Page:The New-Year's Bargain (1884).djvu/137

 fiery rain fell fast and singed his hair. It was the only chance for the poor children. And, being there, of course I could see all that went on under the wagon.

"They were wonderfully patient. 'Mother, are we going to burn up?' I heard one child say. But the poor mother did not answer, she only gave a sob. None of them cried or screamed; but they just sat cuddled up together, and were very quiet. Once the smallest one asked for a drink of water! I declare, that made me feel bad!

"Just then I heard a sound above the roar of the flames which caused me to prick up my ears; for I knew its meaning, and I said, 'Ah, ha! Master Spark, look out for yourself!' And pretty soon a drop fell on my nose. It felt like ice, I was so hot. And next the flames began to hiss and spit, for more drops were falling; and then they made a great swoop at the wagon, but I was beforehand with them there.

"'Hands off!' I said, and the rain chuckled as it heard me. The fire raged; but it was no use.