IT'S not difficult to despair of human nature. Just a cursory glance at the late-night television news can so easily administer the emotional coup de grace to days overburdened with depressing developments.

At times, the world can be a hostile environment where the innocent are so often victims. Indeed, some of us can be forgiven for becoming increasingly pessimistic about the moral future of the so-called dominant species.

However, we should take comfort that good has a fine track record in triumphing over evil and the story of Toni Ward is a case in point. Thieves stole vital hearing equipment belonging to the Worcestershire eight-year-old and she was therefore condemned to the bleak prospect of a diminished quality of life.

Toni has a hearing loss and benefited from the system throughout every school day. When the link was stolen, the school was able to provide an alternative apparatus, but this was not as sophisticated or effective as the original gear. The facts of the matter were that the missing items had made all the difference to Toni's enjoyment of learning.

But just as the curtain is poised to come down on yet one more chapter of sadness, something happens that sent metaphorical shafts of sunlight scything through the gloom. Anonymous donors have given a large cheque so that the equipment can be replaced.

We sure that all of you will join this newspaper in rejoicing that this sorry affair has reached a happy conclusion. Indeed, it would appear that there is hope yet.