“GOOD-BYE TILL WE MEET AGAIN”
“That is just what I wish most myself, Clara,” replied her father, whose face grew happier each time he looked at his little daughter. “I have been also thinking how we can best show our gratitude to our good benefactor.”
Herr Sesemann now went over to where Uncle and grandmamma were engaged in lively conversation. Uncle stood up as he approached, and Herr Sesemann, taking him by the hand said,
“Dear friend, let us exchange a few words with one another. You will believe me when I tell you that I have known no real happiness for years past. What worth to me were money and property when they were unable to make my poor child well and happy? With the help of God you have made her whole and strong, and you have given new life not only to her but to me. Tell me now, in what way can I show my gratitude to you I can never repay all you have done, but whatever is in my power to do is at your service. Speak, friend, and tell me what I can do?”
Uncle had listened to him quietly, with a smile of pleasure on his face as he looked at the happy father.
“Herr Sesemann,” he replied in his dignified way, “believe me that I too have my share in the joy of your daughter’s recovery, and my trouble is well repaid by it. I thank you heartily for all you have said, but I have need of nothing; I have enough for myself and the child as long as I live. One wish alone I have, and if that could be satisfied I should have no further care in life.”
“Speak, dear friend, and tell me what it is,” said Herr Sesemann entreatingly.
[371]
