It is a mark of a good scholar to be prompt and studious. Such were the habits of little Jane Sumner. She was the youngest of three sisters, and from her first being able to read, she was very fond of reading; and at school her teacher became much interested in little Jane on account of her interest in study, and the promptness she manifested in reciting her lessons. Jane had a quiet little home and was allowed considerable time for study, although she had to devote some time in assisting her mother about house.

There was a very fine garden attached to Mrs. Sumner's residence, where she took much pleasure in cultivating the flowers. In the centre of the garden was built a summer house all covered over with grape vine. The broad leaves of the vine made a refreshing shade to it, and thereby shielded the warm sun from persons under it. This little summer house Jane frequently occupied for her study. In the picture you see her with book in hand getting her lesson. She arose very early in the morning, and by this means gained much time.

Little Jane, for her industry and good scholarship, obtained quite a number of "rewards of merit," which her schoolmates said she justly deserved. There is one of them with these lines:

On one day, she came running home very much pleased with her card, which her teacher gave herself and her little sister Emma, for their good conduct and attention to their studies. The card contained these lines:

Every good boy and girl will be rewarded, and all such as are studious, and respectful to their teachers, will always get a reward.

God never allowed any man to do nothing. How miserable is the condition of those men who spend their time as if it were given them, and not lent.—Bishop Hall.