When London Sleeps — page 204: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

FOR DEAR LIFE’S SAKE. 199 “Leila, who naturally did not understand what all this meant, went to her confidingly and lifted up her sweet lips. The Baportunars: girl touched them lightly with her own. ‘‘My kiss does not hurt you, does it, dearie?’’ she asked, crushing back a sob. ‘Oh, no,’’? exclaimed Lelia, in surprised denial. ‘“You bought me some beautiful chocolates, and I love you very much.’’ And a little child shall lead them! Queenie’s heart smote her. She felt that she had been harsh and cruel, and entirely false to her own self. She came forward now with hand extended. ‘“Forgive me,’’ she said, gently and penitently. ‘‘T have seen but little of the world,:and at first was startled. See, there is my hand now. Iam sorry for you, and, if you will let me, will be your friend.”’ Maudie was touched, and the tears sprang to her eyes. There were impulses fs good in the poor girl still. She took Queenie’s hand and kissed it. “My life has been a very miserable one, Miss Carruthers,”’ she said, hoarsely, ‘‘and I had no mother to teach me right from wrong.” “Tn that case, we are sisters,’’? said Queenie, softly, her own eyes glistening with unshed tears. ‘““Go now. Come to me SPY and I will aid you to a better life.’ ‘“Flow good you are!’ OR Maudie, in all sincerity. ‘‘No, not I!’ Queenie hastened to disclaim. ‘A comicbooks.co