"
Mrs. Menotti was so filled with gratitude at this promise, that words
utterly failed her that were, in her opinion, adequate to express her
thanks. Suddenly all the heavy thoughts had vanished that had oppressed
her day and night for such a long time past, and in which she was
getting more and more involved the more she puzzled over them, so that
at the last she saw no hope of a decision. Now the Father took the
whole burden upon himself, and she could refer her troublesome little
Silvio to him.
While this conference was taking place, the little invalid had almost
pierced the priest through with his great gray eyes, so great was his
interest in what they said. When the priest arose, and held his hand
towards the child to say good-by, the little thin fingers were pressed
into his big palm as if he were making a firm contract.
The father gave his promise to bring tidings as soon as he had obtained
the necessary information; and then they could decide whether the thing
could be done, or whether Silvio must give up his wish altogether.
Week after week slipped by, but Silvio did not waver. He had a firm
ground of hope now by which to hold; and, moreover, Rico had become so
lively and amusing, that he was hardly to be recognized. It acted upon
him like a spark that kindled a joyful bonfire when he learned the
priest's comforting words; and a new life was awakened in the lad.
Pages:
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103