1 "I'm sorry, Abby," said Mom as she sat next to her on her daughter's bed. "I think your cold is bad enough to keep you from going to the birthday party today."
2 "But, Mom," said Abby, "my throat is not as sore as it was yesterday."
3 "I want you to be a whole lot better before you go out anywhere," said Mom. "Until then, you need to stay home."
4 Abby's throat felt tight, and tears came to her eyes. It wasn't fair. She had waited so long for Carol's birthday to come, and now she was going to miss it!
5 "May I go downstairs?" asked Abby.
6 "Sure," said Mom. "Maybe you would like to help me pack some boxes of old dresses and things to go to charity. I don't have room for them anymore. Perhaps we will find something you would like to have."
7 "What about Carol's gift?" Abby asked, suddenly remembering it.
8 "Don't worry, dear," said Mom. "I sent it with your brother. He will tell Carol why you can't come to the party."
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