Louise had always accepted Daph’s services as a matter of course, and it dawned upon her as a new idea that she was to try to make happy the humble creature who never seemed to have a wish but to serve her master’s children faithfully.
Little by little, Louise began to take hold of the idea that to be Christ-like is to be useful, fond of making others happy, and forgetful of self.
Daph resisted stoutly when Louise first proposed to dress herself, and began by degrees to take some care of Charlie. “But,” thought the poor negro, “Daph may die some day, and the sweet little mistress do be right; she must learn to help herself a little, for nobody knows what may happen.”
“Here Daffy, I have made this for you all myself!” said Louise, joyfully, as she held up the apron, which after many days of secret toil she had completed.
“For Daph, Miss Lou! and all made with those dear little hands. Now Daph do feel proud!” and tears filled the eyes of the honest creature.
It was not the mere gift that made the heart of the negro throb with pleasure; but it was the kind consideration, the patient thought for her welfare that overcame her, as she said, “You do be like dear missus now! Dat’s de way she used to speak to poor Daph.”
“Dear Daffy,” said Louise, bursting into tears, “I do not mean to be ever naughty to you again. Indeed, I am very, very sorry. I am going to be one of the Lord Jesus’ little children now, and you know he was always kind and gentle.”
“Now de great Lord be praised!” said Daph, as she sank down quite overcome. “Daph do be too full of joy, to hear dose words from her own little dear. De Lord help her, and bring her to his beautiful home!”
To be able to read her mother’s Bible now became the dearest wish of the little Louise, and with this strong motive she made rapid progress in the daily lessons she took from her kind friend Rose. The patience and perseverance of both teacher and scholar were at length rewarded. Louise was able, after a few months of careful instruction, to take her mother’s Bible, and, in her sweet, childlike way, read the words of truth and beauty that flowed from the lips of Him who “spake as never man spake.”
The leaves, brightened by early frosts, still fluttered on the trees, and the soft air of Indian summer floated in at the open windows. A lovely autumn day was drawing to a close. Daph and her little charge had taken their simple evening meal, and for a moment there was silence in the cheerful room.