Their
benefactor, as they were pleased to call him, hurried them into the
waiting train and ran to purchase their tickets for them.
"Now," he said, as the guard locked the door of the compartment, "you
are alone, and no one can get in, and you cannot get out. Go back to
your home, to your new home, and never come to this wretched place
again. Promise me--you understand?--never again!"
They promised with effusive reiteration. They embraced each other like
children, and the man, pulling off his hat, called upon the good Lord
to thank the gentleman.
"You will be in Paris, will you not?" said the woman, in an ecstasy of
pleasure, "and you will come to see us in our own shop, will you not?
Ah! we should be so greatly honored, sir, if you would visit us; if
you would come to the home you have given us. You have helped us so
greatly, sir," she said; "and may Heaven bless you!"
She caught up his gloved hand as it rested on the door and kissed it
until he snatched it away in great embarrassment and flushing like a
girl. Her husband drew her toward him, and the young bride sat at his
side with her face close to his and wept tears of pleasure and of
excitement.
"Ah, look, sir!" said the young man, joyfully; "look how happy you
have made us.
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