The Happy Hollisters and the Mystery of the Little Mermaid

The Happy Hollisters and the Mystery of the Little Mermaid — page 7
The children’s attention returned to Miss Petersen who said Since you’ve never seen the Little Mermaid how would you like to look at a miniature of her Oh yes Holly answered eagerly The children left their seats and crowded about Miss Petersen She carefully opened the velvet case on her lap and from it lifted out the daintiest and most beautiful porcelain figurine that the Hollisters had ever seen Oh it’s precious said Pam The tiny mermaid a wistful expression on her deli cate face sat on a rock her fish tail gracefully draped over it May I hold her for a moment Holly asked If you’re very very careful the woman replied She explained that the figurine belonged to the Danish royal family I am a secretary for them and was asked to go to New York where this very fine replica of the Little Mermaid has been on exhibit I am now returning it to the Queen Mrs Hollister spoke up Perhaps the children shouldn’t handle the figurine she cautioned It’s all right Miss Petersen said I’m sure they won’t harm it As she handed the Little Mermaid to Holly the bearded man fixed his gaze intently on it and watched as she held the dainty porcelain piece close to her face Oh you’re beautiful Holly said She giggled I think I’ll put on a fish tail next time I go swimming Pam asked if she too might hold the porcelain mas terpiece After she and Pete and Ricky had handled the little figure Sue begged for a turn 10