the pure love of us

Once, in the 1800s, many people lived as slaves under the wealthy in Paris. Among them was a young girl named Rosie, who was kind and brave. Rosie lived in a run-down house with her mother and younger brother. Each morning, she woke up before sunrise to make a small breakfast for them. There was never enough food, so she often left without eating, her stomach empty but her spirit strong. That day, like every day, she walked quietly to the grand house where she worked. The master of the house was a cruel man with a sharp, angry voice. He never missed a chance to humiliate the slaves or cut their wages. When Rosie arrived, the master glared at her. “Why are you late?” he yelled. “This is your last warning. If you are late again, I will cut your salary!” Rosie lowered her eyes and whispered, “I’m sorry, master. It won't happen again.” She took her rag and began to scrub the floors. As she worked, she softly sang a song her mother had taught her when she was a child—a melody that mad...