Some of the rich are poor, and some of the poor are rich. Some
of the brightest died insane, and some of the dullest worked out
high positions; some of the very worst to bear have gone out, and I
frequently hear from others. Now I am here, able to remember it, and
mingle laughter with what used to be all tears; for every day I have my
beautiful work, and almost every day God sends some one like you to help
me. What is your name, my girl?"
"Elnora Comstock," answered Elnora. "Yesterday on the board it changed
to Cornstock, and for a minute I thought I'd die, but I can laugh over
that already."
The Bird Woman arose and kissed her. "Finish your lunch," she said, "and
I will bring my price lists, and make a memorandum of what you think you
have, so I will know how many boxes to prepare. And remember this: What
you are lies with you. If you are lazy, and accept your lot, you may
live in it. If you are willing to work, you can write your name anywhere
you choose, among the only ones who live beyond the grave in this
world, the people who write books that help, make exquisite music, carve
statues, paint pictures, and work for others. Never mind the calico
dress, and the coarse shoes. Work at your books, and before long you
will hear yesterday's tormentors boasting that they were once classmates
of yours. 'I could a tale unfold'----!"
She laughingly left the room and Elnora sat thinking, until she
remembered how hungry she was, so she ate the food, drank the hot
chocolate and began to feel better.
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