THE STEADFAST HEART
been wide, yet here was one whom she could not comprehend, and who interested her…. It was not strange. Who could comprehend Angus but one who knew his story?
“Angus,” she said presently, “I’m hired to teach you reading and writing and arithmetic and geography—but I want to teach you, and all my boys and girls, more than that, if I can. I want to teach them how to live, and how to get the best out of life. You, Angus, are here alone. Maybe you will want somebody to talk to—about things. Maybe you will have troubles, or puzzles…. I hope you will let me help you. Remember, I want to be your friend.”
It was all confusing, startling. Instead of antagonism, cold avoidance, open jeers, terrifying hostility, he was meeting on every hand, even from the pupils, welcome and companionship. He did not know what to do with these commodities. It was a new condition of life to which it would be difficult to adapt himself. He was embarrassed.
“Will you remember?” the teacher said.
“Yes,” said Angus.
“Now run along and play. You’ll find the boys about yet. They’ll be glad to play with you.”
Glad to play with him! It was a condition he had never imagined. Play! He, Angus Burke,
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