"Is it in the lesson, papa?" asked the child, glancing merrily into his face.
"Yes, if you choose to have it so."
"Well, it is because I have such dear, kind parents, who do every thing to make me happy; and such a darling brother, and cousin, and little sister; and O, there are ever so many reasons!"
"Go on, my dear, let us hear them all." Mr. and Mrs. Dermott gazed into her glowing countenance, radiant with life and hope, and thought, "We, too, are happy in having such a child."
"Well, then," continued Helen, "I have such a pleasant home, and plenty to eat and drink, and pretty clothes, all ready for me to wear, and nice playthings to amuse myself with. O, I can't help being very happy."
"Then you are thankful to your parents for providing for your wants?"
"Yes, indeed, papa."
"It is right you should be so, my daughter. Children seldom realize how much their parents do for them. Your mother knows, for instance, that in an hour or two from this time, your eyes will begin to grow heavy with sleep; and she has provided each of you with a comfortable bed. She is sure that when you awake in the morning, you will be hungry; and she has provided breakfast. She knows that if you are not warmly clad on such a day as this, you can take no comfort in your walks or plays; and see how carefully she has arranged for you! Each little one with a warm hood, tippet, and mittens, made by her own hands! This is only a small part of what she does, even for your physical wants. And then we endeavor to provide for your moral and intellectual improvement. We teach you, provide you healthful amusements, give you books to read, and do all in our power to fulfil aright our duty as parents.
"But what is all we do compared with the loving care of Him who giveth us life, and breath, and all things? This constant, tender, overruling care of our heavenly Father, is called his providence, and extends to the very meanest of his creatures. He watches over us, guards us from dangers often unseen by us, gives us food to eat and clothes to wear, preserves and governs us. What does the Catechism say of God's providence?"
"That it is holy, wise, and powerful," replied Walter.