THE BEAUTIFUL LADDER. 
I2I 
would be called into exercise, but here they 
stood with a feeling of almost awe, as in the 
presence of one who could confer favors rather 
than receive them. The observant Ella saw 
all this as she introduced her associates to the 
mother and daughter. With no seeming em¬ 
barrassment, nor useless apologies for the poor 
reception given, they were cordially greeted, 
and seated as well as the scant furniture of the 
cabin would admit. The intelligent conversa¬ 
tion which at once commenced soon caused all 
thoughts of the poor surroundings to be for¬ 
gotten, and they seemed once more enjoying 
the pleasures of a select company in refined 
society. But the kind office on which they 
had come after a while broke the charm of 
social enjoyment, and Ella, with all possible 
delicacy, made such inquiries as were neces¬ 
sary as to Mrs. Farley’s needs. 
Many thanks to you all,” was the grateful 
response of the mother, ‘^and to our gracious 
Heavenly Father who has not left us to suffer, 
for we have a little corn left, but as I have not 
been able to get it ground, I am parching some 
for our dinner, as you see.” 
'‘Why, Mrs. Farley,” inquired Ella,—“why 
11 
