In a short time, each had its
cheerful fire glowing and crackling on the hearth, and reddening
the pale old wall with a hale and healthy blush. Nell, busily
plying her needle, repaired the tattered window-hangings, drew
together the rents that time had worn in the threadbare scraps of
carpet, and made them whole and decent. The schoolmaster swept and
smoothed the ground before the door, trimmed the long grass,
trained the ivy and creeping plants which hung their drooping heads
in melancholy neglect; and gave to the outer walls a cheery air of
home. The old man, sometimes by his side and sometimes with the
child, lent his aid to both, went here and there on little patient
services, and was happy. Neighbours, too, as they came from work,
proffered their help; or sent their children with such small
presents or loans as the strangers needed most. It was a busy day;
and night came on, and found them wondering that there was yet so
much to do, and that it should be dark so soon.
They took their supper together, in the house which may be
henceforth called the child's; and, when they had finished their
meal, drew round the fire, and almost in whispers--their hearts
were too quiet and glad for loud expression--discussed their
future plans.
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