, and see what they have to say." The other teacher then went to call the pound. The kind man was aware that a pup that fit the description had escaped the pound. He gave her permission to keep the dog as long as she got papers for it, which she promised to do.
As Jimmy laid down for his nap, the name Paws suddenly came to him. "That's what I'll call you! My little Paws."
Jamie, Amy, Terry and Mary praised the Lord as they saw how happy Jimmy was. The Lord had certainly blessed their little plan. Not only were they able to find a home for Paws, but they had also found a friend for Jimmy in his time of need.
"Jamie?" Terry asked, "I was wondering, how did you manage to get Paws out of the kennel? How did you do it?"
"Oh yes," Jamie said, "I hadn't really thought about what we were going to do until we got there, but when we looked at the latch, we found it had been left unlocked, and was still hanging open. So all Paws had to do was give one push on the door, and it opened easily. It must have been one of the Lord's little setups, as otherwise I don't know what we would have done."
Amy and Mary were sitting quietly on the edge of Jimmy's bed stroking his head. After awhile, Amy beckoned for the others to come nearer.
"Since things are kind of settled down over here, and Jimmy and Paws seem to be fine, why don't we pop over to Ben's house. I think it's about time for the party. I'd love to see how Ben will react to his new pet."
They all agreed and headed off in the direction of Ben's house.
As they slowly descended through the roof they could see the living room cheerily decorated with a big "Happy Birthday, Ben!" sign up on the wall. Streamers hung from the roof, and lights and balloons dangled in bunches all over the room and on the door-posts. Alice's mom and some other neighbors were busy taping up the last decorations while Ben's mom finished icing the cake.
His dad was also scurrying about preparing drinks, chips, and other refreshments. He was already wearing a tall, colorful party hat, and a paper trumpet dangled from a string around his neck.
"Oh, it looks like this is going to be a heap of fun," Mary said.
"Yes," said Jamie, "it looks like Ben might not even be expecting this party, as I don't see him around anywhere."
Just then they heard the horn of the school bus as it rounded the corner of his street. Everyone who had been busily working now rushed over to hide behind the sofa like a group of little kids. As the front door creaked open they all leaped out singing "Happy Birthday!" joined by Alice and Ben's many other friends from outside.
Ben stood in the doorway with a smile beaming across his face. When the song was done they all crowded into the small but homey living room for games and fun.
At last it was time for the presents. Alice quietly slipped out of the room as the others began presenting their gifts, and soon came back cradling a box in her arms. "This is a special present from me and my mom," she told Ben as she gently handed him the box. "And it will need a lot of love."
With a puzzled look on his face, Ben lifted up the lid that was loosely placed on top of the box, and peered inside. A shrill of excitement followed which quickly caught the attention of everyone present. He lifted up the little pup in his arms as the box fell to the ground. "Oh, thank you, Alice. I've always wanted a puppy! What should I call him, Alice?"
"Well," Alice said, "I thought of 'Shaggy,' but if you don't like it, you can change it."
"I like that name," replied Ben. "He certainly is shaggy. Ha!"
Ben turned and excitedly showed his puppy to the others in the room. Jamie, Amy, Terry and Mary smiled and laughed as Shaggy jumped out of Ben's arms, and began running around, enjoying the attention he was getting from all the kids.
After a while Jamie turned to the others and said, "I think we've fulfilled our mission here. It's time to go Home." They all agreed.
Mary slowly walked over to Shaggy to say goodbye. He was curled up on the couch, and was now obviously tired from the excitement, but she could see that he was happy. Stroking his soft wavy hair, Mary prayed, "Dear Jesus, please keep the puppies safe. Help them to grow strong and always remain loyal to their masters. In Jesus' Name"
With that, the four of them flew off--back towards Heaven.
IN A ROBIN'S NEST
Deep within a well-forested park, there grew a tall and leafy oak tree. Its trunk was strong and its branches grew thick and wide. On one of the lower branches sat a nest where two robins had started a home. Mama Robin had laid four small brown eggs, and she covered them night and day, keeping them cozy and warm. Papa Robin worked hard to find food for Mama Robin.
Finally, one day, the four little eggs cracked open, and out came four little baby robins. After a few days, they had all opened their big peepers, and were eagerly looking at the big, wide world around them.
Mama and Papa Robin gave them all names. They called the two boy robins Billy and Reddy, and they called the two girl robins Cherry and Chirpy.
Reddy was very red, and so was Cherry. Chirpy was the most active and talkative of them all, and Billy loved to eat. But all these little baby robins needed to learn better manners. They often fought among themselves over who would get the best food, and they didn't ever say "thank you" to Papa Robin, who worked so hard to find food for all of them. But one day, they learned an important lesson.Papa Robin was getting ready to fly out to catch some breakfast for everyone. This morning everyone was extra hungry.
"Papa, can you bring me a nice, fat, juicy worm?" pleaded Billy.
"I'll try, Billy," said Papa Robin, "but it's not always easy to find worms because they hide underground."
"I don't like worms," whined Chirpy. "They're too long and squiggly. Papa, can you just bring us some bugs?"
"No way," piped in Cherry. "Bugs will not do for me. I'd rather have some nice fresh berries."
"Children, don't forget to say 'Please, may I' to Papa. You need to remember that God supplies our food, so you need to learn to eat what is set before you." Mama Robin gently reminded her hungry brood.
But they kept going on, as if they didn't hear what Mama Robin had just told them.
"You know what I would really like?" said Reddy. "Some nice, crunchy seeds."
"Papa, I have an idea!" said Billy. "You can just get what everyone wants, then we'll all be happy, right?"
"Right!" echoed the others.
"Oh dear, what will we do?" whispered Mama Robin to Papa Robin.
"Maybe you can come with me this time, and we'll just have to see what we can find," Papa Robin answered.
Mama Robin usually preferred to stay at the nest while Papa Robin went looking for food, but today they decided to go together to satisfy the young ones' persistent requests. "Can you kids please try to be good and patient? Mama and I will be back with your breakfast soon, okay?"
"Okay," all the baby robins chirped.
And so Papa and Mama Robin went flying all around the park, trying to find some breakfast. Just then Papa Robin spotted a big worm wiggling his way across the grass.
"Come, help me catch him," he called over to Mama Robin. With that, they both caught the worm and flew back to the nest.
"Oh look! Papa found my worm! It looks like I'm going to get my breakfast first!"
"Listen Billy," Mama Robin told him, "this worm is big enough for all of you. Papa and I will keep looking, but in the meantime, can you all please share what you have?"
By now Chirpy was getting quite hungry, and the thought of eating a worm didn't sound too bad anymore.
Mama and Papa Robin left again to continue their search for breakfast. But, oh dear, someone didn't want to share.
"Sorry, guys, this is my worm! You all ordered something else for breakfast. You'll just have to wait your turn."
"But what if they can't find crunchy seeds anywhere?" Reddy worried. "Besides, I'm getting really hungry!"
"Me too," said Cherry. "Please, can we have some of the worm?"
"No, no, no! It's my worm, and I'm going to eat it all by myself!"
But Chirpy, Cherry and Reddy started to pull on one end of the worm, as Billy held on tight to the other end. Billy suddenly climbed up on the edge of the nest, hoping that it would help him to get the worm away from the rest of them.
"Oh, please get down, Billy!" said Cherry. "It looks really dangerous up there!"
But Billy didn't want to answer, because if he opened his beak he would drop the worm, so he just kept on pulling. But suddenly he slipped and fell off the edge of the nest. It was a long way down, and he landed with a "plop" on some soft grass.
"Oh no!" squealed Reddy. "Look, he's all the way down there! Is he hurt?"
"I don't think so," said Cherry. "See, he's getting up and walking around. But how will he ever get back in the nest? None of us can fly yet."
Their eyes scanned the woods in every direction to see if help could be found, but there was none. The only thing they could see was a tomcat coming their way. They remembered how Mama and Papa Robin had told them that cats liked to catch little birdies that had wandered off on their own.
"Oh dear, this doesn't look too good. I think we'd better pray!" said Chirpy. "Dear Jesus, please keep Billy safe. Protect him from any danger, and make a way for him to get back into the nest. In Jesus' name, amen."
Down on the ground little Billy prayed, too, harder than he ever had before. "Jesus, I am so, so sorry for being selfish and grabby and unthankful. I promise I'll do my best to learn my lesson. Please keep me safe, and help me to find a way to get back into the nest."
As the tomcat came closer, the baby robins suddenly saw a man appear from behind some trees. He was a quiet elderly man, who looked like he was the cat's master. The tomcat walked up to little Billy, and stood still for a moment.
"What did you find, Blackie?" the old man said, as he came close to where Blackie was standing. Then he saw little Billy, flapping his wings, trying in vain to fly. The old man loved birdies, and often read in his Bible about the Lord's love for birdies, and how not one of them falls to the ground without Jesus knowing.
"You look quite healthy and perky," the old man told little Billy, as he knelt down to pick him up. "Is your nest anywhere nearby?" Then he heard little Chirpy chirping away. She was so worried about Billy.
"Don't worry, Chirpy, Jesus will answer our prayers," Reddy said, trying to encourage her.
"Look," said Cherry. "I think the old man has seen our nest. He is reaching up to put Billy back inside! Oh, thank You, Jesus, for answering our prayers!"
"There you go, little fellow," said the old man, as he gently placed Billy back in the nest, and continued on his walk.
"It's mighty good to be back!" said Billy. "Boy, I'm so sorry, everyone, for being so selfish and unloving. I really learned a good lesson that it's important to share."
"I think we all learned a good lesson today," said Chirpy. "I really feel like a grown-up robin. We love you, Billy!"
"Come on, everyone," said Reddy. "Look, we still have a nice big worm to eat."
And so they all shared the worm with one another. When Mama and Papa Robin came back, they were so proud to see them all behaving so nicely. And when the baby robins saw all the yummy food that Mama and Papa Robin had brought back with them, they all chorused a big "Thank you!"
THE KISS
Many years ago, in the days when princes and princesses were as common as a tuppence*, there lived a princess by the name of Annabelle. Her royal parents had been delighted when she was born, for they loved little girls immensely. That was a good thing, for they were to have no less than four little girls--four princesses--all wonderful, delightful, talented girls.
Annabelle is the one which our story is centered upon. Goodness knows that each of these girls could have had their story recorded for posterity*; but why this story is especially about Annabelle is something that you will understand later. She was the firstborn, and a spunky thing, with a mane of lovely chestnut hair, straight as could be, and not a curl to be found, no matter how hard you looked.
Her sisters' names were Desiree, Giselle, and Frances, and sweeter, prettier lasses* could not have been found in any book of fairy tales! They were model princesses, with small dainty steps and ladylike manners. They had white hands and well-groomed hairdos, and dispositions* to match.
The four sisters were bosom buddies during all their growing-up years, for if there is one thing that being a princess in a big castle will do for you, it will draw you very close to your family members, as there are not many others to socialize with. (It wouldn't have been proper for any of them to get too familiar with the servants, so they mostly kept to themselves.)
Their favorite times were during the large balls* that their parents would host. These were always preceded* by weeks of preparation. The old castle was scrubbed from top to bottom, new drapes were made for the entrance to the great ballroom*, and the cook would not be seen or heard from for days. The only proof that she was still around was when the dishes* would be brought forth; they made the mouth water and the lips smack. No one had ever been able to resist one of Cook's specialties--least of all Cook herself, and she had the figure to prove it!
After all this preparation, the guests would begin to arrive--slowly at first. The bolder ones arrived early, standing in the courtyard or the magnificent entrance hall, only to be rushed up to by obliging servants, who relieved them of their wraps and showed them into the smaller gathering rooms which bordered the great ballroom.
From the time they were little, the princesses had loved to sit on the staircase and watch the beautiful ladies and handsome men, all dressed in their very finest, make their way from room to room. On these special occasions they were generally allowed to stay up very late, although they scarcely ventured down from their lofty perch.
At length they would make their way to their rooms, usually at Annabelle's prodding, as she, being older and therefore somewhat more sensible than her sisters, realized that it just wouldn't be proper to fall asleep curled up by the banister. And so they would reluctantly make their way into the delightful land of dreams, where they blissfully twirled and danced for the remainder of the night.
* * *
Years passed, and each one departing shed its virtue on the growing princesses. Their front teeth left and then returned; their hair grew longer and thicker; the dimples of childhood were replaced by smooth white skin and rosy lips.
One day, while looking at the lovely row of damsels sitting on the opposite side of the royal dinner-table, the king stopped in the midst of a bite of mashed potatoes. Lifting one bushy eyebrow, he pulled his portly* self out of the great dinner-chair. Immediately, two servants rushed up to him. One removed the white starched napkin that he always wore tucked into his shirt collar at meals, and the other pulled out his chair so he could walk freely.
The king placed his two hands on the table, and looked over at his wife. "Mother," he said sternly, as the girls held their breath, wondering what could be on his mind, "I do believe our little girls have become little women!"
The servants' lips twitched as they tried to control their facial expressions, while mother and daughters burst out into hearty --though very ladylike--laughter.
"I believe you are right, my lord," the queen returned.
"How old are you, my girl?" he asked Annabelle.
"I am eighteen," she said.
"Gracious!" the monarch exclaimed. Clearly his mind had been so well-occupied with the affairs of state that he had not spent much time keeping track of his daughters' ages. The king began to lower himself towards his chair, and the queen raised her eyebrows at the servants, who caught the hint and rushed forward with the king's chair--just in time to slide it underneath his portly hind. The servant, breathing heavily at this close call, returned to his place by the end of the table.
"You are eighteen," the king mused, plucking abstractly at his bushy whiskers. "So that would make you, Desiree, seventeen; Giselle would be sixteen, and little Baby would be ..."
"Fifteen!" Frances burst out, her blue eyes shining brightly.
"Why, yes, of course," the king said. "Well, sixteen is quite old enough, and I should say that you three older ones should be well-qualified to attend the ball next month!"
A wave of delight rushed through the girls, but then they stopped short. "What about Frances?" Annabelle asked.
"Oh, she is much too young!" the king said. "You can attend next year, little one!"
Frances' eyes filled with tears.
The three girls exchanged glances, and then Annabelle spoke for them all. "Father, we would prefer then to wait until next year, so that we may all go together. We couldn't bear to be enjoying ourselves if Frances couldn't come! May we wait out this ball?"
The king looked at the three determined faces before him, and then over to the queen. She smiled and nodded at him.
"Well, well," he said kindly. "Frances, it looks like you have been interceded for. You also may attend the ball, but on three conditions. First, you must not have anything to drink. Second, you must not dance with any gentlemen without one of your sisters close by and watching. And third ... come over here and give me a big hug!" Frances was already out of her chair, and leaped onto her father's lap. The other three were not far behind, and the two servants rushed up to catch and hold the big chair just as it was tipping backwards.
Where would they be without us? a servant shook his head in amusement.
* * *
The weeks leading up to the great ball passed in a swish and twirl of exhilaration for the princesses. The selection of evening gowns was the first thing to be tended to, and much thought was also given to the manner in which their hair was to be worn. And then there were the final dancing lessons--for no princess on the dance floor should behave herself in a fashion any less than such as to move all onlookers to marvel.
Before they knew it, the great day was upon them. Annabelle smiled. It was to be the happiest day of her young life--but, strangely, and though little she knew it at the time, it was also to be the start of a great opening of her eyes, and the cause of no small heartache besides.
It all began around three o'clock that afternoon. The maids were putting the last finishing touches on her elaborate hairdo, which was rich with coils and braids, and delicately sprinkled with milky white pearls. Annabelle gazed long into the glass, studying her face. As she did so, new thoughts began to come into her mind which had never been there before. Until this moment she had been carefree, happy and without a worry in the world. Now she would be going out amongst the many handsome princes and nobles of the land and other lands near and far. How would she measure up in their eyes?
The maids had retreated by now, and suddenly, her three sisters burst through the door and gathered around her dressing table, all talking and giggling about the festivities to come. Annabelle pulled her gaze up from the carpet and returned it to the mirror. As she inspected the four faces that reflected back at her, a sickening realization came with it: She was not beautiful.
"Oh no!" you may say. "She must just be putting herself down." But as Annabelle looked at her sisters, each seemed perfect and shapely down to the smallest detail. Their noses were fine, their complexions clear, their eyes lustrous* and their chins small and dainty. She, on the other hand, now saw that her nose was a little more on the large side, and a brown mole the size of a small fingernail resided on her right cheek. These things had never seemed to matter before, but now she was heartbroken.
The other girls suddenly paused in their chattering, noticing the downcast look of their older sister.
"What is the matter, Annabelle?" Frances asked.
Annabelle was determined not to show what she was thinking, and so she pulled her spirits up smartly* and gave them a good shaking. "Nothing at all, Baby," she said. "I am just fine. And we have only an hour till the first guests will arrive. Let us go downstairs and see how the ballroom is looking!"
* * *
The next few hours passed speedily, and by six o'clock everyone had arrived. The four sisters bunched nervously together in a corner as groups of elegant ladies and stately gentlemen stood and feasted on the dainties so elegantly displayed throughout the reception.
Finally, Annabelle said, "We must venture out! We cannot stay here all cloistered together. Why don't you girls go off together, and I will stay with Baby."
Frances puckered up her face in a mock pout at having to be "watched," but she knew it was her ticket to remaining at the ball, and besides--though she would never in her life have admitted it--she was rather relieved at having a reason to remain in the safety of her older sister's shadow.
Desiree and Giselle agreed, and soon were off mingling with the rest of the guests. Annabelle watched them out of the corner of her eye, and saw how the faces of the young men they passed looked upon them with curiosity and interest.
One sandy-haired man in a grey starched suit came and held a glass up to Giselle. As she took it graciously, he bowed low and kissed her hand. Frances and Annabelle exchanged glances and giggled.
It seemed that no time had passed at all before the dance music began to play, and the guests gradually made their way into the great ballroom. All, in passing, paused to admire the beautiful and costly new burgundy drapes that adorned the entranceway. The regular new drapes were a special trademark of their castle, and were always looked upon with envy by the ladies.
The musicians paused their playing while the king made his way to a platform at the far end of the room. In royal tones, he dedicated the ball to his four beautiful daughters, and introduced each of them by name. The girls blushed and looked down modestly, though they all loved being the center of such adoring attention from the enraptured* onlookers.
Then the music began again, and two minutes hadn't passed before the sandy-haired gentleman came up to claim the first dance with Giselle. Moments later, Desiree was also swept onto the dance floor.
Annabelle and Frances waited expectantly, and before long a finely dressed young man with the barest hint of a mustache looked at Annabelle. He drew near and bowed low, then said, "Madam, may I have the honor... " the man looked in her eyes, hesitated for a moment, and then continued his sentence, " of dancing with your young sister?"
Annabelle was the picture of courtesy, as she curtsied and nodded her consent, and the two floated off. But by now, her heart was heavy. Why had no one asked her to dance? Her worst fears were now confirmed: She was not beautiful, and therefore she had no future as a princess, for she would never find a prince.
A small voice within her heart nudged her gently, telling her that only five minutes had elapsed since the beginning of the dance, and perhaps she ought to wait for several more before she made up her mind that no one had the mind to ask her to dance. But Annabelle could not bear the thought of any further time rewarded by rejection, and so she quickly made her way over to where Desiree was, whispering in her ear to keep an eye on Baby, and then rushed hastily out of the ballroom.
* * *
The cool, moonlit evening night was a peaceful refuge for Annabelle. She paced through the garden and finally settled down on an ornate marble bench. Her eyes were misty, and tears moistened her delicately-painted cheeks. What had started as such a wonderful day had turned so very sour!
As the minutes passed in this most forlorn fashion, Annabelle suddenly looked up and caught her breath. At first she thought she was dreaming, for she saw a delicate, golden, glowing ball swirling through the darkened garden. Annabelle brushed the tears from her eyes, for this certainly could not be real.
But it was! Before her eyes, the golden ball materialized* into the shape of a beautiful woman, with long golden hair and delicate wings. Her garments were thin and flowing, of a soft shade of pink. In her hand was a delicate wand.
"Who are you?" Annabelle asked in amazement. "Are you a fairy?"
"Yes," the being answered. "I have come in answer to your request."
"But I didn't call anyone," Annabelle said.
"You did not call out loud," the fairy returned, "but your heart was calling me. Tell me your trouble."
"I have three sisters," said Annabelle. "They are the sweetest, most precious sisters that could be had, and I have always loved them dearly. But tonight I have come to realize that they are all beautiful, and I am not. And I have been flooded with feelings of envy. I find myself despairing because of the shape of my face! I stood in the ballroom and watched all of my sisters being swept onto the dance floor by charming men, and nobody asked me. Is there more proof needed that I am condemned to live a lonely, reclusive life?"
The fairy listened in silence to Annabelle's tale of woe, and near the end, placed her slender arm around her shoulders. "There, there, child," she said softly, in a voice that sounded like the gentle ringing of bells, "it will be all right, you'll see! I am here to help you!"
"To help me?" Annabelle exclaimed. "To make me beautiful too?"
"Well, let us see how things progress as we go along. Come, my dear!" The fairy held out a dainty hand to Annabelle, who took it hesitantly, and stood up.
"Where are we going?" she asked.
"Somewhere very special, my dear," the fairy replied.
The two stood side by side, and the fairy waved her wand in a wide sweeping motion above her head. Instantly the two were enveloped in sparkling stardust, and the dimly-lit garden faded from view.
Gradually the sparkling dust particles settled to the ground, falling like so many infant shooting stars, and Annabelle's eyes opened wide with surprise. "Where are we?" she gasped.
The garden had disappeared entirely, and the first thing that Annabelle noticed about her new surroundings was the fragrant* smell permeating* the air. It was like nothing she had ever smelt before--it reminded her of roses and lilies in full bloom, mixed with a chocolate-chip cookie fragrance. It was beautiful and delicious at the same time.
Looking down at her dainty dancing slippers, she saw that they were treading on a walkway of fine round marble slabs, with shoots of the greenest grass she had ever seen growing artistically in between. As far off as she could see into the distance there was nothing but lush* greenery -- trees, flowers of every shape and description, bushes, plants of all sorts. In the trees, multitudes of birds chorused in perfect harmony.
"Is this where you live?" Annabelle asked.
"Yes," the fairy replied with a smile. "Now come on in."
Only then did Annabelle notice that they had arrived at the foot of a tall, magnificent marble staircase. No sooner had they set foot on the first step than they found themselves inside a large room. The ceiling was as high as any cathedral, but the room still felt small and cozy, and very warm. An inviting fire crackled on a hearth in the corner.
"Oh, this is a lovely room!" Annabelle breathed. "And look at those beautiful curtains!" Her family always had a special eye for drapes! These seemed to have been embroidered with the finest taste, in colors so rich and deep that Annabelle felt she could not stare at them for too long without her eyes beginning to water. Flowers of peculiar shapes were represented in deep velvety blues and rich purples, and streaks of shining gold wound throughout. They were elaborate* in every way.
Her gaze moved smoothly around to the other fine ornaments in the room, and came to rest on a small coffee table in front of the fireplace. On top of the coffee table lay a large ornate volume with a maroon cover. Large golden letters were inscribed* on the cover, but Annabelle could not make out what was written.
Understanding that she was supposed to view this book, Annabelle knelt beside the table. It took both hands to open the large cover, and when she did, it seemed to open about a quarter of the way through. But this was like no book she had ever seen! As she gazed in awe at the smooth page before her, the words blurred and swirled around until they formed a picture.
To her surprise, she saw herself, sitting at her dresser table, with tears starting to form in her eyes. Then she saw her three sisters come piling in through the door. Annabelle could feel every emotion that she had felt at that moment, not many hours earlier.
She looked up at her winged friend. "What is this?" she asked.
"It is the book of your life, my dear," the fairy responded.
Annabelle's eyes lit up. Of course! Now she could find out what course her life would take, and she would have no more need to worry. She eagerly went to turn the page forward, but to her chagrin* she found that it would not turn further.
"What is the matter with it?" she finally asked.
"That is not what you were brought here for, my dear," the fairy replied. "You are not able to look ahead and see your future."
"And why not?" Annabelle answered hotly*.
"Because," the fairy replied tenderly, "it is not yet decided. What will be written in the latter portion of this book depends upon what you choose to write in there."
"Well then, why am I here?" Annabelle asked despairingly.
"You need to go the other direction-- back to the very beginning of the book."
Annabelle obediently began turning the pages back, stopping every so often when an image caught her eye that she wanted to partake of. It took her a good half-hour to get back to the front of the book, but she had a lot of fun indulging in some memories she had nearly forgotten.
At last she reached the section of her birth. But the fairy motioned her to keep going back further.
"More?" Annabelle opened her eyes wide. "What could possibly have happened before that?"
A few more pages back, and Annabelle let the pages tell her the story.
A large being of light formed on the page, and gradually the light faded to reveal a face so loving, so incredibly perfect in every way that she knew without a shadow of a doubt that it was that of her precious Friend and Savior. The figure on the page turned and, for a split second, looked straight into Annabelle's eyes, and winked.
She couldn't believe it, but before she could collect her wits, the action continued. Several other beings had gathered around Jesus. Some looked like regular people, while others had wings .... Annabelle turned to her golden-haired friend. "That's you, isn't it?" she exclaimed, pointing at the page. "You're not a fairy at all, you're ... an angel!"
"Yes, little one," she said softly. "My name is Amanda, and I am your guardian angel. But I know how to become whatever I am needed to be. Some people see me and think I'm a fairy. Others see me as an angel. Others see me and think I'm just another person, giving them a helping hand. But one thing never changes--I am always there with you."
"But what about the wand?"
"The wand is just a physical representation, but in reality all I have and need is God's power of love. But it helps some people to see an object that illustrates the source of power. Now don't forget your assignment."
Annabelle turned back to the book, just in time to hear a spirit being with a scroll address Jesus: "My Lord, it is time for the creation of another soul, and knowing how You like to be so personally involved in each of these cases, we have come before You for Your approval on our plans."
Jesus smiled, and Annabelle thought her heart would melt for all the love that was in that single expression from the Divine face.
"It is to be a girl, born to royal parents, and You see, here are the plans--her height and hair color, eyes green perhaps, feet small of course. Is there anything more that You would like to see on her?"
"She looks perfect to Me," Jesus said softly. "but let Me bestow one more gift upon her." He picked up the scroll, upon which Annabelle saw a lifelike image of herself, and softly kissed her on her right cheek. And a small brown mole remained. "This shall be a sign to her that she has been specially chosen of Me, and that I left this mark as a sign of My love to her. For that is where she was kissed."
Annabelle looked down and saw that she had another little mark on her left thigh and blushed, but her heart was filled with joy. She had seen all that she needed to, and the book closed without her assistance. She turned to Amanda.
"He made me just the way I am, didn't He?" she said in wonder. "And this ... " her hand rose lovingly to her cheek.
"Now come along, my dear," Amanda took Annabelle by the hand. "We must be getting back to the party, for you will be missed."
"The party? Oh, goodness yes! I had almost forgotten! Why, this should be the happiest night of my life, and I certainly don't want to waste it feeling sorry for something that I now know is of little or no consequence!"
Before Annabelle had a chance to think another thought, she was shocked to see herself back on the marble bench in the dusky* garden. But what a different frame of mind she now held! She could hardly contain her joy long enough to get back to the hall.
Gathering up her skirts, she dashed through the semi-darkness, only to collide with another warm body. As she attempted to pick herself up off of the grass, she saw a strong hand reaching out to her.
"A thousand pardons, gracious madam," came a smooth voice that sounded vaguely familiar. "I did not see you approaching so rapidly!"
She took the hand and stood up, curious as to who this person was. As he moved into the lamplight, she saw that it was the slightly-mustached man who had asked Frances to dance and had unwittingly* been the cause of her great distress. And yet, now she felt nothing but joy towards him.
"It's a pleasure to meet you out here," she laughed. "But what brings you out of such a lively party into the night's darkness?"
"Actually," the man said sheepishly*, "I came looking for you. Your sister saw you leave, and thought I might find you here."
"You came looking for me?" Annabelle could not believe her ears. "Whatever for?"
The man, whose name was Eric, linked his arm into hers as they strolled back in the direction of the palace. "Why, I have been watching you all evening," he said bashfully. "I had finally plucked up the courage to come and ask you to dance, but when I arrived, I was stricken dumb and all I could do was ask your sister. We did nothing but talk of you throughout the entire dance. By the end she had convinced me that I would not be refused, and I determined to ask you, but when I looked around I could not find you anywhere. And so I came searching."
Again Annabelle could not believe her ears. How misled she had been! She shook her head as she said, "How sad that I allowed myself to become forlorn, thinking that my life had no future, since I am not beautiful as my sisters are."
"Not beautiful?" Eric echoed. "Why, to me you contain the mingled beauties of all the goddesses of all time! And what is more, I watched your tenderness in caring for your younger sister, and saw your gentleness of manner. That is what I loved most of all. And ... " he stopped, embarrassed.
"What?" Annabelle asked.
"Why, you have a little beauty mark on your cheek," he said, "and every time I see it, it reminds me of a kiss."
Annabelle laughed out loud. "So it is a kiss," she said, shaking her head. "So it is!"
* * *
It was a day of great joy in the royal palace--a day like no other that had been seen since its beginnings: The marriage of princess Annabelle to the noble prince of the land across the sea, Eric. Her sisters were ecstatic*, and the servants hummed as they went about their chores--waxing, polishing, scrubbing and shining like never before.
In the midst of all the bustle, a knock came on the door to Annabelle's room.
"Come in," she said.
"It's a visitor for you, Ma'am," a portly servant ground out his words effortfully after his trek up the great staircase. "She's downstairs in the guest waiting room."
Annabelle put the last jewelled pin into her hairdo and swept down the stairs. As she entered the guest room, she saw a small woman looking out the window.
"May I help you?" Annabelle inquired sweetly.
As the woman turned around, Annabelle caught her breath.
"Amanda!" she burst out, trying hard to retain her well-bred ladylikeness. "Why, what brings you ... "
"I came to wish you all the best, my little child." Amanda put both of her arms around Annabelle, and kissed her softly on the cheek. "May you be happy always, and may I have as much joy in caring for your little ones as I have had in caring for you."
Before Annabelle could respond, Amanda was gone. But then Annabelle's eyes fell upon a conspicuous bundle which lay on the floor. It was large, and wrapped in silver paper.
Dropping to her knees, Annabelle pulled off the paper, and could hardly believe her eyes. Standing up, she pulled out of the package a set of large, beautifully-ornate purple-and-blue flowered drapes, with delicate twines of gold running through them. What a grand wedding this was going to be!
Definitions included throughout booklet:
* Alsatian: German Shepherd
* groggily: unsteadily, dazed
* rambunctious: disorderly, loud
* tuppence: two pennies
* posterity: future generations
* lass: a girl or young woman
* disposition: mood, consistent behavior
* ball: a social gathering or dance
* preceded: came before
* ballroom: a large room for dancing
* dish: a variety or special preparation of food
* portly: large, bulky
* lustrous: having a glow; radiant
* smartly: swiftly
* enraptured: delighted
* materialized: to become real
* fragrant: having a pleasant smell
* permeate: to spread or flow throughout
* lush: plentiful, luxurious
* elaborate: intricate and rich in detail
* inscribed: marked or engraved
* chagrin: disappointment, dismay
* hotly: in an intense or fiery way
* dusky: not much light; shadowy
* unwittingly: not knowing; unaware
* sheepishly: embarrassed
* ecstatic: having intense joy or delight
(End)
Copyright (c) 1998 by Aurora Productions