However, she had to say something, so she called back pleadingly, "I am a little girl, Huldah Bate, and please, ma'am, I'm starving, and--and please open the door.
I can't hurt you, I am too little." It was her voice even more than her words which induced Martha Perry to open her door to the suppliant.

It was such a childish voice, and so weak, and pleading, and tired.

So the bolts were drawn back, and the door was opened.

It was only opened a few inches, but wide enough to let out a stream of light, which brought some comfort and hope to the child's heart and the dog's heart.

Huldah stepped forward into the light to show herself.
"You are sure you 'aven't got anybody with you ?" asked the woman, with nervous suspicion.
"No, ma'am, no one but Dick." "Who's Dick ?" hastily pushing the door close, in her alarm.
"Dick's my dog.