The Pedler of Dust Sticks by Eliza Lee Cabot Follen
page 16 of 45 (35%)
page 16 of 45 (35%)
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himself, and made their work more easy and agreeable by his presence
as well as by his instructions. He was continually making improvements in his business, inventing new things, and so keeping up his reputation. He exported large quantities of the articles made in his factory. Every year his business grew larger, and he gained still higher reputation. Henry's fellow-citizens offered him some of the highest offices of honor and profit which the city had to bestow; but he refused them. The only ones he accepted were those that gave no pay. He was one of the overseers of the poor, and was always one of the first to aid, in any way he could, plans for the benefit of his suffering fellow- beings. He gave money himself generously, but was very anxious not to have his charities made public. He was one of the directors of the first railroad from Hamburg. He engaged all his workmen with reference to their character as well as their capacity, and no one of them ever left him. He was their best benefactor and friend. So lived this excellent man, as happy as he was good and useful, for sixteen years with his dear wife; they had seven living children; but, as I before told you, she had very delicate health, and it was the will of God that these two loving hearts should be separated in this world, as we hope, to meet in heaven to part no more. After sixteen years of perfect love and joy, he parted with his dear Agatha. Henry bore his sorrow meekly and patiently. He did not speak, he |
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