"How can I thank you?" Alexandra said.

"Having the princess drinking tea in my home is thanks enough," replied the old woman. "I would curtsey, but my knees don't bend as they should."

"Please, Widow Black, call me Alexandra. I don't feel much like a princess these days."

"My dear," said Widow Black, "you do me too much honor. But if you will, please call me Miriam. You remind me of my oldest boy. My husband was a blacksmith since he was big enough to pick up a hammer. ...