Graham has promised
to come often to visit you, and with our boating and driving, and
pleasant friends coming to stay with us, I think we shall have rather a
nice summer. What do you think?"
Phil's face lighted up with a grateful smile, which grew into rather a
sober expression.
"I think it is all delightful; but--"
"But what, my dear; are you not contented?"
"Oh yes, more than that: I am as happy as I can be; but--"
"Another but."
"Miss Rachel, what becomes of all the poor sick children in the city who
have no such friend as you are to me?"
"They suffer sadly, dear Phil."
"Then don't you think I ought to remember them sometimes?"
"Yes, in your prayers."
"Is there no other way?"
"I am not sure that there is for a child like you. Perhaps there may be,
and we will think about it; but you must not let such a thought oppress
you; it is too much for a sick child to consider. Be happy; try to get
well; do all you can to make everybody about you glad that you are here,
by pleasant looks and good-nature. There, that is a little sermon which
you hardly need, dear, for you are blessed with a sweet and patient
temper, and are far less troublesome than many a well child."
"I suppose I do not deserve any praise if I was made so," said Phil,
laughing.
"No, not a bit; the poor cross little things who fret and tease and
worry are the ones who should be praised when they make an effort not to
be disagreeable.
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