And then came what was worse.
[Looking inquiringly at her.] Worse?
The worst of all.
What do you mean?
[Softly.] You lost the two little boys.
Oh, yes, the boys. But, you see, that was a thing apart. That was a dispensation of Providence; and in such things one can only bow in submission—yes, and be thankful, too.
Then you are so?
Not always, I am sorry to say. I know well enough that it is my duty—but all the same I cannot.
No, no, I think that is only natural.
And often and often I have to remind myself that it was a righteous punishment for me—