“If the jewel was not bright at first, what makes it so bright now?” inquired Ann.
“It has been cut and polished, and so it is with our souls. God sends them poverty or trials here, to prepare them to shine in his palace above! If the jewel had been a living thing it would not have liked to have been cut, but it would never have been bright without it.”
“I should like to know more about the Lord who cares for my soul, and bought it with his blood,” sighed Ann.
“Have you a Bible or Testament, my child?”
“No, ma’am.”
“Can you read?”
“No,” said Ann sadly.
“There is a Ragged School near, to which you might go and be taught, and hear about the Lord Jesus, and what he has done for your soul.”
“I know where the school is,” said Ann.
“Go, then, and you will be made welcome, my poor little friend. I do not remain in London myself, but I will leave with the teacher some clothes, and a beautiful Bible, which shall be yours as soon as you can read it.”