Mattew Jenkins stoped off at White's Toy Store after school as he always did.
That shiny new bicycle-his bick-was still there in the window. Matthew had set
his heart on that bicycle. It had sparkling blue paint, racing wheels,and even
a horn. That bike stood out from all the rest. But he knew he couldn't have it.
He had no money. Nevertheless, Matthew set out to find a way.
By the time the boy showed up at home, his family was already eating dinner.
Where have you been, son? his mother asked.
Uh...at...at school. Matthew stammered. He was too embarrassed to tell his
mather the truth. He had been helping his teacher with something.
That's strange, said Mr. Jenkins, because your sister Sarah told me that you
were at the toy store.
Oh, Daooy, Matthew cried, I've just got to have that bicycle in the window!
Can you give me the money?
Darling, his mother replied, you know your father was laid off from his job.
There's no way we could give you that much money.
But Mr. Jenkins had an ideal. Why don't you just ask Mr. White at the toy store
for a job? Mr. Jenkins suggested. Maybe you could earn the money.
The next day after school, Matthew ran to White's Toy Store. I'd really like
to get that bick in the window, he panted, but I don't have any money....I mean
, I'll work really hard....Can I please have a job?
Mr. White smiled sadly. I wish I could help you, son, but times are hard. I
can't hire you right now. Matthew was disappointed. He felt like giving up. He
turned slowly and walked out.
But Matthew didn't let go of his hopes. Even day he went to the toy store to
peer in the window and dream about the bicycle. Then one day he noticed the bick
was gone. The boy ran into the store.
Where is it? Where's my bike? He wailed.
Oh, this morning someone bought it, Mr. White explained. But cheer up, son.
I'll have other bike in soon.
Matthew's heart was broken. The boy walked home slowly. But as he entered the
fornt, his face lit up. Could it be? There in the living room was the bike! But
where had it come from?
Son, Mr. Jenkins explained, this is Mr. Roberts. He owns the hardware store
across from the toy store. He bought this bike for you.
Uh...thank you, sir. Matthew said. But why?
Mr. Roberts smiled. I'm just repaying a kindness, the man replied. You see,
when I was your age, my family was poor. We often had to do without. Then
someone bought me a train set-the most wonderful thing in the world to me. When
I saw how you kept admiring this bike, I decided to pass along the favor. I
hope you'll do the same one day. And as Matthew ran his hands across the shiny
new bike, he knew that one day he would.
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