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Finley, Martha, 1828-1909

"Elsie's Womanhood"

What can I do to comfort you?"
"Love me, darling, and be good; you are mamma's precious little comforter.
See dears," and she held the photograph so that all could have a view, "it
is dear Uncle Walter in his soldier dress." A big tear rolled down her
cheek.
"Mamma," Elsie said quickly, "how good he looks! and he is so happy where
Jesus is."
"Yes, daughter, we need shed no tears for him."
"Dear Uncle Walter," "Poor Uncle Walter!" the other two were saying.
"There, papa has finished reading; go now and bid good-night to him and
Uncle Harold," their mother said; and they hastened to obey.
They climbed their father's knees and hung about his neck with the most
confiding affection, while he caressed them over and over again, Harold
looking on with glistening eyes.
"Now some dood fun, papa: toss Vi up in oo arms," said the little one,
expecting the usual game of romps.
"Not to-night, pet; some other time. Another sweet kiss for papa, and now
one for Uncle Harold."
"After four years of camp, prison, and hospital life, it is a very
pleasant change to be among the children," Harold said, as the door closed
upon Elsie and her little flock.
"I feared their noise and perpetual motion might disturb you," Mr.
Travilla answered.


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