219] TO THE LITTLE BIRDS. 11 frost should continue,” said she to herself, “what will become of those poor birds that I shall- not be able to purchase ! Those naughty boys will either give them to their cats, or suffer them to die with hunger.” While she was giving way to these sorrowful reflections, her hand was moving gently into her pocket, in order to bring out her exhausted purse; but judge what must be her surprise and astonishment when, instead of pulling out an empty purse, she found it brimfull of money. She ran immediately to he.r papa to tell him of this strange circumstance, when he snatched her up in his arms, tenderly embracing her, and. shed tears of joy on her blooming cheeks. “My dear child,” said her papa to her, “ you Cannot conceive how happy you now make me ! Let these little birds continue to be the objects of your relief, and be assured your purse shall never be reduced to emptiness.” This pleasing news gladdened the heart of Louisa, and she ran immediately to fill her apron with seed, and then hastened to feed her feathered guests. The birds came fluttering round her, and seemed conscious of her bounty and generosity. After feeding these happy prisoners,
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