The Children's Pilgrimage by L. T. Meade
page 98 of 317 (30%)
page 98 of 317 (30%)
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half-sovereign for a rainy day, Cecile."
"That's what Mr. Preston said when he gave it," echoed Cecile. And then the kind-hearted servant hurried downstairs to complete her arrangements. "Maurice," said Cecile, stooping down and waking her little brother. "Get up, Maurice, darling; 'tis time for us to commence our journey." "Oh, Cecile!" said the little fellow, "in the very middle of the night, and I'm so sleepy." "For Toby's sake, Maurice, dear." "Toby shall have no yard of rope, wicked Aunt Lydia," said Maurice at these words, starting up and rubbing his brown eyes to try and open them. Ten minutes later the three little pilgrims were in the kitchen being regaled with cake and hot coffee, which even Toby partook of with considerable relish. Then Jane, taking a hand of each little child, led them quietly out, and without any noise they all--even Toby--got into the light cart, and were off, numberless twinkling stars looking down on them. Lydia Purcell, believing she had the purse in her hand, was sleeping the sleep of the sin-laden and unhappy. She thought that broken and miserable rest worth the money treasure she believed she had secured. She little guessed that already it had taken to itself wings, and was lying against the calm and trustful heart of a little child; but the stars knew, and they smiled on the children as they drove away. |
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