"A Gratidão" by Camilo Castelo Branco is a novel likely written in the mid-19th century. The story revolves around the hardships faced by a young girl named Rosa and her elderly, blind grandmother, who are driven to seek refuge with a compassionate lady, Dona Thereza. Their journey is marked by extreme challenges, intensified by the harsh winter conditions, highlighting themes of resilience, gratitude, and the bond between generations. The opening of thenovel sets a somber yet poignant tone, introducing readers to Rosa and her grandmother during the last days of December, struggling in the snow. The elderly woman, frail and blind, expresses despair over their difficult journey, while the brave young girl supports her with unwavering determination. As they eventually reach Dona Thereza's home, the themes of mercy and kindness emerge as Rosa recounts the tragic story of her family's loss. The narrative hints at the transformative power of love and support as both Rosa and her grandmother seek a new place in a world that has been unkind to them. This initial glimpse into their plight establishes a foundation for a story that unfolds with emotional depth and social commentary. (This is an automatically generated summary.)