The old man showed by his face that he plainly understood the cause of my hesitation, but he merely signed to me with an inclination of the head to pass out of the room before him, and remained silent.

I had no resource but to comply.
When we reached the door, the child setting down the candle, turned to say good night and raised her face to kiss me.

Then she ran to the old man, who folded her in his arms and bade God bless her.
'Sleep soundly, Nell,' he said in a low voice, 'and angels guard thy bed! Do not forget thy prayers, my sweet.' 'No, indeed,' answered the child fervently, 'they make me feel so happy!' 'That's well; I know they do; they should,' said the old man.

'Bless thee a hundred times! Early in the morning I shall be home.' 'You'll not ring twice,' returned the child.

'The bell wakes me, even in the middle of a dream.' With this, they separated.