Edward got up early on the New Year morning. He ran into the street to say "Happy New Year" to people he might meet. When he came back, his father gave him two bright, new silver dollars. He had wished for a long time to buy some pretty books that he had seen at the bookstore.
He left the house with happiness, expecting to buy the books. As he ran down the street , he saw a poor family.
"I wish you a happy New Year, "said Edward, as he was happily walking on. The man shook his head.
"You are not from this country?" ask Edward. The man shook his head, for he couldn't understand or speak Edward's language. But he pointed to his mouth, and to the children shaking with cold, as if to say, "these little kids have had nothing to eat for a long time. "Edward quickly understood that these poor people were in need. He took out his dollars, and gave one to the man and the other to his wife.
They were excited and said something in their language, which meant, "We thank you so much that we will remember you all the time. " When Edward came home, his father asked about the books he had bought.
"I haven't bought books, " said Edward. "I gave some money to some poor people. " He went on, "I think I can wait for my books till next New Year. "
"My dear boy, " said his father, "here are some books for you. I saw you give the money cheerfully to the poor German family. It was nice of a little boy to do so. Be always ready to help others and every year will be a Happy New Year. "