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"May he bestow his blessing upon you!" said the widow, "for the

joy you have given to the afflicted, although it disappoints my

hope of having Lucy as a companion. But I will accompany her to

her village, and restore her to her mother, and," added she, in a

low voice, "I will give the outfit. I have much wealth, and of

those who should have enjoyed it with me none are left."

"The service will be acceptable to God," said the father, "who

has watched over you both in affliction. Now," added he, turning

to Renzo, "we must begone; I have remained too long already."

"Oh, my father," said Lucy, "shall I see you again? I have

recovered from this dreadful disease, I who am of no use in the

world; and you--"