happy life if Odin had not
sent two birds. Thought and Memory, to remind him there were other
things for him yet to do.

He did not stop to bid Brunhild farewell, but leaped upon his horse's
back and rode away in search of new adventures.

"Dear me, children," exclaimed their father, looking at the clock,
"it is long past the time you should be in your soft, warm beds."

"Papa, do you know what day to-morrow is?" whispered Bertha, as she
kissed him good night.

"My darling child's birthday. It is ten years to-morrow since your
eyes first looked upon the sunlight. They have been ten happy years
to us all, though our lives are full of work. What do you say to
that, my little one?"

"Very happy, papa dear. You and mother are so kind! I ought to be
good as well as happy."

"She is a faithful child," said her mother, after Bertha had left the
room. "That is why I have a little surprise ready for to-morrow. I
have baked a large birthday cake and shall ask her little friends to
share it with her.

"Her aunt has finished the new dress I bought for her, and I have
made two white aprons, besides. She will be a happy child when she
sees her presents."

The mother closed her eyes and made a silent prayer to the All-Father
that Bertha's life should be as joyful as her tenth birthday gave
promise of being.

***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BERTHA***

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