kindness; and, in any case, the good God in heaven above will surely reward her for the good work done to the helpless child of a deserted and unfortunate mother.”
Here all the letter was stained and blotted with tears at the sight of which friend Cvok’s own eyes filled. Only after a while was he able to read on.
“Miss Naninka is a good woman. She will understand me, perhaps, better than you can, and will surely try to lessen your care of little Pepí̓ek. I had him examined by a physician, who told me he was quite a sound, healthy child; so there is every hope that you will be able to rear him well.
“I am still in Prague; am recovered—at least bodily—and intend to earn my bread honestly. I have almost secured a situation in a good burgher’s family. As soon as it is all settled I shall write again, and then you will kindly tell me everything about Pepíc̓ek.
“What I had saved from my salary while in the baroness’s house kept me in everything necessary; and, as I know that your charity to all who are in need often leaves you with an empty purse, I enclose a banknote of fifty florins for little Pepíček’s wants. I cannot spare more just at present, but you may depend upon my not forgetting my duty, and sending you from time to time whatever I can spare. In the parcel you will find all the necessary baby-linen. Only some little bed-things will have to be bought. The new gold piece rolled up in silver paper is for Naninka as a keepsake.
“I beg of you, my dear, faithful friend, to keep Pepíc̓ek’s parentage from the knowledge of every one with the exception, perhaps, of Miss Naninka, should you think well to inform her of it. People will, of course,
