"Give him to me, mammy," she said, seating herself by the open window; "it
is his mother he wants."
Little Elsie, ever concerned for her mother's happiness, studied the dear
face intently for a moment, and seeing the traces of tears, drew near
and, putting an arm about her neck, "Mamma," she said tenderly, "dear
mamma, what troubles you? May I know about it?"
Mrs. Travilla explained briefly, telling of Mrs. Carrington's trials, and
of those of other old friends and neighbors in the South.
"Mamma," said the child, with eyes filled to overflowing, "I am very sorry
for them all, and for you. Mamma, it is like Jesus to shed tears for other
people's troubles: but, mamma, I think it is too much; there are so many,
it makes you sorry all the time, and I can't bear it."
The mother's only answer was a silent caress, and the child went on: "I
hope nobody else will come with such sad stories to make you cry. Is there
anybody else to do it, mamma?"
"I think not, dear; there are only Aunt Wealthy, who has not lost any near
friend lately, and--Why there she is now! the dear old soul!" she broke
off joyously, for at that instant a carriage, which she had been watching
coming up the drive, drew up before the door, and a young gentleman and a
little old lady alighted.
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