3 Diamond Mines

Chapter 3 Diamond mines A few weeks later, Sara received a letter from her father. It set the whole school talking.

"An old friend has offered me a share in his diamond mines," wrote Captain Crewe. "We'll be rich beyond my wildest dreams. It makes me dizzy to think of it." Then, shortly before Sara's eleventh birthday, she had another letter from her father. This one sounded quite different.

"I fear your father is not a business man," he wrote. "Each night I lie tossing and turning. I can't sleep for trying to work out the sums. I wish you were here with me." But despite his worries, Captain Crewe wrote to Miss Minchin, telling her to organize an amazing birthday party for Sara.

Sara was led into the schoolroom by Miss Minchin. Behind her came the servants, carrying boxes overflowing with presents. "You may leave us," Miss Minchin announced to the servants. "If you please, Miss Minchin," said Sara, suddenly, "could Becky stay?"

Miss Minchin jumped. "My dear Sara," she said, "Becky is a scullery maid. Scullery maids are not like young ladies. "But Becky is! Please let her stay... because it's my birthday." "You are too kind, Sara. Becky, go and stand there," said Miss Minchin, sharply, waving at the door.

The instant Miss Minchin had swept out of the room, everyone rushed to see Sara open her presents. There were books and hats, necklaces and tiaras- but best of all, there was a magnificent doll. Imagine if she could talk! You're always imagining things.