"I am not a beggar, sir," replied the boy, as a tear trickled down his cheek. "My father was a brave officer in the army. Owing to illness, he was obliged to leave the service, and was granted a pension by the emperor.
"With this pension he supported our family; but a few months ago he died, and we are left very poor indeed."
"Poor child!" said the gentleman. "Is your mother living?"
"Yes, sir, she is; and I have two brothers who are at home with her now. She has been unable to leave her bed for weeks, and one of us must watch beside her, while the others go out to beg."
Saying this, the poor boy tried very hard to keep back the great tears, but they would come in spite of all he could do to stop them.
"Well, well, my boy," said the gentleman, "do not feel so unhappy; I will see what can be done to help you. Is there a physician to be found near you?"
"There are two, sir, only a little way from where we live."
"That is well. Now you go at once and have one of them visit your mother. Here is money, not only for the physician, but for other things to feed you and make you comfortable."
"O sir," said the boy, as he looked upon the gentleman in amazement, "how can I thank you enough? This money will save my mother's life, and keep my brothers from want."
"Never mind, my child; go and get the physician."