JOICE M. (second letter).--The several precious stones that are said by the Poles to influence the twelve months of the year, respectively, are as follows:--Jan., a garnet, representing constancy; Feb., an amethyst, sincerity; March, jasper (or bloodstone), courage; April, a diamond, innocence; May, an emerald, success in love; June, agate, health and longevity; July, cornelian, content; August, sardony, conjugal felicity; Sept., chrysolite, antidote to insanity; Oct., opal, hope; Nov., topaz, fidelity; Dec., turquoise, prosperity. For this Polish rendering of the question we have the authority of Dr. Brewer. JUDIC.--The jewellery distinguished as "rococo," is usually made up of several varieties of gems. Moorish decorations, and Watteau's paintings, are in this style; also in furniture, that of Louis XIV., which is highly gilded; and ormolu, are called "rococo." The term is of uncertain etymology. It prevailed more especially in France at the close of the 18th and beginning of the 19th centuries, and was extended to architecture and landscape-gardening. In the former it is a debased style, which succeeded the revival of the Italian, and was very much in vogue in Germany. S. E. H.--1. Yes, Charles Dickens did write a History of England designed for children.--2. Your handwriting is fairly good and very legible, though scarcely yet a "running hand." LULU.--There are classes held at least in three places in town for instruction in book-keeping, amongst other things, namely, at the College for Men and Women, 29, Queen Square, Bloomsbury, W.C.; apply to the secretary at the College for Working Women, 7, Fitzroy Street, W.; and at Birkbeck Literary and Scientific Institution, Bream's Buildings, Chancery Lane and Fetter Lane, E.C. Address the secretary. You might inquire respecting any book written on the subject at any of these places. MISS M. BANNERMAN.--There is a Ladies' Art Work Depôt at 251, Brompton Road, S.W., address Lady Eden. There is another Work Society at 31, Sloane Street, President, H.R.H. the Princess Louise; and a third, Ladies' Work Society, of which the depôt is at 185, High Street, Kensington, Hon. Sec. Miss K. Ford, Rock Moor, Yelverton, R.S.O., Devon. M. ORME and M. E. MORRIS.--There are certain questions that do not come within our province to answer. We regret we are unable to give you the answers you desire. MISERABLE.--Pray for divine help to break off your acquaintance with such bad companions, and go to your clergyman (to the vestry of the church), or to your minister, tell him your trouble and ask him to give you his advice and follow it. THE GIRL'S OWN QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS COMPETITION. _For particulars as to this interesting Competition, in which every reader will find it for her advantage to take part, see page 14 (No. 979)._ Questions 13-24. 13. When did the pianoforte first come into use? * * * * * 14. What is the most polite nation in the world?