But it was a sad smile; for it was a trial to her to have Ernest commence this new mode of life. He was a bright boy, and a good scholar for his age; and she had hoped that he would continue steadily at school, until he had acquired a good education.
But something must be done for their relief; and it was possible that the boy’s small earnings might at least help to supply their scanty food.
So the basket was bought, and a moderate supply of matches and other trifling articles placed in it; and early on the following morning, Ernest commenced his new life.
His neat appearance, and bright, animated countenance, were so prepossessing, that many who observed him were disposed to buy; and one kind lady even bestowed an extra sixpence upon him, because he thanked her so gratefully for buying half-a-dozen boxes of his matches.
With a joyful heart, he placed his earnings in his mother’s hands.
“Look, mother!” he exclaimed, “all this, besides what I need to buy more things with, and the sixpence which I have laid aside toward paying the dollar. You know I must lay by some every day to pay the gentleman. But how am I to find him, mother? I never thought to ask where he lived.”
“He probably meant to give you the money, Ernest, or he would have told you where to bring it.”
“Oh no, mother, he only lent it to me; I will pay it back, if I search the city to find him. How much I thank him for his kindness.”
“And I thank him too,” said little Rosy. “Now, we shall never be poor any more—shall we, Ernest?” “I think not,” replied Ernest. “Mother shall have a cup of tea every evening; and after a little while, Rosy, we will have butter to eat on our bread, and I will buy you a pretty new frock.”
“Poor children!” thought the mother, as she gazed fondly upon them. “How little it takes to make them happy!”