I believe you will
not refuse to do something for me."
"I should be sorry to refuse you," replied the gentleman; "but why are
you begging? You appear to be something better than a beggar; your voice
and your manner show it."
"I am not a beggar, sir," replied the boy, as a tear trickled down his
cheek. "My father was a brave officer in the army. Owing to illness, he
was obliged to leave the service, and was granted a pension by the
emperor.
"With this pension he supported our family; but a few months ago he
died, and we are left very poor indeed."
"Poor child!" said the gentleman. "Is your mother living?"
"Yes, sir, she is; and I have two brothers who are at home with her now.
She has been unable to leave her bed for weeks, and one of us must watch
beside her, while the others go out to beg."
Saying this, the poor boy tried very hard to keep back the great tears,
but they would come in spite of all he could do to stop them.
"Well, well, my boy," said the gentleman, "do not feel so unhappy; I
will see what can be done to help you. Is there a physician to be found
near you?"
"There are two, sir, only a little way from where we live.
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