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 kindness; and, in any case, the good God in heaven above will surely reward her for the good work done to the helpless child of a deserted and unfortunate mother.”

Here all the letter was stained and blotted with tears at the sight of which friend Cvok’s own eyes filled. Only after a while was he able to read on.

“Miss Naninka is a good woman. She will understand me, perhaps, better than you can, and will surely try to lessen your care of little Pepí&#787;ek. I had him examined by a physician, who told me he was quite a sound, healthy child; so there is every hope that you will be able to rear him well.

“I am still in Prague; am recovered—at least bodily—and intend to earn my bread honestly. I have almost secured a situation in a good burgher’s family. As soon as it is all settled I shall write again, and then you will kindly tell me everything about Pepíc&#787;ek.

“What I had saved from my salary while in the baroness’s house kept me in everything necessary; and, as I know that your charity to all who are in need often leaves you with an empty purse, I enclose a banknote of fifty florins for little Pepíček’s wants. I cannot spare more just at present, but you may depend upon my not forgetting my duty, and sending you from time to time whatever I can spare. In the parcel you will find all the necessary baby-linen. Only some little bed-things will have to be bought. The new gold piece rolled up in silver paper is for Naninka as a keepsake.

“I beg of you, my dear, faithful friend, to keep Pepíc&#787;ek’s parentage from the knowledge of every one with the exception, perhaps, of Miss Naninka, should you think well to inform her of it. People will, of course,