I must tell somebody, or my heart will break; and you know, grandma dear, I can talk to you so easy." "Can thee?
Then go on, Susy; what would thee like to say ?" "O, two or three things.

Have you noticed, grandma, that I've been just as sober as can be ?" "For how long, Susan ?" "O, all day; I've felt as if I couldn't but just live!" Grandma Read did not smile at this.

She knew very well that such a child as Susy is capable of intense suffering.
"Well, Susan, is it about thy sister Prudence ?" "O, no, grandma! she's getting; better; isn't she ?" "Are thy lessons at school too hard for thee, Susan ?" Mrs.Read saw that Susy was very reluctant about opening her heart, although she had said she could talk to her grandmother "so easy." "No, indeed, grandma; my lessons are not too hard.

I'm a real good scholar--one of the best in school for my age." This was a fact.

Some people would have chidden Susy for it; but Mrs.
Read reflected that the child was only telling the simple truth, and had no idea of boasting.