"I will go," she said, no longer irresolute.
"The blessing of the poor be upon you!" said Grim, and the Motherkin kissed her brow.
"Now, my child, have a good breakfast, and then I will tell you what you are to do."
Laura obeyed very willingly, no longer disdaining good substantial food or the simple manner of its preparation. After breakfast the Motherkin opened her closets and chose a few garments for the poor children. These, with a small flask of wine and some oat-cakes, were packed in a basket which had leather straps attached to go over Laura's shoulder. Then she was arrayed in a flannel costume that her kind mother had sent with all her fineries. It was blue, with delicate traceries of silver, silver buttons, and a silver belt, from which depended a pocket, a fruit-knife, and a little drinking-cup. In the pocket the Motherkin placed a few coins, and then assured Laura that there was but one thing needed.
"And what is that, dear Motherkin?" asked Laura.
"I will show you," was the reply.
"Grim! Grim!" called the Motherkin to the dwarf, who was sunning himself out-of-doors.
"Yes, madam," said Grim, hurriedly stirring himself.
"Do you think you can cut me a good stout staff for Lady Laura, without any injury to your lame ankle?"
"Of course, madam, of course. What wood shall it be?"