A young girl named Sarah Jane is enchanted by a beautifully crafted rag doll, gifted to her by her older sister, Serena. The doll, named Lily Rosalie Violet May, is a source of immense pride and joy for Sarah Jane, who is warned not to take it to school. Despite her sister's caution, the temptation proves too great, and she secretly brings the doll to school, where it quickly becomes the center of attention among her classmates. During recess, a boy named Joe West, known for his teasing nature, persuades Sarah Jane to let him hold the doll. In a moment of vulnerability, she relinquishes her grip, only for Joe to slip the doll into his pocket when the school bell rings. Distraught, Sarah Jane searches for Joe after school, but he avoids her. Unbeknownst to her, Joe's bossy calf accidentally consumes the doll while he is distracted. When Sarah Jane returns home, she faces disappointment and reproach from her family for disobeying Serena's warning. They believe the loss serves as a lesson. Months later, Sarah Jane receives a surprise package containing a new doll, purchased by Joe as an apology for the loss of Lily Rosalie. Although she is initially reluctant to accept it, the new doll captures her attention. On her birthday, Sarah Jane brings the new doll to school, becoming the center of admiration once again. However, she remains wary of Joe, determined not to let him take another doll from her. Years later, as adults, Sarah Jane and Joe reflect on the past, sharing a laugh over the events that unfolded. The story explores themes of childhood innocence, the consequences of disobedience, and the complexities of friendship.
By Mary E. Wilkins · First published 1896 · Genre: Children's Literature, Fiction, Coming-of-Age