"'Who are you?' I asked, 'and what's in that basket? It wouldn't be manners to peep inside, would it?' "'Oh yes, it would,' with a delighted giggle. 'I'm Kitty--Kitty Curzon,--and daddy says it's my work to look after any one who is not well; and I'm to think what they will like, and take it to them. So, when I heard you had such a bad headache, I got Nurse to gather my last red gooseberries--they are _very, very_ ripe,--and I've brought them for you; and can I have the basket, please?' "'Well, I can't accept them on the plea of headache: it's gone, you see; but perhaps you will be so kind as to leave them all the same, for if there is one thing I like more than another----" "'It's gooseberries,' interposed Kitty, eagerly; and I nodded assent. "The child shot a triumphant glance at Nurse. "'She said you would not want them, and I'd better ask daddy; but he likes me to think of things by myself. And then at the end of the day I tell him where I've been; and he'll be so surprised to-night, for he didn't know I'd heard about you.' "I carried off the basket, and brought it back, presently, empty. "'I have not half thanked you, Kitty; but I am most grateful. How old are you, I wonder?' "There was a moment's hesitation. 'I'm not young at all; I'm nine, although you'd never think it, because I'm so small. Daddy says running about makes you grow, and I can't run.' "'Her back is not strong, sir,' said Nurse, hurriedly; and as I looked at the recumbent figure, I saw that the poor little child was deformed. It seemed a terrible pity, for the face and head are singularly pretty. "'That's why daddy says I must think of all the ill ones, because Nurse and he think so much about me.' "'Very well. I shall be sure and send for you directly there is anything the matter. I fancy you would do me more good than a doctor. And I've a sister coming, before long, and she will want companions. You will have to come to tea.' "'Is she as old as I am?' "'A little older, I think.' "'I'll come if daddy will let me; but Nurse must come too.' "'By all means, and if you have any little brothers or sisters----' "'I have not any. There's only me,' interposed Kitty, shaking her head. "'I wonder what her name is?' "'My sister's, do you mean? Sally. Rather a nice name, isn't it?' "Evidently Kitty did not like it much, for she said she must be going; and went on her way, kissing her hand graciously, so I took off my hat and waved it.