170 BIRDS' NESTS. 



events wholesome, and, compared to the odour 

 of Mrs. Johnson's house, absolutely fragrant. 



" Good morning, Mrs. Square ; I am come 

 again on washing-day, I see." 



" Yes, Sir, and I hope you are likely to come 

 again; for it is washing-day with me, I am 

 thankful to say, every day except Saturday and 

 Sunday. My business is so much increased, 

 that I can find plenty of work five days in the 

 week, though I hire a neighbour to help me." 



" I am happy to hear it ; and, now that I 

 think of it, I have some good news for you : 

 the duty is to be taken off soap, so that you 

 will have it much cheaper. Honest people, 

 like you, will be the greatest gainers by the 

 change ; for I know that several persons send 

 you their washing, because you never use any 

 of the bleaching-powders which do so much 

 mischief to the clothes ; and now you will be 

 able to wash with as little expense as those 

 who do use them." 



" That is good news, indeed, Sir ; and now 



