In the afternoon it began to rain , and poor Tessa 's heart to fail her ; for the big boots tired her feet , the cold wind made her hands ache , and the rain spoilt the fine red handkerchief . Even Tommo looked sober , and did n't whistle as he walked , for he also was disappointed , and his plan looked rather doubtful , the pennies came in so slowly . ` We 'll try one more street , and then go home , thou art so tired , little one . Come ; let me wipe thy face , and give me thy hand here in my jacket pocket ; there it will be as warm as any kitten ; ' and kind Tommo brushed away the drops which were not all rain from Tessa 's cheeks , tucked the poor hand into his ragged pocket , and led her carefully along the slippery streets , for the boots nearly tripped her up . II . At the first house , a cross old gentleman flapped his newspaper at them ; at the second , a young gentleman and lady were so busy talking that they never turned their heads , and at the third , a servant came out and told them to go away , because some one was sick . At the fourth , some people let them sing all their songs and gave nothing . The next three houses were empty ; and the last of all showed not a single face as they looked up anxiously . It was so cold , so dark and discouraging , that Tessa could n't help one sob ; and , as he glanced down at the little red nose and wet figure beside him , Tommo gave his harp an angry thump , and said something very fierce in Italian . They were just going to turn away ; but they did n't , for that angry thump happened to be the best thing they could have done . All of a sudden a little head appeared at the window , as if the sound had brought it ; then another and another , till there were five , of all heights and colors , and five eager faces peeped out , smiling and nodding to the two below . ` Sing , Tessa ; sing ! Quick ! quick ! ' cried Tommo , twanging away with all his might , and showing his white teeth , as he smiled back at the little gentle-folk . Bless us ! How Tessa did tune up at that ! She chirped away like a real bird , forgetting all about the tears on her cheeks , the ache in her hands , and the heaviness at her heart . The children laughed , and clapped their hands , and cried ` More ! more !
XXXXX another , little girl !
Come Sing appeared brushed clapped go nodding showing smiling tripped