Page:The grandmother; a story of country life in Bohemia.pdf/34

28 was a good man, may the Lord grant him eternal glory! Well, when I die all this will be yours," she added, as she closed the box.

"But, Grandma, how was it that the Emperor gave you that dollar? Tell us about it," said Barunka.

"Remind me of it some day, and I will tell you," she replied.

Besides these things Grandmother had in that side drawer two rosaries that had been "touched" (by sacred relics), streamers for her caps, and usually some delicacy for the children.

At the bottom of the chest were her clothing and linen. All those linen petticoats, aprons, coats, corsets, and kerchiefs lay there in the best of order, and on the top of all were two stiffly starched caps, with large bows behind, that were called "doves." These things the children were not allowed to touch. Still, when Grandmother was so disposed, she raised one article after another saying: "See, children, this petticoat I have had for fifty years; this coat was worn by your grandmother; this apron is as old as your mother;—and all as good as new; and you spoil your clothes in no time. That all comes because you do not know the value of money. Do you see this silk coat? it cost a hundred Rhine dollars; but in those days they paid with bank-notes." Thus she went on, and the children listened as though they understood it all.

Mrs. Proshek wished her mother to wear city garments, because she thought they would be more suitable; but to this Grandmother would not listen. She said: "The Lord would surely punish me, if I, an old woman, should begin to grow worldly.