Linden's presence. Tears were
rolling down her cheeks and her face had a look of sorrow and reverence.
Mrs. Linden was at once moved to pity. She did not wish to disturb her,
but as the child arose, she said softly: "You seem sad, my little one!
Why do you cry?"
"I lost my father a year ago, and a few days ago they buried my mother,"
said the child, as the tears rolled the faster.
"And for what did you pray so earnestly?" asked Mrs. Linden.
"I asked for help. 'Tis true I have some relatives in the city, and I
would like one of them to take me. The clergyman says that it is their
duty, but they do not want the trouble. I can't blame them, for they
have children enough of their own."
"Poor child," said Mrs. Linden, "no wonder you feel sad."
"Truly, I was much sadder when I entered this cathedral," said the girl,
"but all at once I feel much better."
These words pressed on Mrs. Linden's heart and she said, in a motherly
way, "I think that God has answered your prayer. Come with me."
"But where? For I must return to my house."
"Let us go to the clergyman. I know him well, and I will ask his
advice," continued Mrs. Linden. Then she offered her hand to the child,
and led the way.
The aged clergyman arose with astonishment from his chair, as he saw the
woman enter with this child.
Mrs. Linden explained to him how and where she had met the little one,
at the same time asking the girl to step aside while she engaged the old
man in quiet conversation.
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