She would have liked to wave a wand and make all the world
happy, but as this was as little possible as to remake human nature itself
she soared into an ether of her own to revel in her astounding good
fortune.
II
The village she approached was picturesque in its ruin for it climbed the
side of a hill, and although the Germans had set fire deliberately to every
house the shells for the most part remained. Along the low ridge was a row
of brick walls in various stages of gaunt and jagged transfiguration. They
looked less the victims of fire than of earthquake.
The narrow ascending street was filled with rubble. She picked her way and
peered into the ruins. At first she saw no one; the place seemed to be
deserted. Then some one moved in a dark cellar, and as she stood at the top
of the short flight of steps a very old woman came forward into the light.
There were two children at her heels.
Alexina suddenly felt very awkward. She had always thought the mere handing
out of money the most detestable part of charity. But there was nothing
here to buy. That was obvious.
The old woman however relieved her embarrassment. She extended a skinny
hand. The poor of France are not loquacious, but like all their compatriots
they know what they want, and no doubt feel that life is simplified when
they are in a position to ask for it.
Alexina gratefully handed her a coin and hurried on.
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