So out he took the shining copper coins, and gave one to Madame Von Holme, one to the captain, and reserved one for himself. "I am sure," said he, "we shall all prize them more than ducats of gold! As for the remaining kreuzers, one is for George, one for her mother, and one for honest little Margaret."
Madame Von Holme shed tears. "Ah," said she, "I shall ever preserve this as a memento of God's goodness; it will ever awaken in my mind old memories deep and tender, and enkindle fresh love to Him who guides and governs all."
The captain then made known that at his request his father and mother had resolved to provide for George's mother. "We have resolved to assist George with a sum of money, to enable him to settle at home; in less than a month all will be arranged."
My sister was sent for, and the colonel handed her the three kreuzers.—"Divide them with your mother and brother," he said, "and God bless and prosper you all!"
May the colonel's prayer be heard. Oh how grateful should we be, dearest mother, to that God who has so mercifully interposed on our behalf, and made us so happy and united, and looking at the past with all its troubles and anxieties, looking at the present with all its comfortable security, looking at the future bright with promise, should we not take up the words of the pious psalmist, and say, "Bless the Lord, O our souls, and all that is within us bless his holy name; bless the Lord, O our souls, and forget not all his benefits."
In token of our filial love, dear mother, we both subscribe our names. Your very affectionate children,
GEORGE AND MARGARET.
