CHRISTMAS IN ALASKA. 
277 
Mind," interrupted the Ghost, almost sharply, " I 
don't say anything against the good cheer and merriment 
at home. But there are many homes within a stone's 
throw of your chair where there will be no fine dinner, 
no presents, no meeting of friends, no tree, — nothing but 
anxiety and doubt and despair. Your dressing-gown 
would provide for several of them." 
Mr. Broadstreet looked meekly at the embroidery upon 
his sleeves. 
" What would you have me do ? " he asked. 
" Do you desire to perform your part tow^ard making 
the morrow bright for some one who otherwise would find 
it all clouds ? Do you wish to plant seeds of love and 
mercy and tenderness in some heart that has heretofore 
borne only thistles ? To bring a smile to some w^eary 
face, warmth to shivering limbs, light and hope to dreary 
lives ? ' 
" I do ! I do ! " exclaimed the rich man, eagerly start- 
ing up from his chair. 
" And are you ready to sacrifice your ease and com- 
fort, this stormy night, for such as them ? " 
Mr. Broadstreet seized his fur cap and ulster from the 
rack in the hall. Try me ! " he cried. I'm ready for 
anything! " 
The Ghost smiled pleasantly upon him, at the same 
time seeming to lift its hand involuntarily, as in blessing. 
Then he spoke for the last time. 
"Hitherto you have known only the bright side of 
