Leaving the children with their new friends, she cheerfully went to her solitary home to sit and spin, and think over what might be their future fate in life; and as she span many were the schemes she drew out in her imagination of their destiny. The boys would do well she was sure, though they might have a hard tussle with the world. Donald would do battle bravely with any foes he might have to encounter, and David would not be behind hand, although he might meet them in a more quiet manner. Maybe he will wish to follow in the steps of his father, and become a minister of the gospel, she thought. Weel, weel, its a true saying, that “Man proposes, and God disposes.” If we trust in Him all will be for the best.
Chapter Three.
Mrs Galbraith promises to befriend Margaret.—Alec’s first visit to Janet’s attic.—Her schemes for clothing and supporting the boys.—Assisted by a kind banker and others.—The boys make good progress at school.—Janet’s humble faith rewarded.
The children had a great deal to tell of all they had seen at Mistress Galbraith’s when Janet came to take them home.
“She is, indeed, a very kind lady,” said Margaret. “She told me that once she had a little daughter just like me, but God had taken her to Himself, and asked me if I would like to come and see her very often; but I said that I couldna leave you, Janet, all alone, when the boys were at school, with no one to talk to you.”
“I can talk to myself, Margaret, ye ken,” answered Janet. “I would na hae ye say nae to the good lady, for I like her looks and her way of speaking, and she may be a true friend to ye. And if she asks you again ye will just say ye will do what she pleases, and that ye are obliged to her. And what do you think of the big house and the great people?” she asked, turning to Donald.
“It’s all very braw and fine; but I would rather hae a house of my ain, and you in it, Janet,” answered Donald.
“May be you will get that, laddie, some day.”