After giving him her hand Mrs.Maxa stepped up to the bed to greet Leonore and was so deeply moved that she could barely speak.
"My dear child," she said, seizing both slender hands, "you resemble your mother so much that I have to greet you as my own beloved child.

I loved her very much and we meant a great deal to each other.

You remind me of both your father and mother, Salo.

What happiness my friendship with your parents has brought me! I want you both to be my children now, for your parents were the best friends I ever had in the world." This speech apparently met a response in the two children's hearts.

As answer Leonore took Mrs.Maxa's hand and held it tight between her own, and Salo came close to her to show what confidence he felt.