"You need not be frightened! I will not scold you unless you are naughty.

Silly child! you look as if I were the giant in the fairy tale, going to eat you up for dinner.

Come and speak to this gentleman--he knew your papa." At this word her eyes brightened, her small steps grew more assured and steady--she advanced and put her tiny hand in mine.

The touch of the soft, uncertain little fingers almost unmanned me.

I drew her toward me and lifted her on my knee.