"Besides I can see Maezli," the mother concluded, "that your great zeal seems to come from a wish to get rid of all the things you don't like to wear yourself.

All your woolen things, which you always say scratch your skin.

So you do not mind if other children have them, Maezli ?" "They might like them better than to be cold," was Maezli's opinion.
"Oh, mother, Mrs.Knippel is coming up the road toward our house; I am sure she is coming to see us," said Lippo, who had gone to the window.
"And I have not even taken my things off on account of your disorder here," said the mother a little frightened.

"Maezli, go and greet Mrs.
Knippel and take her into the front room.

Tell her that I have just come from church and that I shall come directly." Maezli ran joyfully away; the errand seemed to please her.