Page:The grandmother; a story of country life in Bohemia.pdf/145

Rh tense, as she arose to kiss the hand of the benefactress.

"Only the good are accompanied by angels," said Grandmother glancing at the lady and her ward.

The Princess was silent a moment, then said deeply moved: "I shall never cease to thank God for giving her to me." Then turning to Grandmother she said: "I should be pleased to have a friend who would always tell me the truth in a direct and sincere manner."

"O your Grace, should you desire it, such a friend can readily be found; but it is not easy to keep him."

"You think I would not value him?"

"Why should I think so? but that is the way it usually is. Sometimes such frank conversation is agreeable and then again it is not; and then that is the end of friendship."

"You are right. But from this day you have the privilege of saying to me, whatever you wish; and should you have a petition, rest assured I shall grant it, if only it be in my power." Saying this the Princess rose from the table; the rest did the same. Grandmother bent down to kiss the hand of her hostess, but the latter would not allow it and kissed Grandmother's cheek instead. The children picked up their gifts, and with much reluctance prepared to go home.

"Come to see us, too, Miss Hortense," said Grandmother as she took Adelka from her arms.

"Yes, come," echoed the children. "We will gather strawberries for you."

"I thank your Grace for all,—God be with you," said Grandmother taking her leave.