"It appears so to you and me, my dear; but depend upon it God knows best. As you grow older you will learn, I hope, to trust Him more and more. It is difficult sometimes, when He takes from us what we love, whether it be riches, or home, or those dear to us, and bids us seek fresh interests in life. But we must be satisfied to let Him choose our path, remembering that He has promised to be with us always. As to that path—"
"Smooth let it be, or rough,
It will be still the best;
Winding or straight it leads
Right onward to Thy rest."
"Why, that is a verse from my mother's favourite hymn!" cried Marigold, a bright smile illuminating her countenance.
"It is a favourite one of mine too," the old lady told her, with an answering smile.
Presently Marigold mentioned Barker's mother. After a minute's reflection, Mrs. Adams remembered her quite well, although so many years had passed since they had last met. Marigold explained where Mrs. Barker lived, and all she knew about her, whilst Mrs. Adams made a mental note of the address, meaning to go and visit her old servant on some future occasion.
By and by Mrs. Adams asked the little girl if she would like to learn to drive, and receiving an answer in the affirmative, proceeded to show her how to handle the reins. Marigold was delighted, although at first she felt decidedly nervous; but Dumpling was a steady, well-behaved pony, and all went well.
On their way home they drew up outside the village shop, which was also the post-office, and Mrs. Adams went in to make some purchases, leaving Marigold outside. It was the funniest shop she had ever seen, Marigold decided, as she looked at the medley of goods displayed in the window—groceries and stationery, sweets and buns, clothes-pegs and brushes, all huddled together. She was smiling amusedly when Mrs. Adams reappeared and took her seat again.