In a good deal of wonder Daisy
repeated, "Mamma?"
"You put up your hand and sat with your eyes covered — did you
not, just now?"
"Yes, mamma." —
No need to bid anybody look and listen now; the rosy flush
that had spread itself all over Daisy's pale cheeks
sufficiently aroused curiosity.
"I notice that you do so before every meal — is it not the
case?"
"Yes, mamma."
Dr. Sandford could hear the caught breath. He did not look,
except by a glance, but he listened.
"What does that mean, Daisy?"
"Mamma?" — said the child in distress.
"I ask you, what that means? what is it for?"
"Mamma — may I come round there and speak to you?"
"Certainly not. Sit still in your place and answer."
But Daisy was silent, very flushed.
"Do you hear, Daisy? what does that action mean? I wish to
know."
"Mamma, may I speak to you in private and tell you?"
"Are you ashamed of it? are you ashamed to tell me?"
"No, mamma."
"Then, do it at once."
But everybody waited in vain to hear the answer. It did not
come.
"I shall not ask you again, Daisy."
"Mamma," said the child, low and modestly, but with
steadiness, — "I was praying."
"Praying! were you! Why do you choose that particular time for
your private devotions?"
It was almost too much.
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