"Now, my child," said the young man with an assumed air of dignity,
"first of all, you may commence at the beginning."

"When I was a little girl, my father bought for me some picture books,
which as I read, he explained to me. Next as I progressed further--"

"Well, what happened?"

"Next I studied the catechism, which I liked very much, then I commenced
reading the bible, a book which I love above all others, the new
testament especially. All that I do not understand my father explains to
me, and after he has finished, I go alone to my room, and as I read I
cannot refrain from weeping--But my tears are not sorrowful, I think
only of--"

"Of what?"

"I know not whether I should tell you that."

"Certainly you should; am I not your friend?"

"Well then--but do not speak about it to any one--I cannot help thinking
that if I had lived when our Saviour was upon earth, I should have been
one of the holy women."

"Who ever heard of such ambition! Why perhaps you would like to have
been the virgin Mary, herself?"

"Oh," exclaimed Nanna, turning her face, that she might conceal the