Bayou Folk

she followed Ma'ame Pélagie into the fields to note how the cotton was opening, ripe and white; or to count the ears of corn upon the hardy stalks. But oftener she was w

her light but one of uneasy expectancy. The girl seemed to love her well in return, and called her endearingly Tan'-tante. But as the time went by, La Petite became very quiet,-n

I must tell you something, you and Tan'tante." She spoke low, but clearly and firmly. "I love you both,-ple

ined with her own. Ma'ame Pélagie remained unchanged and motionless. No human eye could penetrate so deep as to see the satisfaction w

t to know things that are happening from day to day over the world, and hear them talked about. I want my music, my books, my companions. If I had known no other life but this one of privation, I suppose it would be different. If I had to l

ld soon pass. She entreated them to take no notice; but they

Mam'selle Pauline sobbed and would not be co

never have seen you like this before. Do you no longe

es, Se

e La Petite i

, Se

n I, who held you and warmed you in my arms the day you were born; than I, your moth

e tried to talk

to God. But if La Petite goes away I shall die. I can't understand,-help me, Ses?ur. She seems -she seems like

own hair. She said not a! word, and the silence was broken only by Ma'mselle Pauline's continued sobs. Once Ma'ame Pélagie arose to drink of orange-flower water,

will make yourself ill. La Petite will not go away. Do yo

faith in the word of her sister, and soothed by the promise and