To poor Lizzie it seemed as if a little fairy had suddenly appeared to brighten the dismal room with flowers and smiles and pretty things ; while Patty felt her pity and good-will increase as she saw Lizzie 's crippled feet , and watched her thin face brighten and glow with interest and delight over book and doll and posy . ` It felt good , ' as Patty said afterwards ; ` sort of warm and comfortable in my heart , and I liked it ever so much . ' She stayed an hour , making sunshine in a shady place , and then ran home , wondering if Aunt Pen would find that out . She found her sitting with her hands before her , and such a sad look in her face that Patty ran to her , saying anxiously -- ` What 's the matter , aunty ? Are you sick ? ' ` No dear ; but I have sorrowful news for you . Come , sit in my lap and let me tell you as gently as I can . ' ` Mamma is dead ! ' Cried Patty with a look of terror in her rosy face . ` No , thank God ! but the dear , new baby only stayed a week , and we shall never see her in this world . ' With a cry of sorrow Patty threw herself into the arms outstretched to her , and on Aunt Pen 's loving bosom sobbed away the first bitterness of her grief and disappointment . ` Oh , I wanted a little sister so much , and I was going to be so fond of her , and was so glad she came , and now I ca n't see or have her even for a day ! I 'm so disappointed I do n't think I can bear it , ' sobbed Patty . ` Think of poor mamma , and bear it bravely for her sake , ' whispered Aunt Pen , wiping away her own and Patty 's tears . ` Oh , dear me ! there 's the pretty quilt I was going to make for baby , and now it is n't any use , and I ca n't bear to finish it ; ' and Patty broke out afresh at the thought of so much love 's labour lost . ` Mamma will love to see it , so I would n't give it up . Work is the best cure for sorrow ; and I think you never will be sorry you tried it . Let us put a bright bit of submission with this dark trouble , and work both into your little life as patiently as we can , deary . '
Patty put up her trembling lips , and kissed Aunt XXXXX , grateful for the tender sympathy and the helpful words .
Lizzie Patty Pen aunty brighten day deary first labour week