The children's clothes were so ragged that their little bodies were scarcely covered.
Looking at Mrs.Maxa, the beggar-woman said, "Yes, yes, children can make one happy enough when one has a home.

You are a fortunate lady to have a good roof for your own.

It would be better for two such homeless ones as these not to exist! They are sure to remain homeless all their lives, and that is the saddest thing of all." With that she stretched out her hand, for Mrs.Maxa was looking at her intently.

Leonore had quickly taken off her shawl and jacket.
"May I give it to them ?" she asked Mrs.Maxa in a low voice.
The beggar-woman had already noticed the girl's gesture and stretched out her hands in her direction.
"I am glad, young lady, that you have pity for these homeless ones, even if you do not know what that means.

God bless you!" Leonore looked imploringly into Mrs.Maxa's face.