The poor mother brushed the back of one work-hardened hand across her eyes, and tried to smile.
"We didn't notice anything wrong with her until a year or so ago," she said, encouraged by the kindly interest on Marian's face to continue the conversation. "We thought her backward-like; and James—that's my husband—don't like to think she isn't like other children even now, he's that fond of her."
"I can understand it. Perhaps her mind will strengthen as she grows older. She is in God's hands, and He will take care of her. You must always remember that."
Mrs. Lethbridge made no answer, but she sighed, and the tears welled up into her eyes again. She began to sway the baby to and fro on her arm. He was a bright looking child, and he crowed merrily, and laughed in his mother's face.
"Will you please step inside, miss?" Mrs. Lethbridge asked.
"Not to-day, thank you; but I will come to see you soon, when you are really settled in your new home, and make the acquaintance of your other children."
"The boys are gone to school, miss. I sent them at once to keep them out of mischief."
Marian laughed, and at that moment Molly, who had wandered a few steps down the street, returned to her mother's side, and stood looking up at her new acquaintance, with her sweet, wavering smile.
"She seems very happy!" Marian said, softly, to Mrs. Lethbridge.
"Yes, miss; there's one comfort, she's always happy. She never cries, or is cross and fretty like some children."