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 the sorrow of being alone, too. I think she would better appreciate Tiny's company."

"Austin will bring her to-morrow, if you wish, and let her stay as long as I remain; then we can see how the two get along together."

"Yes, that will be a good way to do. I think Nattie needs some company near her own age. I feel very anxious about her. It would be harder to die and leave her than all the rest of my family, for she is the least fitted to be left without a mother."

"We hope you will be spared to us all for some years, yet, mother," said Susan, turning away to conceal a tear.

The feeble woman only sighed. There was the sound of an opening door. Susan started rather abruptly.

"Who is coming?" asked the invalid.

"It is Austin, my husband; he has been out a little while, and has just come in. I will go into the kitchen and tell him to be more quiet, lest his