The Widow and her Sous. Il

‘I hope that you two brothers will always
remain together. Do not leave Fred, my dear
Francis; your brother is your natural companion
and friend. Listen to him when he gives you
good advice. Do not be angry. when he tells
you to do what is right, though he is younger
than you. He will not speak with any intention
to vex you, and he will not pride himself in
superior wisdom, so as in any way to hurt your
feelings. He knows that wisdom is the gift of
God,—a gift for which we have to be thankful,
not proud.’

Then, pressing the hand of Francis, which she
had continued to hold, the mother again spoke
to him:

‘Promise me that you will never leave your
brother, and that you will never live anywhere
away from him, and so lose the only tie of family
affection that is now left to you.’

The feelings of Francis were touched for the
moment by what his mother said. He wept,
and promised faithfully to follow his mother’s
advice. This seemed to satisfy her, for her face
was lighted up by a passing gleam of joy.

‘I die in peace,’ said she, ‘trusting in my
Saviour, Oh, my dear children, do not forget