In this sad hour of the world's history, when so many homes have been
broken up, and so many hearts burdened with heavy sorrows, it is
comforting to think of the many heroic souls who, throughout the
struggle, have gone about their daily tasks with unfailing courage and
cheerfulness, and by so doing have helped to carry the burdens of the
world, and to sustain other hearts as heavy as their own.
It is comforting, also, to know that there are many instances of happy
reunions after long and unspeakable anxieties, adventures, and trials.
This story of two little Belgian refugees is based upon the actual
experience of two Belgian children, and the incident of the locket is
quite true.
The characters of the eel-woman and the mother of the Twins have also
their living originals, from whose courage and devotion the author has
received much inspiration.