So , as they went along the snowy road , they looked about them , half in earnest , half in fun . Suddenly Tilly sprang forward , exclaiming , -- ' I see it ! I 've found it ! ' The others followed , but all stopped disappointed ; for it was n't a purse , it was only a little bird . It lay upon the snow with its wings spread and feebly fluttering , as if too weak to fly . Its little feet were benumbed with cold ; its once bright eyes were dull with pain , and instead of a blithe song , it could only utter a faint chirp , now and then , as if crying for help . ` Nothing but a stupid old robin ; how provoking ! ' cried Kate , sitting down to rest . ' I sha n't touch it . I found one once , and took care of it , and the ungrateful thing flew away the minute it was well , ' said Bessy , creeping under Kate 's shawl , and putting her hands under her chin to warm them . ` Poor little birdie ! How pitiful he looks , and how glad he must be to see some one coming to help him ! I 'll take him up gently , and carry him home to mother . Do n't be frightened , dear , I 'm your friend ; ' and Tilly knelt down in the snow , stretching her hand to the bird , with the tenderest pity in her face . Kate and Bessy laughed . ` Do n't stop for that thing ; it 's getting late and cold : let 's go on and look for the purse , ' they said moving away . ` You would n't leave it to die ! ' cried Tilly . ` I 'd rather have the bird than the money , so I sha n't look any more . The purse would n't be mine , and I should only be tempted to keep it ; but this poor thing will thank and love me , and I 'm so glad I came in time . '
Gently lifting the bird , XXXXX felt its tiny cold claws cling to her hand , and saw its dim eyes brighten as it nestled down with a grateful chirp .
Bessy Kate Tilly chin chirp help money others purse snow