Pagina 183 de 1118

Agnes went to a neighbouring house to obtain Menico, a smart lad

of twelve years of age, who, by the way of cousins and

sisters-in-law, was a sort of nephew to the dame. She asked and

obtained permission of his parents to keep him all day "for a

particular service." She took him home, and after giving him

breakfast, told him he must go to Pescarenico, and show himself

to Father Christopher, who would send him back with a message.

"Father Christopher, you understand; that nice old man, with a

white beard; him they call the Saint."

"I know him, I know him!" said Menico: "he speaks so kindly to

the children, and often gives them pictures."

"Yes! that is he; and if, Menico, if he tells you to wait near

the convent until he has an answer ready, don't stray away; don't

go to the lake to throw stones in the water with the boys; nor to

see them fish, nor--"

"Poh! aunt, I am no longer a baby."

"Well, behave well, and when you return with the answer, I will

give you these new parpagliole."[3]