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+Project Gutenberg's The Path of Duty, and Other Stories, by H. S. Caswell
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Path of Duty, and Other Stories
+
+Author: H. S. Caswell
+
+Release Date: April 15, 2006 [EBook #18181]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE PATH OF DUTY, AND OTHER ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Robert Cicconetti, Sjaani and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
+file was produced from images generously made available
+by the Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions
+(www.canadiana.org))
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+THE PATH OF DUTY,
+
+AND OTHER STORIES,
+
+BY
+
+H. S. CASWELL,
+
+
+Montreal:
+JOHN LOVELL, 28 AND 25 ST. NICHOLAS STREET.
+1874.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+  CLARA ROSCOM; OR, THE PATH OF DUTY;--         Page.
+
+  CHAPTER I.
+  A Sudden Bereavement                              1
+  CHAPTER II.
+  Success at School                                 6
+  CHAPTER III.
+  Clara at Mrs. Wentworth's Boarding School        12
+  CHAPTER IV.
+  Governess in Mr. Leighton's Family               18
+  CHAPTER V.
+  Willie Leighton's Return from England            26
+  CHAPTER VI.
+  An Evening Party                                 32
+  CHAPTER VII.
+  Failing Health of Clara's Mother                 39
+  CHAPTER VIII.
+  A Bright Dream and Peaceful End                  45
+  CHAPTER IX.
+  Friendly Attentions                              56
+  CHAPTER X.
+  A Surprise                                       60
+  CHAPTER XI.
+  Embarrassing Interviews                          65
+  CHAPTER XII.
+  A New England Home                               76
+  CHAPTER XIII.
+  New Occupations                                  83
+  CHAPTER XIV.
+  School at Mill Town                              91
+  CHAPTER XV.
+  A Happy Re-union                                 96
+  CHAPTER XVI.
+  Miss Simmond's Story                            105
+  CHAPTER XVII.
+  Penitent and Forgiven                           117
+  CHAPTER XVIII.
+  A New Joy                                       123
+  CHAPTER XIX.
+  Uncle Charles                                   127
+  CHAPTER XX.
+  Lights and Shadows                              132
+  CHAPTER XXI.
+  Reconciled                                      140
+  CHAPTER XXII.
+  Clara's Marriage                                145
+  CHAPTER XXIII.
+  A Pleasing Incident                             148
+
+  TERRY DOLAN                                     151
+
+  THE FAITHFUL WIFE                               163
+
+  EMMA ASHTON                                     175
+
+  THOUGHTS ON AUTUMN                              199
+
+  WANDERING DAVY                                  205
+
+  LOOKING ON THE DARK SIDE                        215
+
+  EDWARD BARTON                                   223
+
+  THE WEARY AT REST                               233
+
+  THE RAINY AFTERNOON                             239
+
+  THE STUDENT'S DREAM                             251
+
+  UNCLE EPHRAIM                                   257
+
+  STORY OF A LOG CABIN                            265
+
+  HAZEL-BROOK FARM                                281
+
+  OLD RUFUS                                       301
+
+  THE DIAMOND RING                                311
+
+  THE UNFORTUNATE MAN                             323
+
+  THE OLD SCHOOLHOUSE                             329
+
+  ARTHUR SINCLAIR                                 335
+
+  THE SNOW STORM                                  355
+
+  THE NEW YEAR                                    361
+
+  EARNEST HARWOOD; OR, THE ADOPTED SON            367
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+A SUDDEN BEREAVEMENT.
+
+
+"Awake, my dear child, awake!" These were the words I heard: I started
+up, gazing in a bewildered manner into the face of my mother, who had,
+with some difficulty, succeeded in arousing me from the sweet, healthful
+sleep of childhood. My mother drew nigh to me and whispered, "My dear
+Clara, your papa is dying." With a frightened cry, I threw my arms
+around her neck, and begged her to tell me what had happened. I was
+unable to comprehend the meaning of her words. Since my earliest
+recollection, my father had never experienced a day's illness, and so
+the reader may be able to form some idea of the shock occasioned by her
+words--uttered, as they were, at the hour of midnight. When my mother
+had succeeded in soothing me, in some degree, to calmness, she informed
+me, in a voice choked with sobs, which, for my sake, she tried to
+suppress, that my father had, two hours since, been stricken with
+apoplexy, in so severe a form that his life was despaired of. She
+further informed me that his attending physician thought he would not
+live to see the light of another morning. Well do I remember the nervous
+terror with which I clung to my mother as we entered my father's
+apartment, and the icy chill which diffused itself over my body, as I
+gazed upon the fearfully changed features of my father. I had never
+before seen death in any form. I believe the first view of death is more
+or less terrible to every child; it certainly was terrible for me to
+first view death imprinted upon the countenance of a fond father. I have
+ever since thought that my father recognized me when my mother led me to
+his bed-side; but power of utterance was gone. It was a fearful trial to
+me, who had seen but ten years of life. After the first shock, a strange
+calm took possession of me. Though many years have passed since that
+period, I remember, as though it were but yesterday, how I sat during
+those long hours, scarcely for an instant removing my eyes from my
+father's face, but shed not a tear; for, after the first burst of grief,
+tears refused to come to my relief. Just as the day began to dawn I
+heard the physician say, in a whisper, to a kind neighbor who stood by,
+I think he is going. At that moment my father opened his eyes, and,
+looking upward with a pleasant smile, expired without a struggle. I
+could never clearly remember how I passed the intervening days between
+my father's death and burial. I have an indistinct recollection of the
+hushed voices and soft footsteps of friends and neighbors, who kindly
+came to aid in performing the last offices of love and friendship to the
+remains of my departed father. I also remember being led by my almost
+heart-broken mother into the darkened room, where lay the lifeless body
+of my father, now prepared for the grave; but I have a more vivid
+recollection of standing with my mother beside an open grave, and
+hearing our pastor, in a solemn voice, utter the words, "Earth to
+earth--ashes to ashes--dust to dust." Oh! the falling of that first
+earth upon my father's coffin, shall I ever forget the sound? Child as I
+was, it seemed to me that my heart would break; but tears, the first I
+had shed since my father's death, came to my relief. Those blessed
+tears. I may well call them blessed, since the physician afterwards told
+my mother that they saved either my reason or my life. Kind friends
+besought my mother and me to allow ourselves to be conveyed home and not
+await the filling up of the grave. But no. We could not leave the spot
+till the last earth was thrown upon the grave, and a mound covered with
+grassy sods was to be seen, where a little before was only a mournful
+cavity. Then indeed we felt that he was gone, and that we must return to
+our desolate home--the home which ever before his presence had filled
+with joy and gladness.
+
+I must pass over, with a few words only, the first year of our
+bereavement, as even now I shudder to recall the feeling of loneliness
+and desolation which took possession of us, when we found ourselves left
+alone in the home where everything reminded us so strongly of the
+departed one. There was a small apartment adjoining our usual
+sitting-room which my father was wont to call his study, and, being fond
+of books, he used there to pass much of his leisure time. It was quite a
+long time after his death before my mother could enter that apartment.
+She said to me one day, "Will you go with me, Clara, to your father's
+study?" I replied, "Can you go _there_, Mamma?" "Yes, dear," said my
+mother, and led the way to the door. No one had entered that room since
+my father left it on the last night of his life, the door having been
+locked on the day succeeding his death. As my mother softly turned the
+key and opened the door, it seemed almost that we stood in my father's
+presence, so vividly did the surroundings of that room recall him to our
+minds. There stood his table and chair, and his writing desk stood upon
+the table, and several books and papers were scattered carelessly upon
+the table. The last book he had been reading lay open as he had left it;
+it was a volume of Whitfield's sermons; it was a book which my father
+valued highly, and is now a cherished keep-sake of my own. My mother
+seemed quite overcome with grief. I know she had striven daily to
+conceal her grief when in my presence, for she knew how I grieved for my
+father; and she was aware that her tears would only add to my sorrow, so
+for my sake it was that she forced herself to appear calm--almost
+cheerful; but upon this occasion her grief was not to be checked. She
+bowed her head upon the table, while convulsive sobs shook her frame. I
+tried, in my childish way, to comfort her. I had never seen her so much
+moved since my father's death. When she became more composed, she rose,
+and I assisted her in dusting and arranging the furniture of the room;
+and after this first visit to the room, we no longer avoided entering
+it. Since quite a young man my father had been employed as book-keeper
+in a large mercantile house in the city of Philadelphia, where we
+resided. As he had ever proved trustworthy and faithful to the interests
+of his employers, they had seen fit, upon his marriage, to give him an
+increase of salary, which enabled him to purchase a small, but neat and
+convenient dwelling in a respectable street in Philadelphia, where we
+had lived in the enjoyment of all the comforts, and with many of the
+luxuries of life, to the time of the sad event which left me fatherless
+and my mother a widow. I had never, as yet, attended any school. My
+mother had been my only teacher, and as her own education had been
+thorough, she was amply qualified for the task.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+SUCCESS AT SCHOOL.
+
+
+About a year after my father's death, my mother decided upon sending me
+to school, as she thought I was becoming too sedate and serious for a
+child only eleven years of age. I had never been very familiar with the
+neighbouring children of my own age, and after the death of my father I
+cared still less for their companionship. My chief enjoyment was in the
+society of my mother; and as we kept no servant, I found many ways of
+making myself useful to her; and every afternoon she devoted two or
+three hours to my lessons and needlework. Thus passed away the first
+year after our great sorrow, when, as I have already said, my mother
+decided upon sending me to school. It seemed to me, at the time, quite a
+formidable undertaking--this going to school. I had never been separated
+from my mother, and the five hours to be spent daily in the school-room
+seemed to my childish mind a very long time. I had ever been shy and
+diffident in the presence of strangers, and the idea of entering a large
+school a stranger to both teacher and pupils, was very unpleasant to me.
+But when I found it to be my mother's wish that I should go, I
+endeavoured to overcome my reluctance, and assisted my mother in her
+preparations for entering me as a pupil at the beginning of the ensuing
+term.
+
+It was with a feeling of timidity that I accompanied my mother through
+several streets to the school taught by Miss Edmonds. My mother
+accompanied me to relieve me from any awkwardness I might feel in
+presenting myself for admission. It was a select school for girls. As my
+education had thus far been entirely conducted by my mother, I had of
+course, never been subjected to the rules of a school-room; and I must
+confess that I had formed an idea of school teachers in general that was
+not at all flattering. I fancied them all to be old, sour and cross--a
+mere walking bundle of rules and regulations, and I was quite unprepared
+to see the sweet-looking young lady who answered to my mother's summons
+at the door. Surely, thought I, this young lady cannot be Miss Edmonds;
+and when my mother enquired if such were her name and she replied in the
+affirmative, I thought going to school might not be so bad after all.
+After giving Miss Edmonds my name and age, my mother held some
+conversation with her regarding my studies, and left me with an
+encouraging smile. I felt all my timidity return when I thought of
+entering the school-room with Miss Edmonds, but her kind and friendly
+manner reassured me. The school consisted of about thirty girls, many of
+them older than myself. I had feared that my attainments would be
+inferior to those of the youngest of the pupils, and I was equally
+pleased and surprised when Miss Edmonds, after a long and careful
+examination in regard to my acquirements, placed me in one of the higher
+classes. There was to me an irresistible attraction in the countenance
+and manner of my teacher; and, from the first moment I saw her I loved
+her. Although her home is now far distant from mine, and we have not met
+for many years, I love her as dearly now as when she took me by the hand
+when a child of eleven years. She conducted her school in a very
+systematic and orderly manner, and was very particular to require
+perfect recitations from her pupils; but as I possessed a retentive
+memory, I found my tasks much lighter than did many of my classmates.
+
+When I had been about a year at school, Miss Edmonds offered a prize,
+in the class to which I belonged, to the young lady who should write the
+most able composition upon a given subject. The prize was to be a small
+gold pencil-case, and was to be awarded at the close of the summer term.
+The closing day at length came; there was much suppressed excitement
+when we were called to order that morning. As we expected no visitors
+till the afternoon, we spent the morning mostly in reviewing our various
+studies. By two o'clock our school-room was crowded. We first passed a
+very searching examination in the different studies we had pursued
+during the past year. I believe we passed our examination in a manner
+creditable both to our teacher and to ourselves.
+
+The reading of our compositions was reserved, as the closing exercise.
+The compositions, with the name of the writer, were read by Miss
+Edmonds. Each person present was at liberty to write down each name as
+it was read by our teacher, annexing to it the numbers one, two or
+three, according to their opinion of the merits of the composition, each
+desk being furnished with paper, pens and ink for the purpose. When the
+compositions had all been read, the slips of paper were collected and
+handed to our pastor, who was to read aloud the fortunate name with the
+greatest number of ones annexed. What then was my amazement and that of
+all present when our pastor, after carefully examining the papers, rose
+and said,--"Miss Clara Roscom will please come forward, and receive from
+the hands of Miss Edmonds the reward of so much merit." I remember I
+felt a nervous dread of crossing the large school-room alone, when I
+knew every eye would be directed to me. Composing myself by a strong
+effort, I rose and walked up to the raised platform, where at her desk
+sat Miss Edmonds, with our pastor and several other friends. As I bowed
+low in acknowledgement of the gift, Miss Edmonds, with a few kind words,
+dismissed me to my seat. I heard many flattering remarks among our
+assembled friends; but the proudest moment of all, to me, was when I
+gained my mother's side and she said to me in a low voice, "My dear
+Clara, this seems to me a token that you will prove a blessing to your
+poor widowed mother."
+
+Miss Edmonds often remarked that I made wonderful progress in my
+studies, and these commendations, coming from my teacher, incited me to
+still greater diligence. I take no credit to myself for superior talent,
+but I certainly did my best, for, be it remembered, I was studying to
+please my dear mother, who often said to me, "You must, my dear Clara,
+make the best of your opportunities for improvement, as the time may
+come when your education may be your only means of support." My mother
+often regretted that we did not own a piano, for she was very anxious
+that I should study music; but our means did not justify the purchase of
+an instrument, and she thought that lessons without the necessary
+practice would be useless. The parents of Miss Edmonds resided in the
+city. They had once been wealthy, but owing to those reverses to which
+all are liable they had become reduced in circumstances, so much so that
+Miss Edmonds gladly turned to account the superior education she had
+received in their prosperous days, and she had for some time been a
+teacher when I became a member of her school. My mother happened to
+mention to Miss Edmonds one day her regret that I was unable to take
+music-lessons, for want of opportunity for the needful practice, when
+she informed my mother that she still retained her piano out of the
+wreck of their former affluence, and that, if she wished me to take
+lessons, I was at liberty to practice daily upon it. My mother accepted
+for me the kind offer, and I at once began taking lessons. I remained
+four years under the instruction of Miss Edmonds, with much profit to
+myself. At the end of this time, Mr. Edmonds removed with his family to
+the city of New York, having through the influence of friends, obtained
+the situation of cashier in one of the banks in that city. It was a
+severe trial for Miss Edmonds to resign the school where she was so much
+beloved by her pupils; but she thought it her duty to accompany her
+parents to their new home.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+CLARA AT MRS. WENTWORTH'S BOARDING SCHOOL.
+
+
+As it was my mother's intention to give me a thoroughly good education,
+she began, after the departure of Miss Edmonds, to consider the
+propriety of sending me to a noted seminary for young ladies, about two
+hundred miles from Philadelphia, as she learned from various sources of
+the excellence of the institution. There was but one difficulty in the
+way, and that was the money needful for defraying my expenses. At my
+father's death, he left us the owners of the house we occupied, and a
+sum of money, though not a large one, in the Savings' Bank. Up to the
+time of which I speak, we had only drawn the annual interest of our
+money, while the principal remained untouched, my mother having obtained
+needle-work to eke out our small income; but, in order that I should
+finish my education according to the wishes of my mother, as well as my
+own, a portion of the principal must be withdrawn. After some reflection
+upon the subject, my mother decided that a good education might prove of
+more value to me than money, so a portion of the money was drawn, and we
+began the preparations for my departure from home. It was the high
+reputation which the school sustained that influenced my mother in her
+decision to send me so far from home. There was a lady residing in the
+near vicinity of the school who had been a loved school-mate of my
+mother in their youthful days. My mother wrote to her upon the subject
+and received a very friendly reply, informing her that, owing to their
+own early friendship, she would be most happy to fill a mother's place
+to me, so long as I should wish to remain at school. I should have been
+much elated at the proposed journey had it not been for the thought of
+leaving my mother, who had ever been my confidant and adviser. My mother
+also felt keenly the coming departure, although she strove to conceal
+her feelings as much as possible. I strongly objected to leaving her
+alone, but we had as yet been unable to devise any plan to avoid so
+doing. My mother would have rented a portion of our dwelling, but it was
+not adapted for the convenience of two families, neither could she
+endure the disquiet of keeping boarders.
+
+"Clara," said my mother one day, as we sat at work, "I think I will send
+for Aunt Patience to come and stay with me during your absence."
+
+She laughed outright at the look of dismay with which I regarded her,
+occasioned by the recollection which I retained of a visit she paid us
+when I was eight years of age. She was a maiden lady somewhat advanced
+in years, possessed of a very kind heart and many excellent qualities;
+but the name of Patience seemed to me a misapplication in her case, for
+she certainly possessed but a small quantity of that valuable article.
+Early in life she had passed through many trials, which might have
+tended to sour her disposition. I remember that during the visit
+referred to, my mother had occasion to spend a day from home, leaving me
+in care of Aunt Patience. It seemed a very long day to me. Like all
+children, I was restless and troublesome, and to one unaccustomed to the
+care of children it was doubtless very annoying. During the day I
+received a severe box on the ear from Aunt Patience, for saying to her
+in an outburst of childish anger, when provoked by her continued
+fault-finding,
+
+"I don't know what makes them call you Aunt Patience, for you scold all
+the time."
+
+She informed my mother of it upon her return, and she gave me a reproof
+for allowing myself to speak disrespectfully to my relative; although,
+while listening to the relation of the difficulty by Aunt Patience, she
+found it extremely difficult to repress a smile. However, my mother both
+loved and respected her, and thought she could live very comfortably
+with her during my absence; indeed my mother thought her quite a
+desirable companion, for, setting aside her irritability at petty
+annoyances, she was a woman of good sense, and was well informed upon
+most subjects, so I gladly joined in the invitation which my mother sent
+her, to come and make our house her home for an indefinite period. As
+she lived only a day's journey by railway from Philadelphia, she arrived
+a week before I left home. She did not like the idea of my mother
+spending so much money in sending me to school. To all of her remarks
+upon the subject my mother replied pleasantly, for she was her own aunt,
+and she would not treat her with disrespect. During the few days I
+remained at home after her arrival, I formed a much more favorable
+opinion of Aunt Patience than I had done during her visit in the days of
+my childhood; and when I observed how kind she was to my mother I found
+it easy to love her.
+
+I felt very sad the morning I bade adieu to my mother and Aunt
+Patience, to go into the world alone. My mother had before given me many
+kind counsels regarding my future conduct, now she only said, as she
+embraced me at parting, "My dear daughter, I trust you will improve your
+time and talents, and conduct yourself in a manner that will not
+disappoint your mother." As Aunt Patience bade me good-bye, she said,
+with a countenance of much solemnity, "You must remember, Clara, all the
+advice I have given you." Sad as I felt, I could not repress a smile,
+for during the past week her advices regarding my future conduct had
+been so numerous, that it would have required a memory more retentive
+than mine to have remembered them all; but I knew they were intended for
+my good, and I readily promised to try and observe them. I wish not to
+weary the reader by giving a detailed account of my journey. I arrived
+safely at my destination, and met with a very cordial welcome at the
+house of Mrs. Armitage, my mother's friend; two days later I became a
+member of the celebrated school for young ladies, taught at that time by
+Mrs. Wentworth, aided by competent assistance.
+
+Mrs. Wentworth was a widow lady, of superior education and noble mind.
+I spent four happy years in this institution, having visited my mother
+but once during the time. It was very pleasant for me to find myself
+once more at home, with the opportunity for rest and relaxation, after
+four years, application to books. During my absence, my mother and Aunt
+Patience had lived very quietly, they saw but little company, and were
+much occupied with their needles as a means of support. During the first
+three years of my absence my mother enjoyed good health, but, during my
+last year at school, she was visited by a long and painful illness,
+through which she was attended, with the utmost kindness and attention,
+by her aunt; my mother being unwilling to recall me from school, if it
+were possible to avoid it; and she had been obliged, on account of her
+illness, to withdraw most of the sum remaining in the Savings' Bank. On
+my return home I found her enjoying a tolerable degree of health, but I
+feared that such close application to her needle had been too much for
+one whose constitution was naturally delicate. She seemed like one weary
+both in mind and body. After my arrival, however, she seemed to regain
+her usual cheerfulness, and in a short time seemed quite herself again.
+It was now I felt it my duty to turn the education which my mother had
+been at so much pains to give me to account by teaching, in order to
+assist her, and also to obtain a support for myself. We had decided to
+offer Aunt Patience a home for the remainder of her life, indeed I felt
+that I owed her a debt of gratitude for her past kindness to my mother.
+We therefore told her that so long as we possessed a home, we would
+gladly share it with her, provided she felt contented to remain with us.
+She at first demurred a little, as she was aware that our means were
+limited; but when my mother told her that she would not know what to do
+without her, it seemed to set her mind at rest, and she gladly assented
+to our proposal, and it was settled that for the future her home was to
+be with us.
+
+I had as yet settled upon no definite plan in regard to teaching. My
+mother wished me to apply for the situation of governess in a family, as
+she thought that position would command a higher salary, and would prove
+less laborious than a situation in a school. About this time we noticed
+in a daily paper an advertisement for a governess, wanted in the family
+of a Mr. Leighton, residing in the suburbs of the city; the salary
+offered was liberal, and I thought, with my mother, that I had best
+apply for the situation.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+GOVERNESS IN MR. LEIGHTON'S FAMILY.
+
+
+It was with a feeling of trepidation, such as I never before
+experienced, that I ascended the steps of the splendid residence of Mr.
+Leighton. When I found myself at the door, my courage well nigh failed
+me, but without giving myself much time for reflection, I rang the door
+bell. After some little delay the door was opened by a domestic, of whom
+I enquired if I could see Mrs. Leighton. The servant replied that she
+did not know, but that she would see if her mistress was disengaged.
+"What name?" enquired the servant, "Miss Roscom," I replied. The servant
+ushered me into the parlor, and left the room. Being left alone, I
+amused myself by taking a survey of the apartment. It was evident that I
+had entered the abode of luxury and wealth. The sofas and chairs were
+covered with rich velvet, while satin curtains draped the windows. An
+elegant and costly piano occupied one corner of the room; the walls were
+adorned by costly pictures, and on the marble centre-table were many
+books in elegant bindings; and rare and exquisite ornaments were
+scattered with lavish profusion. Upon the entrance of a tall, and, as I
+thought at the time, rather haughty-looking lady, I rose, bowed and
+continued standing, as she said,--
+
+"My servant informs me your name is Miss Roscom."
+
+I replied in the affirmative, and added, "I have the pleasure, I
+presume, of addressing Mrs. Leighton?"
+
+The lady acknowledged her claim to that name, and I continued,--"Seeing
+your advertisement for a governess, I have made bold to apply for the
+situation."
+
+The lady bent upon me a searching look, as she replied,--
+
+"Pray be seated Miss, and we will converse upon the matter."
+
+I gladly obeyed her request that I should be seated, for I felt nervous
+and agitated. After a moment's silence she addressed me, saying,--
+
+"You look rather young, for the responsible duties of a governess."
+
+I replied that I was not yet nineteen years of age, that I had not as
+yet been engaged in teaching, having only myself left school three
+months since,--but that I found it necessary that I should do something
+for my own support and that of my widowed mother,--and that I would
+gladly do my utmost to give satisfaction, could I obtain a situation.
+
+Mrs. Leighton, after a moment's thought, said,--"Although you are young
+for the position, your countenance pleases me, and I feel inclined to
+give you a trial."
+
+She then informed me that my pupils would consist of two girls, the
+eldest twelve, the other ten years of age, also a little boy of seven.
+She added, "I had almost forgotten to enquire if you have brought any
+references?"
+
+Whereupon I handed her the certificate of qualifications given me by
+Mrs. Wentworth when I left school. She looked pleased as she replied,
+
+"Your being for four years a member of Mrs. Wentworth's school is in
+itself a recommendation."
+
+I also handed her the names of several ladies well known in the city,
+telling her she was at liberty to make any enquiries of them she might
+think proper. She replied that she felt almost certain she would engage
+me, but that she would send me a decided answer in the course of two or
+three days. I thanked her, and, bidding her good morning, set out on my
+return home, much elated with the success of this my first application.
+
+The salary offered by Mrs. Leighton was a weighty consideration to me,
+and although aware that my duties would often prove unpleasant and
+irksome, I felt that I could endure much with the consciousness that I
+was assisting my dear mother.
+
+My mother advised me not to be too sanguine as I might not obtain the
+situation; but, on the third day after my application, my suspense was
+relieved by receiving a note from Mrs. Leighton, saying that she would
+gladly engage me, if I still wished for the situation; and she named an
+early day when she wished me to enter upon my duties. I replied that I
+gladly accepted the situation, and would be ready to begin duties at the
+day appointed.
+
+Now that I had accepted the position, I began to experience many doubts
+as to my success in the undertaking. I had no knowledge as yet of the
+dispositions of the children that were to be committed to my care, not
+having even seen them; but my mother told me I was wrong to allow such
+thoughts to trouble me, and that the blessing of God would surely rest
+upon my labors so long as I continued in the path of duty. I therefore
+cast away all my desponding fears, and hastened the preparations for my
+departure to the home of the Leightons.
+
+I was kindly received by Mrs. Leighton upon my arrival; and, when we
+were seated in the parlor, she summoned the children for the purpose of
+introducing them to me.
+
+"My dears," said she, addressing the children, "this is Miss Roscom,
+your governess."
+
+Then, turning to me, she introduced them each by name. I must confess
+that I was not prepossessed in favor of the eldest of the girls. She was
+very tall for her age; she had a dark complexion, with very black eyes
+and hair, and had, as it seemed to me, rather a forbidding expression of
+countenance. She also gave me, as I thought, rather pert replies to the
+few remarks I addressed to her. There was not the slightest resemblance
+between her and her younger sister; her name was Georgania. There was
+something peculiarly attractive in the countenance and manner of Bertha,
+or Birdie, as she was called by all the family. She was indeed a child
+formed to attract the admiration and love of all who saw her. Her
+complexion would have appeared almost too pale but for the rose-tint on
+either cheek; she had beautiful eyes of a dark blue, and her soft brown
+hair fell in luxuriant curls upon her shoulders. She came forward as her
+mother called her name and placed her hand in mine. I thought at the
+time that I had never before seen so lovely and engaging a child. The
+little boy, Lewis, was a manly looking little fellow for his age,
+although I feared, from his countenance that he might possess a temper
+and a will not easy to be controlled. He somewhat resembled his sister
+Georgania, as his complexion and eyes were dark; but he had a more
+pleasing expression of countenance. When Mrs. Leighton had dismissed the
+children from the room, she turned to me, remarking that probably I
+would like to retire for a time to my own room, she called one of the
+servants and requested her to show me to my apartment. As I was leaving
+the parlor she informed me that tea would be ready at half-past six
+o'clock. The room appropriated to my use was very pleasant, and was also
+tastefully furnished. At the tea-table I was introduced to Mr. Leighton,
+whom I had not before seen. I was very much pleased by his manner, which
+had none of that patronizing condescension with which the rich so often
+address the poor. I found him a gentleman, in the truest sense of the
+word.
+
+After tea, Mr. Leighton requested me to favor them with some music.
+Accordingly I seated myself at the piano and played several pieces, with
+which he seemed much pleased. He remarked that they were quite at a loss
+for music since their eldest daughter, Laura, left home for school, as
+their two youngest daughters had but recently commenced taking lessons.
+As I rose from the piano, Mrs. Leighton enquired if I sang. I replied
+that I sometimes sang to oblige my friends. She asked if I would favor
+them with a song. Resuming my seat, I began the first song which
+occurred to my mind. It chanced to be that much-admired song, by Foster,
+called "Willie, we have missed you." When I concluded I was surprised to
+find Mrs. Leighton in tears. She informed me, by way of apology, that
+their eldest son's name was Willie, and that he had been absent for some
+months in England, on account of the death of a wealthy uncle, who had
+made him his heir. She remarked, further, that he was the life of their
+dwelling, and they had indeed missed him very much. I said that I was
+sorry to have given her pain. She replied that the song had afforded her
+a pleasure, although, said she, "I could not refrain from tears while
+thinking of my absent Willie."
+
+In order to change the subject, Mr. Leighton remarked that they were
+fortunate in securing a governess who could both sing and play, as he
+was very fond of music.
+
+When I left Mrs. Wentworth's school I was called an excellent performer
+on the piano, for I was very fond of music, and had devoted much time to
+practice. We also enjoyed some very pleasant conversation during the
+evening, and the more I saw of Mr. and Mrs. Leighton I felt disposed to
+like them. When I retired to my own room I kneeled and thanked my
+Heavenly Father for directing me to a home where I had a prospect of
+being useful and happy.
+
+It is not my intention to give a detailed account of the events of the
+next two years; and a few words must suffice for that period of time.
+
+If I had trials of temper to endure from my pupils,--and who ever yet
+was a governess and had not,--I also enjoyed much pleasure in their
+society. The eldest of my pupils gave me more trouble than did both the
+others. Her memory was not retentive; she had also a certain
+listlessness of manner during lessons which was at times very annoying.
+But it was a very pleasant task to instruct Birdie; she drank in
+knowledge eagerly, and possessed an excellent memory. In music she made
+astonishing progress, for a child of her years; and she was of a most
+affectionate disposition, which made the duty of imparting knowledge to
+her doubly pleasant. The progress of little Lewis was equal to that of
+most boys of his age. I found less trouble with him than I had at first
+anticipated. I found him to be a child that would never be controlled by
+harshness, but he was easily restrained by kindness.
+
+As often as I could do so conveniently I visited my mother and Aunt
+Patience. Aunt Patience seemed happier than I had ever before seen her.
+I think the quiet of her home tended to soften her somewhat irritable
+temper.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+WILLIE LEIGHTON'S RETURN FROM ENGLAND.
+
+
+Soon after I became a resident in the dwelling of Mr. Leighton, they
+received a letter from Willie, informing them that the estate of his
+deceased relative could not be finally arranged in less time than a
+year, perhaps longer; and he thought that instead of returning to
+Philadelphia he would enter a College in England, and devote the
+intervening time to study. His parents could not object, knowing it to
+be for his interest, as he had not, when a boy taken very kindly to
+study. A year passed away, and Willie did not return, but they received
+frequent letters from him. Near the close of the second year he wrote,
+informing them that he intended leaving England on the tenth of the
+month following, as the matters pertaining to the property left him were
+now satisfactorily arranged.
+
+About this time Laura returned home from school, having finished her
+term of study. Mrs. Leighton intended sending Georgania to the same
+institution where Laura studied, but she was not to go till the coming
+autumn. She wished, however, that I should remain with them till Birdie
+and Lewis should be old enough to send from home. I had been very,
+_very_ kindly treated in the home of Mrs. Leighton, and had become
+strongly attached to my pupils, especially the two younger of them; and
+I was glad of the opportunity of remaining near to my mother.
+
+As the time drew near when they looked for the return of Willie, all the
+family were busy with their preparations for giving him a joyous
+welcome.
+
+When I observed the eagerness with which they looked forward to his
+return, I could not at times help feeling a pang of regret that I had
+neither brother nor sister of my own. Had it not been for my surviving
+parent, I should have felt entirely alone in the world. Not that I
+envied the Leightons--far from it--but I could not help sometimes
+contrasting my position in life with theirs. They being blessed with the
+love of fond parents, brothers and sisters, along with the possession of
+abundant wealth, and every comfort which tends to form a happy home;
+while I was a poor, fatherless girl, obliged to labor for my own support
+and that of my mother. I could not help thinking how different all might
+have been had the life of my father been spared. I do not think that I
+was usually of an unhappy disposition; on the contrary, I was inclined
+to be hopeful and cheerful; but I believe with the best of us, the
+happiness of others more favoured than ourselves will give rise to a
+feeling of sadness.
+
+The time soon arrived when, according to the letter they had received
+from Willie, they might daily expect his arrival. None of the family
+were able to settle their minds upon any employment, and it was with the
+greatest difficulty that I could obtain the attention of my pupils
+during the time appointed for their daily lessons, and, being aware of
+the cause, I could hardly blame them. Their suspense was at length ended
+by the arrival of Willie. Never shall I forget the joy which was
+depicted upon the countenance of little Lewis when suddenly he burst
+into my room, exclaiming,
+
+"Oh! Miss Roscom, our dear, _dear_ brother Willie has come at last!
+Don't you wish you had a brother Willie too?"
+
+Had he known the pang which his childish remark occasioned me he
+certainly would never have made it. With much difficulty I kept back my
+tears and tried to appear as much pleased as the child evidently wished
+me to be. I had been accustomed, since my residence in the family, to
+spend my evening mostly with them in the parlor; but on that evening I
+remained in my own room, feeling that I should be an intruder upon that
+family reunion. I took up a book and endeavored to interest myself in
+its pages. I could distinctly hear the joyous murmur of voices from
+below, varied by bursts of laughter, not loud, but strikingly mirthful.
+I soon heard light footsteps ascending the stairs; the next moment
+Birdie rushed in, exclaiming,
+
+"Mamma says she has been so much occupied that she had almost forgotten
+you; but she says you must come down at once; you mustn't sit here alone
+when we are all so happy."
+
+I begged to be excused from going down, saying that they would probably
+prefer being left to themselves on this evening of Willie's return.
+
+"Oh!" said she, "Papa and mamma both expect you to go down."
+
+Fearful of giving offence, and after making some slight alterations in
+my dress, I accompanied Birdie down stairs and entered the parlor.
+
+I believe most persons feel a kind of embarrassment when meeting for the
+first time one of whom they have long heard much. I was sensible of this
+feeling when I entered the parlor that evening.
+
+Willie rose as I entered the room, and Mrs. Leighton, coming forward,
+said,--
+
+"Miss Roscom, allow me to introduce to you my son Willie."
+
+I felt much relieved by this unceremonious introduction. For a time we
+engaged in general conversation. The manner of Willie was so genial and
+pleasant that I at once felt at ease in his society. I had often thought
+that Birdie resembled no other member of the family, but that was before
+I saw Willie. He had the same complexion, the same cast of countenance,
+with the same smile, only in a more mature and masculine form.
+
+After an hour spent in social conversation, he said some music would be
+very welcome to him, it was so long since he had enjoyed that pleasure
+in their own home. Laura immediately went to the piano, and sang two or
+three songs which she knew to be favourites of his. Willie invited me to
+play, but I begged him to excuse me for the time being, as he had three
+sisters present, who all played more or less.
+
+After his sisters had each in their turn favored him with some music, he
+rose, and taking the vacant seat at the piano, asked if we would not
+like to hear an English song. His sisters laughed heartily, thinking him
+to be only in jest; but their amusement changed to wonder and admiration
+when, after running his fingers lightly over the keys, he began playing
+a soft and melodious prelude. It seemed that when a boy of fifteen, he
+had as a sort of amusement learned the rudiments of music, but he had
+not begun with any settled purpose of making progress in the study, and
+had soon become tired of it. What then was their surprise to hear him
+sing with much taste and skill, to a beautiful accompaniment, a song he
+had learned in England.
+
+He explained, that while in England, a class-mate of his, who was an
+excellent musician, had given him lessons; and that after a time he had
+become very fond of it, and had practised much during his leisure hours.
+
+It was easy to see that Willie was almost idolized by all the family.
+During the evening Mrs. Leighton could scarcely take her eyes from the
+face of her son, and they all eagerly listened to his every word: and
+any one who saw the noble-looking young man, could not wonder at their
+affection for him. When he rose from the piano, Birdie and Lewis begged
+for one more song, but Mrs. Leighton reminded them that it was late, and
+that their brother must be fatigued. And soon after prayers, the happy
+family separated for the night.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+AN EVENING PARTY.
+
+
+Previous to the return home of Laura and Willie, the Leightons had seen
+but little company for a family of their wealth and social position; but
+now, instead of the heretofore quiet evenings, their superb parlors were
+thronged with acquaintances and friends, for both Willie and Laura had
+been favourites with both young and old.
+
+Laura had intended giving a large party, but had deferred it till Willie
+should return home; and soon after his arrival the invitations were
+sent, and preparations were commenced for the contemplated party. I did
+not expect, neither did I wish, to be included among the guests. I had
+never attended a fashionable party in my life; and I thought, even were
+I favoured with an invitation, that I should feel strangely out of place
+amid so much display of wealth and fashion as I should be sure to meet
+with at a party given by one of the most wealthy and influential
+families in the city.
+
+I was much surprised when I received from Laura a very cordial
+invitation to attend her party. I at first declined the invitation,
+saying that I was unaccustomed to any thing of the kind, and that as
+most of the guests would be strangers to me, I should prefer not
+attending; but when Mr. and Mrs. Leighton expressed their wish that I
+should attend the party, I overcame my reluctance and consented.
+
+The evening at length came, and although I anticipated but little
+pleasure from the party, I felt a degree of restlessness and expectation
+when the appointed evening arrived. My wardrobe was not furnished with
+any superfluities in the way of dress, and my command of money was not
+sufficient to allow of any extravagance in apparel. Laura kindly offered
+to present me with a beautiful silk dress for the occasion, but I
+delicately, though firmly, declined the gift, for I wished not to appear
+otherwise than in my true position. I therefore selected the most
+appropriate dress I possessed for the occasion; it was quite plain,
+though of rich material. The only ornament I wore was a pearl necklace,
+which had been a bridal gift to my mother.
+
+Laura assisted me in making my toilette, and insisted that I should
+allow her to place a few natural flowers in my hair, and to please her I
+consented to wear them. Laura looked very lovely in the costly dress
+purchased for the occasion; she also wore a set of diamond ornaments,
+which her father had presented to her on her return from school.
+
+As soon as we had finished our toilettes, we descended to the
+drawing-room, where Mr. and Mrs. Leighton had already taken their
+places, as it was near the hour when they might expect their guests to
+begin to assemble.
+
+I went down thus early to avoid the unpleasantness of entering the
+brilliantly lighted drawing-room after it should be filled with guests.
+I had requested of the Leightons that I might receive as few
+introductions as possible under the circumstances. Truly it was a
+brilliant assembly which soon filled those spacious apartments. Among
+the guests who first arrived were a Mr. and Mrs. Lawton, with their
+daughter, to whom Laura gave me an introduction.
+
+Their kind attentions and lively conversation soon dispelled the feeling
+of embarrassment with which I first found myself in the company of so
+many wealthy and distinguished people.
+
+Dancing was soon introduced. Dancing was an accomplishment which I had
+never learned, as my mother disapproved of the amusement. Willie seemed
+disappointed when he invited me to become his partner for the quadrille
+then forming, and I replied that I did not dance. When he learned that I
+did not dance he introduced to me a young gentleman by the name of
+Shirley, who was seated near us, and who, for some reason or other, did
+not join the dancers. Mr. Shirley's conversational powers were extremely
+good, and we engaged in conversation for some time, in the course of
+which I enquired why he refrained from dancing? A shade of sadness
+passed over his countenance as he replied,--
+
+"When a mere youth I was very fond of the amusement, and devoted much
+time to the practice of it. I believe it is the only thing which I ever
+knowingly did against the wishes of my parents; but my fondness for
+dancing amounted almost to a passion, and I often frequented the giddy
+ball-room when I knew that I was grieving my fond parents by so doing.
+My father and mother considered dancing a sinful amusement; but as my
+inclination to follow it was so strong, they finally forbore to admonish
+me further.
+
+"When I was about twenty years of age my mother died. I was then
+residing at a distance from home. When mother's illness became alarming,
+I was summoned home. I was tenderly attached to my mother, and my grief
+was overwhelming when I saw that she must die. A short time before her
+death, she said to me one day, when we chanced to be left alone, 'My
+dear son, there is one subject upon which I wish to speak with you, 'ere
+I leave you for ever. You know I have ever considered dancing to be a
+sinful amusement. There may be no sin in the simple act of dancing, but
+it is an amusement which certainly has a tendency to evil. I know that
+you very much enjoy it, but you are now capable of serious reflection,
+and allow me to ask you if you feel in a suitable frame of mind for
+prayer and meditation when you retire to your room after having spent
+the evening in the frivolous amusement of dancing?' This was an argument
+which I could neither gainsay nor resist, and coming as it did from the
+lips of my dying mother, I was much affected by it. Before leaving my
+mother's room, I solemnly promised her that I would never again
+participate in the amusement of dancing, and that promise I have most
+sacredly kept. I now often wonder that I could ever have been so fond of
+an amusement which at the best affords so little real enjoyment to its
+votaries. I trust you will pardon the liberty which I have taken in
+talking so long of myself to you, an entire stranger; but when you
+enquired my reason for not joining in the dance, something in your
+countenance impelled me to be thus candid in my answer."
+
+We remained for some time longer in conversation, and I really began to
+enjoy the party. There were several ladies and gentlemen seated near us,
+engaged also in conversation, and I could not avoid hearing much that
+passed among them. Presently I heard a lady enquire of a Mrs. Kingsley,
+a lady to whom I had been introduced in the early part of the evening,--
+
+"Who is that young lady with whom Mr. Shirley has been so long
+conversing?"
+
+"Oh!" she replied, "she is _only_ the governess in Mrs. Leighton's
+family. A _person_, as I am informed, of good education, but very poor,
+and obliged to teach as a means of support for herself and mother, who
+is a widow."
+
+Why should I have felt so indignant at those words, which, if
+maliciously intended, were certainly true? I suppose the attentions I
+was receiving at this my first party were causing me to forget my true
+position. The lady who had first spoken remarked further to Mrs.
+Kingsley,--
+
+"Don't you think her very pretty--almost beautiful? I think I never
+before saw so intelligent a countenance."
+
+Mrs. Kingsley replied,--
+
+"I see nothing so very intelligent in her countenance, and if you
+consider her pretty, I must say that I am astonished at your taste;
+indeed I think her quite common-looking. I almost wonder that the
+Leightons should have made her a guest at a party with their friends;
+but then Miss Laura is kind-hearted, and I presume invited her out of
+pity--those _poor people_ have so few pleasures."
+
+"Hush! She may hear you."
+
+And they changed the subject. I had, however, heard quite enough to
+spoil my enjoyment for the rest of the evening. I was young and
+inexperienced then, and this was my first, though by no means my last,
+lesson in those distinctions which the world draws between the rich and
+the poor. Had I possessed a little more knowledge of the world I should
+better have understood the matter, knowing as I did, that Mrs. Kingsley
+had an unmarried daughter present, of uncertain age, with a fair
+prospect of remaining for some time longer in her state of single
+blessedness. I forbear describing Miss Kingsley, and will only say that
+if Mrs. Kingsley thought me common-looking, I, on the contrary, thought
+her daughter, Miss Kingsley, to be very uncommon-looking.
+
+After the remarks to which I had been an unwilling listener, I derived
+very little pleasure from the party. I mentally said, if my poverty is
+to be made a subject of conversation in parties like this, I wish never
+to attend another; and I was heartily glad when the gay assembly
+departed, at two o'clock in the morning.
+
+Thus ended my first party, which would have afforded me much enjoyment
+had I not chanced to hear those annoying remarks from Mrs. Kingsley.
+
+The party given by the Leightons was soon succeeded by others among
+their numerous acquaintances. To several of those parties I was favored
+with invitations, which I invariably declined, for I had decided to
+attend no more fashionable parties. At length, when urged by the
+Leightons to give my reasons for steadily refusing all invitations, I
+informed them of the remarks I had overheard from Mrs. Kingsley on the
+night of Laura's party. Never shall I forget the look of scorn and
+contempt with which Willie Leighton listened as I related the
+circumstance; but he made no remark, as he knew Mrs. Kingsley to be one
+of his mother's most intimate friends. Mrs. Leighton remarked that Mrs.
+Kingsley possessed many good qualities, although she was sometimes
+inclined to make malicious remarks.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+FAILING HEALTH OF CLARA'S MOTHER.
+
+
+I soon had a far more serious cause for disquiet than the remarks of
+Mrs. Kingsley or any one else could have occasioned. I had many times
+during the past year feared that my mother's health was failing. She
+looked thin and pale, and seemed to lack her usual activity in
+performing her household duties. I frequently enquired if she were ill,
+and she had ever replied that she was quite well; only it might be a
+little fatigued. But the truth could no longer be concealed. My mother
+was ill, and that seriously. She still attended to her daily
+occupations, but she was greatly changed; she seemed during the past few
+weeks to have grown thin almost to attenuation. She was very pale,
+except at times there was a feverish glow upon her cheeks. I was then
+too young to detect, as I should now do, the insidious approach of that
+foe to human life, consumption. Going one day to visit my mother, I was
+so struck by the change so visible in her countenance, I privately asked
+Aunt Patience if she did not feel alarmed for my mother? She burst into
+tears, and was for some time unable to reply. I had never before seen
+Aunt Patience so much affected. I begged of her to tell me if there was
+any real cause for alarm, for I had hoped she would be able to dispel
+all my fears in regard to my mother. Regaining her composure, she told
+me that consumption was hereditary in my mother's family. I had never
+before chanced to hear it mentioned, but Aunt Patience now informed me
+that several of the family had fallen victims to that disease, and that
+she feared it had already fastened upon my mother.
+
+"I am glad," she said, "that you have spoken to me upon the subject. I
+have long wished to make known my feelings to you, but I shrank from
+giving you pain. I have been unable to persuade your mother to call a
+physician. She imagines herself better; but I can see but too plainly
+that such is not the case."
+
+I forebore mentioning the subject to my mother at that time; indeed I
+could not have done so. I was now thoroughly alarmed--almost terrified,
+and it was with a heavy heart that I returned to the dwelling of Mrs.
+Leighton.
+
+I had frequently spoken to Mrs. Leighton of my mother's failing health,
+and I now felt it my duty to resign my position as governess, for a time
+at least, and return to my mother, that she might be relieved from all
+care. When I returned to Mrs. Leighton's on the evening in question, I
+again spoke to her upon the subject, saying that I feared I should be
+obliged to resign my situation in her family and return to my mother,
+who evidently needed my attention. Mrs. Leighton expressed much sympathy
+for me in my trouble, saying that I ought by all means to hasten to my
+mother; but added that she did not wish me to resign my position, as she
+was willing to wait for me for any length of time I might find it
+necessary to remain at home. She said, further, that Laura would be
+quite willing to give some attention to the children during my absence;
+and she tried to cheer me up, saying that she trusted my mother would
+soon be better. I too tried to be hopeful, but the impression that my
+mother was to die had taken deep hold of my mind.
+
+I visited my mother the next evening, and, to avoid surprising her by
+suddenly returning home, I informed her that I intended spending a few
+weeks at home, as I needed rest from teaching, and that Laura would
+attend to the children during the time I should remain at home. My
+mother seemed so cheerful that evening that I began to hope that I might
+have been too much alarmed; but, when I had opportunity for speaking
+privately with Aunt Patience, her words confirmed my worst fears. She
+informed me that at her earnest solicitation my mother had that day
+summoned a physician; that he had prescribed some medicine for her, and
+given her some advice in regard to diet, walking or riding in the open
+air, &c. She further informed me that she had herself spoken privately
+to the physician, requesting him to tell her candidly what he thought of
+my mother's case. He replied,--
+
+"As you have asked me a plain question, I think it my duty to give you a
+candid answer. I know not," continued the physician, "how it might have
+been had I been called six months ago, but now I fear the case of Mrs.
+Roscom is beyond the reach of medicine. I will gladly do my utmost for
+her, but I fear that a few months, it may be a few weeks, will terminate
+her life."
+
+This was _fearful_ tidings to me, as I had strongly hoped that the
+opinion of the physician would have been more favorable. When I became
+outwardly composed, I rejoined my mother, in company with Aunt Patience.
+My mother was not aware that Aunt Patience had held any conversation
+with the physician regarding her illness. She seemed much pleased at the
+prospect of my return home. I informed her, before leaving, that she
+might expect my return in the course of two or three days.
+
+She failed rapidly from this time; and, shortly after I returned to my
+home, was obliged to give up all employment, however light. We often
+reminded her of the physician's wish, that she should walk in the open
+air; but it was seldom she felt equal to the task of walking even a
+short distance.
+
+Mrs. Leighton and Laura often called, and brought many little
+delicacies to tempt the appetite of my invalid mother. Mrs. Leighton
+told my mother that she would be happy to send her carriage as often as
+she felt strong to ride out. My mother replied that on fine days she
+would gladly avail herself of her kind offer; and, so as long as my
+mother was able, the carriage was sent every fine day to give her the
+benefit of a short ride in the open air.
+
+I presume that, on ordinary occasions, I should have felt some
+embarrassment in receiving a visit from Mrs. Leighton and Laura in my
+home, which appeared so humble, compared to their own elegant residence;
+but now it never cost me a thought, for, in the presence of a great
+sorrow, all trifling considerations vanish away.
+
+It was in the month of May that I returned home, and by the last of June
+my mother was entirely confined to her room, and much of the time to her
+bed. She suffered much from nervous restlessness, and at times her cough
+was very distressing. She would allow no one, as yet, to sit with her
+during the night, but I gained her consent that I might sleep on a
+lounge which stood in her room.
+
+There was no end to the kindness we received from the Leightons; no day
+passed without some one of the family calling to enquire for my mother.
+
+Soon after this time my mother appeared much better. She was able to sit
+up more than formerly, and her cough was far less troublesome. I
+remember one day saying to Aunt Patience, when we chanced to be alone,
+that I began to think my mother would yet recover, she seemed so much
+better.
+
+"My dear Clara," she replied, "I hope your mother may recover; but you
+must not build hopes which I fear will never be realised. This seeming
+change for the better is only one of these deceitful turns of her
+disease by which so many are deceived. I do not wish to alarm you
+needlessly, but I dare not cherish any hopes of her recovery."
+
+The idea that my mother would die had been impressed upon my mind from
+the first; yet, when I observed her improved appearance, I thought that
+the physician, as well as ourselves, might have been deceived.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+A BRIGHT DREAM AND PEACEFUL END.
+
+
+The seeming favorable turn of my mother's disease proved, as Aunt
+Patience had feared, of but short duration. She was soon again almost
+entirely confined to her bed; except that, in the after-noons for the
+sake of the change, she would recline for a short time upon the sofa in
+the parlor. But this was only for a few days, and then she was unable to
+leave her own apartment.
+
+As I have said so little regarding my own feelings, in view of my
+mother's death, the reader may be led to think that I felt less keenly
+than I might have been supposed to do. If I have said little, it is for
+the reason that I have no words adequate to describe what my feelings
+were at the time. I felt stunned as by a heavy blow; and it seemed to me
+if my mother died I certainly could not live. I had yet to learn that
+grief does not kill--that is, not suddenly.
+
+I have often since looked back to that time, and felt deeply humbled,
+while thinking how little I felt resigned to the will of heaven. I could
+not then, as I have since done, recognize the hand of a kind and loving
+Father in the stroke. I could only feel that my mother was leaving me,
+and all was darkness beyond. I now scarcely ever left my mother's room,
+except when Aunt Patience would almost compel me for a short time, to
+retire to my own apartment, that I might obtain a little rest. But the
+thought that soon I would have no mother was ever present to my mind,
+and I wished to remain with her as long as she might be spared to me.
+
+About three weeks previous to my mother's death, Aunt Patience urgently
+requested me one afternoon to retire to my own room and seek some rest,
+saying I looked entirely worn out. After obtaining from her a promise
+that she would not allow me to sleep too long, I complied. My room
+seemed very cool and refreshing that sultry afternoon, and, lying down
+upon my bed, I soon sank into a profound slumber, which continued for
+three or four hours. Upon my going down stairs, I was surprised at the
+lateness of the hour, and enquired of Aunt Patience why she had not
+called me? She replied that as my mother had seemed quite comfortable,
+she thought it best to let me enjoy a sound sleep. I persuaded Aunt
+Patience to retire to rest soon after tea, as I intended watching that
+night by my mother. Thus far we had ourselves been able to attend to the
+wants of my mother, without assistance, as it pleased her better that
+either Aunt Patience or I should attend to her; but we had lately
+allowed a friend to sleep in the house, as we did not like to be left
+alone. That evening, after my mother had partaken of a little light
+refreshment, she seemed inclined to sleep. I took up a book and tried to
+become interested in its pages. As my mother now seemed to enjoy a
+peaceful slumber, I remember I thought her dreams must have been happy
+ones, for I often noticed a smile upon her countenance. I think she had
+slept nearly two hours, when she awoke, and requested me to give her a
+drink. I supported her upon my arm as I held to her lips a glass in
+which I had mixed some wine and water. Laying her gently back upon her
+pillows I enquired if I could do anything farther for her comfort? She
+replied that she felt quite comfortable; and, thinking that she might
+again fall asleep, I resumed my reading. After remaining quiet for
+sometime she softly called my name. As I stepped hastily to her
+bed-side, she said,--
+
+"Come and sit near me, Clara, I have something to say to you."
+
+Obedient to her request, I drew my chair near to her bedside, and seated
+myself. She clasped my hand in both hers, as she said,--
+
+"My dear Clara, I have long wished to ask you if you are aware that I
+must soon leave you?"
+
+As she said these words the grief of my overburdened heart defied
+control, and, burying my face in her pillows I sobbed convulsively. This
+sudden near approach to death sent an icy chill over my whole being.
+
+"You must endeavor to compose yourself, my daughter," said my mother,
+"and listen to me."
+
+I tried to restrain my tears as my mother continued.
+
+"I have long wished to talk with you, but have deferred it from time
+to time, through fear of giving you pain; but I now feel it an
+imperative duty to converse with you upon the subject. Allow me to tell
+you a dream which visited me in the slumber from which I awoke a few
+minutes since. In my dream I seemed to be walking alone on a calm
+summer's evening, without any definite object in view. When I had walked
+for a considerable distance the scene suddenly changed, and I found
+myself walking by the banks of a placid river. Looking forward, I
+observed a person advancing to meet me, whom I at once knew to be your
+father. My joy was great at the prospect of meeting him; for in my dream
+I recollected that he had been long dead. I enquired of him how it
+happened that I met him there? He replied, 'I saw you coming when you
+were yet a long way off, and feared you might lose your way.' Turning
+back in the direction from whence he had come, he turned towards me,
+with a pleasant smile, and said, 'follow me.' As we walked onward, I
+observed that the river by which we walked seemed gradually to become
+more narrow the further we advanced. He continued to walk onward for
+some time, a little in advance of me, when suddenly stopping, he turned
+to me and said, 'My dear Alice, look across to the other side of the
+river, and behold the place which is now my home.' The breadth of the
+river had continued to lessen, till it was now only a narrow line of
+water which separated us from the opposite shore. I looked as he
+directed me, and, oh! Clara, I can find no words by which to describe to
+you what I saw. It so far surpassed anything pertaining to this world
+that I am unable to give you any description of it. I felt an intense
+desire to cross the narrow stream which separated me from the beautiful
+place. I enquired of your father if I could not with him cross the
+stream and enter those golden gates, which I could plainly see before
+me. He replied, 'No, my dear Alice, every one must cross this river
+_alone_. You must go back for a brief period, as you have yet a mission
+to perform before taking your final leave of earth. You must comfort the
+sorrowing heart of our child 'ere you leave her. Tell her of the home
+which I now inherit, where there is also a place prepared for you and
+for her, if you so live as to be found worthy to enter those gates which
+you see before you.' He then said, 'I must now leave you, and you must
+return to our Clara for a few brief days, when you will be summoned to
+rejoin me in yonder blissful abode.' I turned to make some further
+remark to him, but he had gone from my sight, and I awoke with my mind
+deeply impressed by my dream. But now," added my mother, to me, "the
+bitterness of death is already past. It is for you only that I grieve. I
+trust however, that instead of grieving immoderately for your mother you
+will endeavor to discharge your duty in whatever position it may please
+God to place you, and so live that whenever you may be called from this
+world it may be to meet your mother in Heaven. Since my illness my mind
+has been much exercised regarding my own state as a sinner; for be
+assured, Clara, that, in the near prospect of death, we find in
+ourselves much that is unworthy, which had before escaped our notice
+while in the enjoyment of health. But I am now happy while I tell you
+that all is peace with me. I now feel willing to depart whenever it is
+the will of my Heavenly Father to call me hence, and I feel confident
+that in a very few days I shall be summoned from earth. I am sorry to
+see you grieve," said my mother, for I was weeping bitterly; "endeavor
+to derive consolation from what I have said; and be thankful that when I
+leave you it will be to rejoin your dear father where there is neither
+sorrow nor sighing."
+
+Seeing that my tears agitated my mother, I succeeded in checking them,
+and assumed an air of composure, which I was far from feeling. After the
+above conversation with me, my mother enjoyed a night of tranquil
+repose. I now felt the certainty of her death, and prayed for strength
+to meet the sorrow which that event would bring to me.
+
+So calm and peaceful were the last days of my mother's life that we
+could hardly recognize the presence of the King of Terrors, till the
+damps of death were gathering upon her brow. She died at sunset on a
+mild evening in September. She had passed the day almost entirely free
+from pain. Toward evening she slept for an hour; on waking, she said to
+me,--
+
+"My dear child, I think the hour of my departure has arrived. I feel
+that I am dying."
+
+I now observed that look upon the countenance of my mother which tells
+us that a loved friend is no longer ours. She requested me to call Aunt
+Patience, which I instantly did. I also sent a hasty summons to her
+physician, although it was needless, for she was even then entering the
+dark valley. The physician soon arrived, and after one look at my
+mother, said to me, in a low voice,--
+
+"My dear Miss Roscom, as a physician, I can be of no further use, but as
+a friend, I will remain with you."
+
+The physician was an old and valued friend, being the same who had stood
+by the death-bed of my father, and he deeply sympathized with me in
+this, my second bereavement.
+
+As I stood by my mother, my grief was not noisy; it was far too deep
+and powerful for that. Outwardly, I was quite calm. My mother had
+endeavored to prepare my mind for this hour. I had also prayed for
+strength to meet it with fortitude and resignation; but those who have
+stood by the dying bed of a fond mother may understand my sorrow. My
+mother was spared much of the suffering which attends the last moments
+of many. She seemed to be softly breathing her life away. After lying
+for some time tranquil and quiet, she suddenly opened her eyes and
+looked from one to the other of us. As they rested upon me, she made a
+sign that I should go nearer to her.
+
+"Weep not, my dear child," said she, in a whisper; "be faithful, and you
+will yet meet me in heaven."
+
+She also addressed a few words of like import to Aunt Patience.
+Suddenly, she raised her hands, and, as she looked upward, with a smile
+upon her countenance, we heard a sigh--and her spirit had returned unto
+God Who gave it.
+
+I was borne from the apartment in a state of insensibility, and, when I
+awoke to consciousness, the doctor and Aunt Patience were standing at my
+bedside. After administering a quieting draught, the physician left us,
+saying to Aunt Patience that she must try and induce me to sleep, as
+that would help to restore my shattered nerves. Aunt Patience sat by me
+during the long hours of that night, but it was not until the day began
+to dawn that I sank into a heavy slumber, from which I did not awake
+until a late hour in the morning. On first awaking, it seemed to me that
+I had had a frightful dream; but, as my mind became more clear, I
+realized the sad truth that my mother was no more. I heard a footstep
+enter my room, and soon a familiar voice addressed me, saying,--
+
+"My dear Clara, I have come to see if I can be of any assistance to you
+in your sorrow."
+
+It was Mrs. Leighton who had thus entered my room, she having hastened
+to our dwelling as soon as she learned of my mother's death. I could not
+at first reply to her kind words; I could only weep. She did not force
+me to talk, but, gently as a mother could have done, did she bathe my
+fevered brow and throbbing temples. Telling me to remain quiet for a few
+moments, she left the room, and soon returned, bearing a cup of tea,
+which she insisted upon my drinking. She assisted me to dress, and
+opened a window to admit the cool morning air. I tearfully thanked her
+for those kind attentions. She insisted that I should lean upon her for
+support, as we descended the stairs, and indeed I felt scarcely able to
+walk without assistance.
+
+On going below, I found several kind friends, who had remained with
+Aunt Patience to render their assistance in any office of friendship we
+might require. Mrs. Leighton accompanied me to the room where lay the
+lifeless remains of my mother. I folded back the snowy napkin which
+covered her face, and gazed long upon those dear features, now stamped
+with the seal of death. As I gazed upon her now peaceful countenance, I
+felt that to wish her back again would be almost a sin. I also derived
+much comfort from the consoling words of Mrs. Leighton. I cannot dwell
+longer upon these sorrows. When I stood at my mother's grave, and looked
+down upon her coffin, after it had been lowered into the earth, I almost
+wished that I too were resting by her side. Since that period I have
+experienced other sorrows; but the sharpest pang I have ever felt, was
+when I turned away from the graves where rested the remains of both
+father and mother.
+
+As I have before mentioned, Aunt Patience had, in the course of her
+life, passed through many trying vicissitudes, and, previous to her
+death, my mother had considered that we could make no better return for
+the debt of gratitude we owed her than by making provision for her old
+age. I say, with good reason, that we owed her a debt of gratitude, for,
+during her residence with us, she had shown the utmost kindness to both
+my mother and myself. And when my mother's health failed her, the care
+and attentions of Aunt Patience were unceasing. With a view of making
+provision for Aunt Patience, my mother had made arrangements that our
+house should be sold, and the money deposited for her future benefit. In
+making this arrangement, my mother wished me to accept of a portion of
+the money which the sale of the house would bring; but I declined,
+saying that, as she had given me a good education, I was amply able to
+support myself, so long as I was blessed with health. My mother assented
+to the arrangement, saying that I could draw money from the deposit
+should I ever have occasion so to do.
+
+We remained for two months in our lonely home, after the death of my
+mother; at the end of which time the new owner took possession of the
+dwelling. Aunt Patience had decided upon going to reside with a relative
+who lived in Massachusetts, and the interest of the money, deposited for
+her use, was to be regularly remitted to her. We disposed of the
+furniture, with the exception of a few cherished articles, which I
+reserved for myself; these the purchaser kindly allowed me to leave in
+one of the upper rooms till I might wish to remove them. The same day
+that Aunt Patience set out on her journey to Massachusetts, I returned
+to Mrs. Leighton.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+FRIENDLY ATTENTIONS.
+
+
+It was well for me that my mind was actively employed; had it been
+otherwise I should have continually brooded over my sorrows. As it was,
+when engaged with my duties in the school-room, my thoughts would wander
+to those two graves in the church-yard, and my tears would fall upon the
+book from which I was listening to a recitation from my pupils.
+Georgania having left home, I had only Birdie and Lewis as pupils. Much
+pity did those affectionate children evince for me when they could not
+but observe my grief. Birdie would often say,--
+
+"Please, Miss Roscom, do not grieve so much; we all love you dearly, and
+will be very kind to you."
+
+And Lewis, who could never bear to see my tears, would say,--
+
+"I will be a little brother to you, Miss Roscom, so please don't cry any
+more."
+
+To please my pupils, I endeavored to appear cheerful; but truly the
+heart knoweth its own bitterness. One thought, however, afforded me some
+consolation, and that was, that I was obeying my mother's dying
+injunction, by striving to do my duty in the position in which I was
+placed. As days and months passed away, I, in some measure, regained my
+usual cheerfulness, although I was nowise inclined to forget my mother.
+
+A year had now passed since I saw her laid in the grave. I often visited
+her resting-place, and there I renewed my resolve to follow her
+precepts; and many a time, kneeling by her grave did I implore wisdom
+from on high to enable me to follow the counsels I had so often received
+from those lips, now sealed in silence. It seemed to me, at such times,
+that I almost held communion with the spirit of my mother.
+
+I experienced much kindness from every member of Mr. Leighton's family.
+I spent my leisure time mostly in my room. They did not, of course,
+invite me to join parties, but they would often urge me to join a few
+friends in their own parlor; but I always replied that my deep mourning
+must be my excuse. I had no taste for company or mirth.
+
+One afternoon the Leightons had gone to join a picnic party some two
+miles from the city. They had invited me to accompany them, but as usual
+I declined. I felt sad and lonely that long afternoon, and, being left
+entirely alone, I could not prevent my thoughts from recurring to the
+past. I thought of all the happy, careless days of my childhood; then my
+memory ran back to the night, when, at ten years of age, I stood by the
+death-bed of my father. With the eye of memory, I again saw my mother,
+as she stood bowed with grief at the grave of my father; and now I was
+left alone to mourn for both father and mother. Memory also fondly
+turned to Miss Edmonds, my first teacher. I felt that to see her again
+would indeed be happiness; but I knew not where Miss Edmonds then
+resided. The last time I had heard from her she contemplated going
+South, as governess in a gentleman's family. Then came the memory of the
+happy years I passed in Mrs. Wentworth's school. Where now were the many
+friends I had then known and loved? As these thoughts passed in quick
+succession through my mind, I could not refrain from weeping; and, as I
+was under no restraint from the presence of others, my tears seemed
+almost a luxury. I know not how long my fit of weeping might have
+continued had not one of the domestics entered the room, and informed me
+that a poor woman was in the kitchen seeking charity.
+
+"I thought," said the girl, "as the other ladies are all away, you might
+give her a trifle, for she seems very needy."
+
+Hastily drying my tears, I went down to the kitchen, where I found a
+young woman, who would have been very pretty but for the look of want
+and suffering depicted upon her countenance. It was evident, from her
+appearance, that she was not an habitual beggar. As I approached her,
+she seemed much embarrassed, as she said,--
+
+"Sure an' its mesilf that never expected to come to this at all, at
+all."
+
+"My poor woman," said I, "you appear to have been unfortunate."
+
+"An' its mesilf that has been misfortunate," she replied, as the tears
+gathered in her fine, dark eyes. She continued,--
+
+"There was never a happier couple than Dinnis O'Flaherty an' I the day
+the praste made us one. But, after a while, the wages got low, and the
+times were hard wid us. 'Polly,' says Dinnis to me one day, 'will you be
+afther goin' to Ameriky wid me?' 'Dinnis,' says I, 'wherever it plases
+you to go its I, Polly McBrine, that's ready and willin' to follow.' We
+sailed in the _St. Pathrick_, and tin days afther I saw my darlin'
+Dinnis buried in the salt say. He fell sick wid a faver, and all me
+prayers for his life could not save him; an' here I am, a lone widdy, in
+a shtrange land, without a penny in me pocket, nor a place to lay me
+head."
+
+Here the poor woman's grief choked her utterance, and, covering her
+face with her hands, she wept aloud. I requested the domestic to bring
+her some food, which she ate like one famishing. I placed in her hand
+money sufficient to secure her from want for two or three days at least.
+I did not in the least doubt her story, for her countenance bore the
+impress of sincerity. When she left, I requested her to call again in
+two or three days, as I felt certain that Mrs. Leighton would assist her
+in obtaining some employment. She left me with many thanks, and blessing
+me after the manner of her country.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+A SURPRISE.
+
+
+After tea I felt that I must walk out in the air, as I was suffering
+from a severe headache. I made my way to the church-yard, and sought the
+graves of my parents; and, seating myself at the headstone of my
+mother's grave, I remained for a long time wrapped in profound
+meditation.
+
+I know not how long I remained thus, for I took no note of time; but
+when I raised my head at the sound of approaching footsteps, the shades
+of evening were gathering around me. It was Willie Leighton whose
+footsteps had aroused me from my reverie.
+
+"My dear Clara," he began.
+
+But when I looked up with a little surprise at his familiar use of my
+christian name, it being the first time he had thus addressed me, he
+colored slightly, and said,--
+
+"I beg pardon, Miss Roscom, for thus intruding upon your solitude, but,
+finding you absent on our return, I came to seek you and, with your
+permission, to escort you home. I think you do wrong to come to this
+lonely place to cherish a sorrow which seems to me to be almost
+unreasonable. I would not have you forget your parents; but, surely, if
+they are permitted to look down upon you from their home in heaven, they
+would not wish to see you thus debar yourself from society and all the
+innocent pleasures of youth. The dews of evening," said he, "are
+beginning to fall, and I must insist upon your return home."
+
+On our way home I could not help a feeling of uneasiness lest Willie's
+attentions to me should displease the family. I had allowed him to
+accompany me home, as I could not have done otherwise without absolute
+rudeness; yet I feared that, in so doing, I should displease his
+friends. My uneasiness increased as, upon entering the house, I thought
+I detected a shade of displeasure in the manner of Mrs. Leighton toward
+me. If Willie noticed anything of the kind, he _seemed_ unconscious of
+it, for he made several efforts to engage us in conversation; but, for
+some reason or other, no one, except himself, seemed inclined to be
+social that evening. I felt very much depressed in spirits, for I
+attributed their silence to displeasure because Willie had accompanied
+me home, and, at an early hour, I bade them good night, and retired to
+my own apartment. After reading, as was my custom, a chapter in my
+Bible, and commending myself to the care of Heaven, I sought my pillow;
+but hour after hour passed away and sleep refused to visit my eyes.
+Again and again I mentally asked myself what had I done to merit the
+coldness which Mrs. Leighton had shown in her manner to me? It was not
+my fault that Willie had sought me, and in a kind and gentlemanly manner
+escorted me home; and I only attributed his attention to that respect
+which the _real_ gentleman ever accords to a lady, be she rich or poor.
+I, however, decided that in future I should receive no attentions from
+Willie. The Leightons were kind, but extremely proud, and I feared that
+the pleasure Willie had lately evinced in my society had displeased
+them, although his attentions had been nothing more than a person
+socially inclined might be expected to show to one dwelling beneath the
+same roof. Again did the remark made by Mrs. Kingsley occur to my mind,
+and I firmly decided that, if Mrs. Leighton was displeased, she should
+have no further cause for displeasure, for I too was possessed of a
+proud spirit. The dawn of the new day glimmered in the east 'ere sleep
+closed my eyes, and then my slumbers were disturbed by unpleasant
+dreams. One dream, in particular, I still remember. I seemed, in my
+dream, to be a homeless wanderer I know not whither. I had left the
+limits of the city and was walking in the open country, on a road that
+seemed strange and unfamiliar to me. At length such a feeling of
+loneliness and misery overpowered me that I felt unable to proceed
+further. Seating myself by the roadside, I burst into tears. Raising my
+eyes, I observed a female figure approaching me, which I soon recognized
+as my mother. She drew near, and, laying her hands upon my head, as if
+in blessing, said,--
+
+"Fear not, my beloved daughter, only continue in the path of duty and
+all will yet be well."
+
+With a cry of joy, I sprang forward to embrace her, and awoke to find
+the sun shining dimly through the partially closed blinds of my window.
+I felt fatigued and nervous, after passing such a restless night. I was
+startled by the pale and haggard countenance which my mirror reflected
+that morning. I had scarcely finished my toilet when the breakfast bell
+rang, and I hastened down stairs, where the family were already
+assembled around the breakfast table.
+
+Whatever of displeasure Mrs. Leighton might have felt the previous
+evening seemed to have vanished with the light of morning. Perhaps,
+thought I, her displeasure existed only in my own imagination, after
+all. Noticing my pale countenance, she enquired if I was ill? I replied
+that I had a slight headache, owing to my not having slept well. She
+kindly offered to excuse me from attending to my pupils that morning,
+but I told her that I felt quite able to attend to my usual duties. In
+the course of the day I mentioned to her the case of the poor woman who
+had called the day previous. She replied that, after seeing her and
+making some enquiries regarding her capability, she would speak to a
+friend of hers, who was in want of a servant, and she had no doubt she
+could influence her friend to engage her, should she consider her a
+suitable person. Accordingly, when Mrs. O'Flaherty called, two or three
+days after, Mrs. Leighton questioned her in regard to her capability as
+a servant. She replied that she had had considerable experience as a
+servant in genteel families, previous to her marriage in the old
+country. Mrs. Leighton requested her to call again shortly, saying that
+she hoped to be able to find her a situation. Mrs. Leighton further
+informed her that, if the lady engaged her, it must be entirely on her
+own recommendation; and that she hoped she would prove herself faithful
+and trustworthy. She replied,--
+
+"An' its mesilf that'll be afther doin' me best to plaze the leddy,
+mem."
+
+And, with many thanks, she left the house. Mrs. Leighton was much
+interested by the intelligent countenance and honest, truthful manner of
+the woman, and she accordingly so strongly enlisted the sympathies of
+her friend, Mrs. Wallingford, that she agreed to give her a trial. Mrs.
+O'Flaherty seemed very thankful when she called, soon after, and Mrs.
+Leighton informed her that she had obtained a situation for her. Mrs.
+Leighton also furnished her with money sufficient to purchase some
+plain, but decent clothing, and a few days after she entered upon her
+duties in the dwelling of Mrs. Wallingford, who afterwards frequently
+remarked to Mrs. Leighton that she had much reason to thank her for
+providing her with the best servant she had ever engaged.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+EMBARRASSING INTERVIEWS.
+
+
+My time passed in the usual daily routine of duties. About this time
+Georgania returned to spend a few weeks at home. Though much improved in
+personal appearance, she was far from being a pleasant companion. Her
+manner, to me, was exceedingly haughty, almost contemptuous. She seemed
+to have entirely forgotten my unwearied pains in laying the foundation
+of her education. I could never understand the reason of her dislike to
+me. The feeling must always have existed, though kept in check during
+the time she had been my pupil. I think the rest of the family must have
+noticed her unpleasant manner to me; and, I have no doubt, remonstrated
+with her upon the subject. I was of a proud, sensitive nature, and the
+many slights, in an indirect way, which I suffered from her roused my
+indignation, and I was revolving the idea in my mind of seeking another
+home, when an event occurred which caused my departure from the home of
+the Leightons sooner than I anticipated. On the morning of the day of
+which I speak, Laura was unable to get out, as she was suffering from a
+cold. She was very anxious to execute some shopping that morning, and
+asked me if I would undertake to make her purchases, as I knew exactly
+what she wanted. I gladly assented, and, as I passed the sitting-room,
+on my way up stairs, I heard Willie say,--
+
+"I too have business up town, and I will drive Miss Roscom to the store
+where she is to make her purchases, and call for her on my return."
+
+Mrs. Leighton replied in a low, but changed voice,--
+
+"Why not send James, the coachman; it is more proper."
+
+I did not wait to hear Willie's reply, but, when I came down, prepared
+for going out, the coachman was in waiting with the carriage. I was glad
+that Willie was not to accompany me, for, since the evening he had
+escorted me home, I had carefully avoided his society.
+
+I was sitting that evening in the garden, in a kind of arbor, covered
+with weeping-vines. I was deeply interested in the volume I held in my
+hand, and was much surprised when Willie suddenly entered the arbor, and
+took a seat by my side. I made a hasty movement to rise and leave the
+arbor, when he addressed me saying,--
+
+"Why is it, Miss Roscom, that you constantly avoid me, and treat me
+with such marked coolness? I am sure I have not merited such treatment.
+I have long sought an opportunity to speak with you alone, and now you
+must hear me. Allow me to tell you that I have long loved you, with a
+deep and true affection. Will you not become my wife, and thereby render
+me the happiest of mortals?"
+
+I was so much surprised by this unexpected declaration that it was some
+moments before I could collect my thoughts sufficiently to reply. I at
+length said,--
+
+"Although deeply sensible of the honor you have done me, I must say in
+reply, that I can never become your wife."
+
+He regarded me with unfeigned surprise as he said,--
+
+"Then you do not love me, Clara. I had hoped that I was not wholly
+indifferent to you."
+
+I replied,--
+
+"As I believe you have addressed me with candor, I will answer you in
+the same manner. I do love you; and, were I guided by my own heart in
+the matter, my reply to your honorable proposal would have been
+different. But there are insurmountable barriers to our union."
+
+"Name them," was his reply.
+
+"Mr. Leighton," I answered. "Whether or not you are aware of the fact,
+that I am unable to say; but I _know_ that your family would never
+consent to your marriage with their governess. They may respect and
+treat me kindly in my present position, but would never be willing to
+receive me as a daughter. It will, therefore, be wiser for you to place
+your affections upon some one in your own position in life."
+
+"Am I not," replied Willie, "free to follow my own wishes in the
+matter? What care I for those butterflies of fashion, whose highest
+enjoyment is to shine in the gay assembly or crowded ball room. My
+heart's devotion must be given to one who possesses true nobility of
+mind. Should my parents refuse their consent to our marriage, then shall
+I feel justified in following the dictates of my own heart. I have never
+disobeyed my parents, and have endeavored to be guided by their
+counsels, but in this matter I must act in accordance with my own
+affection and judgment. In everything except wealth you are my equal,
+and I have enough for us both. Allow me to tell my parents that my
+happiness rests upon their consent to our marriage; and, should they
+withhold their consent, I will marry you and abide the consequences, for
+I am certain they will soon be sensible of their error." Being anxious
+to terminate the interview, I replied,--
+
+"I must answer you, Mr. Leighton, in the manner which I consider will
+be best for us both. Never will I consent to become the wife of any man,
+and, by so doing, alienate him from his parents. I have experienced
+nothing but kindness from all your family, and I cannot take a step
+which will bring sorrow and disquiet into your heretofore happy home. Be
+advised by me and never allude to this subject again. I can be your
+friend, but not your wife. I intend, as soon as circumstances permit, to
+seek another home. Remember me as a friend only, and whatever my own
+feelings may be, I shall at least have the satisfaction of knowing that
+I have acted wisely and for the best."
+
+His countenance expressed extreme agitation, as, rising, he said,--
+
+"You have made me very unhappy, Miss Roscom. I will remain silent for
+the present; but go not away from here, as that would destroy my only
+hope."
+
+When I entered the house, I heard the excited voices of Mrs. Leighton,
+Laura, and Georgania in the parlor. I heard Mrs. Leighton say, as I
+passed the door of the parlor,--
+
+"Are you sure, Georgania, that you understood aright?"
+
+"Quite sure, mamma," she replied; "I plainly heard Willie ask her to
+become his wife; how I _hate_ her; and the thought of Willie's loving
+her almost causes me to hate him."
+
+"Hush!" exclaimed Mrs. Leighton; "I will investigate this matter
+myself."
+
+I hurried up to my room. I knew there was trouble in store for me, and
+I felt strong to meet it; for my own conscience acquitted me of any
+wrong-doing. After some little time had passed, I heard the footsteps of
+Mrs. Leighton ascending the stairs; and a moment after she rapped at my
+door. I opened the door and invited her to enter, and be seated. She
+then seated herself, and sat for some moments in silence. Her
+countenance expressed both sorrow and anger, for, up to this time, I
+believed that Mrs. Leighton had loved me. I waited for Mrs. Leighton to
+open the subject, for I well knew what had brought her to my room, and I
+cared not how soon she made known the object of her visit. At length she
+said,--
+
+"It seems to me, Miss Roscom, that you have rendered a very base return
+for my kindness."
+
+As she seemed waiting my reply, I said,--
+
+"Will you have the goodness, Mrs. Leighton, to explain your words, for I
+am unable to comprehend their meaning?"
+
+Her voice expressed much displeasure as she answered:
+
+"I was not aware that my words required any explanation; but, if they
+do, it shall be given in few words. How dare you so far forget your own
+position, and ours, as to entice my son into making a proposal of
+marriage to one so much his inferior as you must know yourself to be?"
+
+Should I live a hundred years I can never forget the shock her words
+gave me. I fairly trembled with anger. Rising to my feet, I looked her
+steadily in the face, as I said,--
+
+"That your words are false, as well as heartless, I need not tell you,
+as you are already aware of the fact. I appeal to you if I have ever in
+any way courted the society of Willie. If he has asked me to become his
+wife, is it through any fault of mine? But you need give yourself no
+uneasiness upon the subject, for I have already told Willie that I will
+never become the wife of any man whose friends would look upon me as
+their inferior. For, though poor, and obliged to labor for my bread, I
+possess a spirit equally proud with your own, and that spirit your
+insulting words have roused. When you accuse me of enticing Willie into
+making a proposal of marriage, you well know that your accusation is
+false and without foundation."
+
+"I suppose," said Mrs. Leighton, after a short silence, "that you will
+see the propriety of seeking another home."
+
+"You might," I replied, "have saved yourself the trouble of reminding me
+of this, as I intend, this night, to leave your house. I intend to show
+you that I shall prove no hindrance to your son's marrying in accordance
+with your wishes. Allow me to express my heart-felt thanks for your past
+kindness to me; but we must now part."
+
+Mrs. Leighton's anger, by this time, was beginning to cool.
+
+"I am perfectly willing," said she, "that you should remain here till
+you can obtain another situation. When I spoke of your seeking another
+home, I wished not that you should understand that I wished you to leave
+immediately."
+
+I thanked her, but said "I preferred going at once."
+
+She enquired whither I intended going? I replied that there were several
+families residing in the city who had known and loved my mother, who
+would gladly shelter her orphan daughter.
+
+Mrs. Leighton owed me, at the time, one hundred dollars of my salary;
+as I had not required the money, I had left it in her hands. Leaving the
+room, she soon returned with the money in her hand, and pressed me to
+accept of fifty dollars over and above what was owing me. I thanked her,
+but said I wished to accept only of what was my just due. As she refused
+to receive back the money, I laid it upon the table, and began making my
+preparations for leaving her house. In less than an hour my trunks were
+packed, and I was ready to go. Laura and Georgania, I think purposely
+avoided me, for I did not see them before leaving. I felt grieved when I
+parted with Birdie and Lewis, for I had become strongly attached to
+them. Lewis used often to say that boys never ought to cry; crying, he
+said, was only for girls and babies; but he must have forgotten himself
+on this occasion, for he cried bitterly when I bade him good-bye. As I
+turned from my pupils, Mrs. Leighton came forward and extended her hand
+to me. I could not refuse the hand that had so often administered to the
+wants of my dying mother. Neither of us uttered a word. We shook hands
+in silence, and I passed from the house, and entered the carriage which
+was in waiting for me. There was a family by the name of Burnside, with
+whom I had been intimate from childhood; to them I intended going, and
+in a few minutes I was set down at their door.
+
+It chanced to be Mrs. Burnside herself who answered my ring at the
+door. In a few brief words I informed her of the circumstances which had
+caused me to leave Mrs. Leighton so suddenly; at the same time, asking
+her if she was willing to afford me a home for a short time, till I
+could obtain another situation?
+
+"My dear Clara," she replied, "to my home you are freely welcome for any
+length of time you may wish to remain. To-morrow we will talk further of
+the matter, but not another word to-night, for you look very much
+fatigued."
+
+The family consisted of Mr. and Mrs. Burnside, and an aunt of Mrs.
+Burnside's, who resided with them. They had two daughters, but they had
+both married and removed a long distance from their early home. Mrs.
+Burnside offered to conduct me to my room, which offer I gladly
+accepted, for I wished to be alone. The excitement which had sustained
+me through the events of the past few hours had now subsided; and, when
+left alone in my room, I sat down to reflect calmly upon my situation. I
+could not but feel justified in the step I had taken; but I could not
+avoid a feeling of uneasiness when I reflected that I was now homeless.
+I did not wish to remain long with Mrs. Burnside, as I well knew they
+would accept of no compensation from me; and, for that reason, I felt
+the necessity of obtaining another situation as soon as possible; but I
+could come to no decision till after conversing with Mrs. Burnside upon
+the subject. After kneeling and imploring the protection and guidance of
+my Heavenly Father, I retired to rest, and, as I was worn out by the
+exciting events of the evening, sleep soon furnished a welcome relief
+from all anxious thoughts.
+
+I was greeted kindly by Mr. and Mrs. Burnside the next morning, when we
+met at the breakfast table. The aunt, being somewhat of an invalid, did
+not usually take her morning meal with the family. The only allusion to
+my circumstances was made by Mr. Burnside, who said I had better defer
+any conversation upon the subject for the present, and that, in the
+meantime, he wished me to consider his house as my home.
+
+About eleven o'clock that morning, as I was sitting in the room with
+Mrs. Russell, Mrs. Burnside's aunt, the servant came up to inform me
+that a young gentleman was in the parlor, who wished to see me. Looking
+at the card which the girl handed me, I read the name of Willie
+Leighton. I was sorry to wound his feelings; but, when I left their
+dwelling, I firmly resolved that I would never intentionally meet with
+Willie again. I therefore requested the servant to inform Mr. Leighton
+that I was engaged. It was no easy matter for me to send this message to
+_him_; but my pride sustained me.
+
+Two or three weeks passed quietly away. During this time, Birdie and
+Lewis twice came to see me, but whether by permission or by stealth I
+could not determine, and I would not enquire. Willie called repeatedly,
+but I never granted him an interview, as I deemed it best for both that
+we should not meet.
+
+I shall never cease to remember with gratitude the kindness I received
+from Mr. and Mrs. Burnside, and, as I wished not to abuse their
+hospitality, I thought it advisable, when some two months had passed
+away, to devise some means of earning my own support. They would have
+assisted me in obtaining a situation in Philadelphia; but I wished to
+leave my native city, and see if new scenes and new friends would not
+have a beneficial effect upon my mind. I had now no remaining tie to
+bind me to Philadelphia. I grieved, it is true, at the thought of
+leaving the place which contained the graves of my parents.
+Nevertheless, I felt myself to be in the path of duty, while preparing
+to leave my native city.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+A NEW ENGLAND HOME.
+
+
+I knew I had an uncle living in the State of New Hampshire, whom I had
+not seen since I was twelve years of age--he having visited us at that
+time. He was my mother's only brother, and to him I decided to go. I
+once thought of going to aunt Patience, but finally gave up the idea. I
+retained a very distinct recollection of my uncle. I remembered that he
+and my mother had strongly resembled each other, although he was ten
+years her senior. When quite young he had married a very worthy woman,
+and their union was blessed by two children, a son and daughter; but
+they had laid them both in the grave at an early age; therefore they
+were now childless. I had never seen my aunt, but my heart turned toward
+them, and my resolution was soon taken to visit them. They resided about
+three miles from the village of Littleton, in New Hampshire.
+
+The only obstacle in the way of my wishes was the long journey from
+Philadelphia to New Hampshire. I felt reluctant to undertake so long a
+journey alone. This obstacle was unexpectedly removed by the arrival of
+a Mr. and Mrs. Egmont, from the State of Ohio; they were relatives of
+Mrs. Burnside, and were journeying to the Eastern States, to visit some
+friends who resided there. Mr. Burnside mentioned to them my desire to
+visit my uncle in New Hampshire, and they gladly consented that I should
+accompany them on their journey. As they intended remaining but a few
+days in Philadelphia, I was obliged to hasten the preparations for my
+departure.
+
+I could not but observe the hand of a kind Providence in directing Mr.
+and Mrs. Egmont to visit Philadelphia at this particular time.
+
+On the evening preceding my departure I paid a farewell visit to the
+graves of my parents, and I shed some very bitter tears when I reflected
+that I might never again stand by this loved spot. I exacted a promise
+from Mrs. Burnside that, should any of the Leightons make enquiries
+concerning me, she would not inform them of my destination.
+
+We left Philadelphia at a very early hour the next morning, and, after
+a very long and somewhat tedious journey, arrived in safety at the busy
+village of Littleton. Mr. Egmont conducted me to an hotel till he could
+make the necessary enquiries for finding my uncle. I knew he resided
+about three miles from the village, but was unable to say in what
+direction. Mrs. Egmont invited me to accompany them to their friends,
+who lived in the village, and rest before seeking my uncle; but, as I
+had arrived so near the termination of my journey, I wished to reach the
+home of my uncle without further delay. After accompanying Mrs. Egmont
+to their friends, Mr. Egmont returned to the hotel, where I awaited him.
+I was seated near a window, in the sitting-room, and heard him making
+enquiries of one and another for Mr. Wayland my uncle. No one seemed to
+know anything of the person he sought. As the landlord passed that way,
+he turned to him and enquired if he knew a farmer in that vicinity by
+the name of Wayland? He replied that, having resided only for a short
+time in Littleton, his acquaintance did not, as yet, extend beyond the
+limits of the village, and that he knew of no such person. I was
+beginning to fear that my uncle had removed to some other place, as I
+had not heard anything from him for a considerable time, when a
+ragged-looking boy, apparently about twelve years of age, made his way
+up to Mr. Egmont, and said--
+
+"I can tell you where Mr. Wayland lives. He lives about three miles from
+here, on the Waterford Road. I knows you see, for I worked for him this
+fall, pickin' pertaters."
+
+Giving the boy a piece of silver as he thanked him for his information,
+Mr. Egmont came to inform me that, when I had partaken of the dinner he
+had ordered for me, he would accompany me to the home of my uncle.
+
+The lad before mentioned had given Mr. Egmont so accurate a
+description of my uncle's residence that, when we came in view of the
+square, old-fashioned farm-house, described by the boy, we at once knew
+it to be my uncle's home. As we came in sight of the house, the
+question--how will they receive me?--arose in my mind; but the
+recollection which I retained of my uncle was of so pleasing a character
+that I had little doubt of meeting with a cordial welcome. As we drew
+near, I observed an elderly-looking man in the yard, engaged in mending
+some farming implement. From the appearance of the place, it seemed that
+the front entrance was but little used, the front door and blinds being
+closely shut. I was at that time wholly unacquainted with the habits and
+customs of country people. As we drove up to the gate, the man I had
+before observed, paused in his employment, and regarded us, as I
+thought, with no little surprise. Surely, thought I, this man cannot be
+my uncle Wayland. At the time of his visit to my mother he was a young
+and fine-looking man; but the man I now beheld was bowed as it were by
+age, and his hair was nearly white. I should have remembered that since
+I had seen him he had laid both of his loved children in the grave. True
+it is that sorrow causes premature old age; but, upon a second look at
+his countenance, I could clearly trace his resemblance to my mother. His
+eyes, when he raised them to look at us, so strongly resembled hers that
+my own filled with tears, which I hastily wiped away.
+
+Alighting from the carriage, Mr. Egmont addressed my uncle, saying,--
+
+"Have I the pleasure of speaking to Mr. Wayland?"
+
+He replied in the affirmative, and added,--
+
+"I know not whether or not I am addressing an old acquaintance; but your
+countenance is not familiar to me."
+
+Mr. Egmont replied,--
+
+"I am not aware that we have ever met before; but this young lady who is
+your niece, Miss Roscom, has travelled in company with myself and wife,
+and I wished to leave her in your home before resigning my care of her."
+
+My uncle seemed overjoyed at seeing me. He assisted me to alight, and
+embraced me with true affection. He immediately conducted me into the
+house, and introduced me to my aunt. She was a middle-aged,
+kindly-looking woman; and I also received from her a cordial welcome to
+their home. They invited Mr. Egmont to remain till after tea, but he
+declined, saying that he had promised to return to their friends as soon
+as possible. After some conversation with my uncle and aunt, they
+advised me to retire to my room and seek rest, after the fatigues of my
+long journey; and I gladly followed my aunt up the stairs, to a neat
+bed-room, tastefully furnished. I was weary both in body and mind, and,
+lying down upon my bed, I soon sank into a sound sleep. When I awoke,
+daylight was rapidly fading before the shadows of evening. I hastened
+down stairs, fearful that I had kept my uncle and aunt waiting for their
+tea. I enquired of my aunt if such were the case? She replied saying,--
+
+"I gave the hired men their supper at the usual hour, but your uncle and
+I have waited to take our tea with you."
+
+Can it be possible, thought I, that they take their meals with their
+hired servants? I had yet to learn the different usages of life in the
+city of Philadelphia and in a farm-house in the New England States. I
+wisely said nothing to my aunt of what was passing in my mind. Tea being
+over, we passed the remainder of the evening in social conversation. We
+had much to say, mutually of family matters. I told them many
+particulars connected with the death of my mother, of which I had never
+informed them by letter. They also told me much concerning their
+deceased children. Their son had died at the age of fifteen. As he had a
+decided taste for books, my uncle intended giving him an education,
+instead of training him to the life of a farmer. For a year previous to
+his death he attended school in Massachusetts. Returning home to spend
+his vacation, his parents thought his health was impaired, but
+attributed it to hard study, for he was naturally studious. They were
+hopeful that relaxation from study, with exercise in the open air, would
+soon restore him to his usual health. But their hopes were not to be
+realized; even then had death marked him for his prey; and consumption,
+which was hereditary in his father's family, soon laid him in the grave.
+Three months after the grave had closed over their beloved son, Walter,
+their daughter, Caroline, fell a victim to a malignant fever, which at
+that time prevailed in the neighborhood, and they saw her too laid in
+the grave, at the early age of twelve years--thus leaving them childless
+and sorrowing. We shed many tears while conversing of our mutual
+sorrows; and it was quite a late hour for the simple habits of their
+household when we separated for the night.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+NEW OCCUPATIONS.
+
+
+When going down stairs the next morning I was surprised, the hour was
+so early, at finding my uncle and aunt, with their two farm servants,
+already seated at the breakfast table. I must confess that these two
+farm servants seemed to me strangely out of place, sitting thus
+familiarly at the same table with their master and mistress. My uncle
+introduced them to me, by the names of Mr. Barnes and Mr. Hawkins, their
+Christian names being Solomon and Obadiah, and by those names they were
+mostly called in my uncle's family. Solomon, was a good humored looking
+man of some thirty years of age; he had, I afterwards learned, been for
+some years in my uncle's employ. Obadiah was a youth of about seventeen
+years of age. His extreme bashfulness in the presence of strangers in
+general, and of ladies in particular, caused him to appear very awkward.
+Added to this, he was, to use a common term, very homely in his personal
+appearance. His hair was very light, almost white; his eyes too were of
+a very light color, and uncommonly large and prominent. He was also
+freckled, and very much sunburned. He seemed very much over-grown, and
+his general appearance suggested the idea that he must be in his own
+way--a position of which he seemed painfully conscious. He had a most
+unpleasant habit of keeping his eyes constantly in motion. As I was
+seated directly opposite to him at the breakfast table, I found it very
+difficult to restrain my inclination to laughter, for I could not raise
+my eyes without encountering one of those furtive glances. The idea
+occurred to me that he was meditating on some means of escape from the
+table, and it was with much difficulty that I maintained a becoming
+gravity. I was very glad, however, when my uncle made some remark which
+provoked a general laugh; but I am ashamed to acknowledge that I looked
+to see what effect a smile would have upon the countenance of Obadiah;
+but my curiosity, however, was not to be gratified, for, judging by his
+appearance, his thoughts were of too serious a nature to admit laughter.
+I was glad when breakfast was over, and I am certain that Obadiah was
+more than glad.
+
+My aunt, like most of the farmers' wives in the vicinity, had no
+assistance in performing her household work, except in very busy
+seasons. I begged of her to allow me to assist her, although I feared
+that I should appear very awkward in the performance of duties to which
+I was so little accustomed. My aunt at first refused, saying I was not
+accustomed to kitchen-work. But when I begged to be allowed to try my
+hand in assisting her, she brought me one of her large, checked aprons,
+which she advised me to put on. Thus attired, I washed and wiped the
+breakfast dishes, and arranged them in her spotless cupboard, saying to
+her that, while I remained an inmate of her house, she must allow me to
+assist her to the best of my ability, adding that I should be much
+happier if allowed to assist in her labors, than otherwise. Seeing me so
+anxious, my aunt allowed me to take my own way in the matter. I
+succeeded much better than I had feared; and when the morning's work was
+finished, my aunt laughingly said that, with a little practice, she
+thought I should make a very useful kitchen-maid.
+
+In the afternoon she invited me to accompany her to the room which had
+been her daughter's. The room was tastefully, though not richly
+furnished.
+
+"This," said my aunt, "was Caroline's room from her childhood. I have
+never allowed anything to be disturbed in the room since her death,
+except that I occasionally air and dust it. I suppose I am somewhat
+childish and fanciful; but it would pain me to see this room occupied by
+another."
+
+Over the mantel-piece--for almost every room in my uncle's house
+contained a fire-place--there hung a picture of my cousin Caroline,
+taken six months previous to her death. I drew nigh to look at the
+picture. One glance told me that she had indeed been a beautiful child.
+The picture was enclosed in a beautiful frame of leather-work, which had
+been the work of her own hands. I gazed long upon the fair picture,
+fondly hoping that the loss her friends had sustained, by her death, was
+her eternal gain, by being thus early removed from a world of sin and
+sorrow to her home in Heaven. Opening a drawer in a small bureau, my
+aunt told me to look at her school-books.
+
+By examining the books I was convinced that she must have been a child
+of no ordinary capacity, for her age. I also examined some of her
+apparel, with many other articles, which had been presents to her from
+friends.
+
+Seeing the tears, which I found impossible to repress, my aunt became so
+much affected that I made some pretext for hastening our departure from
+the room; and, when we went down stairs, I endeavored to turn our
+conversation to some cheerful subject, to divert her mind from her
+sorrow, which had been vividly recalled by our visit to that lonely
+room.
+
+The view which my uncle's residence afforded of the surrounding country
+was very pleasing to the beholder. Whatever way the eye turned, it
+rested upon well-cultivated farms, on which were erected comfortable
+and, in many instances, handsome and commodious dwellings.
+
+In the distance, the summits of the White Mountains were distinctly
+visible, they being about twenty miles distant from my uncle's
+residence.
+
+Mr. and Mrs. Egmont, according to promise, paid us a visit before
+leaving Littleton. My uncle and aunt were much pleased by their friendly
+and social manner; and, when they took their leave, we parted from them
+with sincere regret. They left Littleton soon after, on their homeward
+journey.
+
+Three weeks had now passed since my arrival at my uncle's home, and I
+found myself daily becoming more and more attached to my kind uncle and
+aunt. Obadiah appeared to feel much more at his ease in my presence than
+at the first. When I learned that he was an orphan-boy and had no home,
+I felt a deep sympathy for him; but still, when I encountered one of
+those glances, I often found it very difficult to avoid laughter. I
+learned from my aunt that he, being left an orphan, had been put to work
+at a very early age; and, consequently, had had but few advantages for
+study and improvement. He could read tolerably, and write a little. My
+aunt was of the opinion that notwithstanding his peculiarities, he was
+possessed of good common sense, and would make good progress in study if
+he had any one to render him the necessary assistance. I at once offered
+to assist him in his studies, and proposed to him that he should spend a
+portion of the long evenings in study. He seemed at the first to be
+somewhat startled by my proposition; but, seeing that I was in earnest,
+gladly consented, and forthwith commenced his studies. My aunt cautioned
+me about laughing, if he should chance to make comical blunders; and it
+was well that she did so, for some of his blunders were laughable in the
+extreme; but "forewarned is forearmed." After a time I learned that he
+really possessed an intellect of no mean order. He soon made rapid
+progress in study. He seemed fully to appreciate the pains I took in
+teaching him, and endeavored, by many little acts of kindness, to show
+his gratitude to me.
+
+Soon after my arrival, my aunt, one day, said to me,--
+
+"I hope you will feel happy with us; for I wish you to consider our
+house as your home for the future. You know not," she continued, "how
+glad I am of your company, and how your presence cheers us; we will
+gladly adopt you as our daughter, if you can be happy with us."
+
+I thanked her with tears in my eyes, and added that I was very happy in
+receiving so warm a welcome to their home, and would gladly do my utmost
+to fill a daughter's place to them. I further informed my aunt that I
+should be very happy to consider her house as my home, but that I should
+prefer teaching, as soon as I could find a desirable situation, as such
+had been my intention when I left Philadelphia. But when I mentioned the
+subject to my uncle, he seemed much hurt that I should think of such a
+thing. I told him that the wish to teach did not proceed from any
+feeling of discontent in my home, but that I thought it wrong to remain
+idle, while possessing an education which qualified me for usefulness.
+He replied that if I felt anxious to teach, we would talk about it the
+following spring; but, said he, you must think no more about it for this
+winter, at any rate; and so the subject was suffered to drop.
+
+We led a very quiet life at my uncle's that winter. We saw but little
+company, except that occasionally the wife of some neighboring farmer
+would drop in to take a social cup of tea with my aunt.
+
+There was a maiden lady residing in the village of Littleton who was
+always a welcome visitor at my uncle's residence,--her name was Miss
+Priscilla Simmonds. She was somewhat advanced in years, and of a very
+mild and prepossessing appearance. Upon the death of her parents, which
+took place many years before, she was left the owner and sole tenant of
+the house in which she lived. She lived entirely alone, and was
+considered a very valuable person in the village. She seemed, upon all
+occasions, to adapt herself readily to surrounding circumstances. At
+merrymakings, no one was so lively or social as Miss Simmonds: in the
+chamber of sickness, no hand so gentle and no step so light as hers; and
+when death visited a household, her services were indispensible.
+Although occupying a humble position in life, she was very much
+respected by all who knew her. Very few there were in the vicinity but
+could recall some act of kindness from Miss Simmonds, rendered either to
+themselves or their friends; and many there were who could remember the
+time when her hands had prepared the form of some loved relative for its
+last resting-place in the grave. Thus was Miss Simmonds bound to the
+hearts of the people of Littleton, as by a strong cord. In person she
+was tall; she had fine dark eyes, and her hair was lightly sprinkled
+with grey. From the expression which her countenance wore at times, I
+gathered the idea that she had, at some period of her life, experienced
+some deep sorrow. I one day enquired of my aunt if such were not the
+case. She gave me an evasive reply, and, perceiving that she wished to
+avoid the subject, I made no further enquiries.
+
+I trust the reader will pardon this digression from my story.
+
+In the course of the winter my uncle gave a party, to afford me an
+opportunity of becoming acquainted with the young people of the place.
+If the party lacked some of the forms and ceremonies practised in the
+city drawing-rooms upon like occasions, it certainly was not wanting in
+real enjoyment.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+SCHOOL AT MILL TOWN.
+
+
+I believe there is no season more favorable to sober reflection than
+when we find ourselves alone, after mingling for a time in a scene of
+mirth and gaiety. After the departure of our guests, and my uncle and
+aunt had retired to rest, I indulged in a long fit of musing, as I sat
+alone by the kitchen-fire. In the silence and loneliness of the hour, my
+thoughts turned to my former home, and to the circumstances which had
+caused me to leave it; and although I had resolved to think no more of
+Willie Leighton, somehow or other, on this occasion, I found my thoughts
+wandering to him and to the seeming fatality which had separated us. The
+only living relatives of whom I had any knowledge were my uncle and
+aunt, and the before-mentioned aunt of my mother.
+
+But a circumstance which I had heard my father mention in my childhood
+had of late often recurred to my mind. I recollected often hearing my
+father speak of a twin-brother, and that they had been left orphans at
+the age of eight years; also, that he, my father, had been adopted by a
+gentleman residing about fifty miles from the city of Philadelphia, who
+had given him a very good business education, and had procured for him a
+situation in the city when he became of suitable age. But the case had
+been different with his brother Charles. He too had been adopted, but by
+a very different kind of man from the one who had received my father. He
+did not give him sufficient education to qualify him for mercantile
+business, and at the time that Mr. Williams procured a situation for my
+father in the city, his brother Charles was apprenticed to learn the art
+of printing. He had, it seemed, entertained a dislike to the employment
+from the first, which increased to such a degree that he ran away from
+his employer; and instead of returning to his former home, he left the
+city. He was then fifteen years of age. My father had never been able to
+gain any tidings from him, and at length came to the conclusion that he
+must be dead. I know not why it was, but of late this circumstance had
+haunted my mind continually. The idea seemed to fix itself in my mind
+that I should yet see this long-lost uncle. I tried to banish the
+thought as an absurdity, but was unable to do so. As the idea returned
+to my mind with such frequency, I ceased trying to banish it, and prayed
+that what I now thought to be an idle fancy might prove a happy reality.
+
+How cheering to us is the return of spring, after the deep snows and
+severe frosts of winter.
+
+I very much enjoyed the sugar-making season at my uncle's farm. I
+derived all the more pleasure from its being to me such a novelty.
+
+Although quite happy in my uncle's home, I still wished to carry out my
+former design of teaching, and as the season advanced, I again spoke to
+my uncle and aunt upon the subject. They were at first very unwilling to
+yield their consent; but, as they perceived that I was really anxious
+about the matter, they yielded their assent to my wishes.
+
+About five miles west of my uncle's farm was the small village of Mill
+Town, so called from the number of different mills erected on the fine
+water-privilege it contained. As the village was small, it contained but
+two schools; one a public school, and the other a select school, which
+had for three years been taught by a young lady from the State of Maine,
+who had relatives residing at Mill Town. But Miss Landon, for such was
+the lady's name, intended returning to her home in Maine in the month of
+June. I had formed a very pleasant acquaintance with this young lady
+during the winter, and she strongly advised me to secure her pupils, if
+I wished to teach, promising to use her influence to aid me in obtaining
+pupils; and, owing to her kindness, I had no difficulty in obtaining a
+sufficient number of pupils for opening a school. I was very glad to
+obtain a situation so near my home, that I might be able to visit my
+uncle and aunt at least once every week, and spend my Sabbaths with
+them.
+
+"After all," said my uncle, "I don't know but you are right in wishing
+to teach, and I dare say, will be happier thus employed than otherwise."
+
+Accordingly, I opened my school about the middle of June, with
+twenty-five pupils. I had made arrangements to board in the house of the
+minister, who resided in the village. His name was Mr. Northwood, or
+Parson Northwood, as he was usually called by the villagers. He was very
+much respected on account of his many excellent qualities both as pastor
+and friend. His family consisted of himself, his wife, and two little
+girls, who attended my school.
+
+I was highly pleased with my school at Mill Town. My pupils were mostly
+girls between the ages of ten and fifteen years. I had one class of
+quite young boys, whose parents preferred a select to a public school.
+
+Many years have passed since I was wont to summon those loved pupils
+around me in that little school-room. Since that period, when far
+removed from those scenes, and surrounded by circumstances widely
+different, memory oft recalled those pupils in that New England village.
+
+About this time I received a letter from Aunt Patience. The letter
+informed me that her health was somewhat impaired, and that she sensibly
+felt the approaching infirmities of age. I knew not her exact age, but I
+was certain that she must be considerably advanced in years. She stated
+that she was quite happy in her home, but added,--
+
+"My Dear Clara, I had thought to have ended my days with your dear
+mother; and when the thought comes home to my mind, that she is now no
+more, it makes me very sad."
+
+I was happy to know that, owing to the provision made for her, Aunt
+Patience enjoyed all the comforts of life. Since her removal to
+Massachusetts we had not often corresponded; but, as often as I did
+write, I enclosed a small sum from my own earnings, lest the interest of
+the deposit should prove insufficient for all her wants.
+
+My mother left with me the injunction that, should my own life be
+spared, never to forget Aunt Patience in her old age: and I would
+cheerfully have endured any privation myself, if, by so doing, I could
+have added to her happiness; for the injunction of my dying mother I
+regarded as most sacred.
+
+I closed my school for the summer holidays, and I was, as well as my
+pupils, glad to be released from the school-room during the sultry
+weather which prevails in the month of August.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+A HAPPY RE-UNION.
+
+
+Upon my return home, my uncle said he thought I should enjoy a change of
+air and scene for a time as he fancied I was looking pale and thin. I
+replied that I felt quite well, and felt no wish to leave my home during
+vacation.
+
+However, about this time, a party was formed among my acquaintances for
+visiting the White Mountains, and they were anxious that I should make
+one of their number; and, as my uncle and aunt strongly advised me to
+go, I at length consented.
+
+The sublime scenery of the White Mountains has been so often and so ably
+described by tourists, that any description from me would be
+superfluous. Upon our arrival at the Profile House, we found it so much
+crowded with guests that we had no little difficulty in obtaining
+accommodation. When one party left, the vacancy was almost immediately
+filled up by fresh arrivals of pleasure-seekers. Every one seemed highly
+to enjoy themselves, and time passed swiftly away.
+
+I was one evening seated on the piazza, engaged in a very pleasant
+conversation with several ladies and gentlemen, who, like me, had sought
+the piazza to enjoy the refreshing coolness of the evening air, after an
+intensely hot day. I noticed a carriage approaching in which several
+persons were seated. I did not at first pay much attention, as the
+arrival of strangers was a matter of very frequent occurrence; but, as
+the carriage drew nigh, my attention was riveted by a lady seated
+therein. She made some smiling remark as one of the gentlemen stepped
+from the carriage and assisted her to alight. That smile was
+sufficient--it was the very smile of Miss Edmonds, the same happy smile
+which had so pleased my fancy years ago. The seven years which had
+passed since I had seen her had somewhat changed her countenance; but
+her smile was the same. As she took the arm of the gentleman who
+accompanied her, and ascended the steps of the piazza, I stepped forward
+and spoke to her as any stranger might accost another in a place of
+public resort. I wished to see if she would recognize me. She replied to
+me only as she might have done to any other stranger, but without the
+least sign of recognition. Perceiving that she did not recognize me, I
+went near to her and said,--
+
+"Can it be possible, Miss Edmonds, that you have forgotten your old
+pupil, Clara Roscom?"
+
+In a moment I was clasped in her arms and felt her kisses upon my cheek.
+Turning to the gentleman whose arm she had left, she said,--
+
+"Allow me, Miss Roscom, to introduce to you Mr. Harringford, my
+husband."
+
+I acknowledged the introduction as well as my feelings of joyful
+excitement would admit of, for I knew of no other friend whose presence
+would afford me so much happiness as she with whom I had so unexpectedly
+met. Seeing that she looked very much fatigued, I conducted her at once
+to my own apartment. She was very anxious to learn all that had befallen
+me since we parted in Philadelphia, but I insisted upon her resting
+before entering upon the long conversation which we anticipated enjoying
+together.
+
+When Miss Edmonds, or Mrs. Harringford as I must now call her, had
+somewhat recovered from her fatigue, we derived mutual satisfaction from
+a long and confidential conversation. In giving me a brief sketch of her
+life during the time we had been separated, Mrs. Harringford said,--
+
+"On going to New York, I obtained a situation as governess, which, for
+various reasons, I did not like, and I decided upon seeking another
+situation. I chanced about this time to meet with a lady whose home was
+in South Carolina. Her husband had business which required his presence
+in the City of New York, and he had prevailed upon her to accompany him.
+The lady had, some years before, formed a slight acquaintance with Mrs.
+Leonard, the lady in whose house I was employed as governess, and when
+she visited the city she sought out Mrs. Leonard, and their former
+acquaintance was resumed. During one of her visits I happened to hear
+her remark that a friend of hers, residing in Greenville, S. C., had
+commissioned her if possible to find her a governess for her three
+little daughters, who would be willing to remain for some years, and the
+salary she offered was very liberal. Instantly my resolution to go South
+was taken. As I had anticipated, I had some difficulty in obtaining the
+consent of my parents to my undertaking, but, when they found that my
+heart was really set on going, they at length consented. I felt no fears
+regarding the journey, as I was to accompany Mr. and Mrs. Carlton on
+their homeward journey, and they promised to see me safely at my new
+home. It is needless for me to dwell upon particulars. I spent more than
+four years in the family of Mr. Leslie, where I went as governess. I was
+kindly treated by them, and shall ever remember them with gratitude.
+During the last six months of my residence with the Leslies, I became
+acquainted with Mr. Harringford, who is now my husband. He was
+transacting some business in Greenville, which detained him for a
+considerable time. I often met him at parties. We were mutually pleased
+with each other, and, when he left Greenville, I was his promised wife.
+My home is now at Jackson, in Tennessee, where Mr. Harringford resided
+previous to our marriage.
+
+"I felt a strong desire to visit my parents, at New York, this summer;
+and, as Mr. Harringford had heard much of the beautiful scenery of the
+White Mountains, he persuaded me to accompany him to New Hampshire for
+the purpose of visiting them, and to that circumstance I owe the
+happiness of again meeting with you. I have ever remembered you as the
+bashful school girl I left in Philadelphia, and when I found you so much
+changed you cannot wonder that I failed to recognize you."
+
+In my turn I narrated to Mrs. Harringford the events of my life since we
+parted. Her tears flowed often as she listened to the particulars of my
+mother's death, for she had much loved any mother. I kept nothing back,
+not even the circumstance which had caused me to leave Mrs. Leighton.
+The intimate friendship existing between us made it easy for me to speak
+freely to Mrs. Harringford. She informed me that she intended visiting
+Philadelphia before returning South, as she had many old friends
+residing there. As she contemplated visiting the Leightons, I exacted
+from her a promise that she would conceal from them her knowledge of my
+residence. I had never once heard from them since leaving Philadelphia.
+
+Mrs. Burnside was the only one with whom I had corresponded; and I had
+requested her to avoid mentioning the Leightons in her letters to me.
+But of late I had felt a strong desire to hear from them, and I
+requested Mrs. Harringford to give me some account of the family in the
+letter she proposed writing from Philadelphia.
+
+The party of young friends who had accompanied me from Littleton were
+quite ready to return at the expiration of a week; but Mrs. Harringford
+intended remaining a week longer, and she was very anxious that I should
+remain with her. I therefore allowed my friends to return without me. I
+wished to enjoy the society of Mrs. Harringford as long as possible, for
+I thought it quite probable that we might never meet again.
+
+We spent a happy week together after the return of my friends to
+Littleton. The only shadow upon our happiness was the thought--how soon
+we must be parted, perhaps for life. From all I observed of Mr.
+Harringford I thought him to be worthy, in every respect, of the bride
+he had won.
+
+Happy days pass swiftly by, and the morning soon arrived when we must
+bid each other adieu. Before we parted, Mrs. Harringford drew a costly
+diamond ring from her finger, and, placing it upon mine, said,--
+
+"Wear this, my dear Clara, for my sake; and, when you look upon it think
+of me, who will often think of you, and will pray for your happiness
+both here and here-after."
+
+The moment of parting had arrived. We parted on the piazza of the
+Profile House; they to proceed on their journey, and I to return to my
+uncle and aunt.
+
+I have never since met with Mrs. Harringford. The ring she gave me at
+parting still encircles my finger, and when I gaze upon it I often think
+of the loved friend who placed it there.
+
+I received an affectionate welcome from my uncle and aunt upon my
+return, and I was truly glad to find myself once more at home. Mrs.
+Harringford had promised to take an early opportunity of writing to me,
+and I had requested her to give me some account of the Leightons.
+Separate from other causes, I felt anxious to hear from Birdie and
+Lewis, for I was strongly attached to those two affectionate children. A
+letter from her arrived in due time. After giving me information of many
+of my former friends, she said,--
+
+"And now, Clara, it only remains for me to give you an account of my
+visit to Mrs. Leighton, although I fear I shall give you pain instead of
+pleasure by so doing. When I called on Mrs. Leighton, I was struck with
+surprise at her changed appearance. You doubtless remember, Clara, what
+beautiful hair Mrs. Leighton had. You will scarcely credit me when I
+inform you that it is now thickly sprinkled with grey. She appeared like
+one who struggled with some secret sorrow. An air of sadness seemed to
+reign in the home, where formerly all was joy and happiness. Mrs.
+Leighton so strongly urged us to spend the night with them that we could
+not refuse. Laura was absent, visiting some friends in the country.
+Georgania and Bertha were both absent, attending school. Lewis has not
+yet been sent from home, but attends school in the city. He has grown a
+fine, manly-looking boy. He made many enquiries of me, if I had seen or
+heard from you? I was sorry that I was not at liberty to tell him how
+lately I had seen you, for I am sure that it would have afforded him
+much pleasure. My enquiry for Willie caused a pained expression to cross
+the countenance of both Mr. and Mrs. Leighton. Mr. Leighton replied
+briefly by saying, 'Willie is at present in England.' Later in the
+evening, when the gentlemen had gone out, Mrs. Leighton said to me,--'As
+you are an old friend, Mrs. Harringford, I will explain to you the cause
+of Willie's absence. You doubtless remember Clara Roscom who was a
+former pupil of yours. After you left Philadelphia, she completed her
+education at a distant boarding school, and soon after her return home I
+engaged her as governess in my family. We soon learned to love and
+respect Miss Roscom, on account of her many excellent qualities, and we
+treated her very kindly. She left us to attend to her mother during the
+illness which terminated in her death, and after that event she again
+returned to us. But, to tell you all in a few words, Willie fell in love
+with her, and asked her to become his wife. When I first learned the
+fact I suppose I made use of some rather strong language to Miss Roscom,
+so much so that she left my house that very night. She remained for a
+short time with a Mrs. Burnside, who resides in the city and then left
+Philadelphia, and we have never since been able to gain any knowledge of
+her residence. If Mrs. Burnside knows anything of her she gives no
+information upon the subject. I have no doubt that she is governed by
+Miss Roscom's direction, for she possessed a proud spirit. I regret some
+things I said to her, but the thought of Willie, our pride, uniting
+himself by marriage to our governess put me almost beside myself with
+indignation. But Willie was so blinded by his love for her that all
+considerations of family or wealth were as nothing to him. When he
+learned that Miss Roscom had left the city, and he found himself unable
+to learn anything of her, he became embittered towards us all. He soon
+after declared his intention of returning to England; but what grieves
+me most of all is, that he will hold no correspondence with us since
+leaving home. He has now been ten months absent. We have written to him
+again and again, but have received no reply.' As she concluded, Mrs.
+Leighton burst into a flood of tears, which, for some time, she was
+unable to check. You may believe me, Clara, when I tell you that you are
+happier today, while attending to the duties of your school, than is
+Mrs. Leighton, in her luxurious home."
+
+Such was, in substance, the information which Mrs. Harringford's letter
+afforded me. I almost regretted having sought the information, for it
+made me very unhappy. It grieved me much to learn that Willie was
+self-exiled from his home and friends.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+MISS SIMMONDS' STORY.
+
+
+The fifteenth of September found me again installed in my position as
+teacher in my school at Mill Town. I still continued to board in the
+family of Parson Northwood. I retained all my former pupils, with the
+addition of several new ones.
+
+Miss Simmonds had often invited me to pay her a visit in her home at
+Littleton, but I had as yet found no convenient opportunity for so
+doing. One Friday evening I decided to pay the long promised visit, and
+remain over the Sabbath with Miss Simmonds. She seemed very glad to see
+me, and gave me a friendly welcome to her humble home. But, humble as it
+was, it presented a picture of neatness and cozy comfort. After tea, and
+when her light household duties had all been carefully performed, we
+seated ourselves by a cheerful fire in her little sitting-room, and
+prepared to spend the long evening in social conversation. I had always
+been very fond of the company of Miss Simmonds. Her conversational
+powers were very good, and she was sufficiently well informed to render
+her a very agreeable companion. As the night closed in, one of those
+violent storms of wind and rain came on, which are so frequent in the
+Eastern States during the month of November. The beating of the storm
+without caused our warm and well-lighted room to seem all the more
+cheerful. As the evening advanced I observed that Miss Simmonds grew
+thoughtful; and, although she endeavored to be social, it was evident
+that her mind was occupied by something else than the subject of
+conversation. After a short silence, she addressed me suddenly,
+saying,--
+
+"I feel inclined, Clara, to relate a story to you, which at least has
+the merit of truth; for it is a chapter from my own life."
+
+I gladly assented to listen to her story, for since I first met Miss
+Simmonds I had entertained an idea that there was something of romance
+attached to her life.
+
+"Thirty years ago," began Miss Simmonds, "I was not the faded,
+care-worn woman which you now see before you. I was born in this
+village. My parents were poor but industrious people. They were blessed
+with two children, myself, and a brother, who was two years younger than
+I; but, ere he reached the age of ten, we were called to lay him in the
+grave, leaving me the sole comfort and joy of my bereaved parents. They
+had very much loved my little brother; and, when death claimed him, all
+the love which he would have shared with me, had he lived, was lavished
+upon me. There is little in my childhood and youth worthy of notice, as
+we occupied an humble sphere in life. I suppose you will hardly credit
+me, Clara, when I tell you that, at the age of sixteen I was called
+beautiful. It was something to which I had given but little thought; but
+the ear of youth is ever open to flattery, and I must confess that my
+vanity was flattered by being called beautiful by the residents of the
+then small village of Littleton.
+
+"When I was about eighteen years of age," continued Miss Simmonds, "a
+young lawyer, by the name of Almont, opened an office in this village,
+for the practice of his profession. He came among us suddenly, and he
+informed those with whom he first made acquaintance, that he had
+formerly resided in Massachusetts. Many wondered at his locating himself
+here, as the village was then but small, and offered few inducements to
+professional men.
+
+"He was very affable and pleasing in his address, and soon made the
+acquaintance of many of the young people of the village, and we soon
+found him to be a very agreeable addition to our pic-nic excursions and
+other parties for pleasure and amusement. He paid marked attention to me
+from the time when we first became acquainted; and, to shorten my story,
+after an acquaintance of six months, he asked me to become his wife. I
+am now an old woman, Clara, and need not blush to tell you that I had
+learned to love him with a deep affection, and I yielded a willing
+assent, provided that my parents approved. True, I had no knowledge of
+his connections or former life; but since his residence in our village,
+his conduct had been irreproachable, and he was fast gaining the respect
+and confidence of all who knew him. There was something very attractive
+in his personal appearance; he seemed to have seen much of the world,
+for so young a man, for he spoke in a familiar manner of many distant
+scenes and places. When he sought my hand in marriage, my parents did
+not object. He was gaining quite a lucrative practice both in Littleton
+and adjacent places, and he declared his intention of making Littleton
+his permanent home. Doubtless, this influenced my parents to favor his
+suit, as the thought of my settling in my native village was very
+pleasing to them. He was very much flattered by society, and I was all
+the more pleased to find myself the object of his choice. When our
+engagement became known, I had good reason for believing myself to be
+envied by many of my female acquaintances. Neither they nor I were aware
+how soon their envy was to be turned to pity. An early day was appointed
+for our marriage, and my poor parents exerted themselves to give me a
+suitable wedding outfit. About this time, Mr. Almont had business which
+obliged him to leave Littleton for a short time. When he bade me adieu I
+felt a foreboding of evil; and, after he had gone, I experienced a
+depression of spirits, for which I could not account. But, when he had
+been a week absent, and I received from him a cheerful letter, informing
+me of his return in a few days, I strove to banish my sad thoughts and
+busied myself in preparing my wedding outfit. Going one day to the Post
+Office, with the expectation of finding there a letter from Mr. Almont,
+I received this instead."
+
+As she spoke, Miss Simmonds unfolded a letter, which I had observed her
+take from a drawer before commencing her story. It read thus:--
+
+"Boston, June 4th, 18--.
+
+"To Miss Priscilla Simmonds:
+
+Although you are, personally, a stranger to me, I nevertheless take the
+liberty of addressing you. By the merest chance I learned your name and
+residence, also, that you are shortly to be united in marriage to Mr.
+George Almont, a lawyer from the city of Boston.
+
+"I felt it an imperative duty, before that event shall take place, to
+inform you that I am the wedded wife of the same George Almont, whom you
+are about to marry. He came to Boston about five years since, having, as
+he said, just completed his studies in the city of New York. He opened
+an office in this city for the practice of his profession; and, as his
+external appearance was pleasing, he soon gained an entrance into good
+society. I need not inform you that he was likely to make a favorable
+impression upon the mind of a young lady just entering society. He rose
+rapidly in his profession; and although my parents were wealthy, when
+they saw how deeply I was attached to him, they did not object to my
+receiving his addresses, as he bid fair to rise to a position of wealth
+and influence. It is needless, as well as painful, for me to dwell upon
+the subject. Two years after he first came to Boston we were married. We
+soon removed to our own dwelling, which was a wedding gift to me, from
+my father. For a time he treated me with the utmost kindness and
+affection. But you may believe me, Miss Simmonds, when I inform you that
+he has been a dissipated, unprincipled man from his youth. His seemingly
+correct habits had merely been put on, for the purpose of gaining him an
+entrance into respectable society. When he began to treat me with
+indifference and neglect, for a long time I bore it in silence; but I
+was at length forced to acquaint my parents of the matter. My father
+soon took measures to ascertain what manner of life he had led while
+pursuing his studies in New York; and the information he gained was very
+discreditable to Mr. Almont. But my parents advised me, as we were
+married, to try if, by kindness, I could not reclaim him from his evil
+ways. I willingly followed their advice, for I still loved him; but, I
+suppose the restraint which for a time he had imposed upon himself made
+him all the more reckless when he returned to his evil courses. He soon
+seemed to lose all respect for me as well as for himself; and his
+conduct became so vicious that my father recalled me to his home, and
+forbade Mr. Almont from ever again entering his dwelling. I could, I
+presume, have obtained a divorce from him with little difficulty, but I
+shrank from the publicity attached to such a course. I still reside with
+my father and mother. Mr. Almont left Boston soon after I returned to my
+parents. We heard nothing of him for some time; but we lately heard from
+a reliable source that he was residing in Littleton, in New Hampshire,
+and also of his approaching marriage. Nothing but a sense of duty would
+have induced me to make this communication to you. I would save another
+young life from being shadowed by the same cloud which has darkened
+mine. Should you doubt the truth of what I have written, you can easily
+satisfy yourself, by either visiting this city in person, or causing any
+of your relatives so to do. Enclosed you will find the street and number
+of my residence. I sincerely hope you will receive this communication in
+the spirit in which it is written, and that is, one of kindness, and a
+desire to save you from the sorrows which I have experienced.
+
+"Yours truly,
+
+"Malvina Almont."
+
+Miss Simmonds continued,--
+
+"You may be able to imagine, but I cannot describe the effect produced
+upon my mind by the perusal of this letter. I felt stupefied and
+bewildered. How I reached my home I could never tell. I entered the
+house just as my father and mother were sitting down to their noon-day
+meal. As soon as my mother caught sight of me she enquired of me what
+was the matter? I suppose the agony of my mind was depicted upon my
+countenance. Without a word, I placed the letter in her hand, which,
+after perusing, she handed to my father. The natural temper of my father
+was rash and impulsive, and the contents of that letter exasperated him
+beyond control. He used many bitter words, and threatened dire vengeance
+upon young Almont, should he ever again enter our dwelling. My mother
+begged of him to desist, saying that if he were indeed guilty, as the
+letter proved him to be, his sin would certainly bring its own
+punishment. When we had succeeded in quieting the anger of my father, we
+were able to converse upon the matter in a calm and rational manner. We
+finally decided that my father should read the letter to Mr. Almont upon
+his return, and see what effect it would produce upon him. Three days
+later he came. He entered our dwelling and accosted us with his usual
+bland and smiling manner. In a short time, my father turned and
+said,--'During your absence, Mr. Almont, my daughter has received a most
+unaccountable letter which I wish to read to you, hoping you may be able
+to explain it.' The paleness which overspread his countenance on hearing
+my father's words put to flight the hope I had cherished that he would
+be able to prove the letter a falsehood. Without any further remark, my
+father read the letter to him, word for word. As he concluded he
+said,--'And now, Mr. Almont, unless you are prepared to prove the
+information contained in this letter to be untrue, I wish you
+immediately to leave my dwelling, and, if you take my advice, you will
+also leave this village, for I cannot abide the sight of a wretch such
+as this letter proves you to be, and your silence be as testimony to its
+truth. Begone! I say, from the humble, but, heretofore, happy home,
+which your baseness has darkened by sorrow.' As my father uttered these
+words, he stamped with his foot, and pointed to the door. Without a
+word, Mr. Almont left the house, and on the day following, we learned
+that he had left Littleton, and gone no one knew whither. Many surmises
+arose concerning his sudden departure, for it was well known that we
+were engaged to be married, but no one had any knowledge of the facts of
+the matter. When the wonder had subsided, which any unusual event
+occasions in a small village, the subject was suffered to rest. I felt
+stricken as by a sudden blow. I felt no interest in life, but I
+endeavored, when in the presence of my parents, to assume a cheerfulness
+which was far from being the real state of my mind.
+
+"To a few and tried friends only did we make known the real truth of
+the circumstances attending the departure of Mr. Almont from Littleton.
+Time passed on. Those who knew my sorrows respected them, and the name
+of George Almont ceased to be mentioned among our acquaintances. But it
+was something which I could never cease to remember. I had loved George
+Almont as one of my nature can love but once in her life, and, when I
+learned that I had been deceived in regard to his true character, the
+knowledge was very bitter to me. I loved him still--not as he really
+was, but I still loved the memory of what I had supposed him to be, when
+I gave him my affection. There are few lessons in life more bitter to
+either man or woman than to find themselves deceived by one to whom they
+have given their best affections. For a time I yielded to a bitter and
+desponding spirit. I excluded myself from all society, and brooded in
+solitude over my sorrow. I so far yielded to this unhealthy tone of mind
+that I gave up attending church, and I caused my parents much grief and
+anxiety by the sullen and apathetic state of mind in which I indulged.
+
+"During the winter which succeeded the events of which I have spoken,
+there was a series of special meetings held in the Congregational Church
+in this village. A general interest was manifested in the subjects of
+religion by both old and young. Many of those who had been my former
+companions were hopefully converted. I had formerly been of a gay and
+lively disposition, fond of dress and amusement. The subject of religion
+was one to which I had scarcely ever given a thought. The world and its
+pleasures occupied my whole heart, and, when the world disappointed me,
+I knew not where to turn for comfort. True, I had, from a child,
+attended to the outward forms of religion, but my heart was untouched
+and I now see that it required a great earthly sorrow to turn my
+thoughts heavenward. I at first refused to attend the meetings of which
+I have spoken, though often strongly urged to do so, but, one evening,
+my parents so strongly urged me to accompany them to hear an aged
+minister from another State that I at length consented to go. It is a
+matter of thankfulness to me this day that I attended that meeting. As I
+have said, the minister was an old man, his hair was white as snow.
+There was something remarkably pleasant and venerable in his appearance.
+No one who heard his voice and gazed upon his mild countenance, could
+doubt that they listened to a good man. During the first prayer, on that
+evening, my heart became softened and subdued, and when he gave out his
+text, from Matthew xi. chap., 28, and two following verses, I listened
+to him with rapt attention. It seemed almost that he understood my
+individual case. In the course of his sermon, he said:--'I presume there
+are few in this congregation who have not some burden of sorrow which
+they would gladly have removed. Shall I tell you how you may be released
+from this burden? Kneel humbly at the foot of the Cross; and while you
+pray for the forgiveness of your past sins, make a firm resolve, in the
+strength of the Lord, that your future life shall be given to His
+service; if you do this with sincerity, you shall surely find rest unto
+your souls. You need have no fears that you will be rejected, for hath
+not the Saviour said:--Him that cometh unto me I will in no wise cast
+out. You may, this very night, exchange your burden of sin and sorrow
+for the yoke which is easy and the burden which is light.'
+
+"I have," said Miss Simmonds, "a distinct recollection of the look and
+manner of that aged man as he uttered these words, and it is a matter of
+heartfelt thankfulness to me the day that ever I heard his voice; for he
+it was who first guided my wandering feet into the paths of peace. When
+I returned to my home the words of that good man followed me. I thought
+much on the words of his text. Surely, thought I, if all are invited to
+come to the Saviour, I must be included in the number. Why may I not go
+now? With these thoughts in my mind, I kneeled in prayer. I prayed
+earnestly for the pardon of my sins and resolved, from that moment, to
+begin a new life. Before rising from my knees I experienced a sense of
+pardoning love, and I was happy.
+
+"It was now that I became sensible of the wrong I had been guilty of,
+in allowing my sorrow to cause me to neglect my duties, for there is no
+one in any station of life but has claims of duty. I again engaged
+actively in the duties of life, with a feeling of thankfulness that I
+was privileged to cheer the declining years of my parents. Year after
+year passed away. I still remained with my father and mother; and I felt
+no wish to leave them, although I had more than one opportunity for so
+doing. My mother died at the age of sixty-five. I nursed her tenderly
+through a long and painful illness, and closed her eyes in death. My
+father and I were now left alone in our home. He was several years older
+than my mother. The infirmities of age were coming fast upon him."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+PENITENT, AND FORGIVEN.
+
+
+On a stormy evening, like this, we were sitting together in this room
+when our attention was arrested by a timid knock at the door. My father
+opened the door, and I heard some one, in a feeble voice, ask permission
+to enter the house. My father conducted the stranger in, and gave him a
+seat by our cheerful fire. When the stranger entered the room, and I
+gained a view of his face, I at once knew that I stood face to face with
+George Almont. When I suddenly pronounced his name, my father made a
+hasty movement as if to speak with anger, but I gave him an imploring
+look and he remained silent. Although greatly changed, it was,
+nevertheless, George Almont who was now in our presence. After a few
+moments of silence, for after my exclamatory utterance of his name,
+neither of us had spoken, he turned his eyes, in which the light of
+disease painfully burned, and said,--'You do well not to reproach me;
+the time for that is past, for I am, as you may see, on the verge of the
+grave. I have striven with disease, that I might reach this place, and
+if possible, obtain your forgiveness 'ere my eyes shall close in death.
+I know I have darkened a life, which, but for me, might have been bright
+and joyous. It is too much for me to expect your forgiveness, yet I
+would hear you pronounce that blessed word before I die. You may _now_
+believe me when I say, that it was my love for you which led me to
+deceive you. Knowing my wife's dread of any publicity being attached to
+her name, I thought the knowledge that I had a living wife would never
+reach you. Of the sinfulness of my conduct I did not at that time pause
+to think. I now sincerely thank my wife for preventing a marriage which
+in the sight of God, must have been but mockery. I now speak truly when
+I say to you, I never loved my wife; I married her for money. As I had
+no affection for her, my former habits of dissipation soon regained
+their hold on me. It will afford me some comfort to know that I have
+made strictly true confession to you. I have not, to my knowledge, a
+living relation in the wide world; and, till I met with you, I knew not
+the meaning of the word love; and I still believe that, had I met you
+earlier in life, your influence would have caused me to become a useful
+man and an ornament to my profession. But it is useless to talk now of
+what cannot be recalled. When I left this village, years ago, I was
+equally indifferent as to whither I went or what I did. I felt no wish
+to return to my wife; and, had I been then inclined, I well knew the
+just contempt and scorn I should meet with, although I believe she had
+once loved me. But I knew them to be a proud family, and I felt certain
+they would never overlook the disgrace and sorrow I had brought upon
+them. I have never since seen my wife, but I lately learned that she,
+with the rest of her family, removed to a western city some years ago.
+Since leaving this place I have wandered far and wide, never remaining
+long in one place. My mind has never been at rest, and, for that reason,
+I have been a lonely wanderer all these years. But my dissipated habits
+have done their work, and I feel that my earthly course is well nigh
+ended. I have dragged my feeble body to your dwelling, with the hope of
+obtaining your forgiveness 'ere I am summoned into eternity.'
+
+"While listening to him, I had seated myself at my father's side. As
+he concluded, I said to my father, in a low voice,--'If we forgive not
+our fellow-mortal, how can we expect the forgiveness of our Heavenly
+Father for our many sins?' I rose from my seat and extending to him
+hand, said,--'You have, Mr. Almont, my entire forgiveness for all the
+sorrow you have caused me, and I hope you will also obtain the
+forgiveness of God.' My father also came forward, and, taking his hand,
+granted him his forgiveness. When he finished speaking he seemed
+entirely exhausted. My father led him into the adjoining room, and
+assisted him to lie down upon his own bed. He also gave him a little
+wine, which seemed somewhat to revive him. Observing that he rapidly
+grew worse, my father summoned our physician, who was an old friend, and
+knew all the circumstances connected with our former acquaintance with
+Mr. Almont. When the physician arrived, he expressed the opinion that
+death was fast approaching; said he,--'I do not think he will see
+another sun rise,'--and he did not. He said but little, and suffered but
+little pain; but he sank rapidly. His mind was clear to the last. A
+short time before his death, he turned his eyes, over which the film of
+death was gathering, to my father, and, with much difficulty,
+said,--'Pray--for--me.' My father knelt and implored the mercy of heaven
+on the soul that was departing. I could not bear that he should leave
+the world without one word in regard to what were his feelings in the
+near prospect of death. Going near, I said,--'Do you feel willing to
+trust yourself to the Saviour's mercy to penitent sinners?' He gave a
+sign of assent, and a more peaceful expression settled on his
+countenance. 'I know,' said he in a whisper, 'that I have been a
+grievous sinner for many long years, yet the forgiveness guaranteed by
+you, whom I have so deeply injured, gives me a hope that God will also
+forgive the sins, for which I now trust I feel deeply penitent.' After
+this, he lay for a short time in a kind of stupor. Suddenly, he opened
+his eyes, and they rested upon my father, who stood by his bed-side. His
+lips moved slightly, and my father distinguished the words,--'Pray for
+me.' He again knelt and prayed earnestly, in a subdued voice, for the
+spirit that was then entering the unknown future. A few moments after,
+and the soul of George Almont was summoned to leave its earthly
+tenement. When the small procession that had followed his remains to
+their last resting-place turned from the new-made grave, the two
+following lines from Gray's Elegy came unbidden to my mind:--
+
+        No further seek his merits to disclose,
+    Or draw his frailties from their dread abode.'
+
+"Perhaps, Clara," continued Miss Simmonds, "you may, in your walks
+through what is now called 'The Old Burial-ground,' a short distance
+from the village, have observed a lonely grave, marked by a plain marble
+headstone, and shaded by the branches of an aged tree; you may have
+noticed this grave, and never given a thought to the poor mortal who
+sleeps there. That is the grave of George Almont. Three years later, my
+father died, and I was left alone. Since that period I have lived
+sometimes alone, and occasionally spending a short time with any family
+who happen to require my services, as I find it necessary to do
+something for my own support. I have been able to support myself in
+comfort and respectability, and even occasionally to bestow charity in a
+small way to those less favored than myself. I know not why I felt so
+much inclined to relate these circumstances to you this evening, for you
+are the first stranger to whom I ever related the story connected with
+my early life. I am no longer young, but the memory of my early sorrows
+time can never efface; although, aided by religion, I have learned
+resignation and cheerfulness. One thing more," continued Miss Simmonds,
+"and I have done."
+
+Rising, she opened a drawer and, taking a locket therefrom, she placed
+it in my hand, saying,--
+
+"You may, if you wish, Clara, look upon a picture of George Almont,
+taken when he was twenty-five years of age."
+
+Opening the locket, I looked upon the picture of what must have been a
+very fine looking young man. I never beheld a more prepossessing
+countenance. No one who looked upon that picture would have dreamed of
+the sad story attached to the life of the original. Closing the locket,
+I gave it back to Miss Simmonds, who replaced it in the drawer without
+once looking upon the picture it contained. In conclusion, Miss Simmonds
+said,--
+
+"I hope you are not wearied with an old woman's story."
+
+I assured her that it had deeply interested me, although I feared the
+recital had been painful to her.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+A NEW JOY.
+
+
+I returned to my school, after having enjoyed a very pleasant visit with
+Miss Simmonds. I thought much of the story she had related to me. I
+endeavoured to learn a useful lesson from the cheerful resignation which
+Miss Simmonds evinced by her daily life.
+
+Obadiah still pursued his studies with much zeal; and, upon my return
+home, each succeeding week, I gave him all the assistance in my power.
+The amount of knowledge he had derived, by devoting his leisure hours to
+study, was indeed wonderful. Awkward as he at first appeared to me, I
+found, as he progressed in his studies, that he possessed a powerful
+intellect, which only required proper culture to enable him to become a
+talented and useful man.
+
+I now pass, with a few words, over a period of two years. During all
+this time I had continued the labors of my school at Mill Town, still
+considering my uncle's house as my home. Obadiah had, by the advice of
+my uncle, gone to pursue his studies in Massachusetts, having decided to
+obtain a thorough education. He intended fitting himself for college,
+and had saved money sufficient to defray his expenses while so doing,
+Miss Simmonds still resided in her home at Littleton, and the longer I
+enjoyed her friendship the more did I love and respect her. I had
+received several letters from Aunt Patience during the past two years.
+She had repeatedly urged me to visit her, but, for various reasons, I
+had been unable to do so; but at this time, I determined to pay her a
+visit. Accordingly, I prepared for my journey to Woodville a small
+village in Massachusetts, where she resided. She was very much pleased
+to see me. She was much changed since I had last seen her. Her once
+vigorous and active form was beginning to bow beneath the weight of
+years. She seemed to be very comfortably situated with her relatives;
+for, having but a small family, they were able to give her a quiet home.
+I enquired of her if she felt happy in her home?
+
+"I feel quite happy and contented," she replied, "and have no wish to
+leave my present home, till you marry and possess a home of your own,
+when I should be very glad to make my home with you."
+
+I replied that I had no intention of marrying at present but that if
+that event should take place during her lifetime, I should be most happy
+to receive her into my home.
+
+The village of Woodville was not large; but its location was romantic
+and pleasant, being bounded on one side by a range of high hills, and on
+the other by a beautiful river. I was highly pleased with the place, and
+with the kind family with whom Aunt Patience resided. When I had spent
+about ten days at Woodville, I received a letter from my uncle,
+requesting my return home without delay. In a postscript he informed me
+that I need not be alarmed, as both he and my aunt were in good health;
+but that he did not wish to assign a reason for requesting my return. I
+could not imagine what had caused my uncle to summon me home, as he was
+aware that I had intended spending several weeks with my aunt; and I
+made all possible haste to set out on my homeward journey, and left
+Woodville the next morning after receiving my uncle's letter. When my
+uncle and aunt met me on my return, I knew by their manner that
+something unusual had taken place in my absence; but I judged from the
+countenance of both that, whatever the event might be, it was one of joy
+rather than sorrow. My uncle soon said,--
+
+"Can you bear good news, Clara?"
+
+I replied that I thought I could.
+
+"Then," continued my uncle, "I have the happiness of informing you that
+the hopes you had so long cherished of seeing your uncle Charles will be
+realized, for he has arrived."
+
+'Ere I could frame a reply, the door of the adjoining room opened, and
+my new-found uncle came hastily forward. He evinced much emotion as he
+tenderly embraced me, saying,--
+
+"Your face strongly reminds me of the twin brother from whom I parted
+so many years ago. You know not how happy I am in finding the daughter
+of my dear brother."
+
+I could trace in the features of my uncle Charles a resemblance to my
+dear father; but, as my father had died while quite a young man, the
+resemblance, at my uncle's time of life, was less striking than
+otherwise it might have been.
+
+My uncle Charles was now sixty-five years old; but travel and exposure
+caused him to look much older than he really was. He informed me that he
+had first visited Philadelphia with the hope of finding my father; and,
+when he learned that my father and mother were both dead, he next
+enquired if they left any children? He learned that they left one
+daughter, who had resided for some time in the family of the Leightons,
+as governess; but had left Philadelphia three years since. He next
+sought out the Leightons, hoping to learn my residence; but they of
+course could give him no information upon the subject. They directed him
+to Mrs. Burnside, who at first was reluctant to give the information he
+sought; but, when he informed her of the relationship I bore to him, she
+directed him to my uncle Wayland, in New Hampshire, at whose residence
+he arrived one week previous to my return from Massachusetts. He soon
+after gave us the following brief account of his life, since he left
+Philadelphia, when a boy, which I reserve for the succeeding chapter of
+my story.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+UNCLE CHARLES.
+
+
+My uncle began his story as follows:--
+
+"When I left Philadelphia, I had no definite object in view. I left
+without seeing my brother, to avoid the pain of parting, for we tenderly
+loved each other. His disposition and mine were widely different; he was
+quiet, industrious, and very persevering in whatever he undertook; while
+I, on the other hand, was rash, impulsive, and very impatient of
+restraint. My adopted father apprenticed me to learn the art of
+printing, without in the least consulting my wishes in the matter. It
+seemed to me that he might have granted me the privilege of choosing my
+employment; and, his failing to do so roused my indignation and doubled
+the dislike I already felt to the occupation of a printer. It was very
+hard for me to leave without seeing my brother; but I decided that, as
+he was very well contented in his situation, I had best go away quietly,
+so that, whatever might befall me, I should not be the means of bringing
+trouble to him. I had decided to leave my master the first opportunity
+that should offer for so doing. He one day gave me a sharp and, as I
+thought, unmerited rebuke, and ended by striking me a blow. That blow
+caused me to form the decision of leaving him at once, and that very
+night I left Philadelphia. I made my way to the city of New York, where
+I managed to live for a time by selling newspapers; but my profits were
+so small that I soon became disgusted with the employment, and I
+obtained the situation of waiter in a large hotel, where I remained for
+some time. I often thought of writing to my brother; but I was aware
+that the knowledge of my employment would be painful to him, for he was
+of a proud and sensitive nature. Time passed on, and I at length sailed
+as cabin-boy in a vessel bound for Liverpool, in England. I followed the
+sea for many years; and, in the bustle and turmoil of a sailor's life, I
+almost forgot my brother, from whom I had been so long separated. Yet
+sometimes, in the lonely hours of my night-watch on deck, when out in
+mid-ocean, would my thoughts turn to that once-loved brother, and tears
+would dim my eyes as memory recalled the days of our early childhood.
+
+"I rose in my profession till I arrived at the position of second mate.
+It was at this time that, during a stay of some weeks duration in an
+English port, I met with one who won my affections; and, one year after,
+we were married. My wife resided with her friends in England, while I
+continued to follow the sea. My wife was to me an object of almost
+idolatrous attachment. Each time I visited England, I found it the
+harder to bid farewell to my wife, and again embark on the ocean. We had
+one child, a beautiful boy. I named him Henry, after my brother. When we
+had been two years married, I made a voyage to the Indies, and was
+absent nearly two years. When I returned, I learned that my wife and
+child had both been for some time dead. When I learned the sad truth I
+was like one bereft of reason. I could not reconcile myself to the
+thought that, in this world, I could never again behold my beloved wife
+and child. The very darkness of despair settled on my mind. I had not
+then, as I have since done, looked heavenward for consolation amid the
+sorrows of life.
+
+"I can dwell no longer upon this dark period of my life, but hasten
+onward to the close of my story. I continued to follow the life of a
+sailor for some years after my bereavement. The hurry and bustle
+attendant upon my calling served in some measure to drive away thoughts
+of the past; but, after a time I even grew weary of the sea; and when I
+heard of the famous gold regions discovered in Australia, I felt a
+strong desire to visit the place. The desire of making money had less to
+do with my decision of going there than had the wish for change and
+excitement of some kind. Accordingly, I abandoned my sailor life, and
+made my way among the hundreds who were crowding to the gold regions of
+Australia.
+
+"At that time I was poor, for I had never possessed the faculty for
+saving money. I was unaccustomed to the labors of mining, and in many
+instances, the knowing ones took me in, and for a long time I realized
+but little from my labors. But, as I persevered, against many
+discouragements, year after year, I at length began to be successful. I
+finally bought a claim, which, quite unexpectedly to me, yielded a
+golden harvest, and I soon found myself rich beyond my most sanguine
+expectations.
+
+"Year after year I determined to re-visit Philadelphia; but, by this
+time my mind had become much engrossed by money-making, and each
+succeeding year brought fresh claims upon my time and attention.
+
+"Time passed on, till I found myself fast growing old. I felt an intense
+longing to return to the land of my birth, and spend the few years which
+might remain to me of life in my native city. During my residence in
+Australia I met with a man who informed me that he was in Philadelphia
+at the time of my brother's marriage; and it was a severe trial when I
+found, upon my return, that my brother, and his wife had both been many
+years dead. During my homeward journey, I had formed the decision of
+spending my remaining days in the home of my brother, as I wished for
+quiet and repose. When I learned that they were both dead, all the
+affection of my worn and world-weary heart turned toward their orphan
+daughter."
+
+Turning to me my uncle said,--
+
+"Will you go, my dear child, and make bright the home of your aged
+uncle?"
+
+I was about to give a joyful assent, when the thought of the kind uncle
+and aunt I must leave, caused me to hesitate. It seemed to me that they
+possessed a claim upon my affections superior to any other, and I was at
+a loss to decide as to what was my duty. I therefore remained silent,
+not knowing what reply to make. Observing my hesitation, my uncle
+Wayland said,--
+
+"Lonely as we shall be without you, my dear Clara, I yet think it your
+duty to go with your uncle Charles, who is still more lonely than we. We
+must not be selfish; and I think we should feel willing to give you up."
+
+I was much relieved to know that my uncle and aunt Wayland were willing
+that I should go, although I well knew their willingness was caused by
+what they considered my duty to my aged relative.
+
+Till I prepared to leave my uncle and aunt, I knew not how tenderly I
+had learned to love them. I resigned my school at Mill Town, with much
+sorrow, for I had become strongly attached to my pupils. As my uncle and
+aunt tenderly embraced me at parting, my uncle said, while the tears
+coursed down his furrowed cheeks,--
+
+"Remember, dear Clara, there will ever be for you a daughter's welcome,
+both in our hearts and home."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+LIGHTS AND SHADOWS.
+
+
+I was agitated by many contending emotions as I alighted from the train
+which had borne me to Philadelphia; but, along with many sad thoughts,
+came the consoling one, that I had not returned to my native city the
+friendless being I had left it.
+
+We stayed for a short time with my old friends, the Burnsides, while my
+uncle attended to the business of buying and furnishing a suitable
+residence. Before removing to our home, my uncle engaged Mrs. Burnside
+to find a person suitable to occupy the position of housekeeper in his
+dwelling. It immediately occurred to Mrs. Burnside that my old friend,
+Mrs. O'Flaherty, would be well qualified for that position. She had
+remained in the service of Mrs. Wallingford since the time when I first
+introduced her to the reader; but, fortunately for us, Mr. Wallingford
+was about removing his family to a distant State, and they would no
+longer require her services. Mrs. O'Flaherty was overjoyed when she
+learned that she was to reside with me. When I, in company with Mrs.
+Burnside, called to make the necessary arrangements for her removal to
+her new home, I could hardly believe that the tidy, well dressed matron
+I saw could be the same poor woman to whom I had given food when hungry
+and destitute.
+
+"Indade," exclaimed Mrs. O'Flaherty, "an' I niver expected to see the
+happy day whin I would live wid you in a home av yer own."
+
+The matter was soon arranged, and an early day appointed for her to
+commence her duties as housekeeper in the dwelling of my uncle.
+
+It was quite a change for me to find myself so suddenly removed from my
+position as teacher in a small school and installed as mistress in my
+uncle's elegant home in Walnut Street, Philadelphia. We found Mrs.
+O'Flaherty very trustworthy, and well qualified in every way for her
+position.
+
+Soon after our return to Philadelphia, my uncle accompanied me to the
+graves of my parents. I cannot describe my feelings when I found myself,
+after so long an absence, again standing by the spot where reposed the
+dust of my loved father and mother. I seemed almost to feel their
+presence, and the tears I shed were gentle and refreshing. Seated by
+those graves, I, for the first time, spoke to my uncle of the
+circumstances which had caused me to leave Mrs. Leighton, and remove
+from Philadelphia. He expressed much sympathy for me and said,--
+
+"You should endeavor to banish these circumstances from your mind. You
+are young, and, I trust, have yet many years of happy life before you."
+
+I learned from Mrs. Burnside that Mr. Leighton had lately met with
+several heavy losses in business. William was still in England. He had
+written two or three letters to Birdie, but had corresponded with no
+other member of the family. Laura and Georgania had both married, and
+removed to a distant city. Birdie had finished her studies, and returned
+home. Lewis was attending school some two hundred miles from the city.
+
+Mrs. Burnside further informed me that the health of Mrs. Leighton was
+very much impaired. According to the information I gained from Mrs.
+Burnside, there seemed to have been a great change in the family of Mr.
+Leighton since I left Philadelphia.
+
+Time passed happily away in my new home. We often saw company, for all
+my old friends soon sought me out, when they learned of my return to the
+city; and my uncle, being of a social disposition, extended a kindly
+welcome to them all. Birdie Leighton called. I was truly glad to see
+her, and she seemed equally happy to meet me; but our meeting could not
+be otherwise than constrained and formal; and, owing to circumstances,
+anything like intimacy was, of course, out of the question. I had almost
+forgotten to mention that, among the first to call upon me in my new
+home, were Mrs. and Miss Kingsley, for she was _Miss_ Kingsley still;
+the same who were so much shocked by meeting with a governess at a
+fashionable party. Surely, thought I, my uncle's money is working
+wonders, when I am already patronized by the exclusive Mrs. Kingsley.
+Their call I have never yet returned.
+
+While walking one day, with a friend, I caught a glimpse of Mrs.
+Leighton, as she rode past in her carriage. She was so much changed
+that, at the first, I hardly recognized her; but, upon looking more
+closely, I saw that it was indeed Mrs. Leighton.
+
+A year and a half had now glided by since my return to Philadelphia.
+Nothing worthy of note had taken place during this time.
+
+The last letter from my friends in New Hampshire informed me that
+Obadiah was still pursuing his studies, with a view to the ministry.
+This afforded me but little surprise, as I had often heard him make
+remarks which led me to think he had an inclination to that calling.
+
+One sultry evening in August, I retired early to my own room, as I was
+suffering from a severe head-ache. The usual remedies afforded me relief
+from pain; but I found myself unable to sleep. As the hour grew late, my
+nervous restlessness so much increased that, abandoning the idea of
+rest, I rose and lighted my lamp. I felt almost alarmed at my own
+agitation, which seemed so unaccountable, I seemed to feel the
+foreshadowing of some unusual event. After a time, I closed my window,
+and was about to extinguish my lamp and again seek repose, when I was
+startled by the sudden ringing of fire-bells. Hastily unclosing my
+window, I heard the sound of "Fire! fire!" echoed by many voices, and
+accompanied by the hasty tread of many feet upon the pavement. I
+observed the appearance of fire a few streets distant, but was unable to
+make out its exact location. I listened eagerly, hoping to gain from the
+many voices which reached my ears some account of the burning building.
+Presently the words--"Mr. Leighton's house is burning!" reached my
+excited ears. I saw that the fire was raging fearfully, as the adjacent
+streets were becoming lighter by the flames. I was about to call my
+uncle, when I heard his step approaching. A moment after he rapped at my
+door. Just then Mrs. O'Flaherty rushed up the stairs, breathless with
+terror.
+
+"May the Saints defend us!" she exclaimed, as she burst into my
+apartment; "but is the city on fire? For wasn't it the light o' the
+flames shinin' on me windy that waked me out o' me sound slape."
+
+My uncle endeavoured to allay her terrors, telling her that the city was
+certainly not on fire, although there was a burning building in our near
+vicinity. He soon declared his intention of visiting the scene of the
+fire.
+
+I begged him to be careful and not expose himself to danger.
+
+After my uncle left us, we stationed ourselves on the upper piazza, to
+watch the progress of the flames. From the confusion of voices in the
+street below I caught the words,--
+
+"Poor Birdie Leighton is nowhere to be found, and it is feared she has
+perished in the flames."
+
+I shuddered as I listened to these words. It was a terrible thought to
+me, that my once loved pupil had met with a death so dreadful. But I was
+unwilling to give up the hope that she would yet be, if not already,
+saved. We waited long in anxious suspense for the return of my uncle;
+but the day had begun to dawn before he came. I feared to ask what I
+longed to know. He must have read my anxiety in my countenance, for he
+soon said to me,--
+
+"The Leightons are now all safe in the house of a neighbor; but Birdie
+came near meeting her death in the flames."
+
+To my eager enquiries, he replied,--
+
+"That before Mr. Leighton awoke, their sleeping apartment was filled
+with smoke, with which the flames were already beginning to mingle. He
+bore his wife from the apartment; and, with her in his arms, hastened to
+awake Birdie, whose room adjoined their own. She hastily threw on a
+portion of her clothing, and prepared to accompany her father and mother
+in their descent from the chambers. She had fainted from terror, while
+crossing the upper hall; and it was not till Mr. Leighton reached the
+open air with his wife in his arms, that he missed Birdie from his side.
+On leaving her apartment, he had besought her to keep close by him, as
+her mother required all his attention. The agony of Mr. and Mrs.
+Leighton, when, upon reaching the open air, they found Birdie to be not
+with them, may be better imagined than described. Mrs. Leighton became
+well-nigh frantic, and was almost forcibly conveyed to the house of a
+neighbor. As soon as Mr. Leighton was relieved from the care of his
+wife, he rushed toward the burning building, saying that he would either
+rescue Birdie or perish with her. But, ere he reached the entrance, a
+man issued from the house, bearing Birdie in his arms. The brave man had
+rushed up the burning staircase, and reached the spot where Birdie still
+lay, in a state of insensibility. Hastily enveloping her person in a
+thick, heavy shawl, which he had taken with him for the purpose, he
+rushed with her down the perilous staircase, and reached the open air in
+safety, his clothing only being singed by the flames. Never," said my
+uncle, "did I hear such a shout of joy as went up from the assembled
+multitude when the man who rescued Birdie came from the house, bearing
+her in safety to her father. Mr. Leighton fell on his knees and
+fervently thanked God for sparing the life of his child. 'Now,' said he,
+'I am content that my dwelling should burn.' He grasped the hand of her
+rescuer, and said, with much emotion,--'Words are too poor to express my
+gratitude; but, if my life is spared, you shall be rewarded.' 'I want no
+reward,' said the noble man, 'for having done my duty.' He was a
+laboring man, and had a large family dependent upon his daily earnings.
+Quite a large sum of money was soon raised among the assembled crowd,
+which he would not accept, till compelled to do so by the thankful
+multitude."
+
+In conclusion, my uncle said,--
+
+"Consciousness returned to Birdie soon after she was conveyed into the
+open air, and she was speedily conveyed to her anxious mother. The
+rescue of Birdie from so dreadful a death was to me a matter of deep and
+heartfelt thankfulness."
+
+Previous to the burning of Mr. Leighton's dwelling his pecuniary
+affairs, according to common report, had become very much embarrassed;
+and this event seemed the finishing stroke to his ill-fortune. They were
+unable to save anything from their dwelling, being thankful to escape
+with their lives. He still continued his business; but, it was said, his
+liabilities were heavier than he was able to meet. He rented a
+moderate-sized house, and removed thither with his family. Those who
+visited them said it was but plainly furnished. Their servants, with one
+or two exceptions, had all been dismissed.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+RECONCILED.
+
+
+Lewis was recalled from school in the early autumn; and soon after, the
+news of Mr. Leighton's failure was eagerly discussed in the business
+world.
+
+Lewis called to see me soon after his return. He was now a manly youth
+of fifteen. I was much pleased to see him; and, when he rose to go,
+after a lengthy call, I invited him to call often upon us. My uncle took
+a great fancy to the boy, and many evenings found Lewis our guest. I
+learned from Lewis, and others, that the health of Mrs. Leighton had so
+much failed that she was now entirely confined to the house.
+
+Mr. Leighton had lately written to Willie, giving him an account of
+their misfortunes, and of the failing health of his mother; and
+concluded by earnestly requesting his return home, as he feared that it,
+was Willie's absence which was preying so heavily upon the mind of Mrs.
+Leighton as to cause, in a great measure, her failing health.
+
+Lewis called one evening, and, upon entering the parlor, handed me a
+note. As I glanced at my name on the envelope, I at once recognized the
+hand-writing of Mrs. Leighton. Hastily breaking the seal, I read the
+following lines:--
+
+"Elm Street, Nov. 25th, 18--.
+
+"To Miss Clara Roscom:
+
+"I am extremely anxious for an interview with you; but my state of
+health will not allow of my leaving my own residence. I therefore
+earnestly request you to accompany Lewis upon his return home, for I
+_must_ see you. I am sensible that I have no right to ask of you this
+favor; but I trust that the kindness of your heart will induce you to
+comply with my request.
+
+"Yours truly,
+
+"Cynthia Leighton."
+
+When I had finished reading the note I could not forbear from
+questioning Lewis as to its meaning; but he refused to give me any
+information upon the subject, saying he was not at liberty to do so. All
+he would say of the matter was that his mother had requested him to give
+me the note, and await my reading of it. For a few moments I felt
+undecided as to going to the house of Mrs. Leighton; but, the thought
+that she was ill, and had sent for me, caused me to come to the decision
+that I would grant her request. I feared not to meet Mrs. Leighton, for
+I had done her no wrong. I therefore told Lewis that in a few moments I
+would be ready to accompany him. My uncle wished to send the carriage
+with me; but I told him it was quite unnecessary, as the distance was
+short and the evening was very fine, and Lewis had said he would
+accompany me when I wished to return home.
+
+A few minutes' walk brought me to the dwelling of Mr. Leighton. Lewis
+conducted me at once to his mother's apartment. I saw as yet no other
+member of the family. After ushering me into the room, he withdrew, and
+left me alone with Mrs. Leighton. I quietly advanced into the room and
+paused before her. She was reclining in a large easy chair, and I was
+much surprised by her changed appearance. She was very thin and pale,
+and appeared to be weak and languid; and Mrs. Harringford's letter was
+recalled to my mind when I observed how gray was her once beautiful
+hair. She extended her hand to me; but, for some moments, was unable to
+utter a word. When she relinquished the hand I had given her, she
+motioned me to a seat. She seemed agitated by some painful emotion. I
+was the first to break the silence, which I did by saying,--
+
+"Whatever may have been your object, Mrs. Leighton, in seeking this
+interview, you will see, by the readiness with which I have responded to
+your request, that I cherish no resentment toward you."
+
+Becoming more composed, she replied to me in a low voice saying--
+
+"As I was unable to go to you, I sent for you, that I may humbly ask
+your forgiveness for the injustice you have suffered from me. I now
+acknowledge, what you are probably already aware of, that it was a
+foolish and false pride which influenced my conduct toward you, when you
+left my house long ago. It requires reverses of fortune to convince us
+of the vanity of all earthly things; and reverses have overtaken me, and
+more than this; my failing health admonishes me that, unless a change
+for the better soon takes place, my days on earth will soon be numbered.
+During all the time that has passed since we have met, my mind has never
+been at rest; for though too proud to acknowledge it, I have ever been
+sensible that I treated you with cruelty and injustice. But my pride is
+now humbled and I beg of you to forgive me; for, believe me, I have
+suffered even more than you."
+
+I extended my hand to her, saying,--
+
+"I freely and fully forgive all the past, Mrs. Leighton, and I trust we
+may be friends for the future."
+
+After sitting silent for a few moments, Mrs. Leighton again addressed
+me, saying,--
+
+"Were it in your power, Clara, would you make me entirely happy?"
+
+I replied that certainly I would. She regarded me earnestly as she
+said,--
+
+"Will you become Willie's wife?"
+
+I knew not what reply to make to a question so unexpected. At length I
+said,--
+
+"Willie has been a long time absent. He may have changed his mind; or,
+he may be already married."
+
+"I will answer for all that," replied Mrs. Leighton.
+
+"Willie is here. He arrived two days since, and would have called to see
+you ere this, but I begged him to defer calling till I had seen you, and
+acknowledged my former injustice to you; for I am now sensible that I
+wronged a worthy and noble girl."
+
+Remember, kind reader, that, although I had expected never again to meet
+with Willie Leighton, I still loved him with all the strength of a first
+love.
+
+Before I could frame a reply to the last remark of Mrs. Leighton, the
+door opened, and Willie, accompanied by his father, entered the room.
+
+I pass over our meeting. But Mr. Leighton, soon after, placing my hand
+in that of Willie, said,--"God bless you, my children; may you be
+happy."
+
+When I returned home that evening, it was Willie not Lewis, who
+accompanied me.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+CLARA'S MARRIAGE.
+
+
+Willie was anxious that an early day should be appointed for our
+marriage; but I was unwilling that our marriage should take place until
+the ensuing spring. I wished not so suddenly to leave my uncle for the
+long wedding tour which Willie had in contemplation.
+
+Laura and Georgania, accompanied by their husbands, came at Christmas to
+visit their parents. It was indeed a joyful family reunion. We accepted
+our present happiness, and made no unpleasant allusions to the past. If
+Georgania retained any of her old ways that were not agreeable, I was
+too much occupied by my own new-found happiness to be annoyed by them.
+
+Willie generously urged his father to use a portion of the wealth he had
+inherited from his deceased relative in settling his deranged business
+affairs, and Mr. Leighton finally accepted the noble offer. Accordingly,
+he paid off the debts, and again started a business, which, if on a
+smaller scale than formerly, rested on a firmer basis.
+
+During the winter, my uncle made a will bestowing the chief part of his
+wealth upon me. The house in which we resided, he intended as a
+wedding-gift, saying that we must accept of the gift encumbered by the
+giver, as he wished to reside with me during the remainder of his life.
+
+"I have reserved enough," said my uncle, "for my own private use; and
+who has so rightful a claim to the wealth which a kind Providence has
+bestowed upon me, as the daughter of my twin brother?"
+
+From the time of Willie's return the health of Mrs. Leighton slowly, but
+surely, improved; and, when winter softened into the balmy days of
+spring, her health became fully restored.
+
+We were married on the twentieth of May; and, as Willie had decided upon
+England for our wedding tour, we sailed immediately after our marriage.
+We returned to our home, in Philadelphia, in October.
+
+We soon found ourselves permanently settled in our own home, to the
+great joy of Mrs. O'Flaherty, who still retained her position as
+house-keeper.
+
+"Indade, me daar misthress," said she, "an' it's good to see yees at
+home agin; for wasn't this the lonesom place whiles ye was absint."
+
+Soon after our return, I mentioned the promise which I made long ago to
+Aunt Patience, that if I ever should possess a home of my own, I would
+receive her as an inmate of that home.
+
+"I well remember," replied Willie, "the kind aunt who attended your
+mother during her last illness, and I will gladly do my utmost to render
+happy her declining years."
+
+I had secretly felt some fears that my uncle might object to our
+receiving Aunt Patience to our home. A short time after, I mentioned the
+matter to my uncle, telling him of my mother's dying injunction to me,
+that I should not neglect Aunt Patience in her old age. His reply put
+all my fears to flight.
+
+"I am glad, Clara," said my uncle, "to see that you respect the wishes
+of your deceased mother. Our dwelling is large, and we can surely find
+room for Aunt Patience. I will go for her myself, as I am at leisure,
+and would enjoy the journey."
+
+With a light heart, I wrote to Aunt Patience, informing her of our
+intentions; and a few days later, my uncle set out on his journey to
+Massachusetts. When he returned, accompanied by my aged relative, tears
+mingled with my welcome, so vividly was my mother recalled to my mind by
+the meeting.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+A PLEASING INCIDENT.
+
+
+Again it is the twentieth of May; and, this day five years ago, was my
+wedding-day. Two years since, and the fountain of a new love was stirred
+in my heart, namely, the love of a mother for her first-born son. One
+year since, I was called to stand by the dying-bed of Aunt Patience. Her
+end was peace; and her earthly remains rest beside those of my mother.
+
+My uncle still lives with us, a hale and vigorous old man, over seventy
+years of age. The parents of Willie still reside in the city. Birdie and
+Lewis are both at home. Lewis assists his father in their business,
+which has again become very prosperous.
+
+I bring my story to a close by relating an incident which took place
+the summer succeeding the date of this chapter. I had long wished to
+visit my friends in New Hampshire: but my own cares had hitherto
+prevented me; but this season I decided to pay the long-deferred visit.
+Willie was very glad to accompany me, having long wished to visit the
+Eastern States. Birdie and Lewis also bore us company. As our way lay
+through a portion of Massachusetts, I determined once more to visit the
+small village which formerly had been the home of Aunt Patience. We
+arrived at Woodville late on a Saturday evening, and on Sabbath morning
+were invited to hear a talented young preacher, who, we were informed,
+had lately been called as pastor to the Congregational Church in that
+village. As the young minister ascended the pulpit, his countenance
+struck me as being strangely familiar. As I was endeavoring to decide in
+my own mind where I could have before met him, it suddenly occurred to
+me that the young preacher was no other than my old friend, Obadiah
+Hawkins; and when, upon again raising my eyes I encountered one of those
+old-time furtive glances, I felt certain that I was right in my
+conjecture. The rough-looking youth, whom I had once thought so
+uncomely, had changed to a really fine looking man. When the services
+were closed, I at once made my way to him; and, as he had already
+recognized me, we soon renewed our former acquaintance. I introduced him
+to Willie, also to Birdie and Lewis. During the few days we remained at
+Woodville the young preacher called frequently. He soon evinced a marked
+partiality for the society of Birdie and, strange as it may seem, I
+observed that she was deeply interested in him. I know not how the
+matter may end, but I do know that, since our return home, Birdie
+receives frequent letters, addressed in a gentleman's hand, and
+post-marked "Woodville." Who knows but Obadiah Hawkins may yet be my
+brother-in-law?
+
+In taking a retrospective view of the past, and contrasting it with the
+happy present, I feel that the consoling words which, in a dream, my
+mother uttered to me, years ago, have been more than verified,--"Fear
+not, my beloved daughter; only continue in the path of duty, and all
+will yet be well."
+
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+TERRY DOLAN.
+
+
+Some years since circumstances caused me to spend the summer months in
+a farming district, a few miles from the village of E., and it was there
+I met with Terry Dolan. He had a short time previous come over from
+Ireland, and was engaged as a sort of chore boy by Mr. L., in whose
+family I resided during my stay in the neighborhood. This Terry was the
+oddest being with whom I ever chanced to meet. Would that I could
+describe him!--but most of us, I believe, occasionally meet with people,
+whom we find to be indescribable, and Terry was one of those. He called
+himself sixteen years of age; but, excepting that he was low of stature,
+you would about as soon have taken him for sixty as sixteen. His
+countenance looked anything but youthful, and there was altogether a
+sort of queer, ancient look about him which caused him to appear very
+remarkable. When he first came to reside with Mr. L. the boys in the
+neighborhood nicknamed him "The Little Old Man," but they soon learned
+by experience that their wisest plan was to place a safe distance
+between Terry and themselves before applying that name to him, for the
+implied taunt regarding his peculiar appearance enraged him beyond
+measure. Whenever he entered the room, specially if he ventured a
+remark--and no matter how serious you might have been a moment
+before--the laugh would come, do your best to repress it. When I first
+became an inmate with the family, I was too often inclined to laugh at
+the oddities of Terry--and I believe a much graver person than I was at
+that time would have done the same--but after a time, when I learned
+something of his past life, I regarded him with a feeling of pity,
+although to avoid laughing at him, at times, were next to impossible.
+
+One evening in midsummer I found him seated alone upon the piazza,
+with a most dejected countenance. Taking a seat by his side I enquired
+why he looked so sad;--his eyes filled with tears as he replied--"its of
+ould Ireland I'm thinkin' to-night, sure." I had never before seen Terry
+look sober, and I felt a deep sympathy for the homesick boy. I asked him
+how it happened that he left all his friends in Ireland and came to this
+country alone. From his reply I learned that his mother died when he was
+only ten years old, and, also, that his father soon after married a
+second wife, who, to use Terry's own words, "bate him unmarcifully."
+"It's a wonder," said he, "that iver I lived to grow up, at all, at all,
+wid all the batins I got from that cruel woman, and all the times she
+sint me to bed widout iver a bite uv supper, bad luck to her and the
+like uv her!" He did live, however, but he certainly did not grow up to
+be very tall. "Times grew worse an' worse for me at home," continued he,
+"and a quare time I had of it till I was fourteen years of age, when one
+day says I to mesilf, 'flesh and blood can bear it no longer,' and I ran
+away to the city uv Dublin where an aunt by me mother's side lived. Me
+aunt was a poor woman, but she gave a warm welcim to her sister's
+motherless boy; she trated me kindly, and allowed me to share her home,
+although she could ill afford it, till I got a place as sarvant in a
+gintleman's family. As for my father, he niver throubled his head about
+me any more; indade I think he was glad to be rid uv me, an' all by
+manes of that wicked woman. It was near two years afther I lift home
+that I took the notion of going to Ameriky; me aunt advised me against
+going, but, whin she saw that me mind was set on it, she consinted, and
+did her best, poor woman, to sind me away lookin' dacent and
+respectable. I niver saw me father or me stepmother agin. I had no wish
+to see her; but, although I knew me father no longer loved me, I had
+still some natral-like feelin's for him; but, as I had run away from
+home, I durst not go back, an' so I lift Ireland widout a sight uv him.
+But I _could_ not lave it foriver, as it might be, widout one more sight
+uv me mother's grave. I rached the small village where me father lived
+about nightfall, and lodged in the house uv a kind neighbor who
+befrinded me, an' he promised, at my earnest wish, to say nothing to any
+one uv my wish. Early in the morning, before any one was astir in the
+village, I stole away to the churchyard where they buried me mother. I
+knelt down, I did, an' kissed the sods which covered her grave, an'
+prayed that the blessin' which she pronounced before she died, wid her
+hand restin' on me head, might follow me wheriver I might go." The boy
+took from his pocket a small parcel, carefully inclosed in a paper,
+which he handed to me, saying "I gathered these shamrocks from off me
+mother's grave, before I lift it forever." My own eyes grew moist as I
+gazed upon the now withered shamrock leaves which the poor boy prized so
+highly. Would that they had proved as a talisman to guard him from evil!
+I listened with much interest to Terry's story till our conversation was
+suddenly interrupted by Mr. ---- calling him, in no very gentle tones, to
+go and drive home the cows from the pasture. To reach this pasture he
+must needs pass through about a quarter of a mile of thick woods. He had
+a great dread of walking alone in the woods, which his imagination
+filled with wild animals. When he returned that evening he seemed very
+much terrified, and when questioned as to the cause, he replied that he
+"had met with a wild baste in the woods, and was kilt entirely wid the
+fright uv it."
+
+We endeavoured to gain from him a description of the animal he had
+seen, but for some time were unable. "What color was the animal?"
+enquired Mrs. ----. "Indade Ma'am, an' its jist the color uv a dog he
+was," answered Terry. This reply was greeted with a burst of laughter
+from all present, at which he was highly offended. In order to pacify
+him I said, "we would not laugh at you, Terry, only that dogs are of so
+many different colors that we are as much in the dark as ever regarding
+the color of the animal you saw." "Well thin," replied he, "if you must
+know, he was a dirthy brown, the varmint, that he was." From what we
+could learn from him we were led to suppose that he had met with one of
+those harmless little creatures, called the "Woodchuck," which his
+nervous terror, aided by the deepening twilight, had magnified into a
+formidable wild beast.
+
+A few evenings after, two or three friends of the family chanced to
+call; and in course of conversation some one mentioned an encampment of
+Indians, who had recently located themselves in our vicinity, for the
+purpose of gathering material for the manufacture of baskets, and other
+works of Indian handicraft. Terry had never seen an Indian, and
+curiosity, not unmixed with fear, was excited in his mind, when he
+learned that a number of those dark people were within three miles of
+us. He asked many questions regarding their personal appearance, habits,
+&c. It was evident that he entertained some very comical ideas upon the
+subject. After sitting for a time silent, he suddenly enquired, "Do they
+ate pratees like other people?" A lady, present, in order to impose upon
+his credulity, replied, "Indeed Terry they not only eat potatoes, but
+they sometimes eat people." His countenance expressed much alarm, as he
+replied, "Faix thin, but I'll kape out o' their way." After a short time
+he began to suspect they were making game of him, and applied to me for
+information, saying, "Tell me, sir, if what Mrs. ---- says is true?" "Do
+not be alarmed, Terry," I replied, "for if you live till the Indians eat
+you, you will look even older than you now do."
+
+This allusion to his ancient appearance was very mischievous on my
+part, and I regretted it a moment after; but he was so much pleased to
+learn that he had nothing to fear from the Indians that he readily
+forgave me for alluding to a subject upon which he was usually very
+sensitive. I remember taking a walk one afternoon during the haymaking
+season to the field where Terry was at work. Mr. ---- had driven to the
+village with the farm horses, leaving Terry to draw in hay with a
+rheumatic old animal that was well nigh unfit for use. But as the hay
+was in good condition for getting in, and the sky betokened rain, he
+told Terry, upon leaving home, to accomplish as much as possible during
+his absence, and he would, if the rain kept off, draw in the remainder
+upon his return. As I drew nigh I spied Terry perched upon the top of a
+load of hay holding the reins, and urging forward the horse, in the
+ascent of a very steep hill. First he tried coaxing, and as that proved
+of little avail, he next tried the effect of a few vigorous strokes with
+a long switch which he carried in his hand. When the poor old horse had
+dragged the heavy load about half way up the hill, he seemed incapable
+of further exertion, and horse, cart, Terry and all began a rapid
+backward descent down the hill.
+
+Here the boy's patience gave way entirely. "Musha thin, bad luck to ye
+for one harse," said he as he applied the switch with renewed energy.
+Just then I arrived within speaking distance and said, "Do you think,
+Terry you would be any better off if you had two of them." "Not if they
+were both like this one," answered he. I advised Terry to come down from
+his elevated position, and not add his weight to the load drawn by the
+overburdened animal. He followed my advice, and when with some
+difficulty we had checked the descending motion of the cart-wheels, we
+took a fair start, and the summit of the hill was finally gained.
+
+"Its often," said Terry, "that I've seen a horse draw a cart, but I
+niver before saw a cart drawing a horse." There was one trait in the
+character of the boy which pleased me much; he was very grateful for any
+little act of kindness. He often got into difficulties with the family,
+owing to his rashness and want of consideration, and I often succeeded
+in smoothing down for him many rough places in his daily path; and when
+he observed that I interested myself in his behalf, his gratitude knew
+no bounds. I believe he would have made almost any sacrifice to please
+me. He surprised me one day by saying suddenly, "Don't I wish you'd only
+be tuck sick." "Why Terry," replied I, "I am surprised indeed that you
+should wish evil to me." "Indade thin," answered he, "its not for evil
+that I wish it, but for your good jist to let ye see how tinderly I
+would take care uv ye." I thanked him for his kind intentions, saying
+that I was very willing to take the will for the deed in this case, and
+had no wish to test his kindness by a fit of sickness.
+
+He came in one evening fatigued with a hard day's work, and retired
+early to bed. His sleeping apartment adjoined the sitting-room. I had
+several letters to write which occupied me till a late hour; the family
+had all retired. I finished writing just as the clock struck twelve. At
+that moment, I was almost startled by Terry's voice singing in a very
+high key. My first thought was that he had gone suddenly crazy. With a
+light in my hand I stepped softly into the room, to find Terry sitting
+up in bed and singing at the top of his voice, a song in the "Native
+Irish Tongue." By this time he had roused every one in the house; and
+others of the family entered the room. By the pauses which he made, we
+knew when he reached the end of each verse. He sang several verses; at
+the time I knew how many, but am unable now to recall the exact number.
+He must surely have been a sound sleeper or the loud laughter which
+filled the room would have waked him, for the scene was ludicrous in the
+extreme: Terry sitting up in bed, sound asleep, at the hour of midnight,
+and singing with a loud voice and very earnest manner, to an audience
+who were unable to understand one word of the song. At the close of the
+last verse he lay quietly down, all unconscious of the Musical
+Entertainment he had given. The next morning some of the family began
+teasing him about the song he had sung in his sleep. He was loth to
+believe them, and as usual enquired of me if they were telling him the
+truth. "I'll believe whatever you say," said he, "for its you that niver
+toult me a lie yet." "You may believe them this time," said I, "for you
+certainly did sing a song. The air was very fine, and I have no doubt
+the words were equally so, if we could only have understood them."
+
+"Well thin," replied he, "but I niver heard more than that; and if I
+raaly did sing, I may as well tell yee's how it happint. I dramed, ye
+see, that I was at a ball in Ireland, an' I thought that about twelve
+o'clock we got tired wid dancin and sated ourselves on the binches which
+were ranged round the walls uv the room, and ache one was to sing a song
+in their turn, an' its I that thought my turn had come for sure." "Well
+Terry," said I, "you hit upon the time exact at any rate, for it was
+just twelve o'clock when you favoured us with the song." Soon after this
+time I left the neighbourhood, and removed to some distance. Terry
+remained for a considerable time with the same family; after a time I
+learned that he had obtained employment in a distant village. The next
+tidings I heard of him was that he had been implicated in a petty
+robbery, and had run away. His impulsive disposition rendered him very
+easy of persuasion, for either good or evil; and he seldom paused to
+consider the consequences of any act. From what I could learn of the
+matter, it seemed he had been enticed into the affair by some designing
+fellows, who judged that, owing to his simplicity, he would be well
+adapted to carry out their wicked plans; and, when suspicion was
+excited, they managed in some way to throw all the blame upon Terry, who
+fearing an arrest, fled no one knew whither. Many years have passed
+since I saw or heard of Terry Dolan; but often, as memory recalls past
+scenes and those who participated in them, I think of him, and wonder if
+he is yet among the living, and, if so, in what quarter of the world he
+has fixed his abode.
+
+
+
+
+THE FAITHFUL WIFE.
+
+
+It is a mild and beautiful evening in the early autumn. Mrs. Harland is
+alone in her home; she is seated by a table upon which burns a shaded
+lamp, and is busily occupied with her needle. She has been five years a
+wife; her countenance is still youthful, and might be termed beautiful,
+but for the look of care and anxiety so plainly depicted thereon. She
+had once been happy, but with her now, happiness is but a memory of the
+past. When quite young she had been united in marriage to Wm. Harland,
+and with him removed to the City of R., where they have since resided.
+He was employed as bookkeeper in a large mercantile house, and his
+salary was sufficient to afford them a comfortable support,--whence then
+the change that has thus blighted their bright prospects, and clouded
+the brow of that fair young wife with care? It is an unpleasant truth,
+but it must be told. Her husband has become addicted to the use of
+strong drink, not an occasional tippler, but a confirmed and habitual
+drunkard. His natural disposition was gay and social, and he began by
+taking an occasional glass with his friends--more for sociability than
+for any love of the beverage. His wife often admonished him of the
+danger of tampering with the deadly vice of intemperance; but he only
+laughed at what he termed her idle fears. Well had it been for them both
+had the fears of his wife proved groundless! It is needless for me to
+follow him in his downward path, till, we find him reduced to the level
+of the common drunkard. Some three months previous to the time when our
+story opens his employers were forced to dismiss him, as they could no
+longer employ him with any degree of safety to their business. It was
+fortunate for Mrs. Harland that the dwelling they occupied belonged to
+her in her own right--it had been given her by her father at the period
+of her marriage--so that notwithstanding the dissipated habits of the
+husband and father they still possessed a home, although many of the
+comforts of former days had disappeared before the blighting influence
+of the demon of intemperance. After being dismissed by his employers Mr.
+Harland seemed to lose all respect for himself, as well as for his wife
+and children, and, but for the unceasing toil of the patient mother, his
+children might have often asked for bread in vain.
+
+So low had he now fallen that almost every evening found him in some low
+haunt of drunkenness and dissipation; and often upon returning to his
+home he would assail his gentle wife with harsh and unfeeling language.
+
+Many there were who advised Mrs. Harland to return with her children
+to her parents, who were in affluent circumstances, but she still
+cherished the hope that he would yet reform. "I pray daily for my erring
+husband," she would often say, "and I feel an assurance that, sooner or
+later, my prayers will be answered; and I cannot feel it my duty to
+forsake him." But on this evening, as she sits thus alone, her mind is
+filled with thoughts of the past, which she cannot help contrasting with
+the miserable present, till her reverie is interrupted by the sound of
+approaching footsteps, which she soon recognizes as those of her
+husband: she is much surprised--for it is long, very long, since he has
+returned to his home at so early an hour--and, as he enters the room,
+her surprise increases when she perceives that he is perfectly sober. As
+he met her wondering gaze a kind expression rested upon his countenance,
+and he addressed her saying: "I do not wonder at your astonishment, dear
+Mary, when I call to mind my past misconduct. I have been a fiend in
+human shape thus to ill-treat and neglect the best of wives; but I have
+made a resolve, 'God helping' me, that it shall be so no longer."
+Seating himself by her side, he continued: "If you will listen to me,
+Mary, I will tell you what caused me to form this resolution. When I
+went out this evening I at once made my way to the public house, where I
+have spent so much of my time and money. Money, I had none, and, worse
+than this, was owing the landlord a heavy bill. Of late he had assailed
+me with duns every time I entered the house; but so craving was the
+appetite for drink that each returning evening still found me among the
+loungers in the bar-room trusting to my chance of meeting with some
+companion who would call for a treat. It so happened that to-night none
+of my cronies were present. When the landlord found that I was still
+unable to settle the 'old score,' as he termed it, he abused me in no
+measured terms; but I still lingered in sight of the coveted beverage;
+and knowing my inability to obtain it my appetite increased in
+proportion. At length I approached the bar, and begged him to trust me
+for one more glass of brandy. I will not wound your ears by repeating
+his reply; and he concluded by ordering me from the house, telling me
+also never to enter it again till I was able to settle the long score
+already against me. The fact that I had been turned from the door,
+together with his taunting language stung me almost to madness. I
+strolled along, scarce knowing or caring whither, till I found myself
+beyond the limits of the city; and seating myself by the roadside I
+gazed in silent abstraction over the moonlit landscape; and as I sat
+thus I fell into a deep reverie. Memory carried me back to my youthful
+days when everything was bright with joyous hope and youthful ambition.
+I recalled the time when I wooed you from your pleasant country home,
+and led you to the altar a fair young bride, and there pledged myself
+before God and man to love, honour and cherish you, till death should us
+part. Suddenly, as if uttered by an audible voice, I seemed to hear the
+words 'William Harland, how have you kept your vows?' At that moment I
+seemed to suddenly awake to a full sense of my fallen and degraded
+position. What madness, thought I, has possessed me all this time, thus
+to ruin myself and those dear to me? And for what? for the mere
+indulgence of a debasing appetite. I rose to my feet and my step grew
+light with my new-formed resolution, that I _would_ break the slavish
+fetters that had so long held me captive; and now, my dear wife, if you
+can forgive the past and aid me in my resolutions for amendment there is
+hope for me yet." Mrs. Harland was only too happy to forgive her erring
+but now truly penitent husband; but she trembled for the future, knowing
+how often he had formerly made like resolutions, but to break them. She
+endeavoured, however, to be hopeful, and to encourage him by every means
+which affection could devise.
+
+Through the influence of friends, his former employers were induced to
+give him another trial. He had many severe struggles with himself ere he
+could refrain from again joining his dissipated companions; but his
+watchful wife would almost every evening form some little plan of her
+own for his amusement, that he might learn to love his home. In a short
+time their prospects for the future grew brighter, his wife began to
+smile again; and his children, instead of fleeing from his approach as
+they had formerly done, now met him upon his return with loving caresses
+and lively prattle. Some six months after this happy change, Mrs.
+Harland one evening noticed that her husband seemed very much downcast
+and dejected. After tea, she tried vainly to interest him in
+conversation.
+
+He had a certain nervous restlessness in his manner, which always
+troubled her, knowing, as she did, that it was caused by the cravings of
+that appetite for strong drink, which at times still returned with
+almost overwhelming force. About eight o'clock he took down his hat
+preparatory to going out. She questioned him as to where he was going,
+but could obtain no satisfactory reply; her heart sank within her; but
+she was aware that remonstrance would be useless. She remained for a few
+moments, after he left the house, in deep thought, then suddenly rising
+she exclaimed aloud, "I will at least make one effort to save him." She
+well knew that should he take but one glass, all his former resolves
+would be as nothing. As she gained the street she observed her husband a
+short distance in advance of her, and walking hastily she soon overtook
+him, being careful to keep on the opposite side of the street, that she
+might be unobserved by him. She had formed no definite purpose in her
+mind; she only felt that she must endeavor to save him by some means. As
+they drew nigh the turn of the street she saw two or three of his former
+associates join him, and one of them addressed him, saying, "Come on,
+Harland; I thought you would get enough of the cold water system. Come
+on, and I'll stand treat to welcome you back among your old friends."
+For a moment he paused as if irresolute; then his wife grew sick at
+heart, as she saw him follow his companions into a drinking saloon near
+at hand. Mrs. Harland was by nature a delicate and retiring woman; for a
+moment she paused: dare she go further! Her irresolution was but
+momentary, for the momentous consequences at stake gave her a fictitious
+courage. She quickly approached the door, which at that moment some one
+in the act of leaving the house threw wide open, and she gained a view
+of her husband in the act of raising a glass to his lips; but ere he had
+tasted its fiery contents it was dashed from his hand, and the shattered
+fragments scattered upon the floor. Mr. Harland, supposing it the act of
+one of his half-drunken companions, turned with an angry exclamation
+upon his lips; but the expression of anger upon his countenance suddenly
+gave place to one of shame and humiliation when he saw his wife standing
+before him, pale but resolute. In a subdued voice he addressed her,
+saying, "Mary, how came you here?" "Do not blame me, William," she
+replied; "for I could not see you again go astray without, at least,
+making an effort to save you. And now will you not return with me to
+your home?" The other occupants of the room had thus far remained silent
+since the entrance of Mrs. Harland; but when they saw that Mr. Harland
+was about to leave the house by her request, they began taunting him
+with his want of spirit in being thus ruled by a woman. One of them, who
+was already half drunk, staggered toward him, saying, "I'd just like to
+see my old woman follerin' me round in this way. I'll be bound I'd teach
+her a lesson she would'nt forget in a hurry." Many similar remarks were
+made by one and another present. The peculiar circumstances in which
+Mrs. Harland found herself placed gave her a degree of fortitude, of
+which upon ordinary occasions she would have found herself incapable.
+Raising her hand with an imperative gesture she said in a firm voice:
+"Back tempters, hinder not my husband from following the dictates of his
+better nature." For a few moments there was silence in the room, till
+one of the company, more drunken and insolent than the others, exclaimed
+in a loud, derisive voice: "Zounds, madam, but you would make a capital
+actress, specially on the tragedy parts; you should seek an engagement
+upon the stage." Mr. Harland's eyes flashed angrily as his listened to
+the insulting words addressed to his wife, and, turning to the man who
+had spoken, he addressed him, saying, in a decided tone of voice: "I
+wish to have no harsh language in this room while my wife is present,
+but I warn each one of you to address no more insulting language to
+her." The manner in which Mr. Harland addressed them, together with the
+gentle and lady-like appearance of his wife, had the effect to shame
+them into silence. His voice was very tender as he again addressed his
+wife, saying, "Come Mary I wills accompany you home--this is no place
+for you." When they gained the street the unnatural courage which had
+sustained Mrs. Harland gave way, and she would have fallen to the earth,
+but for the supporting arm of her husband. For a few moments they walked
+on in silence, when Mr. Harland said, in a voice choked with emotion,
+
+"You have been my good angel, Mary, for your hand it was which saved
+me from violating a solemn oath; but I now feel an assurance that I have
+broken the tempter's chains forever." I am happy to add that from this
+hour he gained a complete victory over the evil habit which well-nigh
+had proved his ruin; and in after years, when peace and prosperity again
+smiled upon them, he often called to mind the evening when his
+affectionate and devoted wife, by her watchful love, saved him from
+ruin, and perchance from the drunkard's grave.
+
+
+
+
+EMMA ASHTON.
+
+
+It was a sad day for Emma Ashton, when, with her widowed mother, she
+turned from her father's new-made grave, and again entered their
+desolate home. None but those who have experienced a like sorrow can
+fully understand their grief as they entered their now lonely home,
+where a short time since they had been so happy. But the ways of
+Providence are, to our feeble vision, often dark and incomprehensible,
+and the only way by which we can reconcile ourselves to many trials
+which we are called to endure is by remembering that there is a "need
+be" for every sorrow which falls to our lot, in the journey of life.
+Emma was an only child and had been the idol of her father's heart, and
+no marvel if the world, to her, looked dark and dreary when he was
+removed by death. Added to the grief occasioned by their bereavement,
+the mother and daughter had yet another cause for anxiety and
+disquietude, for the home where they had dwelt for so many years in the
+enjoyment of uninterrupted happiness was now no longer theirs. Since
+quite a young man, Mr. Ashton had held the position of overseer, in a
+large manufactory in the village of W. Owing to his sober and
+industrious habits he had saved money sufficient to enable him, at the
+period of his marriage, to purchase a neat and tasteful home, to which
+he removed with his young wife. He still continued his industry, and
+began in a small way to accumulate money, when, unfortunately, he was
+persuaded by one whom he thought a friend to sign bank-notes with him to
+a large amount; but, ere the notes became due, the man he had obliged
+left the country, and he was unable to gain any trace of him, and was
+soon called upon to meet the claim. Bank-notes must be paid, and to
+raise money to meet the claim he was forced to mortgage his house for
+nearly its full value. His health failed; and for two years previous to
+his death he was unable to attend to his business. The term of the
+mortgage was five years, which time expired soon after his death. During
+the few last weeks of his life his mind was very much disturbed
+regarding the destitute condition in which he must leave his beloved
+wife and daughter; for he was too well acquainted with the man who held
+the claim to expect any lenity to his family when it should become due,
+and he was sensible that the hour of his own death was fast approaching.
+His wife tried to cheer him by hopeful words, saying: "Should it please
+our Heavenly Father to remove you, fear not that He will fail to care
+for the fatherless and widow." A short time before his death a sweet
+peace and hopeful trust settled over his spirit, and the religion he had
+sought in health afforded him a firm support in the hour of death. When
+all was over, and the mother and daughter found themselves left alone,
+their fortitude well-nigh forsook them, and they felt almost like
+yielding to a hopeless sorrow. Emma was at this time but fifteen years
+of age, possessed of much personal beauty, and also a very amiable and
+affectionate disposition. Since the age of six years she had attended
+school, and made rapid progress in her various studies till the sad
+period of her father's death. As Mr. Ashton had foreseen, Mr. Tompkins,
+the man who held the mortgage, soon called upon the widow, informing her
+that the time had already expired, and unless she found herself able to
+meet the claim, her dwelling was legally his property; but, as a great
+favor, he granted her permission to occupy the house till she could make
+some arrangement concerning the future, giving her, however, distinctly
+to understand, that he wished to take possession as soon as she could
+find another home. Mrs. Ashton thanked him for the consideration he had
+shown her, little as it was, telling him she would as soon as possible
+seek another home, however humble it might be; and Mr. Tompkins departed
+with a polite bow and a bland smile upon his countenance, well pleased
+that he had got the matter settled with so little difficulty. I presume
+he never once paused to think of the grief-stricken widow and her
+fatherless daughter, whom he was about to render homeless. Money had so
+long been his idol that tender and benevolent emotions were well-nigh
+extinguished in his world-hardened heart. For a long time after Mr.
+Tompkins left the house Mrs. Ashton remained in deep thought. There are,
+dear reader, dark periods in the lives of most of us, when, turn which
+way we will, we find ourselves surrounded, as by a thick hedge, with
+difficulties and troubles from which we see no escape.
+
+At such periods it is good for us to call to mind the fact, that the
+darkest cloud often has a silver lining, and that if we discharged, to
+the best of our ability, our duties for the time being, the cloud,
+sooner or later, will be reversed, and display its bright side to our
+troubled view. The time had now arrived, when Mrs. Ashton must come to
+some decision regarding the future. She had no friends to whom she could
+turn for aid or counsel in this season of trial. When quite young she
+had emigrated from England with her parents and one sister, and settled
+in Eastern Canada. About the time of her marriage and removal to W. her
+parents, with her sister, removed to one of the Western States: and it
+may be the knowledge that she must rely solely upon herself enabled her
+to meet her trials with more fortitude than might have been expected.
+Some fifty miles from W. was the large and thriving village of Rockford,
+and thither Mrs. Ashton at length decided to remove. One reason for this
+decision was the excellent institution for the education of young
+ladies, which was there located. She was very anxious that her daughter
+should obtain a good education, but was sorely puzzled as to raising the
+money needful for defraying her expenses. There were a few debts due her
+husband at the time of his death; these she collected with little
+difficulty. Their dwelling had been handsomely furnished, and she
+decided to sell the furniture, as she could easily, upon their arrival
+at Rockford, purchase what articles were necessary for furnishing their
+new home, which must, of necessity, be humble. One article she felt they
+must retain if possible, and that was the piano given her by her father
+at the period of her marriage. She did at first entertain the idea of
+parting with it, thinking how far the money it would bring would go in
+defraying the expenses attendant upon Emma's education, but upon second
+consideration, she resolved that they would not part with her father's
+parting-gift to her, unless compelled to do so by actual want; and so
+when their old home was broken up the piano was carefully packed and
+forwarded to Rockford. The home where they had resided so long was very
+dear to them, and it would have grieved them to leave it at any time;
+but to leave at the glad season of spring, when the trees which shaded
+their dwelling were beginning to put forth their leaves, and the flowers
+which adorned their garden were bursting into bloom, seemed to them
+doubly sad. But their preparations for removal were finally completed;
+and they left their home followed by the good wishes of many who had
+long known and loved them. Upon their arrival at Rockford, Mrs. Ashton
+hired a cheap tenement in a respectable locality, which she furnished in
+a plain but decent manner. When they became settled in their new home
+they had still in hand money sufficient to secure them from immediate
+want, but as Mrs. Ashton wished Emma to enter at once upon her studies,
+she was very anxious to devise some means of earning money to meet
+necessary expenses. There was one family residing in Rockford with whom
+Mrs. Ashton had several years before been intimately acquainted: their
+name was Lebaron, and they at one time resided in the same village with
+the Ashtons. Mr. Lebaron had opened a store upon removing to Rockford;
+the world had smiled upon him, and he was now considered one of the most
+wealthy and influential men in the village.
+
+It has been often said that "prosperity hardens the heart of man,"
+but if such is the case in general, Mr. Lebaron proved an exception to
+the general rule. He had heard with much sorrow of the death of Mr.
+Ashton, and also of the other misfortunes which had overtaken the
+family; and no sooner did he learn of the arrival of the widow and
+daughter in Rockford, than, accompanied by his wife, he hastened to call
+upon them to renew their former acquaintance, and in a delicate and
+considerate manner to enquire if he could assist them in any way. Mrs.
+Ashton thanked them for their kindness, saying that although in no
+immediate need of assistance, yet she would be very thankful if they
+would assist her in obtaining employment. "If such is the case," replied
+Mrs. Lebaron, "I can easily secure you employment, as I am acquainted
+with many ladies who give, out work, and will gladly use my influence in
+your favor." "You will confer a favor upon me by so doing," replied Mrs.
+Ashton, "for I must rely upon my labor for a support for the future."
+Through the influence of these kind friends Mrs. Ashton soon obtained an
+abundant supply of work; and, when she became somewhat acquainted with
+the people of Rockford, her gentle and unobtrusive manner gained her
+many warm friends. Agreeable to her mother's wishes, Emma soon became a
+pupil in the seminary for young ladies, which was at that time under the
+direction of Miss Hinton, a lady who possessed uncommon abilities as a
+teacher, and was also aided by several competent assistants. Mrs.
+Lebaron had two daughters attending the institution at the time, and
+this circumstance, in a great measure, relieved Emma from the feeling of
+diffidence she might have experienced in entering a large school a
+stranger to both teachers and pupils; but her modest and unassuming
+manners, added to her diligence in study soon caused her to become a
+general favorite with her teachers. In schools, as well as other places,
+we often meet with those who are inclined to be jealous of merit
+superior to their own, and the seminary, at Rockford was no exception in
+this matter. Her teachers were guilty of no unjust partiality; true,
+they oftener commended her than some other members of her class, but not
+oftener than her punctual attendance, perfect recitations and correct
+deportment generally, justified them in doing. But it soon became
+evident that, if Emma was a favourite with her teachers, she was far
+from being such with many members of her class. At the time she entered
+school Miss Hinton found, after examining her in her various studies,
+that her attainments were already superior to those of several young
+ladies who had been for some time members of the school. Among the
+pupils who at the time attended the institution was a Miss Carlton, from
+the distant city of H. She was the petted and only child of wealthy
+parents; and, as is often the case, her disposition, which, under proper
+training, might have been amiable, had been spoiled by unwise indulgence
+on the part of her parents. Her capacity for learning was not good; she
+was also sadly wanting in application, and, at the time Emma entered the
+school, although Miss Carlton had attended for more than a year, her
+progress in study was far from being satisfactory to her teachers. She
+was at much pains to inform her classmates of her wealth and position,
+seeming to entertain the idea that this would cover every defect. Owing
+to Emma's superior attainments, compared with her own, she soon learned
+to regard her with a feeling of absolute dislike, which she took little
+pains to conceal; and many were the petty annoyances she endured from
+the vain and haughty Julia Carlton. She soon learned that Emma was poor;
+and that her mother toiled early and late to defray the expenses of her
+education; and more than once she threw out hints regarding this fact,
+among the other pupils, even in hearing of Emma; and, as often as
+opportunity offered, she slighted the unoffending girl, and treated her
+with all the rudeness of which she was capable. "Let those who wish
+associate with Miss Ashton," she would often say to her companions; "but
+I am thankful that I have been better taught at home than to make a
+companion of a girl whose mother is obliged to take in sewing to pay her
+school bills." These and other remarks equally malicious were daily made
+by Miss Carlton; and I am sorry that she soon found others in the school
+who were weak enough to be influenced by her also to treat Emma with
+coldness and contempt. Emma could not long fail to notice the many
+slights, both direct and indirect, which she endured from many members
+of the school, and she taxed her memory to recall any act by which she
+might have given offence; but, finding herself unable to recollect any
+thing on her part which could have offended any member of the school,
+she was not a little puzzled to account for the rudeness with which she
+was treated. It happened one day that during recess she remained at her
+desk in the school-room to complete an unfinished French exercise.
+Several of her companions soon after entered the adjoining recitation
+room, and, as they were not aware of her proximity, she became an
+unwilling listener to a conversation which pained her deeply. As Sarah
+Lebaron entered the room one of the girls addressed her, saying:--"When
+you first introduced Miss Ashton among us, I supposed her to be at least
+a companionable girl, but I have lately been informed that she resides
+in a cheap tenement, and, further, that her mother takes in sewing, and,
+if such is the case, I wish to cultivate no further acquaintance with
+her." "But then," added another girl, "Miss Hinton thinks her almost a
+saint, and sets her up as a model for us all; if there's any thing I do
+detest, it's these model girls, and I don't believe she's half as fond
+of study as she pretends; and, in my opinion, its only to hear the
+commendations of the teachers that she applies herself with such
+diligence; but Miss Hinton is so taken with her meek face and lady-like
+manners that she places her above us all, and, I suppose, we must
+submit, for as the old song says:
+
+'What can't be cured must be endured.'"
+
+"Well, I for one shall try some method of cure, before I put up with
+much more of her impudence and assumption," chimed in the amiable Miss
+Carlton; "pay attentions now, girls," continued she, "while I take my
+place in the class like Emma Ashton;" and separating herself from her
+companions, she crossed the room to one of the class-seats, with such a
+ludicrous air of meekness and decorum, that the girls were almost
+convulsed with laughter. Starting up and tossing her book from her hand
+she exclaimed, "It is so disgusting to see a girl in _her_ position put
+on such airs." Miss Lebaron had not before spoken, but, when at length
+there was silence, she addressed her companions, saying, "if no other
+young lady present has any further remarks to make, I will myself say a
+few words if you will listen to me. I must say, I am surprised at the
+unkindness, even rudeness, which many of you have exhibited towards Miss
+Ashton. If she is poor it is death, and other misfortunes which have
+caused her to become so; and this circumstance should excite your
+sympathy, but surely not your contempt and ridicule. Poor as she is, she
+is my friend, and I am proud to claim her as such. As to her being
+companionable that is a matter of taste; I shall continue to follow
+mine, and each young lady present is at liberty to do the same; but be
+assured that unless you can furnish some more satisfactory reason for
+your disparaging remarks than you have yet done, they will bear no
+weight with me." With much irony in her voice Miss Carlton replied,
+"Really, Miss Lebaron, I am unable to reply to your very able defence of
+your charming friend, and will only say that I shall avail myself of the
+liberty you have kindly granted us, for each to follow her own taste in
+the choice of associates, and avoid Miss Ashton as much as possible."
+"As you please," replied Miss Lebaron, "it is a matter of perfect
+indifference to me;" and just then the school bell put an end to further
+conversation. As may be easily supposed, the delicate and sensitive
+spirit of Emma was deeply wounded by the above conversation; and it was
+with much difficulty that she maintained her composure for the remaining
+portion of the day. For once her lessons were imperfect; and with a
+heavy heart she returned to her home. That evening she, for the first
+time, mentioned to her mother the daily annoyances she suffered from her
+companions at school; and concluded by relating the conversation she had
+that day chanced to overhear. Mrs. Ashton could not feel otherwise than
+grieved; but as much as possible she concealed the feeling from her
+daughter. "My dear Emma," she replied, "their unkind words can do you no
+real harm, although they may render you unhappy for the time being. But
+keep the even tenor of your way; and they will, probably, after a time
+become ashamed of their folly. Should they make any further remarks
+regarding my laboring to give you an education, you may tell them that I
+esteem it as one of my chief blessings that I have health granted me so
+to do."
+
+Time passed on; and the invariable kindness with which Emma treated her
+classmates finally gained her several warm friends; and some of them
+even apologized for their past unkindness. Miss Carlton still regarded
+her with a feeling of enmity and dislike; but as Emma seemed not to
+notice the many annoyances she experienced she was at length forced to
+desist, although the same resentful feeling remained in her heart.
+
+When Emma left the seminary, after attending it for four years, her
+departure was deeply regretted by both teachers and pupils. As she had
+pursued her studies in a very systematic manner, she had acquired,
+before leaving school, a thoroughly good education, which she intended
+turning to account by teaching. Miss Carlton also left school at the
+same time to return to her elegant home in the city of H. It was
+fortunate for her that she was not obliged, as was Emma, to teach as a
+means of support; for, notwithstanding the unwearied pains of her
+teachers, her education, when she left school, was very superficial.
+Emma soon obtained a situation as teacher in a small village some twenty
+miles from Rockford, where she remained for two years. During her
+absence, her mother, to avoid being left alone, received as boarders two
+or three young ladies who attended school in the village. Emma's success
+as a teacher become so well known that she was at length offered a high
+salary to accept of the position of assistant teacher in an academy in
+the city of H., the same city where Miss Carlton resided. As the salary
+offered was very liberal, she decided to accept of the position, and as
+the situation was likely to prove a permanent one she was very anxious
+that her mother should accompany her; and after some deliberation upon
+the subject, Mrs. Ashton consented, thinking they would both be much
+happier together than otherwise. Emma proved quite as successful in thus
+her second situation as in the first; and owing to her position as
+teacher she soon formed acquaintance with several families of cultivated
+tastes and high respectability. She often received invitations to
+parties; but her tastes were quiet, and she usually preferred spending
+her evenings with her mother in the quiet of their own home, to mingling
+in scenes of mirth and gaiety; and it was only upon a few occasions that
+she attended parties, that her friends might not think her unsocial. At
+one of these parties she chanced to meet her former school mate, Miss
+Carlton, whose only sign of recognition was a very formal bow. This gave
+her no uneasiness; she cherished no malice towards Miss Carlton; but her
+ideas and tastes so widely differed from her own that she did not covet
+her friendship even had she been inclined to grant it her.
+
+Meanwhile, with the widow and her daughter, time passed happily away.
+Emma's salary was more than sufficient for their support and they were
+happy in the society of each other. There was one family, by the name of
+Milford, who had treated them with much kindness since their residence
+in the city. Mrs. Milford at first placed two little girls under Emma's
+instruction, and thus began an acquaintance which soon ripened into
+intimate friendship; for, although occupying a high position of wealth
+and influence, Mrs. Milford was one of the few who place "mind above
+matter" and respected true worth wherever she met with it. Her eldest
+daughter, having finished her education at a distant boarding school,
+returned home about the same time her two sisters were placed in charge
+of Emma; and the little girls were so eloquent in their praise of their
+teacher, that their eldest sister became interested, and decided to call
+upon her at her home; and the lady-like appearance of both mother and
+daughter, together with the appearance of good taste which their home
+exhibited, strongly interested her in their favor.
+
+Some six months previous to the period of which I am writing a young
+physician from the Upper Province located himself in the city of H. for
+the practice of his profession. According to common report, he was
+wealthy, and the study of a profession had with him been a matter not of
+necessity but of choice. Owing to his pleasing manners, as well as his
+reputed wealth, he soon became an object of much interest to many of the
+match-making mammas and marriageable young ladies of the city of H. He
+was soon favored with numerous invitations to attend parties, where he
+formed acquaintance with most of the young people in the fashionable
+circle of the city; and he soon became a general favorite in society.
+Among others, he attended a large party given by the Carltons, and by
+this means became acquainted with the family. He had called
+occasionally; and during one of those calls Mrs. Carlton very feelingly
+lamented that her daughter was often obliged to forego the pleasure of
+attending concerts, lectures and other places of public amusement for
+want of a suitable escort; and courtesy to the family would of course
+allow him to do no less than offer to become her attendant upon such
+occasions. Mrs. Carlton, however, put a very different construction upon
+these slight attentions, and already looked upon him as her future
+son-in-law.
+
+When Dr. Winthrop had resided for about a year in the city, the
+Milfords also gave a large party, and Miss Ashton was included among
+their guests. The party was a brilliant affair, for the Milfords were a
+family of wealth and high social position. The young physician was among
+their guests; and Miss Carlton managed some way or other to claim his
+attention most of the evening. There was the usual amount of small talk,
+common to such occasions; about the usual number of young ladies were
+invited to sing and play, and, as usual, they were either out of
+practice or were afflicted with "bad colds." But it so happened that
+several young ladies who at the first begged to be excused, after much
+persuasion allowed themselves to be conducted to the piano, and played
+till it was evident from the manner of many that the music had become an
+infliction instead of a pleasure. When after a time Miss Ashton was
+invited to play, she took the vacant seat at the piano without any of
+the usual apologies; and began playing the prelude to a much admired
+song of the day; and before she reached the close of the first verse
+there was a hush through the room, and the countenance of each evinced
+the pleasure with which they listened to her performance. As she rose
+from the instrument Dr. Winthrop addressed Miss Carlton, saying: "Can
+you inform me who is that young lady? I never met her before; but she
+has favored us with the first real music I have listened to this
+evening." The young physician was not wanting in politeness, and he
+certainly must have forgotten that Miss Carlton occupied the seat at the
+piano a short time before. That young lady colored with anger as she
+replied: "Her name is Miss Ashton, and I understand she is engaged as an
+assistant teacher in one of the Academies in the city." "It is
+singular," replied Dr. Winthrop, "that I have never before met her at
+any of the numerous parties I have attended during the past year."
+"There is nothing very singular in that," replied Miss Carlton, "for I
+presume she is not often invited to fashionable parties, and I suppose
+it is owing to Mrs. Milford's two little girls being her pupils that we
+find her among their guests; but as you seem so much interested, I will
+tell you all I know of the _person_ in question. When I attended school
+at Rockford, Miss Ashton was a pupil in the same institution; but, when
+I learned that her mother, who is a widow, took in sewing, to pay her
+school bills, I did not care to cultivate her acquaintance. She left
+school about the same time with myself, and I heard no more of her till
+she obtained a situation in this city." "Pardon me," replied the young
+physician; "but I see nothing in what you have stated that is in the
+least disparaging to the young lady; and I should be much pleased to
+make her acquaintance." "Our ideas slightly vary in these matters,"
+replied Miss Carlton, with a haughty toss of her head; "but I will not
+detain you from seeking the introduction for which you seem so anxious.
+I am sorry I cannot oblige you by introducing you myself; but as I did
+not associate with her when at school, I am still less inclined to do so
+at the present time; I hope, however, you may find her an agreeable
+acquaintance;" and with a haughty manner she swept from his side in
+quest of companions whose tastes were more congenial. Dr. Winthrop
+obtained the desired introduction; and if Miss Carlton indulged the hope
+that he would find Miss Ashton an agreeable acquaintance, there was soon
+a fair prospect that her wishes would be realized; for the marked
+attention which Dr. Winthrop paid the lovely and engaging Miss Ashton
+soon formed the chief topic of conversation among the circle of their
+acquaintances. For once, public rumor was correct. Dr. Winthrop was very
+wealthy; but when a mere youth he had a decided taste for the study of
+medicine; and his parents allowed him to follow the bent of his own
+inclinations, in fitting himself for a profession for which he
+entertained so strong a liking. He had an uncle residing in a distant
+city, who was also a physician of high reputation, and, after passing
+through the necessary course of study, he had practiced his profession
+for two years under the direction of his uncle, before removing to the
+city of H. Up to the time when we introduced him to the reader matrimony
+was a subject to which he had never given a serious thought, and until
+he met with Miss Ashton he had never felt any personal interest in the
+matter. From what I have already said the reader will not be surprised
+to learn that the acquaintance begun at Mrs. Milford's party terminated
+in a matrimonial engagement; with the free consent of all who had a
+right to a voice in the matter. When the matter became known it caused
+quite a sensation in the circles in which Dr. Winthrop had moved since
+his residence in the city; but, happily for him, he was possessed of too
+independent a spirit to suffer any annoyance from any malicious remarks
+which chanced to reach his ears. When Miss Carlton first learned of the
+engagement, she indulged in a long fit of spiteful tears, to the
+imminent risk of appearing with red eyes at the forthcoming evening
+party. In due time the marriage took place; and the young physician and
+his lovely bride set out on their wedding tour amid the congratulations
+and good wishes of many true friends. After their departure Mrs. Carlton
+remarked to several of her "dear friends" "that she had long since
+discovered that Dr. Winthrop was not possessed of refined tastes; and
+for her part she thought Miss Ashton much better suited to be his wife
+than many others which she could name." Had the doctor been present to
+express his sentiments regarding this matter, they would in all
+probability have exactly agreed with those already expressed by Mrs.
+Carlton. During their wedding tour, which occupied several weeks, they
+visited many places of note, both in Canada and the United States. Upon
+their return to the city Dr. Winthrop purchased an elegant house in a
+central location, which he furnished in a style justified by his
+abundant means; and with his wife and her mother removed thither.
+
+In conclusion, we will again bestow a passing glance upon this
+happy family after the lapse of some twenty years. We find Dr. Winthrop
+now past the meridian of life surrounded by an interesting family of
+sons and daughters, whom he is endeavoring to train for spheres of
+usefulness in this life, as well as for happiness in the "life to come."
+His graceful and dignified wife still gladdens his heart and home. Time
+has dealt very gently with her; she is quite as good and almost as
+beautiful as when we last saw her twenty years ago. The two eldest of
+their family are boys, and this is their last year in College. Mrs.
+Winthrop has thus far attended herself to the education of her two
+daughters. Along with many other useful lessons, she often seeks to
+impress upon their minds the sin and folly of treating with contempt and
+scorn those who may be less favored than themselves in a worldly point
+of view; and to impress the lesson more strongly upon their young minds,
+she has more than once spoken to them of her own early history, and of
+the trials to which she was subject in her youthful days. But what of
+Mrs. Ashton? She still lives; although her once active form is beginning
+to bow beneath the weight of years, and her hair has grown silvery
+white. This year Dr. Winthrop has completed his preparations for leaving
+the city after more than twenty years close application to his
+profession. He resolved to remove with his family to some quiet country
+village, which would afford sufficient practice to prevent time from
+hanging heavily upon his hands; but he now felt quite willing to resign
+his fatiguing and extensive practice in the city. When he first formed
+the idea of seeking a country home, he enquired of his wife, if she had
+any choice regarding a location. "If it meets your wishes," replied she,
+"no other place would please me so well as the village of W, the home of
+my childhood and youth, and where my dear father is buried." He soon
+after made a journey to W, and was so much pleased with the thriving
+appearance of the village, and the industry and sobriety of the
+inhabitants, that he decided to seek there a home. Before he left his
+home, his wife requested him, should he decide upon removing to W, if
+possible to re-purchase their old home, knowing how much this would
+please her now aged mother. The purchase was soon completed, and ere he
+left the village the old house was in the hands of workmen, with his
+instructions as to improvements and repairs. Mrs. Ashton was very happy
+when she learned that they were to return to W. "I have been happy
+here," said she, "but I shall be still happier there." In a short time
+they removed from the city to take possession of the "dear old home" in
+W, now enlarged and adorned in various ways; but the same clear brook
+still flowed at the foot of the garden, and the same trees, only that
+they were older, and their branches had grown more wide-spreading,
+shaded the dwelling. As they passed beneath the shade of those
+well-remembered trees, Mrs. Winthrop addressed her mother, saying, "Do
+you remember, mamma, how sad we felt the morning we left our home so
+many years ago, and we little thought it would ever again be ours." Mrs.
+Ashton gazed fondly upon her daughter and the blooming children at her
+side, as she replied in the language of the Psalmist, "I have been young
+and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken nor his seed
+begging bread."
+
+
+
+
+THOUGHTS ON AUTUMN.
+
+
+Again has the season of Autumn arrived. The stated changes of the
+seasons serve as monitors to remind us of the flight of time; and upon
+such occasions the most unthinking can hardly avoid pausing to reflect
+upon the past, the present, and the probable future. Autumn has been
+properly styled the "Sabbath of the year." Its scenes are adapted to
+awaken sober and profitable reflection; and the voice with which it
+appeals to our reflective powers is deserving of regard. This season is
+suggestive of thoughts and feelings which are not called forth by any
+other; standing, as it were, a pause between life and death; holding in
+its lap the consummate fruits of the earth, which are culled by the hand
+of prudence and judgment, some to be garnered in the treasury of useful
+things, while others are allowed to return to their primitive elements.
+When spring comes smiling o'er the earth, she breathes on the icebound
+waters, and they flow anew. Frost and snow retreat before her advancing
+footsteps. The earth is clothed with verdure; and the trees put forth
+their leaves. Again, a few short months, and where has all this beauty
+fled? The trees stand firm as before; but, with every passing breeze, a
+portion of their once green leaves now fall to the ground. We behold the
+bright flowers, which beautify the earth, open their rich petals, shed
+their fragrance on the breeze, and then droop and perish. Sad emblem of
+the perishing nature of all things earthly. May we not behold in the
+fading vegetation, and the falling leaves of autumn, a true type of
+human life? Truly "we all do fade as a leaf." Life at the best is but a
+shadow that passes quickly away. Why then this love of gain, this thirst
+for fame and distinction? Let us approach yonder church-yard and there
+seek for distinction. There we may behold marble tablets cold as the
+clay which rests beneath them: their varied inscriptions of youth,
+beauty, age, ambition, pride and vanity, are all here brought to one
+common level, like the leaves which in autumn fall to the earth, not one
+pre-eminent over another. The inspired writers exhibit the frailty of
+man by comparing him to the grass and the flowers withering and dying
+under the progress and vicissitudes of the year; and with the return of
+autumn we may behold in the external appearance of nature the changes to
+which the sacred penman refers, when he says, "So is man. His days are
+as grass; as a flower of the field so he flourisheth. For the wind
+passeth over it and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no
+more." Autumn too, is the season of storms. Let this remind us of the
+storms of life. Scattered around us, are the wrecks of the tempests
+which have beaten upon others, and we cannot expect always ourselves to
+be exempt. Autumn is also the season of preparation for winter. Let us
+remember that the winter of death is at hand, and let us be impressed
+with the importance of making preparation for its approach. Let us then,
+as we look upon the changed face of nature, take home the lesson which
+it teaches; and, while we consider the perishable nature of all things
+pertaining to this life, may we learn to prepare for another and a
+happier state of being.
+
+
+
+
+WANDERING DAVY.
+
+
+It was while I was spending a few days in the dwelling of Mr. C., a
+Scottish immigrant, that he received a long letter from his friends in
+Scotland. After perusing the letter he addressed his wife, saying: "So
+auld Davy's gone at last." "Puir man," replied Mrs. C. "If he's dead let
+us hope that he has found that rest and peace which has been so long
+denied him in this life." "And who was old Davy; may I enquire," said I,
+addressing Mr. C. "Ay, man," he replied, "'tis a sad story; but when my
+work is by for the night, I'll tell ye a' that I ken o' the life o' Davy
+Stuart." I was then young and very imaginative; and a story of any kind
+possessed much interest for me; and the thought that the story of Old
+Davy was to be a true one, rendered it doubly interesting; so I almost
+counted the hours of the remaining portion of the day; and when evening
+came I was not slow to remind Mr. C. of his promise. Accordingly he
+related to me the following particulars of the life of Davy Stuart;
+which I give, as nearly as possible, in his own words; for it seems to
+me that the story would lose half its interest were I to render it
+otherwise.
+
+"Davy Stuart was an aul' man when I was a wee boy at the school. I had
+aye been used wi' him; for he often bided wi' us for days thegither; and
+while a boy I gave little heed to his odd ways an' wanderin' mode o'
+life; for he was very kind to mysel' an' a younger brither an' we
+thought muckle o' him; but when we had grown up to manhood my father
+tell'd us what had changed Davy Stuart from a usefu' an' active man to
+the puir demented body he then was. He was born in a small parish in the
+south of Scotland, o' respectable honest parents, who spared nae pains
+as he grew up to instruct him in his duty to baith God an' man. At quite
+an early age he was sent to the parish school: where he remained maist
+o' the time till he reached the age o' fourteen years. At that time he
+was apprenticed to learn the trade o' shoemaker, in a distant town. It
+wad seem that he served his time faithfully, an' gained a thorough
+knowledge o' his trade. Upon leaving his master, after paying a short
+visit to his native parish, he gie'd awa' to the city o' Glasgow, to
+begin the warld for himself. He continued steady and industrious, and
+was prospered accordingly; and at the age o' twenty-five he had saved
+considerable money. It was about this time, that he was married to a
+worthy young woman, to whom he had been long deeply attached. They had
+but one bairn, a fine boy, who was the delight o' his father's heart,
+and I hae heard it said by they who kenn'd them at the time, that a
+bonnier or mair winsome boy could 'na hae been found in the city, than
+wee Geordie Stuart. Time gied on till Geordie was near twelve years
+aul', when it began to be talked o' among Mr. Stuart's friends that he
+was becoming owre fond o' drink. How the habit was first formed naebody
+could tell; but certain it was, that during the past year he had been
+often seen the war o' drink. His wife, puir body, admonished an'
+entreated him to break awa' fra the sinfu' habit, and he often, when
+moved by her tears, made resolutions o' amendment, which were broken
+maist as soon as made; an' it was during a longer season o' sobriety
+than was usual wi' him, that his wife, thinkin' if he was once awa' fra
+the great city he would be less in the way o' temptation, persuaded him
+to leave Glasgow an' remove to the sma' village o' Mill-Burn, a little
+way frae the farm which my father rented.
+
+I well mind, said my father, o' the time when they first cam'
+among us, an' how kin' was a' the neebors to his pale sad-lookin' wife
+and the bonny light-hearted Geordie, who was owre young at the time, to
+realize to its fu' extent the sad habit into which his father had fa'n.
+When Mr. Stuart first came to our village he again took up his aul'
+habits o' industry, an' for a long time would'na taste drink ava; but
+when the excitement o' the sudden change had worn off, his aul' likin'
+for strong drink cam' back wi' fu' force, an' he, puir weak man--had'na
+the strength o' mind to withstand it. He soon became even war than
+before; his money was a' gane, he did'na work, so what was there but
+poverty for his wife an' child. But it is useless for me to linger o'er
+the sad story. When they had lived at Mill-Burn a little better than a
+twelve month, his wife died, the neebors said o' a broken heart. A wee
+while afore her death she ca'd Davie to her bedside, an' once mair
+talked lang an earnestly to him o' the evil habit which had gotten sic a
+hold o' him, an' begged him for the sake o' their dear' Geordie, who,
+she reminded him, would soon be left without a mither to care for him,
+to make still anither effort to free himself fra the deadly habit. I
+believe Davie was sincere when he promised the dyin' woman that he wad
+gie up drink. Wi' a' his faults, he had tenderly loved his wife, an' I
+hae nae doubt fully intended keepin' the promise he made her. For a lang
+time after her death, he was n'er seen to enter a public house ava', an'
+again he applied himsel' to his wark wi' much industry. After the death
+o' Mrs. Stuart, Geordie an' his father bided a' their lane. Their house
+was on the ither side o' the burn which crossed the high-road, a wee bit
+out o' the village. Time gie'd on for some time wi' them in this way.
+Davy continued sober and industrious, an' the neebors began to hae hopes
+that he had gotten the better o' his evil habit; he had n'er been kenned
+to taste strong drink o' ony kin' sin' the death o' his wife. One
+evening after he an' Geordie had ta'en their suppers, he made himsel'
+ready to gang out, saying to Geordie that he was gaun' doon to the
+village for a wee while, and that he was to bide i' the house an' he
+would'na be lang awa'. The hours wore awa' till ten o'clock, an' he
+had'na cam' hame. It was aye supposed that the boy, becoming uneasy at
+his father's lang stay, had set out to look for him, when by some
+mishap, it will n'er be kenned what way, he lost his footin', an' fell
+frae the end o' the narrow brig which crossed the burn. The burn was'na
+large, but a heavy rain had lately fa'n, an' there was aye a deep bit at
+one end o' the brig. He had fa'n head first into the water in sic a way
+that he could'na possibly won 'oot. It was a clear moonlicht night, an'
+when Davy reached the brig, the first thing he saw was his ain son lyin'
+i' the water. I hae often been told that a sudden shock o' ony kind will
+sober a drunken man. It was sae wi' Davy; for the first neebor who,
+hearin' his cries for assistance, ran to the spot, found him standin i'
+the middle o' the brig, perfectly sober, wi' the drooned boy in his
+arms; although it was weel kenned that he was quite drunk when he left
+the village. Every means was used for the recovery o' the boy, but it
+was a' useless, he was quite deed an' caul'. "Ah" said Davy, when tell'd
+by the doctor that the boy was indeed dead, "my punishment is greater
+than I can bear." Geordie had aye been as "the apple o' his een"; never
+had he been kenned to ill use the boy, even when under the influence o'
+drink; and the shock was too much for his reason. Many wondered at his
+calmness a' the while the body lay i' the house afore the burial; but it
+was the calmness o' despair; he just seemed to me like ane turned to
+stane. The first thing that roused him was the sound o' the first earth
+that fell on puir Geordie's coffin. He gie'd ae bitter groan, an' wad
+hae fa'n to the earth had'na a kind neebor supported him. His mind
+wandered fra that hour; he was aye harmless, but the light o' reason
+never cam' back to his tortured mind. Sometimes he wad sit for hours by
+Geordie's grave, an' fancy that he talked wi' him. On these occasions
+nothing wad induce him to leave the grave till some ither fancy
+attracted his mind. As I hae before said he was never outrageous, but
+seemed most o' the time, when silent, to be in deep thought; but his
+reason was quite gone, and the doctors allowed that his case was beyond
+cure. Many questioned them as to whether it were safe to allow him his
+liberty, lest he might do some deed o' violence; but they gave it as
+their opinion that his disease was'na a' ta' likely to tak' that turn
+wi' him, an' so was left to wander on. He never bided verra lang in a
+place, but wandered frae house to house through a' the country-side: and
+every one treated him wi' kindness. The sight o' a bonny fair-haired boy
+aye gave him muckle pleasure, an' he wad whiles hae the idea that
+Geordie had cam' back to him. From the day o' Geordie's death to that o'
+his ain', which took place a month sine, he was n'er kenned to taste
+strong drink; he could'na bear even the sight o' it. He lived to a verra
+great age, an' for many years they who did'na ken the story o' his early
+life ha'e ca'd him Wanderin' Davy. "I hae noo tell'd you his story,"
+said Mr. C. addressing me; "an I hope it may prove a warnin' to you an'
+ithers o' the awfu' evils o' intemperance; an' I think it's high time my
+story was finished, for I see by the clock that it's growin' unco late."
+When the evening psalm had been sung, Mr. C. read a portion of the
+Scriptures and offered the usual nightly prayer, and soon after we all
+sought repose; but it was long ere I slept. The story I had listened to
+still floated through my mind, and when sleep at length closed my eyes
+it was to dream of "Wandering Davy," and the poor drowned boy.
+
+
+
+
+LOOKING ON THE DARK SIDE.
+
+
+It is an old but true saying, that "troubles come soon enough without
+meeting them half way." But I think my friend Mrs. Talbot had never
+chanced to hear this saying, old as it is; for she was extremely prone
+at all times to look only upon the dark side, and this habit was a
+source of much trouble to herself as well as her family. Mr. Talbot
+might properly have been called a well-to-do farmer. They were
+surrounded by an intelligent and interesting family; and a stranger, in
+taking a passing view of their home and its surroundings, would have
+been strongly inclined to think that happiness and contentment might be
+found beneath their roof; but a short sojourn in the dwelling alluded
+to, would certainly have dispelled the illusion. This Mrs. Talbot was
+possessed of a most unhappy disposition. She seemed to entertain the
+idea that the whole world was in league to render her miserable. It has
+often struck me with surprise, that a person surrounded with so much to
+render life happy should indulge in so discontented and repining a
+temper as did Mrs. Talbot. She was famous for dwelling at length upon
+her trials, as often as she could obtain a listener; and when I first
+became acquainted with her I really regarded her with a feeling of pity;
+but after a time I mentally decided that the greater part of her
+grievances existed only in her own imagination. She spent a large
+portion of her time in deploring the sins of the whole world in general,
+and of her own family and immediate neighbors in particular; while she
+looked upon herself as having almost, if not quite, attained to
+perfection.
+
+I recollect calling one day upon Mr. Talbot; he was of a very
+social disposition, and we engaged for a short time in a lively
+conversation. Mrs. Talbot was present, and, strange to tell, once
+actually laughed at some amusing remark made by her husband. He soon
+after left the room, and her countenance resumed its usual doleful
+expression as she addressed me, saying, "I wish I could have any hopes
+of Mr. Talbot; but I am afraid the last state of that man will be worse
+than the first." I questioned her as to her meaning; and she went on to
+tell me that her husband had once made a profession of religion; but she
+feared he was then in a "backslidden state," as she termed it. I know
+not how this matter might have been; but during my acquaintance with Mr.
+Talbot I never observed any thing in his conduct which to me seemed
+inconsistent with a profession of religion. He certainly excelled his
+wife in one thing, and that was christian charity; for he was seldom if
+ever heard to speak of the short-comings of others. It is quite possible
+that he thought his wife said enough upon the subject to suffice for
+both. Mrs. Talbot made a point of visiting her neighbors, if she chanced
+to hear of their meeting with any trouble or misfortune. The reason she
+gave for so doing was that she might sympathize with them; and if
+sickness invaded a household Mrs. Talbot was sure to be there; but I
+used often to think that her friends must look upon her as one of "Job's
+comforters," for no sickness was so severe, no misfortune so great, that
+she did not prophesy something worse still. According to her own ideas
+she was often favored with warnings of sickness and misfortune both to
+her own family and others. She was also a famous believer in dreams; and
+often entertained her friends at the breakfast table by relating her
+dreams of the previous night. I remember meeting with her upon one
+occasion, when it struck me that her countenance wore a look of unusual
+solemnity, even for her, so much so, that I enquired the cause. "Ah!"
+said she, "we are to have sickness, perhaps death, in our family very
+soon; for only last night I dreamed I saw a white horse coming toward
+the house upon the full galop; and to dream of a white horse is a sure
+sign of sickness, and the faster the horse seems in our dream to be
+approaching us the sooner the sickness will come." Her husband often
+remonstrated with her upon the folly of indulging in these idle fancies.
+I remember a reply he once made to some of her gloomy forebodings: "I
+think the best way is for each one to discharge their duty in the
+different relations of life; and leave the future in the hands of an
+All-wise Providence." "That is always the way with you," was her reply,
+"You have grown heedless and careless with your love of the world; but
+you will perhaps think of my warnings when too late." Before meeting
+with Mrs. Talbot I had often heard the remark that none were so cheerful
+as the true christian; but I soon saw that her views must be widely
+different. A hearty laugh she seemed to regard as almost a crime. A
+cheerful laugh upon any occasion would cause her to shake her head in a
+rueful manner, and denounce it as untimely mirth. Upon one occasion she
+went to hear a preacher that had lately arrived in the neighboring
+village. This same preacher was remarkable for drawing dismal pictures,
+and was very severe in his denunciations, while he quite forgot to offer
+a word of encouragement to the humble seeker after good. Upon the
+Sabbath in question Mrs. Talbot returned from church, and seated herself
+at the dinner table with a countenance of most woeful solemnity. Her
+husband at length enquired, how she had enjoyed the sermon. "Oh!"
+replied she, "he is a preacher after my own heart, and his sermon
+explained all my views clearly." "Indeed," replied Mr. Talbot, "he must
+have a wonderful flow of language to have handled so extensive a
+subject, in the usual time allotted to a sermon." His answer displeased
+her very much. Among her other gloomy forebodings she always seemed sure
+of the fact that Mr. Talbot would survive her; and she replied: "That is
+always the way. You make light of every thing I say; and I only hope you
+wont have all these things to repent of when I shall be no more." Mr.
+Talbot seemed sorry he had wounded her feelings, and replied: "We shall
+both live our appointed time, and it is not for us to decide which of us
+will be first removed." The last time I saw Mrs. Talbot she was
+indulging in her anticipation of some coming calamity. I have learned
+from various sources, that since I last saw her she has met with _real_
+afflictions of a very trying nature, even to the most hopeful; and it
+may be that the presence of real troubles, has put to flight many which
+were only imaginary; and she may by this time have learned to be
+thankful for whatever of blessings may yet be left her in her path
+through life.
+
+
+
+
+EDWARD BARTON.
+
+
+My schoolmate Edward Barton, or 'Ned' as he was usually called
+by the boys, was such an odd character in his way, that I trust my
+readers will pardon me for introducing him to their notice. His father
+was a physician in a distant village, and was justly esteemed among the
+residents of the place. He had an extensive practice both in the village
+and surrounding country, and his time was very much occupied; and as Ned
+grew up he proved a source of constant anxiety to his father, who, being
+unable to keep him under his own eye, at length decided to send him to
+reside with some relatives in a farming district some twenty miles
+distant from his home. Ned's disposition was a singular compound of good
+and evil, and his conduct depended in a great measure, upon the
+companions he associated with. He was easily persuaded, and often during
+his father's frequent and lengthened absences from home he played truant
+from school, and associated with the worst boys in the village. I well
+remember the first morning he entered our school. He was then about
+twelve years of age; but, owing to his carelessness and inattention, he
+had made but slight progress in study. I learned afterwards that he had
+so long borne the names of "dunce" and "blockhead" in the school he
+attended in his own village, that he supposed himself to be really such,
+and made up his mind that it was useless for him to try to be anything
+else: and I think when our teacher first called him up for examination
+he was inclined to be of the same opinion. The teacher first addressed
+him by saying, "How far have you advanced in reading, my boy?" "Don't
+know sir, never thought anything about how far I've been." "Well, at
+least," replied the master, "you can tell me the names of the books you
+have studied, in reading and spelling." "Oh, yes," replied the boy,
+"I've been clean through 'Webster's Elementary and the Progressive
+Reader.'" "Can you tell me the subject of any of your lessons?" "I can
+just remember one story about a dog that was crossing a river on a plank
+with a piece of meat in his mouth, and when he saw his shadder in the
+water, made a spring at it and dropped the meat which he held in his
+mouth, and it was at once carried away by the current." "Well," said the
+teacher, "as you remember the story so well, you can perhaps tell me
+what lesson we can learn from this fable." "I thought," replied the boy,
+"when I read the story, that the best way is to hold on to what we are
+sure of, and not grab after a shadder and lose the whole." "Your idea is
+certainly a correct one," said the master, "and now we will turn to some
+other branch of study; can you cipher?" "Don't know, I never tried,"
+replied the boy, with the greatest coolness imaginable. "Well," replied
+the teacher, "we will after a time see how you succeed, when you _do_
+try. Can you tell me what the study of Geography teaches us!" "O," said
+the boy, "geography tells all about the world, the folks who live in it,
+and 'most every thing else." The master then asked him some questions
+regarding the divisions of land and water, and for a short time he
+answered with some degree of correctness. At length, while referring to
+the divisions of water, the master said "can you tell me what is a
+strait?" This question seemed a "puzzler" to him, and for some moments
+he looked down as if studying the matter; when the question was repeated
+in rather a sharp tone, it seemed he thought it wiser to give an answer
+of some kind than none at all, and he replied: "When a river runs in a
+straight course, we call it straight, and when it twists and winds
+about, we call it crooked." "A river is not a strait," replied the
+teacher with the manner of one who prayed for patience. "Well! at any
+rate," said the boy, "straight is straight, and crooked is crooked, and
+that is all I know about it." It was evident from the teacher's manner
+that he was half inclined to think the boy was endeavoring to impose
+upon him by feigning ignorance; and he dismissed him to his seat for the
+time being, thinking, no doubt, that he had met with a case out of the
+common order of school experience. It seems that the boy had never
+before attended school with punctuality, and it required a long time to
+teach him to observe anything like system either in his conduct or
+studies. Our teacher though very firm, was mild and judicious in his
+government; and, thinking that possibly Ned's disposition had been
+injured by former harshness at school, resolved to avoid inflicting
+corporal punishment as long as possible; and try upon him the effect of
+kindness and mild persuasion. He had one very annoying habit, and that
+was he would very seldom give a satisfactory answer if suddenly asked a
+direct question, and often his reply would be very absurd, sometimes
+bordering on downright impudence. The master noticed one afternoon,
+after calling the boys from their play at recess, that Ned had not
+entered the school-room with the others. Stepping to the door, he found
+him seated very composedly in the yard, working busily upon a toy he was
+fashioning with a knife from a piece of wood. "Why do you remain
+outside, Edward, after the other boys are called in?" said the master.
+"Cos I did'nt come in, sir," replied Ned, without looking up, or even
+pausing in his employment. This was too much for the patience of any
+one; and seizing him by the arm the master drew him into a small room
+which adjoined the school-room; and bestowed upon him, what Ned
+afterwards confidentially informed us, was "a regular old-fashioned
+thrashing." I was not aware till then that the style of using the rod
+was liable to change, but it would seem that Ned thought otherwise; and
+if his screams upon this occasion were taken as proof in the matter, I
+should be inclined to think the old-fashioned method very effective. The
+whipping which Ned received created quite a sensation among us boys, for
+it was not often that Mr. S. used the rod. We began to have our fears
+that as he had got his "hand in," more of us might share the fate of
+poor Ned. In a very serious conversation which we held upon the matter,
+on our way home that evening, some of us asked Ned, why he screamed so
+loud. "I thought," said he, "if I hollered pretty well, he would think
+he'd licked me enough and stop; but I don't see what great harm I did
+any way. He asked why I stayed out; and I said, cos I did'nt go in, and
+I am sure I could'nt give a better reason than that." Time passed on,
+and by degrees Ned dropped many of his odd ways; and began to make
+tolerable progress in study; but still, much patience and forbearance
+was necessary on the part of the teacher. He had the same habit of
+frequently giving absurd answers in his class, as well as upon other
+occasions; but after a time his stupid answers were much less frequent,
+and Mr. S. began to indulge the hope that he would soon overcome the
+habit entirely. When he had attended school for about six months, as was
+the custom two or three times a year, we passed under what to the school
+boys was an "awful review" in presence of those awe-inspiring
+personages, termed in those days the school-trustees, and any other
+friends of the school who might chance to be present. We all, even to
+the teacher, had our fears lest Ned (who had not yet entirely
+discontinued the practice) should give some of his comical answers when
+questioned by our visitors; but the day came, and with it the
+school-trustees and a number of other friends. The classes were first
+examined in reading and spelling; and Ned acquitted himself much better
+than we had dared to hope; and we began to think he might pass the
+afternoon without making any serious blunder. After the reading and
+spelling lessons, the class was summoned for examination in Geography.
+Elated by his success in reading and spelling, Ned took his place with a
+pompous consequential manner, as if expecting to win countless laurels
+for his proficiency. He got along very well till some one put the
+question, "What may the Island of Australia properly be called on
+account of its vast size?" "One of the Pyramids," answered Ned in a loud
+confident voice. The gentleman who was questioning us looked astounded,
+and there fell an awkward silence, which was only broken by the
+half-smothered laughter of the others in the class. The teacher wishing
+to get over the matter in some way, at length said, "I am surprised,
+Edward, that you should give so senseless an answer to so simple a
+question." Now, one very striking peculiarity in Ned's character was his
+unwillingness to acknowledge himself in the wrong, however ridiculous
+his answer might be; and he was disposed to argue his point up on this
+occasion. "Any way," said he, "the Pyramids are large, and so is
+Australia; and I thought it might sometimes be called a pyramid for
+convenience of description." The idea of Ned entering into an argument
+with the trustees of the school, struck the rest of the boys as so
+extremely ludicrous, that our long pent-up mirth found vent in a burst
+of laughter through the whole class, and no one present had the heart to
+chide us; for it was with intense difficulty that the elderly gentlemen
+maintained their own gravity. The teacher was obliged to exercise his
+authority before Ned could be silenced; and the remaining part of the
+examination proved rather a failure. I know not how it happened, but
+from that day there was a marked improvement in Edward Barton, in every
+respect. He attended the school for two years; and when he left us it
+was to accompany his parents to one of the far Western States. His
+father had relatives residing in the West, and had received from them
+such glowing accounts of the country, that he decided upon removing
+thither. Any one who saw Ned when he left us would almost have failed to
+recognize him as the same boy who entered the school two years previous.
+Mr. S. was his friend as well as his teacher; and during the second year
+of his stay took a deep interest in him; he had thoroughly studied his
+disposition, and learned to bear with his faults, and under his
+judicious management Ned began really to make good progress in study. We
+had all become attached to him, and were all sorry when he left us. He
+was much elated with the prospect of his journey to the West; and talked
+much of the wonders he expected to behold on his way thither. He came
+one day at the noon-hour to collect his books and bid us good-bye, his
+father having come to take him home for a short time before setting out
+on their journey. The boys were all on the play ground when he entered
+the school-room to bid his teacher good-bye. When he came out he looked
+very sober, and there was a suspicious moisture in his eyes which very
+much resembled tears. Instead of the usual noisy mirth on the play
+ground there was almost complete silence, while Ned shook hands with us
+one by one, saying, "he would tell us all the wonders of the Western
+world when he came back." Years have rolled by with their various
+changes since that day; he has never yet returned; and I have only heard
+from him two or three times during the time. My last tidings were, that
+he was married and settled down to a life of industry upon a fine farm,
+in his western home; but I sometimes, when I think of him, even yet
+wonder, if he has learned the difference between the "Pyramids of Egypt"
+and the "Island Continent of Australia."
+
+
+
+
+THE WEARY AT REST.
+
+
+The weary at rest. The idea was very strongly impressed upon my mind by
+a funeral which I once attended in the distant village of C. It was that
+of a very aged woman, whom I had often heard mentioned as one who had
+been subjected for many years to bodily suffering in no ordinary degree.
+I had never seen her, but was acquainted with many who visited her
+frequently; and I became interested from hearing her so often spoken of
+as a bright example of patience and resignation under affliction; and I
+was accustomed to enquire for her as often as I had opportunity. Owing
+to a rheumatic affection of her limbs, she had, as I was informed, been
+unable for several years to rise from her bed without assistance, and
+much of the time experienced severe pain. I was informed by her friends
+that through her protracted period of suffering she was never heard to
+utter a complaining or repining word, but was found daily in a calm even
+cheerful frame of mind. After a time I left the village and returned to
+my home. Returning thither to visit some relatives after the lapse of a
+few months, I met with a friend, soon after my arrival, who informed me
+of the death of old Mrs. H., which had taken place the day previous. Two
+days later I joined the large numbers who assembled to pay their last
+tribute of respect to one of the oldest residents of their village. As
+is usual upon funeral occasions, the coffin was placed in front of the
+pulpit, and a large number occupied the front pews which were
+appropriated to the friends of the deceased. In those pews were seated
+men in whose hair the silver threads were beginning to mingle, and women
+who were themselves mothers of families who all met around the coffin of
+their aged mother. Childhood, youth and middle age were all represented
+in that company of mourners. Their pastor, Mr. M., delivered a very
+appropriate discourse from the words, "Blessed are the dead who die in
+the Lord." In the course of his sermon he took occasion to remark, that
+a funeral discourse should apply to the living--not the dead. I had
+before listened to different sermons from this same text; but I never
+listened to a more searching application of the words than upon this
+occasion.
+
+Near the close of his sermon, he said: "I presume many of you are aware
+that I deem it unnecessary as well as unwise, on occasions of this kind,
+for a minister to dwell at length upon the life and character of the
+deceased, for, as I have before said, our duty is with the living; but
+upon the present occasion, I think I may with propriety say, that we see
+before us the lifeless remains of one who has 'died in the Lord.' I have
+been for many years acquainted with our aged sister now departed, and
+have ever regarded her as an humble and earnest christian. I have
+frequently visited her during her lengthened period of suffering; and
+have felt deeply humbled for my own want of resignation to the ills of
+life, when I observed the exemplary manner with which this aged woman
+bore her sufferings, which at times were very severe; and more than
+this, I stood by her dying bed, which I can truly say presented a
+fore-taste of heavenly triumph."
+
+At the close of the service permission was given for any one who was
+desirous of so doing to look upon the "corpse," and with many others I
+drew nigh the coffin. I had been told that the habitual expression of
+her countenance was one of pain, and I was surprised by the calm and
+peaceful expression which rested upon the face of the dead. There was no
+sign of past suffering visible; and the idea of perfect rest was
+conveyed to my mind, as I gazed upon her now lifeless features. When the
+strangers had all retired, the relatives and near friends drew nigh to
+take their last sad look of the aged one who in life had been so dear to
+them. It seemed that her age and utter helplessness had all the more
+endeared her to her children and other friends; and many of them wept
+audibly as they retired from the coffin. As the coffin was borne from
+the church, the choir sung in subdued tones, accompanied by the solemn
+notes of the organ, the beautiful hymn commencing with the lines,
+
+    "Thou art gone to the grave but we will not deplore thee,
+    Though sorrows and darkness encompass the tomb;
+    The Saviour hath passed through its portals before thee,
+    And the lamp of his love is thy guide through the gloom."
+
+When the long procession reached the church yard, the coffin was
+lowered to its final resting place, and the Burial Service was read by
+their pastor, and most of the company departed to their homes. I know
+not how it was, but, although a stranger to the deceased, I was among
+the few who lingered till the grave was filled up. That funeral
+impressed me deeply; and has often since recurred to my mind, amid the
+cares and turmoil of after life.
+
+
+
+
+THE RAINY AFTERNOON.
+
+
+"It's too bad," exclaimed Harry Knights, as he turned from the window,
+where for the last ten minutes he had been silently watching the heavy
+drops of rain as they pattered against the glass. "It's too bad,"
+repeated he, "we can have no out-of-door play this afternoon;" and as he
+spoke his face wore a most rueful expression. I was one among a number
+of Harry's schoolmates who had gone to spend the day at the farm of Mr.
+Knights, Harry's father. The eldest of our number was not more than
+fourteen; and for a long time we had looked forward to this day with
+many bright anticipations of fun and enjoyment. The important day at
+length arrived, and so early did we set out upon our excursion that we
+reached Harry's home before eight o'clock in the morning. We spent the
+forenoon in rambling over the farm, searching out every nook and corner
+which possessed any interest to our boyish minds. Accompanied by Harry
+we visited all his favorite haunts--which included a fine stream of
+water, where there was an abundance of fish; also a ledge of rocks which
+contained a curious sort of cave, formed by a wide aperture in the
+rocks; and, last though "not least," a pond of water which, owing to its
+extreme beauty of appearance, Harry had named the "Enchanted Pond." He
+had said so much to us regarding the uncommon beauty of the spot that
+some of the boys, myself among the number, had often been inclined to
+ridicule him; but when we came within view of it, I for one ceased to
+wonder at his admiration; for before nor since, I never looked upon so
+lovely a scene. The pond was situated upon the back portion of the farm,
+in a clearing which had been made by a settler who had occupied the land
+for some years before it was purchased by Mr. Knights. The form of the
+pond was entirely circular, and it was surrounded by a green field, in
+which had been left standing, here and there, some fine old trees to add
+to the effect. I remember when I first gained a view of the spot, it
+reminded me of a surface of polished silver, bordered with emeralds. As
+we drew nigh we could see that its smooth waters were thickly dotted
+with the pure blossoms of the pond-lily. I have never since visited the
+spot, but the view I obtained of it that day, now so long ago, is still
+vividly present to my mind. By the time we again reached the farm-house,
+the dinner-hour had arrived; and our long continued exercise in the open
+air had so much improved our appetites that we did ample justice to the
+good things set before us. Dinner being over, we observed, what had
+before escaped our notice, that the sky was becoming overcast with dark
+clouds, and soon a heavy rain began to fall, which put an end to all our
+plans of out-of-door enjoyment for the afternoon. As I mentioned at the
+beginning, Harry was very much disappointed, for outside sports were his
+especial delight; and for a time his face looked almost as dark and
+forbidding as the sky itself. We tried to cheer him up, saying we would
+have some quiet games in the large dining-room, and we did succeed in
+getting him to join us; but somehow or other our games afforded us no
+enjoyment, and the question, "what shall we do with ourselves?" began to
+pass from one to the other among the group of eager, restless boys.
+"Would you like me to tell you a story, boys?" enquired Harry's mother,
+after observing for a time our vain attempts at enjoyment. Mrs. Knights
+was a lady of high culture, and possessed the happy faculty of rendering
+herself an agreeable companion to either the young or old; and more than
+one pair of eyes grew bright with pleased anticipation when she proposed
+telling us a story; and, of course, we all eagerly assented to her
+proposal. Seating herself in our midst, she took up a piece of
+needlework, saying, "I can always talk best when my hands are employed,"
+and began as follows:
+
+"I suppose none of you, perhaps not even my own Harry, is
+aware that my home has not always been in Canada; but I will now inform
+you that the days of my childhood and youth were passed in a pretty town
+near the base of the Alleghany Mountains in the State of Virginia. I
+will not pause at present to give you any further particulars regarding
+my own early years, as the story I am about to relate is concerning one
+of my schoolmates who was a few years older than myself. The pastor of
+the Church in the small village where my parents resided had but one
+son; and, when quite a little girl, I remember him as one of the elder
+pupils in the school I attended. I was too young at that time to pay
+much attention to passing events, but I afterward learned that, even
+then his conduct was a source of much anxiety and sorrow to his parents;
+his ready talent, great vivacity, and love of amusement continually led
+him into mischief and caused him to be disliked by many of their
+neighbors. It was in vain that the villagers complained, in vain that
+his father admonished and his mother wept; still the orchards were
+robbed, the turkeys chased into the woods, and the logs of wood in the
+fireplaces often burst into fragments by concealed powder. Time passed
+on, till he reached the age of sixteen years, when spurning the
+restraints of home, the erring boy left his father's house and became a
+wanderer, no one knew whither; but it was rumored that reaching a
+seaport town he had entered a merchant vessel bound upon a whaling
+voyage for three years. During the last year of his stay at home his
+conduct had been very rebellious, and his father almost looked upon him
+as given over to a reprobate mind. After his departure, his father was
+seldom heard to mention his name, but his friends observed that his hair
+fast grew white, and upon his brow rested an expression of constant
+grief and anxiety. He was a man that seldom spoke of his own troubles to
+any one; but it was plain to be seen that his erring boy was never
+absent from his thoughts, and there was a feeling and pathos in his
+voice when he addressed his congregation, especially the younger portion
+of it, which had never been noticed before. It was his custom upon the
+first Sabbath evening in each month to deliver an address to the youth
+of his flock, and it was noticed that his appeals had never been so
+earnest before, as after the departure of his son; but he seldom, if
+ever, mentioned his name, not even to his grief-stricken wife. Our
+pastor was not what could properly be styled an old man, but it was
+thought that his grief, like a canker-worm, sapped at the fountains of
+life; his bodily health became impaired, his vigor of mind departed,
+and, ere he had seen sixty years, death removed him from earth, to a
+home of happiness in Heaven. The widow was now bereft of both husband
+and child. She was comforted concerning her departed husband, knowing
+that it was well with him; but she sorrowed continually for her absent
+boy; and often, during the lonely hours of night, as the moaning of the
+winds fell upon her ear, she would start from her sleepless pillow and
+utter a prayer for her poor boy who might even then be tossing on the
+restless ocean, or perhaps wrecked upon a dangerous coast. She was a
+woman of good education, and much power of thought, and she at length
+found a partial relief from her sorrow by writing small works for
+publication. But how is it all this time with the wandering 'Prodigal?'
+Nine years have passed away since he left his home, when an agent for
+the sale of books for a large publishing house was spending a few days
+in one of the large cities of the West. During his stay in the place,
+his business as agent often led him into public places; and on several
+occasions he noticed a young man that attracted his attention. There was
+nothing prepossessing in his appearance; on the contrary, he bore the
+marks of dissipation in his countenance; his clothing was old and
+soiled, and once or twice he saw him when partially intoxicated. The
+agent was a middle-aged man, and was a close observer of those with whom
+he came in contact, and somehow or other he felt a strange interest in
+this young man for which he could not account; and meeting him so
+frequently, he determined to speak to him. As a pretext for accosting
+him he offered to sell him some books, although he had no hopes of
+success. The young man regarded him with visible surprise, when he
+enquired if he would not like to purchase a book. 'I have no money to
+spend for books,' replied the man, yet as if unable to resist the
+impulse, he leaned over the table, on which the agent had placed several
+books, and began looking them over; and finally selected one, inquired
+the price, and paid for it. They soon after parted, and the agent
+thought they should probably meet no more, as he expected soon to leave
+the city. He returned to the hotel where he boarded, and after tea
+seated himself on the piazza, to enjoy the cool evening air; when the
+same young man suddenly approached him, and grasping his hand said, in a
+voice choked with emotion: 'Tell me, sir, where, O! where did you get
+that book?' This young man was the erring but still loved son of the
+Virginian widow, who for these long dreary years had roamed over the
+earth, unfriended and unaided, vainly imagining his own arm sufficient
+to ward off the ills of life. He had wandered here from the coasts of
+the Pacific, where he had been wrecked; his money was nearly gone, and
+his health had become impaired by hardship and exposure as well as his
+dissipated course of life. As he afterwards said, he had no intention of
+reading the book when he purchased it merely out of civility to the
+stranger who accosted him so kindly; but after the agent left him he
+opened the book, and a cold dew broke out upon his forehead, for on the
+title-page he read the name of his _mother_ as the author. Her thoughts
+were continually upon her lost son, and in her mind's eye she often
+traced his downward career. She imagined him worn and weary, his days
+spent in unsatisfying folly, and his moments of reflection embittered by
+remorse; unconsciously, in writing this little book she had drawn from
+her own feelings and addressed one in this situation. She pointed to him
+the falseness of the world, and bade him judge of the fidelity of the
+picture by his own experience; and she taught him the way of return to
+the paths of peace. And thus it was that the little book which the
+wretched young man had selected--some would say so accidentally, others,
+so providentially--proved the means of his return from the paths of sin
+and folly to those of sobriety and usefulness. He soon told his story to
+his attentive listener, and informed him of the relationship he bore to
+the author of the book he had purchased. As he concluded, he said, 'Oh,
+my mother, why did I leave you to become the hopeless being I am?' 'Not
+hopeless,' replied his companion in gentle tones. 'You have youth on
+your side, and may yet be a useful and happy man. I now understand the
+unaccountable interest which I felt in you when meeting you on several
+occasions before I spoke to you, and I feel that Providence directed me
+in the matter.' The agent stayed two days longer in the city, and then
+departed, the young man with him, for with the promptitude of his
+nature, to resolve was to act. He directed his course toward Virginia,
+the star of hope leading him on, and finally approached his native
+village. No words are adequate to describe the meeting between the
+lonely widow and her long lost, but now returning and penitent son. When
+informed that his father had been for some years dead, the shock to him
+was great, overpowering, but he uttered no repining word. 'I could not,'
+said he, 'expect the happiness of meeting both my parents again after
+causing them so much sorrow, and let me be humbly thankful that it is
+allowed me to cheer the declining years of my aged mother.' I well
+remember," said Mrs. Knights, "the return of the young man to his home,
+it was but a short time before I left Virginia; but I have been informed
+by friends still residing there that he was for several years the staff
+and support of his mother, of whom it might be said, 'her last days were
+her best days.' After the death of his mother, as he had no living tie
+to bind him to the spot, he removed to another section of country, where
+he married and is now a useful and respected member of society. And now
+boys," said Mrs. Knights, "allow me in conclusion to say to you all as
+one, as you value your own well-being in time and eternity, be sure that
+you honor and obey your parents; think of what the end of this young man
+might have been, and shun his example. But I see that the hour for tea
+is near at hand; and for a time I will leave you to amuse yourselves,
+while I assist in preparing your tea; and if you have been interested in
+my story, I may tell you another when you next pass a rainy afternoon at
+our house." We all thanked the kind lady for the interesting story, and
+I fear one very much hoped that the next day we chanced to pass at Mrs.
+Knights' farm would prove to be rainy in the afternoon.
+
+
+
+
+THE STUDENT'S DREAM.
+
+
+Arthur Wilton had been for several years a student; but he was one of
+the plodding sort, who make but slow progress. The principal barrier to
+his improvement arose from one defect in his character; and that was the
+habit in which he constantly indulged, of deploring the past, without
+making any very strong efforts toward amendment in the future. He was
+one evening seated in his room; a ponderous volume lay open on his
+study-table, and for a time he vainly tried to fix his attention
+thereon, till finally he closed the book, and leaning back in his chair,
+his brows contracted, and the lines about his mouth grew tense, as if
+his thoughts were anything but pleasing. As usual he was bemoaning his
+misspent hours.
+
+"Ah," said he, speaking in soliloquy, "they are gone, never more to
+return, the careless happy days of childhood, the sunny period of youth,
+and the aspiring dreams of mature manhood. I once indulged in many
+ambitious dreams of fame, and those dreams have never been realized.
+Many with whom I set out on equal ground have outstripped me in the race
+of life, and here am I alone. Many who were once my inferiors have
+nearly overtaken me, and doubtless they too will soon pass me by. What I
+very much prize is a true friend, and yet no friend approaches with a
+word of sympathy or encouragement; would that some would counsel me, as
+to how I may better my condition." Thus far had Arthur Wilton proceeded
+in his soliloquy, when his eyelids were weighed down by drowsiness, and
+he soon sank into a deep slumber. In his dream an aged man, with a most
+mild and venerable countenance stood before him, who, addressing him by
+name, said: "Thy heart is full of sorrow; but if you will listen to, and
+profit by my words, your sorrow shall be turned into joy. You have been
+grieving over the hours which have been run to waste, without pausing to
+reflect, that while you have been occupied with these unavailing
+regrets, another hour has glided away past your recall forever; and will
+be added to your already lengthened list of opportunities misimproved.
+You grieve that your name is not placed on the lists of fame. Cease from
+thy fruitless longings. Discharge faithfully your present duties, and if
+you merit fame it will certainly be awarded you. You also complain that
+no friend is near you. Have you ever truly sought a friend, by the
+unwearied exercise of those affections, and in the performance of those
+numberless offices of kindness by which alone friendship is secured and
+perpetuated?
+
+    'All like the _purchase_, _few_ the _price_ will pay;
+    And this makes friends such miracles below.'
+
+Hast thou hoped for the society of the wise and good? Then with
+diligence and untiring zeal you should seek to fit yourself for such
+companionship. Have your early companions got before you in the race of
+life; and yet you remain at ease, dreaming over the past? Awake, young
+man, ere yet your day is done, and address yourself to your work with
+renewed energy; look forward to the future instead of brooding over the
+past, and be assured you will acquire wisdom, friends and every other
+needful blessing." With these words the aged man disappeared, and the
+student awoke. His fire had gone out and his lamp burned but dimly. He
+rose, replenished his fire, trimmed his lamp, and resumed his studies
+with ardor. This dream was not lost upon Arthur Wilton. Instead of now
+wasting his time in regrets for the past, he looked forward with a
+steady purpose of improvement, and from that period no harder student
+was to be found in the college; and he finally graduated with high
+honors. In after years he often related this dream to those of his
+acquaintances whom he thought in danger of falling into the same habit
+to which he himself had been so prone in his youthful days.
+
+
+
+
+UNCLE EPHRAIM.
+
+
+For some years, when a child, I used daily to pass the dwelling of
+Uncle Ephraim, on my way to and from school. He was not my uncle; indeed
+he bore no relationship whatever to me, but Uncle Ephraim was the
+familiar appellation by which he was known by all the school-boys in the
+vicinity. He was among the oldest residents in the section, and although
+a very eccentric person, was much respected by all his neighbors. How
+plainly do I yet remember him, after the lapse of so many years! His
+tall figure, shoulders that slightly stooped, his florid complexion,
+clear blue eyes, and hair bleached by the frosts of time to snowy
+whiteness. The farm on which he resided had improved under the hand of
+industry, till since my earliest recollection, it was in a state of high
+cultivation. His dwelling was an old-fashioned structure, placed a
+little back from the main road, and almost hidden from view by thick
+trees. In an open space, a little to one side, was the draw-well with
+its long pole and sweep; and I have often thought that I have never
+since tasted such water as we used to draw from that well, as we used
+often to linger for a few moments in Uncle Ephraim's yard on our return
+from school during the hot summer afternoons. He must have been fond of
+children; for he was a great favorite among the boys; and he often gave
+us permission to gather fruit from the trees in the garden, provided we
+broke none of his prescribed rules. But the unlucky urchin who
+transgressed against a command, forfeited his good opinion from
+henceforth, and durst no more be seen upon his premises. I happened to
+be among the fortunate number who retained his approbation and good-will
+during all our acquaintance.
+
+It was from Uncle Ephraim I received the first money I could call my
+own. In those days school-boys were not supplied very liberally with
+pocket-money, and when on one occasion I rendered him some slight
+service, for which he bestowed on me a piece of money, I felt myself
+rich indeed, and the possession of as many hundreds now would fail to
+afford me the same pleasure as did the few cents which made up the value
+of the coin.
+
+Like all others, he had his failings and weak points; but he had
+also many very estimable traits of character. Among his failings very
+strong prejudices were most noticeable, and if for any reason he became
+prejudiced against one, he could never after see any good whatever in
+them. He also possessed rather an unforgiving temper when injured by any
+one. But on the other hand he was a friend to the poor; and seldom sent
+the beggar empty-handed from his door. He also gave largely to the
+support of the gospel, as well as to benevolent institutions. One very
+noticeable and oftentimes laughable peculiarity was his proneness to
+charge every thing that went wrong to the state of the weather. I think
+it was more from a habit of speech than from any wish to be
+unreasonable. I remember one day passing a field when he was trying to
+catch a horse that to all appearance had no idea of being captured. He
+tried various methods of coaxing him into the halter, and several times
+nearly succeeded, but just when he thought himself sure of him, the
+animal would gallop off in another direction. Out of all patience, he at
+length exclaimed, "What does possess that critter to act so to-day?"
+then glancing at the sky, which at the time happened to be overcast by
+dull murky clouds, he said: "It must be the weather." I chanced one day
+to be present when Uncle Ephraim was busily occupied in making some
+arithmetical calculations regarding his farm-products. The result not
+proving satisfactory he handed his slate to a friend for inspection, and
+it was soon discovered that he had made a very considerable error in his
+calculation. When the error was pointed out to him, he looked up with a
+perplexed countenance, saying; "It is the weather: nothing else would
+have caused me to make such a blunder." His son happened to marry
+against his wishes; so much so, that he had the ceremony performed
+without his father's knowledge; who afterwards, making a virtue of
+necessity, wisely made the best of the matter. On learning that his son
+was actually married without his knowledge, the only remark he made was
+this: "What could have induced Ben to cut up such a caper as to go and
+get married without my leave; it must have been the weather, nothing
+else," and as if he had settled the question to his own satisfaction he
+was never heard to allude to the matter again. Years passed away, till
+one day the tidings reached us that Uncle Ephraim was dangerously ill.
+He grew rapidly worse, and it was soon evident that his days on earth
+would soon be numbered. I have a very distinct recollection of stealing
+quietly in, to look upon him as he lay on his dying bed; of the tears I
+shed when I gazed upon his fearfully changed features. He was even then
+past speaking or recognizing one from another; and before another sun
+rose he had passed from among the living. I obtained permission to go in
+once more and look upon him as he lay shrouded for the grave. I was then
+a child of ten years, but even at that early age I had not that morbid
+terror of looking upon death, so common among children. With my own
+hands, I folded back the napkin which covered his face, and gazed upon
+his aged, but now serene, countenance. There was nothing in his
+appearance to inspire terror, and for a moment I placed my hand on his
+cold brow. He had ever been very kind to me, and I regarded him with
+much affection, and the tears coursed freely down my cheeks when I
+looked my last upon his familiar countenance now lifeless and sealed in
+death. I have forgotten his exact age, but I know it exceeded seventy
+years. It so happened that I did not attend his funeral; but he was
+followed to the grave by a large number of friends and neighbours, many
+of whom still live to cherish his memory.
+
+
+
+
+STORY OF A LOG CABIN.[A]
+
+[A] I lately came across this sketch in an old Magazine, bearing the
+date of 1842, and, thinking others might be as much interested by it as
+I was myself, I transcribe it in an abridged form to the pages of this
+volume.
+
+
+It was a dreary day in autumn. Like the fate which attends us all, the
+foliage had assumed the paleness of death; and the winds, cold and damp,
+were sighing among the branches of the trees; and causing every other
+feeling rather than that of comfort. Four others and myself had been out
+hunting during the day, and we returned at nightfall tired and hungry to
+our camp. The shades of night were fast gathering around us; but, being
+protected by our camp, with a blazing fire in front, we soon succeeded
+in cooking some of the game we had shot during the day; and as we ate,
+the old hunters, who were my companions grew garrulous, and in turn
+related their numerous adventures. "You have lived in Dayton for some
+time," said an old hunter, addressing one of his companions. "Have you
+ever seen during your rambles the remains of a log cabin about two miles
+down the Miami Canal?" "I recollect it well, but there is a mystery
+attached to those ruins which no one living can solve. The oldest
+settlers found that cabin there; and it _then_ appeared in such a
+dilapidated state as to justify the belief that it had been built many
+years previous." "Do you know any thing about it?" I eagerly asked. "I
+know all about it," replied the old hunter; "for I assisted in building
+it, and occupied it for several years, during the trapping season. That
+cabin," he continued, as a shade passed over his features, "has been the
+scene of carnage and bloodshed. But why wake up old feelings--let them
+sleep, let them sleep;" and the veteran drew his brawny hand over his
+eyes. All the curiosity of my nature was roused; and the old men seated
+by his side gazed upon him enquiringly, and put themselves in a
+listening attitude. The speaker, observing this, sat silent for a few
+moments, as if collecting his thoughts, and then related the following
+tale:
+
+"There has come a mighty change over the face of this
+country since the time when I first emigrated here. The spot where now
+stand your prettiest towns and villages was then a howling wilderness.
+Instead of the tinkling of the cow-bells and the merry whistle of the
+farmer-boy as he calls his herd to the fold, might be heard the wild cry
+of the panther, the howl of the wolf, and the equally appalling yell of
+the aborigines. These were 'times to try men's souls'; and it was then
+the heart of oak and the sinews of iron which commanded respect. Let me
+describe to you some scenes in which such men were the actors; scenes
+which called forth all the energy of man's nature; and in the depths of
+this western wilderness, many hundreds of Alexanders and Caesars, who
+have never been heard of. At the time I emigrated to Ohio the deadly
+hatred of the red men toward the whites had reached its acme. The rifle,
+the tomahawk and the scalping knife were daily at work; and men, women
+and children daily fell victims to this sanguinary spirit. In this state
+I found things when I reached the small village opposite the mouth of
+Licking river, and now the great city of Cincinnati. Here in this great
+temple of nature man has taken up his abode, and all that he could wish
+responds to his touch; the fields and meadows yield their produce, and,
+unmolested by the red man whom he has usurped, he enjoys the bounties of
+a beneficent Creator. And where is the red man? Where is he! Like wax
+before the flame he has melted away from before the white man, leaving
+him no legacy save that courageous daring which will live in song long
+after their last remnant shall have passed away. At the time when I
+first stepped upon these grounds the red man still grasped the sceptre
+which has since been wrenched from his hand. They saw the throne of
+their father beginning to totter. Their realm had attracted the cupidity
+of a race of strangers, and with maddening despair, they grasped their
+falling power, and daily grew more desperate as they became more
+endangered. I among the rest had now a view of this exuberant west, this
+great valley of the Hesperides; and I determined to assist in
+extirpating the red man, and to usurp the land of his fathers. Among the
+men who were at the village, I found one who for magnanimity and
+undaunted courage merits a wreath which should hang high in the temple
+of fame, and yet, like hundreds of others, he has passed away unhonored,
+unsung. His name was Ralph Watts, a sturdy Virginian, with a heart
+surpassing all which has been said of Virginia's sons, in those
+qualities which ennoble the man; and possessing a courage indomitable,
+and a frame calculated in every way to fulfil whatever his daring spirit
+suggested. Such was Ralph Watts. I had only been in the town a few days,
+when Ralph and I contracted an intimacy which ended only with his death.
+I was passing the small inn of the town, when a tall man, with a hunting
+shirt and leggings on, stepped out and, laying his hand on my shoulder,
+said: 'Stranger, they say you have just come among us, and that you are
+poor; come along. I have got just five dollars, no man shall ever say
+that Ralph Watts passed a moneyless man without sharing with him the
+contents of his pocket--come along.' Ralph and I soon became inseparable
+friends. His joys as well as his sorrows were mine; in a word, we shared
+each other's sympathies; and this leads me to the scene of the log
+cabin. We often hunted together, and while on our last expedition, took
+an oath of friendship which should end only with death--and how soon was
+it to end! We left the infant Cincinnati one summer morning at the
+rising of the sun, and with our guns on our shoulders, and our pouches
+well supplied with ammunition, we struck into the deep wilderness,
+trusting to our own stout hearts and woodscraft for our food and safety.
+We journeyed merrily along, whiling away the hours in recounting to each
+other those trivial incidents of our lives which might be interesting,
+or in singing snatches of song, and listening to its solemn echo as it
+reverberated among the tall trees of the forest. Towards evening we
+reached our first camping ground--a spot near where the town of Sharon
+now stands. Here we pitched our tent, built our fire, cooked our
+suppers, and prepared to pass away the evening as comfortably as two
+hunters possibly could. All at once the deep stillness which reigned
+around us was broken by a low cry similar to that of a panther. We both
+ceased speaking and listened attentively, when the cry was repeated
+still nearer, as if the arrival was rapidly advancing upon us; and thus
+the cry was repeated, again and again, till its shrillness seemed not
+more than a hundred yards distant, when the voice changed to that of a
+yell, whose tones were so familiar to the ear of my companion as to
+exert quite a visible effect upon his actions. We both sprang to our
+feet and, seizing our guns, stood ready to fire at a moment's warning.
+"Halloo!" cried a deep voice, just outside our camp, but instead of
+answering it we nerved ourselves for a desperate encounter, feeling
+assured that several Indians were lurking outside our tent. "Halloo,
+white brudder, come out," cried the same voice in broken English. We
+consulted for a moment and finally decided to trust, for once, to Indian
+faith. Ralph first stepped forth and demanded in no very amiable voice,
+what was wanting. "Come out white brudder," was the answer. After
+assuring ourselves that there was but one person near we walked forward
+and found a large Indian sitting by the fire, both hands spread before
+the flame to protect his eyes from the light, that his keen gaze might
+rest unmolested upon us. As soon as he saw us a writhing grin spread
+over his painted features, and rising he offered us each his hand in a
+very friendly manner. The Indian drew from his belt a large pipe,
+gaudily painted, and from which depended a profusion of wampum, beads,
+and eagles' feathers. He lighted the pipe, and after taking a whiff,
+passed it to Ralph, who, following his example, passed it to me. After
+taking a puff I handed it to the Indian, who replaced it in his belt.
+This very important ceremony being finished, the Indian made known his
+business. After bestowing a thousand anathemas upon his red brethren, he
+informed us that he had left the red man forever, and was willing to
+join his white brothers, and to wage an exterminating warfare against
+his own kindred. We strove to extort from him the cause of this
+ebullition of passion, but he only shook his head in reply to our
+questions, and uttered a guttural "ough." We at first suspected him of
+some treacherous plot; but there was such an air of candor and
+earnestness in the communication he now made, that we threw aside all
+suspicion and confided in him. He stated that there was a large party of
+Indians in our rear, who had been tracking us for several hours; and
+that it was their intention early in the morning to surround us, and
+take us prisoners for victims at the stake; "but," said he, "if my white
+brudder will follow his red brudder he will lead him safe." We instantly
+signified our willingness to trust ourselves to his guidance, and,
+shouldering our blankets and guns, we left our camp, and followed our
+guide due north at a rapid gait. For several miles we strode through the
+thick woods, every moment scratching our faces and tearing our clothing,
+with the thick tangled brush through which we had to pass, but
+considering this of minor importance we hurried on in silence, save when
+we intruded too near the nest of the nocturnal king of the forest, when
+a wild hoot made us start and involuntarily grasp our rifles. "Sit on
+this log and eat," said our red guide. Finding our appetites sharpened
+by vigorous exercise, we sat on the log and commenced our repast, when
+our guide suddenly sprang from his seat, and with a hideous yell bolted
+into the forest and was soon lost to our sight. This conduct instantly
+roused our fear; and with one accord we sprang to our feet. We gazed
+around. Turn which way we would, the grim visage of a painted warrior
+met our terrified gaze, with his tomahawk in one hand, and his rifle in
+the other. "Perfidious villain," exclaimed Ralph, "and this is an
+Indian's faith." An Indian of gigantic size, dressed in all the gaudy
+trappings of a chief, now strode towards us. Ralph raised his gun, and
+closed his eye as the sight of the weapon sought the warrior's breast.
+"Don't shoot, and you will be treated friendly," cried the savage in
+good English. "So long as I live," said Ralph, "I'll never put faith
+again in an Indian's word." The gun went off, and the savage, with an
+unearthly cry, bounded high in the air, and fell upon his face a corpse.
+A scream, as if ten thousand furies had been suddenly turned loose upon
+the earth, rang around us; and ere we could start ten steps on our
+flight, we were seized by our savage foes, and, like the light barque
+when borne on the surface of the angry waves, were we borne, equally
+endangered, upon the shoulders of these maddened men. We were thrown
+upon the earth, our hands and feet were bound till the cords were almost
+hidden in the flesh; and then, with the fury of madmen, they commenced
+beating us with clubs, when another chief, who appeared to be of higher
+standing than the one who had just lost his life, rushed into the crowd,
+hurling the excited warriors to the right and left in his progress, and
+mounting upon a log he harangued them for a few moments with a loud
+voice. They at once desisted, perhaps reconciled by the prospect of soon
+seeing us burnt at the stake. We were carried to their encampment, where
+we were still left bound, with two sentinels stationed to guard us. In
+this painful state we remained all day; when towards evening another
+company of warriors arrived, and then vigorous preparations were made
+for burning us. A stake was planted in the ground, and painted a variety
+of fantastic colors; the brush was piled around it at a proper distance;
+and every other necessary arrangement made; while we sat looking on,
+subject to the continual epithets of an old squaw, whose most consoling
+remarks were: "How will white man like to eat fire," and then she would
+break into a screeching laugh, which sounded perfectly hideous. A cold
+chill pervaded my frame as I gazed upon these ominous signs of death;
+but how often is our misery but the prelude of joy. At the moment that
+these horrid preparations were finished, a bright flash of lightning
+shattered a tall hickory, near by; and then the earth was deluged with
+rain. The Indians sought the shelter, but left us beneath the fury of
+the storm, where we remained for several hours; but seeing that it
+increased rather than diminished, they forced us into a small log hut
+and leaving a man to guard us, bolted the door firmly and left us for
+the night. What were our reflections when left alone? Your imagination
+must supply an answer. But we did not entirely gave way to despondency.
+We were young and robust, and our spirits were not easily subdued.
+Instead of becoming disheartened our approaching fate emboldened us, and
+by looks, whose expression made known our minds to each other, we
+resolved to effect our escape or be slain in striving for it. Anything
+was preferable to the fiery torture which awaited us. Our guard proved
+just the man we wanted, for, having during the evening indulged rather
+freely in drinking whiskey, he soon sank into a profound slumber. Long
+and anxiously had we watched the man, and now our wishes were
+consummated. I contrived with much exertion to draw my knife from my
+pocket, and commenced sawing at the tough thong which confined my wrist.
+My heart beat high with joy, and already we felt that we were free, when
+the guard sneezed, opened his eyes, rolled them round the room, and
+discovered that he had been asleep. I slipped the knife into my pocket
+without his notice, and he discovered nothing to rouse his suspicions,
+although he regarded us closely for a long time. He finally sat down,
+lit his pipe and commenced smoking. After puffing away for half an hour,
+which seemed to drag by with the tediousness of a week, he laid his
+tomahawk (which contains the pipe) by his side, and after nodding for
+some time he again stretched himself upon the rough floor, and soon his
+deep snoring fell upon our ears. O! what music was that sound to us. I
+again drew the knife from my pocket, and with desperation freed my
+hands, and in one minute more Ralph stood like myself a free man. With
+the stealthy tread of a cat we reached the door, softly slid back the
+bolt, and once more we stood in the open air. The rain had ceased, the
+clouds had swept by, and the full moon pale and high in the heavens
+threw her light upon the tree tops, bathing them in liquid silver.
+Silently but rapidly we bounded through the forest, our fears of pursuit
+urging us onward; and by daylight were within twelve miles of the log
+cabin whose history I am telling. At that time there dwelt in that
+cabin, with his family, a trapper by the name of Daniel Roe. When we
+reached there we found Roe at home, to whom we recounted our adventure.
+He only laughed at our fears that the Indians might track us thus far,
+and we finally listened to his laughing remarks and concluded to rest in
+his cabin for several days. We heaped folly upon folly; for instead of
+putting the house in a state of defence, and preserving as much silence
+as possible we commenced trying our skill by shooting at a mark. We
+continued this exercise through the afternoon, partook of a hearty
+supper, chatted till bed-time, and then retired. Ralph soon fell sound
+asleep, but I could not; I felt a presentiment of approaching danger;
+still there was no visible signs of it, yet I could not shake off a
+peculiar nervousness which agitated me. I lay still for some time
+listening to the deep and regular breathing of Ralph, and ever and anon
+as an owl screamed I would start, despite the familiarity of the cry.
+Just as I turned in my bed, and was trying to compose myself for sleep,
+I heard a cry very similar to the hoot of an owl; still there was
+something about the sound which did not sound right. My heart commenced
+beating rapidly and a sweat started from my brow. I rose softly and
+looked through the chinks of the logs, but there was nothing to be seen.
+I listened attentively for at least an hour; but heard no sound to
+confirm my fears; and finally ashamed of my own nervousness, I could not
+call it _cowardice_, I slipped into bed, determined to sleep if
+possible. But soon I heard that same sound on the still air. I rose,
+dressed myself, but still I could see no form like that of an Indian.
+Just as I was on the point of abandoning my fears as idle and childish,
+I cast my eyes through an aperture between the logs; and saw the dusky
+forms of several Indians moving about the yard. I sprang to the bedside,
+and awoke Ralph, and in a few moments more, Roe, Ralph, and myself,
+stood with ready guns, waiting for a chance to shoot. A shot passing
+through one of the savages, told the rest they were discovered; and now
+a regular firing began. The Indians simultaneously uttered a fiendish
+shout, such as no person can imagine who has not heard the Indian
+war-scream; and then brandishing their tomahawks rushed upon the house
+and began hewing at the door. In a moment we were all down stairs, and
+our fire became so fatal that they were forced to retire several times;
+but with desperate courage they returned to the attack. I never
+experienced the feeling of utter despair but once in my life; and that
+was then. Roe came running down stairs (whither he had gone for more
+ammunition) and with a face white from terror, informed us that the
+ammunition was expended. Here we were, surrounded by a host of savages,
+fastened in a small house, with nothing to defend ourselves, and the
+helpless women and children under the roof. 'Let us open the door, and
+decide the contest hand to hand,' said Ralph Watts. 'O! my family, my
+wife and children,' groaned Daniel Roe, 'let us defend the house to the
+last.' And with nerves strung like iron, and hearts swelled to
+desperation, we waited in silence for the savages to hew their way
+through the door. The work was soon over, the savages uttered one
+deafening yell as the door gave way; and clubbing our guns we wielded
+them with giant energy. The dark forms of the savages crowded the
+door-way, their eyes glared madly at us, and their painted features
+working into a hundred malignant and fiendish expressions, which,
+together with their horrid yells, and the more heart-rending cries of
+women and children, all formed a scene of the most harrowing
+description. The battle was soon over. By some mishap I was hurled head
+foremost out the door; but so intent were the savages upon the battle
+within, that they did not once notice me, as they rushed forward to the
+scene of action. Seeing that all was lost, and that to remain would only
+be throwing away my life uselessly, I sprang to my feet and slipping
+around the corner of the house I made my way over the old
+fortification[B] and soon left the noise far behind me. Much has been
+written and said of grief, but how little do we know of its poignant
+nature, till we suffer the loss of some dear friend. 'Tis when we behold
+an object of deep affection lying passive and dead--but a thing of clay
+unconscious of the pain it gives, that we feel _that_ sorrow, which
+language is too feeble to express. I found it so, when upon returning to
+the cabin a few hours afterward, I found the dead bodies of all my
+friends mutilated and weltering in their blood. Around the body of poor
+Ralph lay six Indians, with their skulls beat in; his gun furnishing
+evidence, by its mutilated state, of the force with which he had used
+it. My story is soon finished. As the tears streamed from my eyes, I dug
+a grave where I deposited the remains of my friends, and after placing a
+large stone above their resting place, I departed, wishing never to
+return to the spot again, and I never have."
+
+[B] Near the spot where the cabin stands are the remains of immense
+works, but by whom and when built will forever remain hidden.
+
+
+
+
+HAZEL-BROOK FARM.
+
+
+Robert Ainslie, with his family, emigrated from Scotland about the
+year of 1843, and settled upon a new farm in the backwoods, in the
+township of R. in Eastern Canada. I can say but little regarding his
+early life, but have been informed that he was the eldest of quite a
+large family of sons and daughters; and also that he was a dutiful son
+as well as a kind and affectionate brother. It seems that he married
+quite early in life, and at that period he tended a small farm adjoining
+the one occupied by his father. The utmost harmony existed between the
+two families, and they lived in the daily interchange of those little
+offices of love and kindness which render friends so dear to each other.
+Several years glided by in this happy manner, but reverses at length
+came; and Robert formed the plan of emigrating to America. But when he
+saw how much his parents were grieved by the thought of his seeking a
+home on the other side of the Atlantic, he forbore to talk farther of
+the matter, and decided to remain at home for another year at least.
+That year, however, proved a very unfortunate one; his crops were
+scanty; and toward the spring he met with some severe losses, by a
+distemper which broke out among his farm stock. As the season advanced,
+he became so disheartened by his gloomy prospects, that he decided to
+carry out his former plan of emigrating to Canada; where he hoped by
+persevering industry to secure a comfortable home for himself and those
+dear to him. He had little difficulty in persuading his wife to
+accompany him, as her parents with her two brothers and one sister had
+emigrated some two years previous. It was more difficult, however, for
+him to persuade his father and mother that his decision was a wise one.
+"If ye maun leave us," said his mother, "can ye no seek anither hame
+nearer han', an' no gang awa across the water to yon' wild place they
+ca' Canada?" "We maun try to be reasonable, woman," said his father,
+"but I canna deny that the thought o' our first born son gaun sae far
+awa gie's me a sair heart." It was equally hard for the son to bid
+farewell to the land of his birth, and of a thousand endearing ties; but
+prudence whispered that now was his time to go, while he had youth and
+health, to meet the hardships that often fall to the lot of the
+emigrant. When his parents saw how much his mind was set upon it they
+ceased to oppose his wishes, and with his wife and children, he soon
+joined the large numbers who, at that period, were leaving the British,
+for the Canadian shores.
+
+As may be readily supposed, the parting between the two families was a
+very sad one; but the last adieus were finally exchanged, and the poor
+emigrants were borne away on the billows of the Atlantic. During the
+first few days of their voyage they all, with the exception of their
+youngest child, suffered much from sea-sickness. This child was a little
+girl about three years old; and it seemed singular to them, that she
+should escape the sickness from which nearly all the passengers
+suffered, more or less. They soon recovered; the weather was fine, and
+many of their fellow passengers were very agreeable companions, and they
+began really to enjoy the voyage. But this happy state of things was but
+of short duration. Their little girl, wee Susie, as they called her, was
+seized with illness. They felt but little anxiety at the first, thinking
+it but a slight indisposition from which she would soon recover; but
+when day after day passed away with no visible change for the better
+they became alarmed, and summoned the physician, who pronounced her
+disease a slow kind of fever, which he said often attacked those who
+escaped the sea-sickness. He told the anxious parents not to be alarmed,
+as he hoped soon to succeed in checking the disease. But with all the
+physician's skill, aided by the unceasing attention of her fond parents,
+the sad truth that wee Susie was to die soon became evident. When the
+sorrowing parents became sensible that their child must die, they prayed
+earnestly that her life might be prolonged till they should reach the
+land. But for some wise reason their prayer was not granted; and when
+their voyage was but little more than half accomplished she died, and
+they were forced to consign her loved form to a watery grave. The lovely
+prattling child had been a general favourite with all on board, and her
+sudden death cast a gloom over the minds of all. Words would fail me to
+describe the grief of the parents and the two affectionate little
+brothers when they realized that "wee Susie" was indeed gone, and that
+they could never enjoy even the melancholy satisfaction of beholding her
+resting-place. Mr. Ainslie's domestic affections were very strong, and
+to him the blow was terrible. He now deeply regretted removing his
+family from their Scottish home, entertaining the idea, that had they
+not undertaken this journey their child might have been spared; and he
+wrote bitter things against himself for the step he had taken. Deep as
+was the mother's grief, she was forced to place a restraint upon it that
+she might comfort her almost heart-broken husband. Upon one occasion, in
+reply to some of his self upbraidings, she said, "I think, Robert,
+you're ow're hard on yoursel' now, when ye tak the blame o' puir Susie's
+death; ye surely canna think itherwise than the dear bairn's time had
+come; an' had we bided at hame it would ha' been a' the same; for we
+dinna leeve an' dee by chance, and the bounds o' our lives are set by
+Him who kens a' things." These consoling words from his sympathising
+wife tended to lighten, in some measure, the burden of sorrow which
+oppressed his heart. The weather during the latter part of their voyage
+was stormy and uncomfortable, and they were truly glad when they at
+length reached the Canadian port. At the city of Montreal they parted
+with all those who had been their fellow passengers, as all except
+themselves were bound for the Upper Province, while they intended
+joining their friends in Lower Canada.
+
+In the days of which I am speaking the emigrant's journey from the
+city of Montreal to the townships was toilsome in the extreme; and the
+same journey, which is now accomplished in a few hours by railway, was
+then the work of several days; and the only mode of conveyance for
+themselves and their luggage, were the horse-carts hired for the
+occasion. But their fatiguing journey was at length terminated; and they
+arrived safely at the bush settlement in R., where the friends of Mrs.
+Ainslie resided. That now thriving and prosperous settlement was then in
+its infancy, and possessed but few external attractions to the new
+comer; for at the period when Mrs. Ainslie's parents settled there it
+was an unbroken wilderness. It is needless for me to add that the
+wayworn travellers met with a joyous welcome from the friends who had
+been long anxiously looking for their arrival. Mr. and Mrs. Miller were
+overjoyed to meet again their daughter from whom they had been so long
+separated by the deep roll of the ocean; and almost their first enquiry
+was for the "wee lassie," who when they left Scotland was less than a
+twelve month old. Mr. Ainslie was unable to reply, and looked toward his
+wife as if beseeching her to answer to their enquiry. She understood the
+mute appeal, and composing herself by a strong effort said: "My dear
+father an' mither, a great grief has o'erta'en us sin' we left hame',
+an' our hearts are well-nigh broken; we buried wee Susie in the caul
+waters o' the ocean." She endeavoured to relate to them the particulars
+of the child's death; but her feelings overcame her, and for some
+moments they could only weep together. When Mr. Miller was able to
+command his voice he said, "God is good, my children, an' overrules a'
+things for our good, let us bow before Him in prayer;" and when they
+rose from their knees, they felt calmed and comforted, by the soothing
+influence of prayer. With the two boys, Geordie and Willie, fatigue soon
+got the better of their joy at meeting with their friends, and they were
+soon enjoying the sound sleep of healthful childhood; but with the elder
+members of the family, so much was there to hear and to tell that the
+hour was very late when they separated to seek repose. Mr. Ainslie
+decided upon purchasing a lot of land, lying some two miles north of
+the farm occupied by Mr. Miller. Although it was covered with a dense
+forest, its location pleased him, and the soil was excellent, and he
+looked forward to the time when he might there provide a pleasant home.
+They arrived at R. on the first of July. There were beside Mr. Miller
+but three other families in the settlement; but they were all very kind
+to the newly arrived strangers, and they assisted Mr. Ainslie in various
+ways while he effected a small clearing upon his newly purchased farm.
+They also lent him a willing hand in the erection of a small log house,
+to which he removed his family in the fall, Mrs. Ainslie and the
+children having remained with her parents during the summer; and kind as
+their friends had been, they were truly glad when they found themselves
+again settled in a home of their own, however humble. They were people
+of devoted piety, and they did not neglect to erect the family altar the
+first night they rested beneath the lowly roof of their forest home. I
+could not, were I desirous of so doing, give a detailed account of the
+trials and hardships they endured during the first few years of their
+residence in the bush; but they doubtless experienced their share of the
+privations and discouragements which fell to the lot of the first
+settlers of a new section of country. The first winter they passed in
+their new home was one of unusual severity for even the rigorous climate
+of Eastern Canada, and poor Mrs. Ainslie often during that winter
+regretted the willingness with which she bade adieu to her early home,
+to take up her abode in the dreary wilderness. They found the winter
+season very trying indeed, living as they did two miles from any
+neighbour; and the only road to the dwelling of a neighbour was a
+foot-track through the blazed trees, and the road, such as it was, was
+too seldom trodden during the deep snows of winter, to render the
+foot-marks discernible for any length of time. Their stores had all to
+be purchased at the nearest village, which was distant some seven miles,
+and Mr. Ainslie often found it very difficult to make his way through
+the deep snows which blocked up the roads, and to endure the biting
+frost and piercing winds on his journeys to and from the village. In
+after years when they had learned to feel a deep interest in the growth
+of the settlement, they often looked back with a smile to the
+"home-sickness" which oppressed their hearts, while struggling with the
+first hardships of life in the bush. Mr. Ainslie and his family,
+notwithstanding their many privations, enjoyed uninterrupted health
+through the winter, and before the arrival of spring they already felt a
+growing interest in their new home. Mrs. Ainslie regarded the labours of
+the workmen with much attention during the winter, while they felled the
+trees which had covered nearly ten acres of their farm. As each tree
+fell to the ground it opened a wider space in the forest and afforded a
+broader view of the blue sky. A stream of water, which in many places
+would have been termed a river, but which there only bore the name of
+Hazel-Brook, flowed near their dwelling, and as the spring advanced, the
+belt of forest which concealed it from view having been felled, she
+gained a view of its sparkling waters when the warm showers and genial
+rays of the sun loosened them from their icy fetters; and she often
+afterwards remarked that the view of those clear waters was the first
+thing which tended to reconcile her to a home in the forest. With the
+coming of spring their "life in the woods" began in earnest. When the
+earth was relieved of its snowy mantle, the fallen trunks of the trees,
+with piles of brush-wood, were scattered in every direction about their
+dwelling. But the fallow was burned as soon as it was considered
+sufficiently dry, the blackened logs were piled in heaps, and the ground
+was prepared for its first crop of grain. The green blades soon sprang
+up and covered the ground, where a short time before was only to be seen
+the unsightly fallow or the remains of the partially consumed logs.
+
+It was a long time before Mr. and Mrs. Ainslie became reconciled to
+the change in their circumstances, when they exchanged the comforts and
+conveniences of their home beyond the sea, for the log cabin in the
+wilderness. Cut off as they were from the privileges of society to which
+they had been accustomed from childhood, they felt keenly the want of a
+place of worship, with each returning Sabbath, and next to this, the
+want of a school for their two boys; for taken as a people the Scotch
+are intelligent; and we rarely meet with a Scotchman, even among the
+poorer classes, who has not obtained a tolerable education. And the
+careful parents felt much anxiety when they beheld their children
+debarred from the advantages of education; but to remedy the want as
+much as lay in their power, they devoted the greater part of what little
+leisure time they could command to the instruction of their boys. They
+had been regular attendants at their own parish church in the old
+country; and very sensibly they felt the want, as Sabbath after Sabbath
+passed away, with no service to mark it from other days. "It just
+seems," said Mr. Ainslie, "that sin' we cam' to America we ha'e nae
+Sabbath ava." In order to meet the want in some measure, he proposed to
+the few neighbours which there formed the settlement, that they should
+assemble at one house, on each Sabbath afternoon, and listen to the
+reading of a sermon by some one present. "I think it our duty," said he,
+"to show our respect to the Sabbath-day by assembling ourselves
+together, and uniting in worship to the best o' our ability. I ha'e
+among my books a collection o' sermons by different divines, an' I am
+verra willin' to tak' my turn in the readin' o' ane, an' I'm sure you
+should a' be agreeable to do the same." His proposal met with the hearty
+approval of all his neighbours, and for some years each Sabbath
+afternoon saw most of the neighbours collected together for the best
+mode of worship within their reach. The bush settlements at this period
+were much infected by bears, and they often proved very destructive to
+the crops of the early settler, and also a cause of no little fear. I
+believe the instances have been rare when a bear has been known to
+attack a person, although it has happened in some cases; but the
+immigrant has so often listened to exaggerated accounts regarding the
+wild animals of America, that those who settle in a new section of
+country find it difficult to get rid of their fears. On one occasion
+when the Sabbath meeting met at Mr. Ainslie's house, Mrs. Ainslie urged
+her mother to remain and partake of some refreshment before setting out
+on her walk homeward. "Na, na," replied the old lady. "I maun e'en gang
+while I ha'e company, I dinna expec' to leeve muckle longer at ony rate,
+but wouldna' like to be eaten by the bears;" and for several years the
+one who ventured alone to the house of a neighbour after dark was looked
+upon as possessing more courage than prudence. But although the settlers
+often came across these animals, on the bush-road, I never heard of one
+being attacked by them. An old man, upon one occasion, returning in the
+evening from the house of friends, and carrying in his hand a torchlight
+composed of bark from the cedar tree, met a large bear in the thick
+woods. Being asked if he was not frightened, he replied, "Deed I think
+the bear was 'maist frightened o' the twa', for he just stood up on his
+twa hind legs, and glowered at me for a wee while till I waved the torch
+light toward him, when he gi' an awfu' snort, and ran into the woods as
+fast's ever he was able, an' I cam awa' hame no a bit the war, an' I
+think I'll never be sae' muckle feared about bears again." But these
+early settlers certainly found these animals very troublesome from their
+frequent depredations upon their fields of grain, and they often spent a
+large portion of the night watching for them, prepared to give them
+battle, but it was not often they saw one on these occasions, for these
+animals are very cunning, and seem at once to know when they are
+watched. It sometimes also happened that during the early period of this
+settlement people lost their way in the bush while going from one house
+to another. A woman once set out to go to the house of a neighbour who
+lived about a mile distant. Supposing herself on the right path she
+walked onward, till thinking the way rather long she stopped and gazed
+earnestly around her, and became terrified as she noticed that the trees
+and rocks, and every other surrounding object had a strange unfamiliar
+look; and she knew at once that she had taken a wrong path.
+
+Becoming much alarmed, she endeavoured to retrace her steps, but
+after walking a long time would often return to the spot from which she
+set out. She left home about ten o'clock in the forenoon, and her
+friends, alarmed at her long stay, called together some of their
+neighbours and set out to look for her, knowing that she must have lost
+her way in the forest. They continued their search through the
+afternoon, sounding horns, hallooing, and calling her name, as they
+hurried through the tangled underbrush, and other obstructions, and at
+sunset they returned to procure torches with which to continue their
+search through the night; her friends were almost beside themselves with
+terror, and all the stories they had heard or read of people being
+devoured by wild animals rushed across their minds. But just when they
+had collected nearly every settler in the vicinity, and were preparing
+their torches to continue the search, the woman arrived safely at home,
+with no further injury than being thoroughly frightened and very much
+fatigued. She stated that she had walked constantly, from the time when
+she became aware she was lost, and that she was so much bewildered that
+she at the first did not know their own clearing, till some familiar
+object attracted her attention. As the neighbours were going to their
+homes, after the woman's return, they were, naturally enough, talking of
+the matter, regarding it as a cause of deep thankfulness that no harm
+had befallen her. Mr. G., one of the number, although a very
+kind-hearted man, had an odd dry manner of speaking which often provoked
+a laugh. It so happened that the woman who was lost was very small, her
+stature being much below the medium height. Laughter was far enough from
+the mind of any one, till old Mr. G., who had not before made a remark,
+suddenly said, "sic a wee body as you should never attemp' to gang awa'
+her lane through the bush without a bell hanged aboot her neck to let
+people ken where to find her in case she should gang off the richt
+road." This was too much for the gravity of any one; and the stillness
+of the summer night was broken by a burst of hearty laughter from the
+whole company; and the old man made the matter little better, when the
+laugh had subsided by saying in a very grave manner, "Well, after a' I
+think is would be a verra wise-like precaution wi' sic a wee bit body as
+her." Time passed on; other settlers located themselves in the vicinity,
+and the settlement soon began to wear a prosperous appearance. As soon
+as circumstances allowed, a school-house was erected, which, if rude in
+structure, answered the purpose very well. For some time the school was
+only kept open during the summer and autumn, as the long distance and
+deep snows forbade the attendance of young children during the winter
+season. They had as yet no public worship, except the Sabbath meetings
+before mentioned, which were now held in the schoolhouse for the greater
+convenience of the settlers. Mr. Ainslie was a man of much industry; and
+although his home was for some years two miles from any neighbour, it
+soon wore a pleasing appearance. The most pleasing feature in the scene
+was the beautiful stream of water which ran near his dwelling, and after
+which he named his farm. In five years from the time when he first
+settled in the bush, he exchanged his rude log house for a comfortable
+and convenient framed dwelling, with a well-kept garden in front, and
+near his house were left standing some fine shade-trees which added much
+to the beauty of the place. In process of time, the excellent quality of
+the soil in that range of lots attracted others to locate themselves in
+the vicinity; and Hazel-Brook farm soon formed the centre of a fast
+growing neighbourhood. Two sons and another daughter had been added to
+Mr. Ainslie's family during this time; and the birth of the little girl
+was an occasion of much joy to all the family. They had never forgotten
+"wee Susie," and all the love which they bore to her memory was lavished
+upon this second daughter in the family. The elder brothers were anxious
+to bestow the name of their lost favourite upon their infant sister, but
+the parents objected, having rather a dislike to the practice, so
+common, of bestowing upon a child a name that had belonged to the dead;
+and so the little girl was named Jennette, after her grandmother, Mrs.
+Miller. About this time old Mr. Miller died. He was an old man, "full of
+days," having seen nearly eighty years of life. He had ever been a man
+of strong constitution and robust health, and his last illness was very
+short; and from the first he was confident that he should never recover.
+When he first addressed his family upon the subject they were
+overwhelmed with grief. "Dinna greet for me," said he in a calm and
+hopeful voice, "I ha'e already leeved ayont the period allotted to the
+life o' man. I ha'e striven in my ain imperfect way to do my duty in
+this life, an' I am thankfu' that I am able to say that I dinna fear
+death; and I feel that when I dee I shall gang hame to the house o' a
+mercifu' Father." So peaceful was his departure, that, although
+surrounded by his mourning friends, they were unable to tell the exact
+moment of his death. Like a wearied child that sleeps, he quietly passed
+away. They had no burial ground in the settlement, and he was laid to
+rest several miles from his home. His family, with the exception of one
+son, had all married and removed to homes of their own some time
+previous to his death; and to this son was assigned the happy task of
+watching over the declining years of his widowed mother. Mr. Miller, as
+a dying injunction, charged this son never to neglect his mother in her
+old age, and most sacredly did he observe the dying wishes of his
+father. Mrs. Miller was also of advanced age. For three years longer she
+lingered, and was then laid to rest beside her departed husband.
+
+Twenty years have passed away since we introduced Robert Ainsley
+with his family to the reader. Let us pay a parting visit to Hazel-Brook
+farm, and note the changes which these twenty years have effected. The
+forest has melted away before the hand of steady industry, and we pass
+by cultivated fields on our way to the farm of Mr. Ainslie. The
+clearings have extended till very few trees obstruct our view as we gaze
+over the farms of the numerous settlers, which are now separated by
+fences instead of forest trees. But the loveliest spot of all is
+Hazel-Brook farm. The farm-house of Robert Ainslie, enlarged and
+remodelled according to his increased means, is painted a pure white,
+and very pleasant it looks to the eye, through the branches of the
+shade-trees which nearly surround it. The clear waters of Hazel-Brook
+are as bright and sparkling as ever. The banks near the dwelling are
+still fringed with trees and various kinds of shrubs; but farther up the
+stream all obstructions have been cleared away, and the sound of a
+saw-mill falls upon the ear. Let us enter the dwelling. Mr. and Mrs.
+Ainslie, although now no longer young, evince by their cheerful
+countenance that they yet retain both mental and bodily vigour. As yet
+their children all remain at home, as the boys find ample employment
+upon the farm, and at the mill; While Jennette assists her mother in the
+labours of the household. For many years the setting sun has rested upon
+the gleaming spire of the neat and substantial church erected by the
+settlers; and now upon the Sabbath day, instead of listening to a sermon
+read by a neighbour, they listen to the regular preaching of the gospel,
+and each one according to his means contributes to the support of their
+minister. It was Mr. Ainslie who first incited the settlers to exert
+themselves in the erection of a suitable place for worship. Some of his
+neighbours at the first were not inclined to favour the idea, thinking
+the neighbourhood too poor for the undertaking. But he did not suffer
+himself to become discouraged, and after considerable delay the frame of
+the building was erected. When the building was once begun, they all
+seemed to work with a will, and to the utmost of their ability. Those
+who were unable to give money brought contributions of lumber, boards,
+shingles, &c., besides giving their own labour freely to the work; and
+in a short time the work had so far advanced that they were able to
+occupy the building as a place of worship, although in an unfinished
+state. But the contributions were continued year after year, till at
+length they were privileged to worship in a church which they could call
+their own. Mr. Ainslie was a man of talents and education, superior to
+most of the early settlers in that section, and it was his counsel,
+administered in a spirit of friendship and brotherly kindness, which
+worked many improvements and effected many changes for the better as the
+years rolled by. As we turn away with a parting glance at the pleasing
+scene, we cannot help mentally saying,--surely the residents in this
+vicinity owe much to Robert Ainslie for the interest he has ever taken
+in the prosperity and improvements of the place, and long may both he
+and they live to enjoy the fruit of their united labours.
+
+
+
+
+OLD RUFUS.
+
+
+The memory of Old Rufus is so closely connected with the days of
+my childhood that I cannot refrain from indulging in a few recollections
+of him. The name of Old Rufus was not applied to him from any want of
+respect; but it was owing to his advanced age, and long residence in our
+vicinity, that he received this appellation. His name was Rufus Dudley.
+I remember him as an old man when I was a very young child; and his
+residence in the neighbourhood dated back to a period many years
+previous to the time of which I speak. He was born in the state of New
+York, where he resided during the early portion of his life, and where
+he married. His wife died before his removal to Canada. When he first
+came to the Province he located himself in a town a few miles from the
+village of C., where he married a second time. When first he removed to
+R. he was for some years employed in a saw-mill and earned a comfortable
+support for his family. My knowledge of his early residence in R. is
+indefinite, as he had lived there for many years previous to my
+recollection, and all I know concerning the matter is what I have heard
+spoken of at different times by my parents and other old residents of
+the place. It would seem, however, that his second marriage was, for
+him, very unfortunate, for to use his own words, "he never afterward had
+any peace of his life." I have been informed that his wife was possessed
+of a pleasing person and manners, but added to this she also possessed a
+most dreadful temper; which when roused sometimes rendered her insane
+for the time being; and finally some trouble arose between them which
+ended in a separation for life. They had two grown-up daughters at the
+time of their separation who accompanied their mother to a town at a
+considerable distance from their former home. In a short time the
+daughters married and removed to homes of their own. Their mother
+removed to one of the Eastern States. She survived her husband for
+several years, but she is now also dead. Soon after he became separated
+from his family Old Rufus gave up the saw-mill and removed to a small
+log house, upon a piece of land to which he possessed some kind of
+claim, and from that time till his death, lived entirely alone. He
+managed to cultivate a small portion of the land, which supplied him
+with provisions, and he at times followed the trade of a cooper, to eke
+out his slender means. His family troubles had broken his spirit, and
+destroyed his ambition, and for years he lived a lonely dispirited man.
+He was possessed of sound common sense and had also received a tolerable
+education, to which was added a large stock of what might be properly
+termed general information; and I have often since wondered how he could
+have reconciled himself to the seemingly aimless and useless life which
+he led for so many years. But in our intercourse with men, we often meet
+with characters who are a sore puzzle to us; and Old Rufus was one of
+those. When quite young I have often laughed at a circumstance I have
+heard related regarding the violent temper of his wife; but indeed it
+was no laughing matter. It seems that in some instances she gave vent to
+her anger by something more weighty than words. Old Rufus one day
+entered the house of a neighbor with marks of blows on his face, and was
+asked the cause. He never spoke of his wife's faults if he could avoid
+it; but on this occasion he sat for a moment as though considering what
+reply to make, and finally said: "O! there is not much the matter with
+my face any way, only Polly and I had a little brush this morning." I
+know not how serious the matter was, but Old Rufus certainly came off
+second in the encounter. This aged man is so deeply connected with the
+early scenes of my home life that I yet cherish a tender regard for his
+memory; although the flowers of many summers have scattered their
+blossoms, and the snows of many winters have descended upon his grave.
+He was upon familiar terms with almost every family in the
+neighbourhood, and every one made him welcome to a place at their table,
+or a night's lodging as the case might be; and I well remember the
+attention with which I used to listen to his conversation during the
+long winter evenings, when, as was often the case, he passed a night in
+our dwelling. I recollect one time when the sight of Old Rufus was very
+welcome to me. When about nine years of age, I accompanied my brothers
+to the Sugar bush one afternoon in Spring; and during a long continued
+run of the sap from the maple trees it was often necessary to keep the
+sugar kettles boiling through the night to prevent waste. On the
+afternoon in question, my brothers intended remaining over night in the
+bush, and I obtained permission to stay with them, thinking it would be
+something funny to sleep in a shanty in the woods. The sugar-bush was
+about two miles from our dwelling, and I was much elated by the prospect
+of being allowed to assist in the labors of sugar-making. My brothers
+laughingly remarked that I would probably have enough of the woods, and
+be willing to return home when night came, but I thought otherwise.
+During the afternoon I assisted in tending the huge fires, and the
+singing of the birds, and the chippering of the squirrels as they hopped
+in the branches of the tall trees, delighted me, and the hours passed
+swiftly by, till the sun went down behind the trees and the shades of
+evening began to gather about us. As the darkness increased, I began to
+think the sugar-bush not the most desirable place in the world, in which
+to pass the night, and all the stories I had ever heard of bears, wolves
+and other wild animals rushed across my mind, and filled me with terror.
+I would have given the world, had it been at my disposal, to have been
+safely at home; and it was only the dread of being laughed at, which
+prevented me from begging my brothers to take me there. And when
+darkness had entirely settled over the earth, and the night-owls set up
+their discordant screams, my fears reached a climax. I had never before
+listened to their hideous noise, and had not the slightest idea of what
+it was. I had often heard old hunters speak of a wild animal, called the
+catamount, which they allowed had been seen in the Canadian forests
+during the early settlement of the country. I had heard this animal
+described as being of large size, and possessing such strength and
+agility, as enabled them to spring from the boughs of one tree to those
+of another without touching the ground, and at such times their savage
+cries were such as to fill the heart of the boldest hunter with terror.
+I shall never forget the laugh which my grown-up brothers enjoyed at my
+expense when trembling with terror, I enquired if they thought a
+catamount was not approaching among the tree-tops. "Do not be alarmed,"
+said they, "for the noises which frighten you so much proceeds from
+nothing more formidable than owls." Their answer, however, did not
+satisfy me, and I kept a sharp look-out among the branches of the
+surrounding trees lest the dreaded monster should descend upon us
+unawares. Old Rufus was boiling sap, half a mile from us, and it was a
+joyful moment to me, when he suddenly approached us, out of the
+darkness, saying, "Well boys don't you want company? I have got my sap
+all boiled in, and as I felt kinder lonesome, I thought I would come
+across, and sleep by your shanty fire." The old man enquired why I
+seemed so much terrified, and my brothers told him that I would persist
+in calling a screech-owl, a catamount. Old Rufus did not often laugh,
+but he laughed heartily on this occasion, and truly it was no wonder and
+when he corroborated what my brothers had already told me, I decided
+that what he said must be true. His presence at once gave me a feeling
+of protection and security and creeping close to his side on the cedar
+boughs which formed our bed, while the immense fire blazed in front of
+our tent, I soon forgot my childish fears, in a sound sleep which
+remained unbroken till the morning sun was shining brightly above the
+trees. But it was long before I heard the last of the night I spent in
+the bush; and as often as my brothers wished to tease me, they would
+enquire if I had lately heard the cries of a catamount? Time passed on
+till I grew up, and leaving the paternal home went forth to make my own
+way in the world. Old Rufus still resided in R. When a child I used to
+fancy that he would never seem older than he had appeared since my
+earliest recollection of him; but about the time I left home there was a
+very observable change in his appearance. I noticed that his walk was
+slow and feeble, and his form was bending beneath the weight of years
+and his hair was becoming white by the frosts of time. I occasionally
+visited my parents, and during these visits I frequently met with my old
+friend; and it was evident that he was fast losing his hold of life. He
+still resided alone much against the wishes of his neighbours, but his
+old habits still clung to him. I removed to a longer distance and
+visited my early home less frequently. Returning to R., after a longer
+absence than usual, I learned that the health of Old Rufus had so much
+failed, that the neighbours, deeming it unsafe for him to remain longer
+alone, at length persuaded him to remove to the house of a neighbour,
+where each one contributed toward his support. His mind had become weak
+as well as his body; indeed he had become almost a child again, and it
+was but a short time that he required the kind attentions which all his
+old neighbours bestowed upon him. I remained at home for several weeks,
+and ere I left, I followed the remains of Old Rufus to the grave. I have
+stood by many a grave of both kindred and stranger; never before or
+since have I seen one laid in the grave without the presence of some
+relative; but no one stood by his grave who bore to him the least
+relationship. It was on a mild Sabbath afternoon in midsummer that we
+laid him to rest in the burial ground of R.; and if none of his kindred
+stood by to shed the tear of natural affection, there was many a cheek
+wet with the tear of sensibility when the coffin was lowered to its
+silent abode. I am unable to state his exact age, but I am certain that
+it considerably exceeded eighty years; and from what I can recollect of
+his life, I have a strong hope, that death opened to him a blessed
+immortality beyond the grave.
+
+
+
+
+THE DIAMOND RING.
+
+
+"And has it indeed come to this," said Mrs. Harris, addressing her
+daughter Ellen, "must I part with my mother's last gift to obtain
+bread?" Mrs. Harris, as she spoke, held in her hand a costly diamond
+ring, and the tears gathered in her eyes, as the rays of light falling
+upon the brilliants caused them to glow like liquid fire. This costly
+ornament would have struck the beholder as strangely out of place in the
+possession of this poor widow, in that scantily furnished room; but a
+few words regarding the past history of Mrs. Harris and her daughter
+will explain their present circumstances. Mrs. Harris was born and
+educated in England, and when quite young was employed as governess in a
+gentleman's family. Circumstances at length caused the family with whom
+she resided to cross the Atlantic and take up their abode in the ancient
+city of Quebec. The young governess had no remaining ties to bind her to
+England. Her parents had been dead for many years; she had no sisters,
+and her only brother, soon after the death of their parents, went to
+seek his fortune in the gold regions of California. Some years had
+passed since she heard any tidings from him, and she feared he was no
+longer among the living, and when the family with whom she had so long
+resided left England for America, they persuaded her to accompany them.
+In process of time she was married to a wealthy merchant, and removed to
+Western Canada. Their union was a very happy one, and for some years,
+they lived in the enjoyment of worldly prosperity and happiness. But it
+often happens that sad and unlooked-for reverses succeed a season of
+long continued prosperity; and it was so in this case. I am not aware
+that Mr. Harris's failure in business was brought about through any
+imprudence on his part; but was owing to severe and unexpected losses.
+He had entered into various speculations, which bid fair to prove
+profitable, but which proved a complete failure, and one stroke of ill
+fortune followed another in rapid succession, till the day of utter ruin
+came. He gave up every thing; even his house and furniture was
+sacrificed to meet the clamorous demands of his hard-hearted creditors;
+and his family was thus suddenly reduced from a state of ease and
+affluence to absolute poverty. Mr. Harris possessed a very proud spirit,
+and his nature was sensitive, and he could not endure the humiliation of
+remaining where they had formerly been so happy. He knew the world
+sufficiently well to be aware that they would now meet with coldness and
+neglect even from those who had formerly been proud of their notice, and
+shrank from the trial, and with the small amount he had been able to
+secure out of the general wreck, he removed to the city of Toronto, some
+three hundred miles from their former home. They had but little money
+remaining when they reached the city, and Mr. Harris felt the necessity
+of at once seeking some employment, for a stranger destitute of money in
+a large city is in no enviable position. For some time he was
+unsuccessful in every application he made for employment, and he was
+glad at length to accept the situation of copyist in a Lawyer's Office,
+till something better might offer. His salary barely sufficed for their
+support, yet they were thankful even for that. His constitution had
+never been robust, and the anxiety of mind under which he labored told
+severely upon his health. He exerted himself to the utmost, but his
+health failed rapidly; he was soon obliged to give up work, and in a
+little more than a year from the time of their removal to Toronto, he
+died, leaving his wife and daughter friendless and destitute. Their
+situation was extremely sad, when thus left alone; they had made no
+acquaintances during the year they had resided in the city, and had no
+friend to whom they could apply for aid. After paying her husband's
+funeral expenses, Mrs. Harris found herself well-nigh destitute of
+money, and she felt the urgent necessity of exerting herself to obtain
+employment by which they at least might earn a subsistence. The widow
+and her daughter found much difficulty at first in obtaining employment.
+Some to whom they applied had no work; others did not give out work to
+strangers; and for several days Mrs. Harris returned weary and
+desponding to her home, after spending a large portion of the day in the
+disagreeable task of seeking employment from strangers; but after a time
+she succeeded in obtaining employment, and as their work proved
+satisfactory they had soon an ample supply; but just when their
+prospects were beginning to brighten Mrs. Harris was visited by a severe
+illness. They had been able to lay by a small sum previous to her
+illness, and it was well they had done so, for during her sickness she
+required almost the constant attention of her daughter, which deprived
+them of any means of support; but after several weeks of severe illness
+she began slowly to recover, and this brings us to the time where our
+story opens. The ring which Mrs. Harris held in her hand had been for
+many, many years an heir-loom in the English family to which she
+belonged. To her it was the dying gift of her mother, and the thoughts
+of parting with it cost her a bitter pang. But she had no friends to
+whom she might apply for aid; and to a refined and sensitive nature,
+almost anything else is preferable to seeking charity from strangers.
+The ring was the only article of value which she retained, and sore as
+was the trial, she saw no other way of meeting their present wants, than
+by disposing of this her only relic of former affluence and happiness;
+and she trusted, that by the time the money which the sale of the ring
+would bring should be expended, they would be again able to resume their
+employment. With a heavy heart Ellen Harris set out to dispose of this
+cherished memento. She remembered an extensive jewelry shop, which she
+had often passed, as she carried home parcels of work, and thither she
+made her way. The shop-keeper was an elderly man with daughters of his
+own, and he had so often noticed this pale sad-looking young girl as she
+passed his window, that he recognized her countenance the moment she
+entered the shop; and when in a low timid voice she enquired if he would
+purchase the ring, he was satisfied that he was correct in his former
+conjecture, that she belonged to a family of former wealth and
+respectability. But young as she was there was a certain reserve and
+dignity in her manner, which forbade any questions on his part. The man
+had for many years carried on a lucrative business in his line and he
+was now wealthy; and knowing that he could afford to wait till the ring
+should find a purchaser he had no fears of losing money on so valuable
+an article; and, as is not often the case in such transactions, he paid
+her a fair price for the ring, although less than its real value. Ellen
+returned, much elated by her success; the money she had received for the
+ring seemed to them in their present circumstances a small fortune.
+"Little did once I think," said the widow, as she carefully counted the
+bank-notes, "that a few paltry pounds would ever seem of so much value
+to me; but perhaps it is well that we should sometimes experience the
+want of money, that we may learn how to make a proper use of it; and be
+more helpful to those less favored than ourselves." The money they
+obtained more than sufficed for their support, till Mrs. Harris so far
+recovered, as to allow them again to resume their employment. They now
+had no difficulty in obtaining work, and although obliged to toil early
+and late, they became cheerful and contented; although they could not
+but feel the change in their circumstances, and often contrast the happy
+past, with their present lot of labor and toil.
+
+The shopkeeper burnished up the setting of the diamonds and
+placed the ring among many others in the show-case upon his counter. But
+so expensive an ornament as this does not always find a ready purchaser,
+and for some months it remained unsold. One afternoon a gentleman
+entered the shop to make some trifling purchase, and, as the shopkeeper
+happened to be engaged with a customer, he remained standing at the
+counter, till he should be at leisure, and his eye wandered carelessly
+over the articles in the show-case. Suddenly he started, changed
+countenance, and when the shopkeeper came forward to attend to him he
+said in voice of suppressed eagerness, "will you allow me to examine
+that ring," pointing as he spoke to the diamond ring sold by Ellen
+Harris. "Certainly, Sir, certainly," said the obliging shop-keeper, who,
+hoping that the ring had at last found a purchaser, immediately placed
+it in his hand for inspection. The gentleman turned the ring in his
+hand, and carefully examined the sparkling diamonds as well as the
+antique setting; and when he observed the initials, engraved upon the
+inside, he grew pale as marble, and hurriedly addressed the astonished
+shopkeeper saying, "In the name of pity, tell me where you obtained this
+ring?" "I am very willing to inform you," said the man "how this ring
+came into my possession. Several months ago a young girl, of very
+delicate and lady-like appearance, brought this ring here and desired me
+to purchase it. She seemed very anxious to dispose of the ornament, and,
+thinking I could easily sell it again, I paid her a fair price and took
+the ring, and that is all I can tell you about the matter." "You do not
+know the lady's name?" said the gentleman anxiously. "I do not," replied
+the man, "but I have frequently seen her pass in the street. The
+circumstance of her selling me this valuable ring caused me to notice
+her particularly, and I recognized her countenance ever after." "Name
+your price for the ring," said the gentleman,--"I must purchase it at
+any price; and the next thing, I must, if possible, find the young lady
+who brought it here, I have seen this ring before, and that is all I
+wish to say of the matter at present; but is there no way in which you
+can assist me in obtaining an interview with this young lady?" "I have
+no knowledge of her name or residence; but if you were in my shop when
+she chanced to pass here I could easily point her out to you in the
+street." "You may think my conduct somewhat strange," said the
+gentleman, "but believe me my reasons for seeking an interview with this
+young lady are most important and if you can point her out to me in the
+street I will endeavour to learn her residence, as that will be
+something gained." Before the gentleman left the shop he paid for the
+ring, and placed it in his pocket. For several days, he frequented the
+shop of the jeweller with the hope of gaining a view of the lady. At
+length one morning the shop-keeper suddenly directed his attention to a
+lady passing in the street, saying, "there, Sir, is the young lady from
+whom I purchased the ring." He waited to hear no more, but, stepping
+hastily into the street, followed the lady at a respectful distance; but
+never losing sight of her for a moment till she entered her home two
+streets distant from the shop of the jeweller. He approached the door
+and rang the bell. The door was opened by the same young lady, whose
+manner exhibited not a little embarrassment, when she beheld a total
+stranger; and he began to feel himself in an awkward position. He was at
+a loss how to address her till, recollecting that he must explain his
+visit in some way, he said: "Pardon the intrusion of a stranger; but, by
+your permission, I would like to enter the house, and have a word of
+conversation with you." The young girl regarded the man earnestly for a
+moment; but his manner was so gentlemanly and deferential that she could
+do no less than invite him to enter the little sitting-room where her
+mother was at work, and ask him to be seated. He bowed to Mrs. Harris on
+entering the room, then seating himself he addressed the young lady,
+saying: "The peculiar circumstances in which I am placed must serve as
+my apology for asking you a question which you may consider
+impertinent. Are you the young lady who, some months since, sold a
+diamond ring to a jeweller on Grafton street?" Mrs. Harris raised her
+eyes to the stranger's face, and the proud English blood which flowed in
+her veins mantled her cheek as she replied, "before I permit my daughter
+to answer the questions of a stranger, you will be so kind as to explain
+your right to question." The stranger sprang from his seat at the sound
+of her voice, and exclaimed, in a voice tremulous from emotion, "don't
+you know me Eliza, I am your long lost brother George." The reader will,
+doubtless, be better able to imagine the scene which followed, than I am
+to describe it. Everything was soon explained, many letters had been
+sent which never reached their destination; he knew not that his sister
+had left England, and after writing again and again, and receiving no
+reply, he ceased altogether from writing. During the first years of his
+sojourn in California, he was unfortunate, and was several times brought
+to the brink of the grave by sickness. After a time fortune smiled upon
+his efforts, till he at length grew immensely rich, and finally left the
+burning skies of California to return to England. He landed at New York
+and intended, after visiting the Canadas, to sail for England. The
+brother and sister had parted in their early youth, and it is no wonder
+that they failed to recognize each other when each had passed middle
+age. The brother was most changed of the two. His complexion had grown
+very dark, and he had such a foreign look that, when convinced of the
+fact, Mrs. Harris could hardly believe him to be one and the same with
+the stripling brother from whom she parted in England so many years ago.
+He was, of course, not aware of his sister's marriage, and he listened
+with sorrow to the story of her bereavement and other misfortunes. "You
+must now place a double value upon our family ring," said he, as he
+replaced the lost treasure upon his sister's hand; "for it is this
+diamond ring which has restored to each other the brother and sister who
+otherwise might never have met again on earth. And now, both you and
+your daughter must prepare for a voyage to dear old England. You need
+have no anxiety for the future; I have enough for us all and you shall
+want no more." Before leaving the City, accompanied by her brother, Mrs.
+Harris visited the grave of her husband; and the generous brother
+attended to the erection of a suitable tombstone, as the widow had
+before been unable to meet the expenses of it. Passing through the Upper
+Province they reached Montreal, whence they sailed for England. After a
+prosperous voyage they found themselves amid the familiar scenes of
+their childhood, where they still live in the enjoyment of as much
+happiness as usually falls to the lot of mortals.
+
+
+
+
+THE UNFORTUNATE MAN.
+
+
+On a sultry afternoon in midsummer I was walking on a lonely
+unfrequented road in the Township of S. My mind was busily occupied, and
+I paid little attention to surrounding objects till a hollow, unnatural
+voice addressed me, saying: "Look up my friend, and behold the
+unfortunate man." I raised my eyes suddenly, and, verily, the appearance
+of the being before me justified his self-bestowed appellation--the
+unfortunate man. I will do my best to describe him, although I am
+satisfied that my description will fall far short of the reality. He was
+uncommonly tall, and one thing which added much to the oddity of his
+appearance was the inequality of length in his legs, one being shorter
+by several inches than the other, and, to make up for the deficiency, he
+wore on the short leg a boot with a very high heel. He seemed to be past
+middle age, his complexion was sallow and unhealthy, he was squint-eyed,
+and his hair, which had once been of a reddish hue, was then a grizzly
+gray. Taken all together he was a strange looking object, and I soon
+perceived that his mind wandered. At first I felt inclined to hurry
+onward as quickly as possible, but, as he seemed harmless and inclined
+to talk to me, I lingered for a few moments to listen to him. "I do not
+wonder," said he, "that you look upon me with pity, for it is a sad
+thing for one to be crazy." Surprised to find him so sensible of his own
+situation I said: "As you seem so well aware that you are crazy, perhaps
+you can inform me what caused you to become so." "Oh yes," replied he,
+"I can soon tell you that: first my father died, then my mother, and
+soon after my only sister hung herself to the limb of a tree with a
+skein of worsted yarn; and last, and worst of all, my wife, Dorcas Jane,
+drowned herself in Otter Creek." Wondering if there was any truth in
+this horrible story, or if it was only the creation of his own diseased
+mind, I said, merely to see what he would say next, "What caused your
+wife to drown herself; was she crazy too?" "Oh no," replied he, "she was
+not crazy, but she was worse than that; for she was jealous of me,
+although I am sure she had no cause." The idea of any one being jealous
+of the being before me was so ridiculous that it was with the utmost
+difficulty that I refrained from laughter; but, fearing to offend the
+crazy man, I maintained my gravity by a strong effort. When he had
+finished the story of his misfortunes, he came close to me and said, in
+slow measured tones: "And now do you think it any wonder that I went
+raving distracted crazy?" "Indeed I do not," said I; "many a one has
+gone crazy for less cause." Thinking he might be hungry, I told him I
+would direct him to a farm-house, where he would be sure to obtain his
+supper. "No," replied he, "this is not one of my hungry days; I find so
+many who will give me nothing to eat that when I get the offer of a meal
+I always eat whether I am hungry or not, and I have been in luck to-day,
+for I have eaten five meals since morning; and now I must lose no more
+time, for I have important business with the Governor of Canada and must
+reach Quebec to-morrow." I regarded the poor crazy being with a feeling
+of pity, as he walked wearily onward, and even the high-heeled boot did
+not conceal a painful limp in his gait. But I had not seen the last of
+him yet. Some six months after, as I was visiting a friend who lived
+several miles distant, who should walk in, about eight o'clock in the
+evening, but the "unfortunate man." There had been a slight shower of
+rain, but not enough to account for the drenched state of his clothing.
+"How did you get so wet?" enquired Mr. ----. "O," replied he, "I was
+crossing a brook upon a log, and I slipped off into the water; and it
+rained on me at the same time, and between the two, I got a pretty smart
+ducking." They brought him some dry clothing, and dried his wet garments
+by the kitchen fire, and kindly allowed him to remain for the night. For
+several years, this man passed through S. as often as two or three times
+during each year. He became so well known in the vicinity, that any one
+freely gave him a meal or a night's lodging as often as he sought it.
+Every time he came along his mind was occupied by some new fancy, which
+seemed to him to be of the utmost importance, and to require prompt
+attention. He arrived in S. one bitter cold night in the depth of
+winter, and remained for the night with a family who had ever treated
+him kindly, and with whom he had often lodged before. He set out early
+the next morning to proceed (as he said) on his way to Nova Scotia.
+Years have passed away; but the "unfortunate man" has never since been
+seen in the vicinity. It was feared by some that he had perished in the
+snow; as there were some very severe storms soon after he left S.; but
+nothing was ever learned to confirm the suspicion. According to his own
+statement he belonged to the state of Vermont, but, from his speech, he
+was evidently not an American. Several years have passed away since his
+last visit to S., and it is more than probable that he is no longer
+among the living.
+
+
+
+
+THE OLD SCHOOLHOUSE.
+
+
+I lately visited the time-worn building, where for a lengthened period,
+during my early years, I studied the rudiments of education; and what a
+host of almost forgotten memories of the past came thronging back upon
+my mind as I stood alone--in that well remembered room. I seemed again
+to hear the hum of youthful voices as they conned or recited their daily
+tasks, and, as memory recalled the years that had passed since we used
+there to assemble, I could not avoid saying mentally: "My schoolmates,
+where are they?" Even that thought called to mind an amusing story
+related by a much loved companion who for a time formed one of our
+number.
+
+He was older than most of the other boys, and was a general favourite
+with all. He was famous for relating funny stories, of which he had a
+never-failing supply; and when the day was too stormy to allow of
+out-of-door sports, during the noon hour, we used to gather around the
+large stove which stood in the centre of the room and coax H. M. to tell
+us stories. The story which recurred to my mind was of a poor Irishman,
+who, in describing a visit which he paid to the home of his childhood
+after a long absence, said: "At the sober hour of twilight, I entered
+the lonely and desarted home uv me forefathers, an' as I gazed about the
+silent walls, I said, 'me fathers, where are they?' an' did not echo
+answer, 'Is that you Pathrick O'Flannigan, sure?'"
+
+I was in no mood for laughter, and yet I could not repress a smile, as
+memory recalled the comical voice and inimitable gestures with which
+young H. M. related the story. He was beloved by us all, and when he
+left school we parted from him with real sorrow. As I walked around, and
+looked upon the worn and defaced desks, I observed the initials of many
+once familiar names which many years before had been formed with a
+knife, which were not so much obliterated but I could easily decipher
+the well known letters. That desk in the corner was occupied by two
+brothers who when they grew up removed to one of the Eastern States,
+where they enlisted as soldiers in the war between the North and South.
+One of the brothers received his death-wound on the battlefield. In a
+foreign hospital he lingered in much suffering for a brief period, when
+he died and was buried, far from his home and kindred. The younger
+brother was naturally of a tender constitution and was unable to endure
+the hardships and privations of a soldier's life. His health failed him,
+and he returned to his friends, who had left their Canadian home, and
+removed to the State of Massachusetts; but all that the most skilful
+physicians could do, aided by the most watchful care of his tender
+mother, failed to check the ravages of disease. Consumption had marked
+him for its prey, and he died a few months after leaving the army; and,
+as his friends wept over his grave, they could see with their mind's eye
+another nameless grave in a far-away Southern State, where slept the
+other son and brother. The desk on my left hand was occupied by a youth,
+who has been for many years toiling for gold in California; and I have
+learned that he has grown very rich. I often wonder if, in his eager
+pursuit after riches, in that far-off clime, he ever thinks of the
+little brown school-house by the butternut trees, and of the smiling
+eager group who used daily to meet there. One large family of brothers
+and sisters, who attended this school for several years, afterward
+removed with their parents to one of the Western States, and years have
+passed away since I heard of them; but along with many others they were
+recalled to mind by my visit to the old School-House.
+
+On the opposite side of the room is the range of desks which were
+occupied by the girls, and I could almost fancy that I again saw the
+same lively, restless group who filled those desks in the days of
+long-ago. Again I saw the bright smile which was often hidden from the
+searching eye of our teacher, behind the covers of the well-worn
+spelling-book, again I saw the mischievous glances, and heard the
+smothered laughter when the attention of the teacher was required in
+some other part of the room. But these happy careless days of childhood
+are gone never to return. Were I inclined, I could trace the
+after-history of most of the companions whom I used daily to meet in
+this school-room. With many of them "life's history" is done, and they
+sleep peacefully in the grave. Others have gone forth to the duties of
+life; some far distant, others near their paternal homes. Many of the
+number have been successful in life, and prospered in their
+undertakings, while others have met with disappointment and misfortune.
+It seemed somewhat singular to me that, as I stood alone in that room
+(after the lapse of so many years), I could recollect, by the name, each
+companion I used to meet there; yet so it was, and it seemed but as
+yesterday since we used daily to assemble there; and, when I reflected
+for a moment on the many changes to which I have been subjected since
+that period, I could hardly realize that I was one and the same. I
+lingered long at the old School-House, for I expected never to behold it
+again, having been informed that it was shortly to give place to a
+building of a larger size, and of more modern structure.
+
+
+
+
+ARTHUR SINCLAIR.
+
+
+For several hours we had endured the jolting of the lumbering
+stage-coach over a rough hilly road which led through a portion of the
+State of New Hampshire; and, as the darkness of night gathered around
+us, I, as well as my fellow-travellers, began to manifest impatience to
+arrive at our stopping-place for the night; and we felt strongly
+inclined to find fault with the slow motion of the tired horses, which
+drew the heavily-loaded vehicle. Thinking it as well to know the worst
+at once, I asked the driver "what time we might expect to reach our
+destination for the night?" "It will be midnight at the least, perhaps
+later," replied he. This news was not very cheering to the weary
+travellers who filled the coach; and I almost regretted having asked the
+question. The roughness of the roads, together with the crowded state of
+the vehicle, made it impossible for any one to sleep, and it became an
+important question how we should pass away the tedious hours. A
+proposition was at length made, that some one of the passengers should
+relate a story for the entertainment of the others. This proposal met
+with the hearty approval of all, as a means of making our toilsome
+journey seem shorter; and the question of who should relate the story
+was very soon agitated. There was among the passengers one old gentleman
+of a very pleasant and venerable appearance, and judging from his
+countenance that he possessed intelligence, as well as experience, we
+respectfully invited him to relate a story for our entertainment. "I am
+not at all skilled in story-telling," replied the old gentleman, "but,
+as a means of passing away the tedious hours of the uncomfortable ride,
+I will relate some circumstances which took place many years since, and
+which also have connection with my present journey, although the
+narrative may not possess much interest for uninterested strangers." We
+all placed ourselves in a listening attitude, and the old man began as
+follows: "I was born in the town of Littleton in this State, and when a
+boy, I had one school-mate, whom I could have loved no better had he
+been a brother. His name was Arthur Sinclair. And the affectionate
+intimacy which existed between us for many years is yet to me a green
+spot in the waste of memory. I was about twelve years of age when
+Arthur's parents came to reside in Littleton. That now large and
+thriving village then contained but a few houses, and when the Sinclairs
+became our neighbours, we soon formed a very pleasing acquaintance. I
+was an only child, and had never been much given to making companions of
+the neighbouring boys of my own age; but from the first I felt strongly
+attracted toward Arthur Sinclair. He was two years younger than myself.
+At the time when I first met him he was the most perfect specimen of
+childish beauty I ever saw, and added to this he possessed a most
+winning and affectionate disposition, and in a short time we became
+almost inseparable companions. My nature was distant and reserved, but
+if once I made a friend, my affection for him was deep and abiding. We
+occupied the same desk in the village school, and often conned our daily
+lessons from the same book, and out of school hours, shared the same
+sports; and I remember once hearing our teacher laughingly remark to my
+parents, that he believed, should he find it necessary to correct one of
+us, the other would beg to share the punishment. Notwithstanding the
+strong friendship between us, our dispositions were very unlike. From a
+child I was prone to fits of depression, while Arthur on the other hand
+possessed such a never-failing flow of animal spirits, as rendered him
+at all times a very agreeable companion; and it may be that the
+dissimilarity of our natures attracted us all the more strongly to each
+other; be that as it may the same close intimacy subsisted between us
+till we reached the years of early manhood. The only fault I could ever
+see in Arthur was that of being too easily persuaded by others, without
+pausing to think for himself; and being the elder of the two, and of a
+reflective cast of mind, as we grew up, I often had misgivings for him
+when he should go forth from his home, and mingle with the world at
+large. The intimacy between us allowed me to speak freely to him, and I
+often reminded him of the necessity of watchfulness and consideration,
+when he should go forth alone to make his way in a selfish and unfeeling
+world.
+
+"He used to make light of what he termed my "croaking" and say I
+need have no fears of him; and I believe he spoke from the sincerity of
+his good intentions; he thought all others as sincere and open-hearted
+as himself, and happy had it been for him if he had found them so.
+Arthur received a very good business education, and, when he reached the
+age of twenty-one, obtained the situation of book-keeper in an extensive
+mercantile house in the city of Boston. There was a young girl in our
+village to whom Arthur had been fondly attached since the days of his
+boyhood, and I need scarcely say the attachment was reciprocal, and that
+before he left home he placed the engagement ring on her finger, naming
+no very distant period when he hoped to replace it by the wedding ring.
+Belinda Merril was worthy in every way of his affection, and loved him
+with all the sincerity of a pure and guileless heart. I almost wonder
+that the shadows which were even then gathering in what to them had ever
+been a summer sky, did not cast a chill over her heart. In due time
+Arthur went to the city. I could not help my fears, lest his pleasing
+manners and love of company should attract to him those who would lead
+him into evil; but I strove to banish them, and hope for the best. Our
+pastor, an old man, who had known Arthur from his childhood, called upon
+him, previous to his departure from home, and, without wearying him with
+a long list of rules and regulations regarding his future conduct, spoke
+to him as friend speaks to friend, and in a judicious manner
+administered some very good advice to the youth who was almost as dear
+to him as his own son. The young man listened attentively to the words
+of his faithful friend and sincerely thanked him for the advice which he
+well knew was prompted by affection. During the first year of his
+residence in the city, we wrote very frequently to each other, and the
+tone of his letters indicated the same pure principles which had ever
+governed his actions. Time passed on, and by-and-bye, I could not fail
+to notice the change in the style of his letters. He spoke much of the
+many agreeable acquaintances he had formed, and of the amusements of the
+city, and was warm in his commendations of the Theatre. My heart often
+misgave me as I perused his letters, and I mentally wondered where all
+this was to end? After a two-years' absence, he returned to spend a few
+weeks at home in Littleton, but he seemed so unlike my former friend,
+that I could hardly feel at ease in his society. He never once alluded
+to any incidents of our school days, as he used formerly so frequently
+to do, and objects of former interest possessed none for him now. He
+called Littleton a "terribly stupid place," and seemed anxiously to look
+forward to his return to Boston. "Surely," said I to him one evening as
+we were engaged in conversation, "Littleton must still contain one
+attraction for you yet." He appeared not to comprehend my meaning, but I
+well knew his ignorance was only feigned. But when he saw that I was not
+to be put off in that way, he said with a tone of assumed indifference,
+"O! if it is Belinda Merril you are talking about, I have to say that
+she is no longer an object of interest to me." "Is it possible, Arthur,"
+said I, "that you mean what you say; surely an absence of two years has
+not caused you to forget the love you have borne Miss Merril from
+childhood. I am very much surprised to hear you speak in this manner." A
+flush of anger, at my plain reply, rose to his cheek, and he answered in
+a tone of displeasure: "I may as well tell you first as last, my ideas
+have undergone a change. I did once think I loved Belinda Merril, but
+that was before I had seen the world, and now the idea to me is absurd
+of introducing this awkward country girl as my wife among my
+acquaintances in the city of Boston. I once had a sort of liking for the
+girl, but I care no longer for her, and the sooner I break with her the
+better, and I guess she won't break her heart about me." "I hope not
+indeed," I replied, "but I must be allowed to say that I consider your
+conduct unmanly and dishonourable, and I would advise you, before
+proceeding further, to pause and reflect whether it is really your heart
+which dictates your actions, or only a foolish fancy." Knowing how
+deeply Miss Merril was attached to Arthur, I hoped he would reconsider
+the matter, and I said as much to him; but all I could say was of no
+avail, and that very evening he called and, requesting an interview with
+his betrothed, informed her that, as his sentiments toward her had
+changed, he presumed she would be willing to release him from their
+former engagement. Instantly Miss Merril drew from her finger the ring
+he had placed there two years before, and said, as she placed it in his
+hand, "I have long been sensible of the change in your sentiments, and
+am truly glad that you have at last spoken plainly. From this hour you
+may consider yourself entirely free, and you have my best wishes for
+your future happiness and prosperity," and, bidding him a kind
+good-evening, the young lady left the apartment. Her spirit was deeply
+wounded, but she possessed too much good sense to be utterly cast down
+for the wrong-doing of another. Whatever were Arthur's feelings after he
+had taken this step, he spoke of them to no one. I never again mentioned
+the subject to him, but, knowing him as I did, I could see that he was
+far from being satisfied with his own conduct, and he departed for the
+city some weeks sooner than he had at first intended. Owing to the
+friendly feeling I had ever cherished for him, I could not help a
+feeling of anxiety after his departure, for I feared that all was not
+right with him. He did not entirely cease from writing to me; but his
+letters were not frequent, and they were very brief and formal--very
+unlike the former brotherly communications which used to pass between
+us. A year passed away. I obtained a situation nearly a hundred miles
+from home. I had heard nothing from Arthur for a long time, and, amid my
+own cares, he recurred to my mind with less frequency than formerly; yet
+often after the business of the day was over, and my mind was at
+leisure, memory would recall Arthur Sinclair to my mind with a pained
+sort of interest. About six months after I left home I was surprised by
+receiving from Mr. Sinclair a hastily written letter, requesting me, if
+possible, to lose no time in hastening to Littleton, stating also that
+he was obliged to take a journey to Boston on business which vitally
+concerned Arthur, and he wished me to accompany him. He closed by
+requesting me to mention the letter I had received from him to no one,
+saying that he knew me and my regard for Arthur sufficiently well to
+trust me in the matter. My fears were instantly alive for Arthur, and I
+feared that some misfortune to him was hidden behind this veil of
+secrecy: and I soon found that my fears were well founded. I set out at
+once for Littleton, and upon arriving there I proceeded directly to the
+residence of Mr. Sinclair. When he met me at the door I was struck by
+the change in his countenance; he appeared as if ten years had been
+added to his age since I last saw him, six months ago. He waited not for
+me to make any inquiries, but, motioning me into a private apartment, he
+closed the door, and seating himself by my side, said in a hoarse voice:
+"I may as well tell you the worst at once: my son, and also your once
+dear friend, Arthur, is a thief, and, but for the lenity and
+consideration of his employer, before this time would have been lodged
+within the walls of a prison." I made no reply, but gazed upon him in
+silent astonishment and horror. When he became more composed, he
+informed me that he had lately received a letter from Mr. Worthing
+(Arthur's employer) informing him that he had detected Arthur in the
+crime of stealing money from the safe, to quite a large amount. In
+giving the particulars of the unfortunate circumstance, he further
+stated, for some time past he had missed different sums of money, but
+was unable to attach suspicion to any one; "and, although," said he, "I
+have been for some time fearful that your son was associating with evil
+companions, I never once dreamed that he would be guilty of the crime of
+stealing, till I lately missed bank-notes from the safe, to quite a
+large amount, having upon them some peculiar marks which rendered them
+easy to be identified. For some time the disappearance of those notes
+was a mystery, and I was beginning to despair of detecting the guilty
+one, when I obtained proof positive that your unfortunate son parted
+with those identical notes in a noted gambling saloon in the city; and,
+as I have also learned that he has spent money freely of late, I have no
+longer any doubt that it is he who has stolen the other sums I have
+lost. Out of regard to you and your family I have kept the matter
+perfectly quiet; indeed, I never informed the parties who told me his
+losing the notes at the gaming-table that there was anything wrong about
+it. I have not mentioned the matter to your son, and shall not do so
+till I see or hear from you. I presume you will be willing to make good
+to me the money I have lost. Of course I cannot much longer retain your
+son in my employ, but he must not be utterly ruined by this affair being
+made public. I would advise you to come at once to Boston, and we will
+arrange matters in the best possible manner, and no one but ourselves
+need know anything of the sad affair; let him return with you for a time
+to his home, and I trust the lesson will not be lost upon him. When he
+first came to the city, I am positive that he was an honourable and
+pure-minded young man, but evil companions have led him astray, and we
+must try and save him from ruin."
+
+I had never seen Mr. Worthing, but I at once felt much respect for
+him, for the lenity and discretion he had shown in the matter. To no one
+but his own family and myself did Mr. Sinclair reveal the contents of
+that letter; but the very evening after my arrival in Littleton we set
+out on our journey to Boston, and, upon arriving there, we proceeded at
+once to the residence of Mr. Worthing, where we learned all the
+particulars of Arthur's guilt. Mr. Worthing stated that he had ever
+entertained a very high opinion of Arthur, and, when he missed various
+sums of money in a most unaccountable manner, he never thought of fixing
+suspicion upon him, till circumstances came to his knowledge which left
+no room for doubt; but, owing to the high regard he entertained for his
+parents, with whom he had (years since) been intimately acquainted, he
+said nothing to the young man of the proofs of his dishonesty which had
+come to his knowledge, and still retained him in his employ till he
+could communicate with his father, that they together might devise some
+means of preventing the affair from becoming public. After Mr. Sinclair
+had listened to the plain statement of the affair by Mr. Worthing, he
+requested him as nearly as possible to give him an estimate of the
+amount of money he had lost. He did so, and Mr. Sinclair immediately
+placed an equivalent sum in his hands, saying: "I am glad to be able so
+far to undo the wrong of which my son has been guilty." All this time
+Arthur knew nothing of our arrival in the city; but when his father
+dispatched a message, requesting him to meet him at the house of his
+employer, he was very soon in our presence. I hope I may never again
+witness another meeting like that one, between the father and son. When
+charged with the crime, Arthur at first made a feeble attempt at denial,
+till finding the strong proofs against him, he owned all with shame and
+humiliation of countenance. The stern grief of Mr. Sinclair was
+something fearful to witness. "How could you" said he, addressing
+Arthur, "commit so base a deed? Tell me, my son, in what duty I have
+failed in your early training? I endeavored to instil into your mind
+principles of honor and integrity, and to enforce the same by setting
+before you a good example. If I have failed in any duty to you, it was
+through ignorance, and may God forgive me if I have been guilty of any
+neglect in your education."
+
+Trembling with suppressed emotion Arthur replied: "You are blameless,
+my father; on me alone must rest my sin, for had I obeyed your kind
+counsels, and those of my dearest friend, (pointing to me) I should
+never have been the guilty wretch I am to-day." Turning to me, he said:
+"Many a time within the last few months have I called to mind the
+lightness with which I laughed away your fears for my safety, when I
+left home for the city. O! that I had listened to your friendly warning,
+and followed the path which you pointed out for me. When I first came to
+the great city, I was charmed with the novelty of its never-ceasing
+scenes of amusement and pleasure. I began by mingling with company, and
+participating in amusements, which, to say the least of them, were
+questionable; and I soon found my salary inadequate to meet my fast
+increasing wants for money; and, as many an unfortunate youth has done
+before, I began the vice of gambling with the hope of being one of the
+lucky ones. My tempters, no doubt, understood their business, and at
+first allowed me to win from them considerable sums of money; till,
+elated with my success, I began playing for higher stakes, and when I
+lost them, I grew desperate, and it was then that I began adding the sin
+of theft to the no less heinous one of gambling. But it is no use now to
+talk of the past; my character is blasted, and all I wish is to die and
+hide my guild in the grave, and yet I am ill-prepared to die." He became
+so much excited, that we endeavored to soothe him by kind and
+encouraging words. His father bade him amend his conduct for the future,
+and he would freely forgive and forget the past. In my piety for my
+early friend, I almost forgot the wrong he had done, and thought only of
+the loved companion of my boyhood and youth. I cannot describe my
+feelings, as I gazed upon the shame-stricken young man, whom I had so
+often caressed in the days of our boyish affection and confidence.
+Little did I then think I should ever behold him thus. The utmost
+secrecy was observed by all parties; and it was decided that we would
+remain for the night with Mr. Worthing, and, accompanied by Arthur, set
+out early the next morning on our homeward journey. But it was ordered
+otherwise. The next morning Arthur was raving in delirium of brain
+fever, brought, on doubtless, by the mental torture he had endured. Mr.
+Sinclair dispatched a message, informing his wife of Arthur's illness,
+and three days later she stood by the bed-side of her son. For several
+days the fever raged. We allowed no stranger to watch by him, for in his
+delirium his mind dwelt continually upon the past, and no one but
+ourselves must listen to his words. Mr. Worthing was very kind, and
+shared the care of the poor young man with his parents and myself. At
+length came the crisis of his disorder. "Now," said the physician, "for
+a few hours, his life will hang, as it were, upon a thread. If the
+powers of life of are not too far exhausted by the disease he may rally
+but I have many fears, for he is brought very low. All the encouragement
+I dare offer that is, while there is life there is hope."
+
+He sunk into a deep slumber, and I took my place to watch by him
+during the night. Mr. Worthing persuaded his parents to seek a few hours
+rest, as they were worn out with fatigue and anxiety; and exacting from
+me a promise that I would summon them if the least change for the worse
+should take place, they retired, and I was left to watch alone by my
+friend. All I could do was to watch and wait, as the hours passed
+wearily on. A little before midnight the physician softly entered, and
+stood with me at his bed-side; soon after he languidly opened his eyes,
+and in a whisper he pronounced my name. As I leaned over him, and
+eagerly scanned his countenance, I perceived that the delirium of fever
+was gone. The physician, fearing the effect upon him of the least
+excitement, made a motion to me enjoining silence, and mixing a quieting
+cordial, held to his lips. He eagerly quaffed the cooling draught, and
+again fell into a quiet slumber. "Now," said the physician, "I have a
+faint hope that he may recover, but he is so weak that any excitement
+would prove fatal; all depends upon keeping him perfectly quiet for the
+next few hours." The doctor departed, and again I was left alone to
+watch over his slumber. Before morning, anxiety brought Mr. and Mrs.
+Sinclair to the room, to learn if there had been any change. In a
+whisper I informed them of the favorable symptoms he had evinced upon
+waking, and persuaded them to retire from the apartment. When Arthur
+again awoke, the favorable symptoms still continued, and the physician
+entertained strong hopes of his recovery. By degrees he was allowed to
+converse for a few moments at a time. It seemed to him, he said, as
+though he had awakened from a frightful dream; and he begged to know how
+long he had been ill, and what had happened during the time. We were all
+very cautious to say nothing to excite him; and by degrees as his mind
+grew stronger, everything came back clearly to his mind, his father's
+visit, and the circumstances which had brought him to the city. It is
+needless for me to dwell upon the long period, while he lay helpless as
+an infant, watched over by his fond mother, who felt that he had almost
+been given back from the dead. But he continued slowly to recover, and
+being unable to remain longer, I left his parents with him, and returned
+to my home in Littleton, and soon after went back to my employer. Mr.
+and Mrs. Sinclair remained with Arthur till he was able to bear the
+journey to Littleton, and it was to them a happy day, when they arrived
+safely at their home, accompanied by their son, who seemed to them
+almost as one restored from the dead. The unfortunate circumstances
+connected with Arthur's illness were a secret locked up in the bosoms of
+the few faithful friends to whom it was known. Arthur arose from that
+bed of sickness a changed man, and it was ever after to him a matter of
+wonder how he could have been so far led astray, and he felt the most
+unbounded gratitude to Mr. Worthing for the kindness and consideration
+he had shown him. His father did quite an extensive business as a
+merchant in Littleton, and as Arthur became stronger he assisted in the
+store; and after a time his father gave him a partnership in the
+business, which rendered his again leaving home unnecessary. A
+correspondence, varied occasionally by friendly visits, was kept up
+between the Sinclairs and the family of Mr. Worthing; for Arthur never
+could forget the debt of gratitude he owed his former employer. I have
+little more to tell, and I will bring my long and, I fear somewhat
+tedious, story to a close, by relating one more event in the life of my
+friend. I resided at a quite a long distance from Littleton, and some
+two years after Arthur's return home, I was surprised by receiving an
+invitation from him to act as groomsman at his wedding, and the bride
+was to be Miss Merrill. I know not exactly how the reconciliation took
+place. But I understood that Arthur first sought an interview with the
+young lady, and humbly acknowledged the wrong of which he had been
+guilty, saying, what was indeed true, that he had ever loved her, and he
+knew not what infatuation influenced him in his former conduct. Many
+censured Miss Merrill for her want of spirit, as they termed it, in
+again receiving his addresses, but I was too well pleased by his happy
+termination of the affair to censure any one connected with it. The
+wedding day was a happy one to those most deeply concerned, and such
+being the case, the opinion of others was of little consequence; and the
+clouds which had for a time darkened their sky, left no shadow upon the
+sunshine of their wedded life. Arthur and his father were prospered in
+their business, and for many years they all lived happily together. In
+process of time his parents died, and Arthur soon after sold out his
+share in the business to a younger brother, as he had received a
+tempting offer to remove to Boston, and enter into partnership with Mr.
+Worthing's son, as the old gentleman had some time before resigned any
+active share in the business. When Arthur learned their wishes he was
+very anxious to return to them; "For," said he, "it is to Mr. Worthing I
+owe my salvation from disgrace and ruin." For many years he has carried
+on a lucrative business with the son of his former employer and friend.
+An interesting family of sons and daughters have grown up around him,
+and I may with truth call them a happy family. Old Mr. Worthing has been
+for some years dead; and his earthly remains quietly repose amid the
+peaceful shades of Mount Auburn. My own life has been a busy one, and
+twenty years have passed away since I met with Arthur Sinclair; but the
+object of this journey is to visit my early friend, who, as well as
+myself, is now an old man." As the old gentleman finished the story, to
+which we had all listened with much interest, we arrived at our stopping
+place for the night, and, fatigued with the day's journey, we were soon
+conducted to our several apartments. The next morning we parted with the
+kind old man, as his onward route lay in another direction, but I could
+not help following him in thought, and picturing the joyous meeting
+between himself and his early friend, Arthur Sinclair.
+
+
+
+
+THE SNOW STORM.
+
+
+The event I am about to relate happened many years ago, but I have often
+heard it mentioned by those to whom all the circumstances were well
+known; and, when listening to this story, I have often thought that
+there is enough of interest attached to many events which took place
+during the period of the early settlement of that portion of Eastern
+Canada which borders on the River St. Francis, to fill volumes, were
+they recorded.
+
+The morning had been clear and pleasant, but early in the afternoon
+the sky became overcast with dark clouds, and for several hours the snow
+fell unceasingly, and now the darkness of night was added to the gloomy
+scene. As the night set in, the snow continued to fall in a thick
+shower, and a strong easterly wind arose, which filled the air with one
+blinding cloud of drifting snow; and the lights in the scattered
+habitations in the then primitive settlement of D. could scarcely be
+distinguished amid the thick darkness. It was a fearful night to be
+abroad upon that lonely and almost impassable road; and Mrs. W. fully
+realized the peril to which her husband was exposed on that inclement
+night. He had set out that morning, on foot, to visit a friend, who
+resided at a distance of several miles, intending to return to his home
+at an early hour in the evening. It was a lonely road over which he had
+to pass; the habitations were few and far between, and, as the storm
+increased with the approach of night, Mrs. W. strongly hoped that her
+husband had been persuaded to pass the night with his friend; for she
+feared that, had he been overtaken by the darkness of night, he would
+perish in the storm; and the poor woman was in a state of painful
+anxiety and suspense. The supper-table was spread, but Mrs. W. was unable
+to taste food; and, giving the children their suppers, she awaited with
+intense anxiety the return of her husband. The storm increased till it
+was evident that it was one of unusual severity, even for the rigorous
+climate of Canada, and, as the wind shook the windows of their dwelling,
+the children often exclaimed in tones of terror: "O! what will become of
+poor father if he is out in this storm." Bye-and-bye the tired children
+fell asleep, and Mrs. W. was left alone by her fireside. She endeavoured
+to quiet her fears by thinking him safe in the house of his friend, but
+she could not drive away the thought that he had set out upon his return
+home, and she feared, if such was the case, he had met his death in that
+pitiless storm. She was two miles from any neighbour, surrounded by her
+family of young children; so all she could do was to wait and watch as
+the hours wore on. Sleep was out of the question, and the dawn of day
+found her still keeping her lonely vigil. As the sun rose the wind
+calmed, but the thick drifts of snow rendered it impossible for her to
+leave the house, and she watched anxiously if any one might chance to
+pass, to whom she could apply for assistance in gaining tidings of her
+husband. Alas! her fears of the previous night were but too well
+founded. He had perished in the storm. His friend tried his utmost to
+persuade him to remain for the night when the storm began, but he was
+anxious to return to his home, fearing the anxiety of his family: and he
+left his friend's house about four o'clock in the afternoon. The weather
+was intensely cold, as well as stormy, and, owing to the depth of snow
+which had already fallen, he could make but slow progress, and, when
+overtaken by darkness and the increasing tempest, benumbed with cold,
+and blinded by the whirling drifts of snow, he sank down by the roadside
+to die, and the suspense of his wife was at length relieved by the
+painful certainty of his fate.
+
+About noon on the day succeeding the storm, as Dr. S. was slowly
+urging his horse onward, in order to visit a patient who resided in the
+vicinity, he observed some object lying almost concealed in the snow.
+Stopping his horse, he left his sleigh to examine it, and was
+horror-struck to find it the body of a man. Thinking that, possibly,
+life was not extinct, he took the body into his sleigh and made all
+possible haste to the nearest dwelling, where every means was used for
+the recovery of Mr. W.; but all was of no avail, he was frozen to death.
+It was the kind physician himself who first bore the sad tidings to Mrs.
+W. When the lifeless body of the husband and father was borne to his own
+dwelling, I have heard the scene described by those who witnessed it, as
+most heart-rending. On the day of his burial the settlers in the
+vicinity came from a long distance to pay their last tribute of respect
+to one who had been much esteemed as a friend and neighbour. The widow
+of Mr. W. is still living, but she now is of a very advanced age. His
+children grew up and settled in various places, and the elder ones among
+them retained a distinct recollection of the sad death of their father.
+
+
+
+
+THE NEW YEAR.
+
+
+Another year has just glided away, and it seems but as yesterday that we
+stood at its threshold, and looked forward over its then seemingly
+lengthened way, and fancy was busy with many plans and projects for
+future happiness and delight. We looked forward through the whole border
+of its months, weeks, days and hours, and life grew bright with pleased
+anticipations. The year has now passed away, and how few, very few, of
+all our bright hopes have been realized. With how many of us have
+unexpected and unwished for events taken the place of those to which we
+looked forward with so much delight.
+
+As the hours and moments of the past year have slowly glided into
+the ocean of the past, they have borne with them the treasures of many a
+fond heart. The sun shines as brightly as ever, the moon and stars still
+look placidly down upon the sleeping earth, and life is the same as it
+has ever been; but for these their work is over, and they have done with
+time. As I sat watching the fast gathering shadows over the last night
+of the old year, I fell into a sort of waking dream, and I seemed to
+hear the slow measured tread of one wearily approaching. Turning my eyes
+in the direction of the approaching footsteps, I beheld the form of a
+very aged man; his countenance appeared somewhat familiar, yet it was
+furrowed by many wrinkles, and on his once high and beautiful forehead
+were the deep lines of corroding care and anxiety. His step was slow,
+and he leaned for support on his now well-nigh failing staff. He bore
+the marks of extreme feebleness, and gazed forward with a manner of
+timidity and uncertainty, and on his changeful countenance was expressed
+all the multitudinous emotions of the human breast. His garments had
+once been white and shining, but they were now stained and darkened by
+travel, and portions of them trailed in the dust. As he drew nigh I
+observed that he carried in his hand a closely written scroll, on which
+was recorded the events of the past year. As I gazed upon the record, I
+read of life begun, and of death in every circumstance and condition of
+mortal being, of happiness and misery, of love and hate, of good and
+evil,--all mingling their different results in that graphic record; and
+I trembled as my own name met my view, with the long list of
+opportunities for good unimproved, together with the many sins, both of
+omission and commission, of which I had been guilty during the past
+year; but there was nothing left out,--the events in the life of every
+individual member of the human family were there, all recorded in
+legible characters. As the midnight hour struck the aged man, who
+typified the old year, faded from my view, and, almost before I was
+aware of the change, youth and beauty stood smiling before me. The old
+year gone, the new year had begun. His robes were white and glistening,
+his voice was mirthful, and his step buoyant; health and vigor braced
+his limbs. He, too, bore in his hand a scroll, but white as the
+unsullied snow; not a line was yet traced upon its pure surface, except
+the title, Record of 1872. I gazed on its fresh and gladsome visage with
+mingled emotions of sorrow and joy, and I breathed my prayer for
+forgiveness, for the follies and sins of the departed year.
+
+
+
+
+EARNEST HARWOOD;
+
+OR,
+
+THE ADOPTED SON.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+
+It was on a pleasant afternoon, in the month of June, some years ago,
+that a small funeral procession might have been seen slowly wending its
+way to the church-yard from the dwelling of Mr. Humphrey, in the village
+of Walden in one of the Eastern States. Although a deep seriousness
+pervaded the small company, and the manner of each was subdued, yet
+there were no visible tokens of that strong grief which overwhelms the
+soul when the ties of nature are rent asunder; for, with the exception
+of a little boy, apparently about five years of age, whom Mr. Humphrey
+kindly led by the hand, no one present bore any relationship to the
+deceased. As the procession approached the grave, and the coffin was
+lowered to its final resting-place, the little boy sobbed bitterly as he
+begged of Mr. Humphrey not to allow them to bury his mamma in the
+ground. Mr. Humphrey took the child in his arms, and endeavored to quiet
+him by many kind and soothing words, explaining to him, so far as the
+child was able to comprehend his meaning, that the soul of his mamma was
+now in Heaven, but that it was necessary that her dead body should be
+buried in the grave; and that although he would see her no more in this
+world he would, if he were a good boy, meet her one day in Heaven. The
+child still continued to weep, though less bitterly than before,--and
+when the grave had been filled up he quietly allowed Mr. Humphrey to
+lead him from the church-yard.
+
+In order that the reader may understand the event above narrated, it is
+necessary that I should go back a little in my story.
+
+A few weeks previous to the circumstance related at the opening of this
+chapter a pale weary-looking woman, leading by the hand a little boy,
+might have been seen walking one evening along the principal street of
+the small village of Walden. Although her dress was extremely plain, yet
+there was a certain air of refinement about her which informed the
+observer that she had once occupied a position very different from what
+was indicated by her present appearance. The little boy by her side was
+indeed a child of surpassing beauty. His complexion was clear and fair,
+and a profusion of dark brown hair clustered in thick curls around his
+full white brow. His childish features were lighted up by large and
+expressive eyes of a dark hazel color. He was a child which the most
+careless observer would hardly pass by without turning to gaze a second
+time upon his wondrous beauty.
+
+I have been thus particular in describing the little boy as he is to be
+the principal actor in the simple scenes of my story.
+
+As they walked slowly forward the woman addressed the child in a voice
+that was weak and tremulous from fatigue, saying,--
+
+"We must call at some house and seek a shelter for the night, for indeed
+I am unable to walk further."
+
+It required not this remark from her to satisfy the beholder of her
+inability to proceed, for extreme fatigue and exhaustion were visible in
+her every motion.
+
+She approached the door of a handsome dwelling situated in the central
+portion of the village, and rang the bell. The door was opened by an
+elderly-looking man, who accosted her civilly and seemed waiting for her
+to make known her errand.
+
+In a low and timid voice the woman asked him if he would allow herself
+and child to rest for the night beneath his roof?
+
+He replied, in a voice that was decidedly gruff and crusty,--
+
+"There are two hotels in the village; we keep no travellers here," and
+immediately closed the door in her face.
+
+Could he have seen the forlorn expression that settled on her
+countenance when, on regaining the street, she took her little boy by
+the hand and again walked slowly onward--his heart must indeed have been
+hard if he had not repented of his unkindness.
+
+After walking a short distance further, the woman paused before a house
+of much humbler appearance than the former one, and, encouraged by the
+motherly appearance of an elderly lady who sat knitting at her open door
+in the lingering twilight, she drew nigh to her, and asked if she would
+shelter herself and child for the night.
+
+The old lady regarded her earnestly for a moment; she seemed, however,
+to be impressed favorably by her appearance, for her voice was very
+pleasant, as she replied to her request,--
+
+"Certainly you can remain for the night, for I have never yet denied so
+small a favor (as a shelter for the night) to any one who sought it.
+Come in at once, and I will endeavor to make you and your little boy
+comfortable, for you look very much fatigued."
+
+The woman gladly followed the kind old lady into the house, and seated
+herself in the comfortable rocking chair which she had kindly placed for
+her; she also placed a seat for the child, but he refused to leave his
+mother's side, and stood leaning upon the arm of her chair. The old lady
+soon after left the room saying, as she did so, that she would soon
+bring them some refreshment, of which they evidently stood much in need.
+
+Mr. Humphrey, the husband of the old lady, soon came in, and his wife
+said a few words to him in a low voice in the adjoining room; a kind
+expression was upon his countenance when he entered the room where were
+the strangers. He coaxed the little boy to come and sit upon his knee,
+by the offer of a large red-cheeked apple which he took from his pocket.
+He stroked his brown curls and asked him to tell him his name.
+
+"Ernest Harwood," replied the boy.
+
+Mr. Humphrey told him he thought it a very nice name, and also that he
+thought him a very fine little boy. The little fellow blushed, and hid
+his face at the praise thus bestowed upon him.
+
+Mrs. Humphrey soon after re-entered the room, bringing a small tea-tray,
+on which was a cup of tea and some other suitable refreshment for the
+weary woman; she also brought a bowl of bread and milk for the child.
+The woman drank the tea eagerly, like one athirst, but partook sparingly
+of the more substantial refreshment which Mrs. Humphrey urged upon her;
+but the sight of the brim-full bowl of bread and milk caused the eyes of
+the little boy to glisten with pleasure, and he did ample justice to the
+hospitality of the benevolent old lady.
+
+Mrs. Harwood wished to give Mrs. Humphrey some account of the
+circumstances which caused her to be travelling alone with her child,
+but the worthy and considerate lady would not allow her to further
+fatigue herself by talking that night, and insisted upon her retiring at
+once to rest.
+
+"To-morrow," said she, "I shall be happy to listen to any thing you may
+wish to communicate."
+
+Mrs. Humphrey conducted the woman and her child up stairs to a neat
+bed-room where, after making every arrangement necessary to their
+comfort, she bade them a kind good night, and left them to enjoy the
+rest which they so much needed.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+
+When Mrs. Humphrey rejoined her husband in the sitting-room, their
+conversation very naturally turned to the stranger who was resting
+beneath their roof. They evidently felt deeply interested by her
+delicate and lady-like appearance.
+
+"I am sure of one thing," said Mrs. Humphrey, "that this woman has seen
+better days, notwithstanding the poverty which her present appearance
+indicates."
+
+"And I am convinced of another thing," replied Mr. Humphrey, "that no
+fault of her's has reduced her to her present circumstances, for her
+countenance shews her to be a worthy and true-souled woman; and she
+shall freely remain beneath my roof until it shall be her wish to leave
+it."
+
+Little did Mr. Humphrey think, when he made this remark, how soon the
+poor woman would exchange the shelter of his roof for that of the grave.
+
+Next morning on visiting the room of the stranger, Mrs. Humphrey found
+her too ill to rise from the bed. She complained of no pain, but seemed
+very weak and languid. Mrs. Humphrey did all that lay in her power for
+the comfort of the sick woman. Taking little Ernest down stairs she
+beguiled him with amusing stories, as she attended to her domestic
+duties, so that his mother might be left in quiet; and when the child
+grew weary of the confinement of the house Mr. Humphrey took him to walk
+with him while he attended to some business in the village. Before
+returning home Mr. Humphrey called upon Dr. Merton, with whom he was
+intimately acquainted, and spoke to him concerning the sick woman at his
+house. He requested the physician to call to see her in the course of
+the day, saying, that if the woman was not able to pay him he would
+himself see him paid for his services.
+
+"It makes no difference," replied the humane physician, "whether she is
+rich or poor, if she requires the attention of a physician she must not
+be neglected; I will certainly call in the afternoon."
+
+The physician accordingly called in the afternoon, and, after some
+conversation with Mrs. Harwood, prescribed for her some medicines, and
+left her, promising to call again in a short time. Before leaving the
+house, however, he informed Mrs. Humphrey that he thought the woman
+alarmingly ill. "As near," said he, "as I can judge from her appearance,
+I think that consumption has been for a long time preying upon her
+constitution, and over-fatigue has thus suddenly prostrated her. The
+powers of life," continued Dr. Merton, "are fast failing, and in my
+opinion a few weeks will terminate her earthly existence. I have
+prescribed for her some simple medicines, but I fear her case is already
+beyond the aid of medicine. All we can do," said the physician in
+conclusion, "is to render her as comfortable as may be, for she will
+soon require nothing which this world affords."
+
+The lonely situation of the stranger had deeply touched the kind heart
+of Dr. Merton.
+
+As the Doctor had predicted, Mrs. Harwood failed rapidly. She suffered
+but little bodily pain, but her strength failed her daily, and it soon
+became evident to all who saw her, that the day of her death could not
+be far distant.
+
+She gave to Mrs. Humphrey a brief sketch of her past life, which will be
+made the subject of another chapter.
+
+Mr. and Mrs. Humphrey had reared a family of five children; three of
+them now slept in the village church-yard; the remaining two had
+married, and removed to a long distance from their paternal home,
+consequently the worthy couple had for some years dwelt alone in the
+home where once had echoed the glad voices of their children.
+
+They soon decided that, should Mrs. Harwood not recover, they would
+gladly adopt her little boy as their own, if she felt willing to leave
+him to their care. So great was the anxiety of Mrs. Harwood regarding
+her child, that it was long ere she gave up hopes of recovery, but when
+she at length became aware that she must die, she at first found it very
+difficult to resign herself to the will of Heaven.
+
+"Were it not for my child," she would often say, "the prospect of death
+would not be unpleasant to me, for I have a comforting hope of a life
+beyond the grave; but who will care for my orphan boy when I am no more?
+I must not distrust the goodness of the orphans' God."
+
+Mr. Humphrey, in reply to these remarks one day, said to her--
+
+"I hope you will make your mind perfectly easy in regard to your child;
+for, should it please God to remove you by death, I have already decided
+to adopt little Ernest as my own son, if you feel willing to consign him
+to my care; and you may rest assured that while my life is spared he
+shall be tenderly cared for, as though he were my own son."
+
+"Now," replied Mrs. Harwood, "can I die willingly. Since my illness it
+has been my daily and nightly prayer, that should it be the will of
+Heaven that I should not recover, God would raise up friends to care for
+my orphan boy, and that prayer is now answered."
+
+Just six weeks from the evening on which Mrs. Harwood entered the
+dwelling of Mr. Humphrey, her eyes were closed in death. The last day of
+her life was passed mostly in a kind of lethargy, from which it was
+almost impossible to arouse her. Toward evening she rallied, and her
+mind seemed clear and calm. She was aware that the hour of her death had
+arrived; but she felt no fears in the prospect of her approaching
+dissolution. She thanked Mr. and Mrs. Humphrey for their kindness to
+her, and again tenderly committed to their care her boy, who would soon
+become an orphan.
+
+"I am powerless to reward you," said the dying woman, "but God will
+certainly reward you for your kindness to the widow and orphan."
+
+She requested that her child might be brought and placed by her side.
+Placing her thin wasted hands upon his head she said, in a voice
+scarcely audible,--
+
+"May the God who never forsakes the orphan preserve my precious boy amid
+the perils and dangers of the sinful world!"
+
+She drew the face of the child close to her own, and imprinted a
+mother's last kiss upon his brow, and sank back exhausted upon her
+pillow. A few more fluttering quick drawn breaths and her spirit had
+winged its way from earth, and no one who witnessed her death felt a
+doubt that its flight was heavenward.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+
+The following brief account of the early life of Mrs. Harwood I give as
+nearly as possible in her own words:--
+
+"My earliest recollection carries me back to a small village in
+Scotland, about one hundred miles distant from the city of Edinburgh,
+where I was born the daughter of a minister of the Church of Scotland. I
+was an only child. The salary which my father received was moderate, but
+was nevertheless sufficient to support us respectably. When I became of
+suitable age I was sent to school, and continued to pursue my studies
+until I arrived at the age of fourteen years. At that period I was
+deprived by death of a fond and indulgent father. Previous to the death
+of my father neither my mother nor myself had ever experienced an
+anxious thought as regarded the future. The salary my father received
+had enabled us to live in comfort and respectability; and we do not
+often anticipate the death of a strong and healthy man. He died very
+suddenly; and when my mother's grief at our sudden bereavement had so
+far subsided as to allow her taking some thought for the future, she
+found that although my father had died free from debt he had been unable
+to lay by anything for our future support. During my father's lifetime
+we had occupied the parsonage, rent free, as had been stipulated when my
+father became pastor of the church over which he presided till his
+death. Consequently we had no longer any rightful claim to the dwelling
+which had been our home for so many years. They kindly gave us
+permission however, to occupy the house for one year, but my mother
+liked not to continue to occupy a home which, in reality, was no longer
+ours. After some deliberation upon the subject, my mother decided upon
+teaching, as a means of support, as her own education had been
+sufficiently thorough to render her competent for the undertaking. But,
+as the village where we resided was small and already well supplied with
+schools, she wrote to an old friend of my father's, who resided in
+Edinburgh, as to what he thought of her removing to that city, for the
+purpose of opening a school. She received a very encouraging reply from
+the old gentleman, in which he promised to render her all the assistance
+in his power in the way of obtaining pupils, and as the gentleman was
+well known and much respected in the city, we found his assistance in
+this respect to be of much value. The task of breaking up our old home
+proved a very sad one both to my mother and myself. The furniture of the
+parsonage was our own. My father had left quite an extensive library,
+considering his limited means. With the exception of a few volumes which
+my mother reserved for ourselves, she disposed of the books among our
+acquaintances at a fair value, as each was anxious to obtain some relic
+of their beloved pastor. The kind people, among whom we had resided,
+expressed many kind wishes for our future welfare, when we left them to
+seek a home in the great city. The school which my mother opened upon
+our removal to the city proved very successful, and soon yielded us a
+comfortable support. I assisted my mother both in the duties of the
+school-room and also in our household work. We were prospered and lived
+contentedly in our new home. We missed, it is true, the familiar faces
+of our old friends, but we soon found friends in our new home; we were
+cheerful, and should have been happy but for the sad loss we had
+recently sustained. Four years thus glided by, during which time our
+school continued to afford us a comfortable support. About this time I
+became acquainted with Mr. Harwood, who had a short time before
+commenced the practice of law in the city of Edinburgh, and one year
+later I became his wife. His pecuniary circumstances were but moderate,
+as he had been only a short time engaged in the practice of his
+profession. We resided with my mother, as she could not bear the idea of
+being separated from me. I continued as usual to assist her in the
+duties of her school. We, in this way, lived happily, till the event of
+my mother's death, which took place two years after my marriage. She
+took a sudden cold, which settled upon her lungs, and terminated in a
+quick consumption, which, after a short period of suffering, closed her
+life. She died as she had lived, full of religious hope and trust. Of my
+own sorrow I will not now speak; the only thought which afforded me the
+least consolation was--that what was my loss, was her eternal gain.
+About a year after the death of my mother my husband formed the idea of
+going to America. He had little difficulty in gaining my consent to
+accompany him. Had my mother still lived the case would have been very
+different; as it was, I had no remaining tie to bind me to Scotland, and
+wherever he deemed it for the best to go, I felt willing to accompany
+him, for he was my all in the wide world. We left the British shores on
+the tenth of June, and after a prosperous voyage, we found ourselves
+safely landed in the city of Boston. We brought with us money sufficient
+to secure us from want for a time, and my husband soon began to acquire
+quite a lucrative practice in his profession, and our prospects for the
+future seemed bright. For a long time my spirits were weighed down by
+home-sickness. I felt an intense desire to return to the home we had left
+beyond the sea, but in time this feeling wore away, and I began to feel
+interested in our new home, which appeared likely to be a permanent one.
+When we had resided for a little more than a year in our adopted
+country, my little Ernest was born, and the lovely babe, with my
+additional cares, doubly reconciled me to my new home. When my little
+boy was about a year old I was attacked by a contagious fever, which at
+that time prevailed in the city. By this fever I was brought very near
+to death. I was delirious most of the time, and was thereby spared the
+sorrow of knowing that my child was consigned to the care of strangers.
+But the fever at length ran its course, and I began slowly to recover.
+But just when I was considered sufficiently strong to be again allowed
+the care of my child, my husband was prostrated by the same disease from
+which I had just recovered, and in ten days I was left a widow with my
+helpless child. I cannot even now dwell upon this season of sorrow. All
+my former trials appeared as nothing when compared with this. Had it not
+been for my boy I could almost have wished I had not been spared to see
+this hour, but I banished such thoughts as wrong and impious, and tried
+to look the dreary future calmly in the face. I soon found it necessary
+to devise some means of support for myself and child. I thought of many
+plans only to discard them as useless. I once thought of opening a
+school as my own mother had done, but the care of my child prevented me
+from supporting myself in this way; and I would not consign him to the
+care of strangers. I at length decided to seek to support myself by the
+use of the needle, and accordingly rented two rooms on a respectable
+street, and removed thither with my child, where, by the closest
+industry I succeeded in keeping above want for more than three years,
+when my health failed from too close application to my employment. My
+physician strongly advised me to leave the city, as he thought country
+air would have a beneficial effect upon my health. I followed his
+advice, and, with the small sum of money which I had been able to lay
+by, added to what I received from the sale of my few articles of
+household furniture, I left the city. When I left Boston I had no
+particular place in view as to where I might find a home. I had decided
+upon opening a school in some country village if I could meet with
+encouragement in the undertaking. About fifty miles distant from this
+city I was taken ill, and for several weeks was unable to proceed on my
+way. When I was sufficiently recovered to allow of my again travelling I
+found it to be imperatively necessary that I should seek some place
+where I could earn a support for myself and child, as the small sum of
+money with which I left Boston was now nearly gone. The kind gentleman,
+in whose house I remained during my illness, informed me that he was
+well acquainted in the village of Walden, and he thought it a place
+where I would be likely to succeed in establishing a select school for
+young children, as he informed me there were many wealthy people
+residing here, who would patronize a school of this kind. With this
+intention I came to this village, and when I purchased my ticket for
+Walden I had but one dollar remaining in my purse, which, with the
+clothing and other articles contained in my trunk is all I possess in
+the world. But this matters little to me now, for I feel that my days on
+earth are numbered. I am unable to reward you for your exceeding
+kindness to myself and child; but I pray Heaven to reward and bless you,
+both temporally and spiritually. It is hard for me to leave my dear
+child, but I now feel resigned to the will of Heaven, knowing that
+whatever He wills is for the best."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+
+And so the little orphan boy found a home and friends to love and
+cherish him.
+
+Mr. and Mrs. Humphrey felt a tender love for the lovely and engaging
+orphan. Mrs. Humphrey, in particular, seemed almost to idolize him.
+
+She had many years before lost, by death, a little boy, when of about
+the same age which little Ernest was when thus strangely cast upon her
+bounty; and this circumstance may have attached her more strongly to the
+child.
+
+Mr. Humphrey was equally fond of the boy, but his disposition was less
+demonstrative than was that of his wife he was, therefore not so much
+inclined to indulge, the child in a manner which would prove injurious
+to him as he grew older.
+
+Although the child had a very affectionate disposition he yet possessed
+a will that liked not to yield to that of another. Young as the child
+was, his mother had discovered this trait in his character and had,
+previously to her death, spoken of the matter to Mrs. Humphrey, and
+besought her--as she valued her own happiness and that of the child--to
+exact strict obedience from him when he should be left solely to her
+care.
+
+"Even," said she, "should it require severe measures to break that will,
+it must be done. Remember it is for the best good of the child."
+
+Had Mrs. Humphrey strictly followed the counsels of the dying mother in
+the early training of her child it might have spared her much
+after-sorrow.
+
+Mr. Humphrey treated the child very kindly, but made it a point that he
+should yield to him a ready obedience in all things. But the little
+fellow was quick to notice that when Mr. Humphrey was not present he
+could usually, either by dint of coaxing or noisy rebellion, carry his
+point with Mrs. Humphrey.
+
+Her husband often remonstrated with her upon the course she was pursuing
+in the management of the child. She used often to say--
+
+"I cannot find it in my heart to punish the poor child when I consider
+that he is both fatherless and motherless, and I trust he will outgrow
+these childish ways."
+
+Poor Mrs. Humphrey! She is not the only one that has been cheated by
+this hope, and has thereby allowed their child to grow up with an
+obstinate will that has marred their happiness for life.
+
+In after years Mrs. Humphrey many times recalled to mind a remark which
+a friend made to her one day in regard to little Ernest, then six years
+old. He came into the parlor where the two ladies were sitting, and
+taking from the centre table an elegantly bound book, began turning the
+leaves with fingers that were none of the cleanest. Mrs. Humphrey gently
+requested him to replace the book, which request she was obliged to
+repeat two or three times before he paid the slightest attention to it.
+And then it was only to say in a coaxing voice--
+
+"Ernest wants this pretty book; do let me keep it."
+
+Mrs. Humphrey replied that the book was not suitable for little boys,
+and again requested him to replace it on the table. When a few minutes
+had passed, and he still continued to turn the leaves of the book, Mrs.
+Humphrey again repeated her request in a decided manner, telling him to
+replace the book immediately, when his childish temper burst forth in a
+regular tempest. He tossed the book from his hand, and threw himself on
+the floor in a corner of the room, where he gave vent to his anger by a
+succession of screams, which were anything but melodious. But his desire
+to retain possession of the coveted book was yet strong, and when the
+ladies again became engaged in conversation he quietly approached the
+table and, hastily taking the book therefrom, left the room, and Mrs.
+Humphrey, to save further trouble, appeared not to notice the act. The
+lady, who was an intimate friend, asked Mrs. Humphrey if she were not
+pursuing a wrong course in thus allowing the boy to do what she had once
+forbidden him?
+
+"Oh," said Mrs. Humphrey, "he is but a child, and will become ashamed
+of such conduct as he grows older."
+
+"I sincerely hope he may," replied the lady, "but I very much fear you
+will see a day when you will regret not having been more firm in your
+government of this child."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+
+Nine years have rolled by the with their various changes since we first
+introduced Earnest Harwood to the reader, a child of five years of age,
+weeping at the grave of his mother.
+
+Let us again glance at him when he has nearly attained to the age of
+fourteen years. We find him grown a strong healthy youth, still
+retaining that wondrous beauty which had rendered him so remarkable in
+the days of his childhood.
+
+The reader will doubtless be ready to enquire if his mind and character
+are equally lovely with his person. Would that it were in my power to
+give a favourable answer to the question. But the truth must be told,
+and, at the age of fourteen, Ernest Harwood was decidedly a bad boy.
+When of suitable age he had been put to school, and for a time made
+rapid progress in his studies. From the first he was rather averse to
+study, but as he learned readily and had a most retentive memory he
+managed to keep pace in his studies with most boys of his age.
+
+Mr. and Mrs. Humphrey exercised much watchfulness in regard to his
+companions, as, when he began to mingle with other boys, they discovered
+that he seemed inclined to make companions of such boys as they could
+not conscientiously allow him to associate with. But, notwithstanding
+their vigilance, it was soon remarked that he was often seen in company
+with boys of very bad repute. He soon came to dislike school, and often
+absented himself from it for a very trivial excuse, and in many
+instances played truant, when Mr. Humphrey refused to listen to his
+excuses for being allowed to remain at home.
+
+Mr. and Mrs. Humphrey endeavored to discharge their duty to the boy; and
+more than that, they loved him as their own child.
+
+I cannot describe the sorrow they experienced on his account, when, as
+he grew older, he seemed more and more inclined to the company of
+vicious boys, and to follow their evil examples. Many of his misdoings
+never reached the ears of his foster parents, for they were very much
+respected by their neighbors, who disliked to acquaint them with what
+must give them pain. He soon became so bad that if a piece of mischief
+was perpetrated among the village boys, the neighbors used at once to
+say they felt sure that Earnest Harwood was at the bottom of it. Often
+when among his wicked companions, those lips that had been taught to
+lisp the nightly prayer at his mother's knee were stained with oaths and
+impure language.
+
+Mr. Humphrey, one day, in passing along the street, chanced to find him
+in company with some of the worst boys in the village, smoking cigars at
+the street corner. He was hardly able to credit his own eyesight. He
+requested him to accompany him home at once. He at the first thought of
+administering punishment with the rod, but as he had done so in former
+instances of misconduct with apparently no effect but to make him more
+defiant and rebellious, he thought in this instance he would try the
+effect of mild persuasion.
+
+"My dear boy you little know the pain you are inflicting upon your best
+friends by thus seeking the company of those wicked boys who will
+certainly lead you to ruin, if you allow yourself to follow their
+example."
+
+He talked long to him of his deceased mother, telling him of her many
+earnest prayers for the future good of her child.
+
+For some time the boy maintained a sulky, defiant manner, but his heart
+at length softened, and, covering his face with his hands, he wept
+aloud. He begged of Mr. Humphrey to forgive his past misconduct, and he
+certainly would try to reform in the future.
+
+For a time there was a marked change for the better in the conduct of
+the boy, and his friends began to indulge the hope that the change would
+prove to be lasting. But his resolutions of amendment soon yielded to
+the influence of his evil companions, from whom he found it very
+difficult to keep aloof. He was of a rash, impulsive disposition, and he
+soon forgot his good resolves, and became even worse than before.
+
+Mr. Humphrey still maintained sufficient control over him to oblige him
+to attend church regularly, in company with himself and wife, but often,
+when they supposed him to be attending the Sabbath-School, would he join
+some party of idle, strolling boys, and spend the day in a very sinful
+manner. The Superintendent of the school hearing of this, called and
+acquainted Mr. Humphrey of the matter.
+
+"I am obliged to you for your kindness in calling upon me," said Mr.
+Humphrey, "although I fear I can do nothing that will have any good
+effect upon the boy. I have endeavoured to do my duty by the child, I
+know not wherein I have failed. I have counselled, persuaded, and even
+punished him, and you behold the result. I am at a loss what to do with
+him. I have brought up children of my own, who never caused me a real
+sorrow in their lives. Why is it, that this poor orphan seems so
+strongly resolved to follow only evil ways? Would that some one could
+advise me as to what my duty is, in regard to the boy, for, unless a
+change for the better soon takes place, he will be ruined for time and
+eternity."
+
+Mr. Humphrey sighed deeply as he spoke, and seemed oppressed with
+sorrow. The gentleman with whom he was conversing, endeavoured, as well
+as he was able under the circumstances, to comfort him; telling him that
+they could only give him good counsel, and pray for him, and leave the
+result to an over-ruling Providence.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+
+Previous to her death, the mother of Earnest had entrusted to the care
+of Mrs. Humphrey, a closely sealed package directed to Ernest in her own
+hand-writing. She had left the request that this package should not be
+given to him until he had reached the age of fourteen years. Many
+surmises were formed among the few who knew of this package, as to what
+it might contain. Some were of the opinion that it contained papers
+which might lead to the possession of wealth. But from what Mrs. Harwood
+had related to Mrs. Humphrey, concerning her early life, she thought
+this idea to be highly improbable.
+
+However, she carefully laid by the package, and was very careful that
+it should sustain no injury. In the meantime, the boy had continued to
+go on from bad to worse, till he became known as the leader in every
+kind of mischief among the bad boys of the village. He now seldom spent
+an evening in his own home. In one or two instances he narrowly escaped
+being sent to jail. The respect entertained for his foster parents by
+the people of the village was all that caused them to show lenity to the
+erring boy. The conduct of Earnest had borne heavier upon them than
+their years; they had fondly loved the beautiful and friendless boy, and
+it almost broke their hearts to see him go thus astray. Many there were
+who advised them to cast him off, as he seemed given over to evil, and
+even treated them with unkindness and disrespect; but with all his
+faults, they still clung to him, hoping almost against hope that he
+would yet reform.
+
+"I promised his mother," said Mr. Humphrey, "that I would care for her
+boy so long as I lived to do so, and that promise I intend to keep."
+"And," added Mrs. Humphrey, "as long as we possess a home, he shall not
+be homeless. For if we can do no more we can at least pray for him; and
+I have a hope that the prayers offered in faith will yet meet with an
+answer."
+
+Time passed on, till the evening preceding the fourteenth birth-day of
+Ernest. Mr. Humphrey sat with his wife by their lonely fireside, Ernest
+had gone out directly after tea, and the hour was growing late. They
+were speaking of him, for they felt very sad.
+
+"I often wonder," said Mr. Humphrey, addressing his wife, "in what duty
+I have failed to Ernest. I have endeavored to set before him a good
+example, and to do by him in all things as I would have done by my own
+son. I have prayed with and for him; and yet since quite a little child,
+he has been a source of grief and anxiety to us, by his evil conduct."
+
+"I am conscious," replied Mrs. Humphrey, "that I have erred in his early
+training, by too often yielding to his childish will, rather than
+administer punishment to enforce obedience from him. I meant well, and
+if I have done him a wrong it is now too late to remedy it. I can only
+pray that he may yet forsake his evil ways. To-morrow will be his
+birth-day, let us hope that the contents of the package which so many
+years ago, his poor mother entrusted to my care, may have some influence
+for good upon his future life."
+
+While they were yet speaking a rap sounded at the door. Mr. Humphrey
+rose and opened it, but stood speechless, when he beheld Ernest
+supported by two or three of his companions. At the first he supposed
+him either hurt or seriously ill. But upon going near to him what was
+his amazement when he discovered that he was too much intoxicated to
+allow of his walking without assistance. This was something entirely
+unexpected. Some had hinted that, added to his other faults, he was
+acquiring a taste for strong drink, but those whispers never reached the
+ears of Mr. Humphrey or his wife. And when he was brought home in this
+state, they had no words adequate to describe their feelings.
+
+Dismissing his companions they assisted him into the house, and to his
+room, Mrs. Humphrey only saying, "poor misguided boy, what will become
+of him?"
+
+When they returned to the sitting room their minds were too much
+agitated to allow them to converse. After some time passed in silence,
+Mr. Humphrey said, "we will not attempt to talk of this new sorrow
+to-night, but we will pray for the poor boy as well as for ourselves,
+before we retire to rest."
+
+Opening his Bible, Mr. Humphrey read the forty-sixth Psalm, then
+kneeling, he poured out his troubled soul in prayer. He prayed earnestly
+for the poor youth now lying in the heavy sleep produced by
+intoxication. He also prayed for forgiveness, if they erred in the
+management of the boy, and for future aid in the performance of their
+duty. Could the boy have heard the prayer which Mr. Humphrey sent up to
+heaven on his behalf, hard indeed must have been his heart, if he had
+not from that moment resolved to forsake his evil ways, and by his
+future good conduct endeavoured to atone for his past sins and follies.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+
+When Earnest came down to breakfast the next morning, neither Mr. or
+Mrs. Humphrey made any allusion to the situation in which he had been
+brought home the previous evening. They treated him with their usual
+kindness, but it was evident, by his subdued manner and downcast
+countenance, that he felt sensible of his shame and degradation. They
+intended to talk with him of the matter, but deferred it for the
+present. Mr. Humphrey advised his wife to give him the package herself,
+as it was to her care it had been committed. Soon after breakfast was
+over, he went up to his room, whither Mrs. Humphrey soon repaired with
+the package in her hand. Earnest opened the door when she rapped for
+admission. He looked somewhat embarrassed, and seemed by his manner to
+expect she had visited his room for the purpose of talking to him of the
+event of the last evening. She made no mention of the circumstance, but
+seating herself by his side, addressed him, saying--
+
+"My dear Earnest, you have often told me that you retain a distinct
+recollection of your mother. I have never before told you that, previous
+to her death, she consigned a sealed package to my care, directed to you
+with her own hand, with the request that I should give it to you on your
+fourteenth birthday. The time has now arrived, and by giving you this
+package I fulfil what was a dying request of your mother." As she
+concluded, she placed the package in his hand, and immediately left the
+room, thinking he would prefer being left alone to open the package.
+
+When some time had passed, and Earnest did not come down, Mr. Humphrey
+went upstairs, and softly opened the door of his room. He found the boy
+with his face bowed upon his hands, weeping bitterly. He approached him,
+and gently placing his hand upon his shoulder, enquired the cause of his
+grief.
+
+He replied, in a voice choked with sobs,--
+
+"Oh! I have been so wicked--so--bad--I know not what will become of me.
+It is well that my mother did not live to see how widely I have strayed
+from the path in which it was her last hope and prayer that I should
+walk."
+
+Mr. Humphrey endeavoured to comfort the poor boy, wisely thinking this
+to be no time to reproach him for past errors.
+
+Mrs. Humphrey, thinking that something unusual must have taken place
+followed her husband to the room of Earnest.
+
+By the tearful request of Earnest, she examined the package, which had
+for so long a time remained in her keeping. First there was a Bible and
+Hymn Book, the books were elegantly bound, and had silver clasps. Then
+there was an old-fashioned locket of gold, containing a picture of the
+father and mother of Ernest, which had been taken many years before.
+Between the leaves of the Bible was placed a letter addressed to Ernest,
+in the hand-writing of his mother. The letter had been written at
+different times as her strength permitted, during the last few days of
+her life. It read as follows:--
+
+    "My dear little Earnest,--Long before your eyes will rest
+    upon these lines, the hand that traces them will have mouldered
+    into dust. The contents of this package with my prayerful blessing,
+    is all I have to leave you. As I write these lines you are playing
+    about my room a happy, innocent child. Would that my knowledge
+    could extend into the future, that I might know what manner of
+    youth you will be, when this letter is placed in your hands. But I
+    fear that I am wrong in thus wishing to know the future which a
+    kind Providence has mercifully hidden from us. It is my anxiety for
+    you alone that prompts the desire. I leave a request that this
+    letter be not placed in your hands till you shall have attained the
+    age of fourteen years. For should your life be spared to that
+    period, you will then be capable of reflection. It is my earnest
+    prayer, that you should grow up a good and dutiful boy, and by so
+    doing, reward Mr. and Mrs. Humphrey for the care and instruction,
+    which, I feel confident they will bestow upon you. But, O! my son,
+    should it be otherwise, and you have been led astray by evil
+    companions, I beseech you, my child, to pause and think. Listen to
+    the voice of your mother as if speaking to you, from her grave.
+    _Again_, I say, 'pause and reflect.' If you have evil companions,
+    forsake them at once, and forever. But I trust that these sad
+    forebodings are needless, and that when you read these lines, you
+    will be all that the fond heart of a mother could desire. The Bible
+    and Hymn Book which I leave you belonged to my father, who was a
+    minister of the Church of Scotland. Is it too much for me to hope
+    that you will follow in the footsteps of your deceased grandparent,
+    and use this Bible as he did in the pulpit, as a minister of the
+    gospel? The locket contains the likeness of your father and myself,
+    taken a short time after our marriage. I commit you with many
+    prayers, to the care of your Heavenly Father, for I feel that the
+    hand of death is upon me, and that a few brief days will close my
+    earthly existence. My last prayer will be that my boy may so live
+    on earth, as to meet his mother in Heaven. My strength fails me. I
+    can write no more.
+
+    "From your loving, but dying mother,
+
+    "Charlotte Harwood."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+
+The reader who has got thus far in the narrative of the early life of
+Earnest Harwood, will doubtless learn, with pleasure, that the letter
+written by his mother, proved, under the blessing of God, the means of
+his salvation. The earnest persuasion of that letter, induced him to
+form a firm resolve, that he _would_ amend his conduct, and cease from
+his evil ways. He was, at the first, fearful that he had lost the love
+of his foster parents, by his ungrateful conduct. He one day expressed
+this fear to them, and together they assured him, that although he had
+certainly caused them much grief and anxiety, their love for him had
+remained unchanged. They took this opportunity, when his feelings were
+thus softened, to urge him to be firm in his resolution of amendment.
+They also, for the first time, spoke of the fearful sorrow he had caused
+them by being brought to his home in a state of intoxication; and
+besought him never again to allow himself to be persuaded to taste of
+the intoxicating cup. Mrs. Humphrey pressed a motherly kiss upon his
+fine brow, and said,--
+
+"My dear boy I hope that you will not again disappoint our fond hopes,
+and that you will yet do credit to the fine abilities with which our
+Heavenly Father has so liberally endowed you."
+
+From this time there was a marked and decided change in the character of
+Earnest. Many feared that the change would not be permanent, but Mrs.
+Humphrey was very hopeful.
+
+"I feel an assurance," said she "that the many prayers which have been
+offered to heaven on his behalf, are about to be answered."
+
+It was even so. And they who feared a relapse into his former evil ways
+were happily disappointed. He again punctually attended school, and
+applied himself diligently to his neglected studies; and his teachers
+were surprised, as well by the astonishing progress he made, as by his
+correct exemplary deportment. As may be readily supposed, he had much to
+contend with from the vicious boys who had been his former associates.
+He shunned their company as much as possible, but he could not avoid
+occasionally coming in contact with them, and I am happy to say, that
+they found him immovable in his resolutions for good. They tried every
+means again to entice him into evil ways, but without success. As a last
+resort, they tried the effect of ridicule, but they learned now, that he
+had allowed his better nature to assert its power, for he possessed a
+spirit far above the influence of ridicule; and when they found they
+could by no means induce him to mingle with them, they were forced to
+give him up, and allow him to go his way in peace. When Mr. and Mrs.
+Humphrey found that the change in Earnest was likely to prove a
+permanent one, their gratitude and joy was heartfelt and sincere.
+
+Two years have now passed away, since the beginning of the happy change
+in the life of the orphan boy. We now find him a fine, tall youth of
+sixteen, as much respected as he had formerly been shunned and pitied.
+His personal appearance was still as attractive as in his childhood. He
+was called by many the finest looking youth in all the village of
+Walden. He had attended closely to his studies, and had obtained a good
+English education. During the mid-summer vacation Mr. Humphrey asked if
+he had turned his mind towards any particular calling in life which he
+wished to follow,--
+
+"For," said he, "it is my intention to assist you in fitting yourself
+for any profession you may feel inclined to pursue."
+
+Ernest blushed deeply as he replied,--
+
+"You know, sir, the wish which my mother expressed in regard to my
+calling in life, and I feel a desire to fulfill her wish in the matter.
+I deeply feel my unworthiness for a calling so sacred, yet I hope my
+unworthy services may be accepted, should I be spared to enter upon the
+Ministry."
+
+When Mr. Humphrey learned the wishes of Ernest he gladly defrayed his
+expenses while pursuing the studies necessary to fit him for the
+Ministry.
+
+He passed through his college course with much credit to himself, and
+then devoted the necessary time to the study of divinity in the
+seminary.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+
+In conclusion I would ask the reader to accompany me to what is now one
+of the oldest churches in the city of Boston.
+
+It is a beautiful Sabbath morning in the balmy month of June.
+
+Let us enter the church. Something of more than usual interest seems to
+pervade the large congregation there assembled. As we enter the church
+we observe in one of the front pews an aged couple, whom we at once
+recognize as Mr. and Mrs. Humphrey. They are now quite aged and feeble,
+yet the countenance of each is cheerful and placid. Notwithstanding
+their age they have made the journey of two hundred miles to be present
+upon this occasion. For their beloved Earnest is this day to be set
+apart to the Work of the Holy Ministry by the solemn service of
+ordination.
+
+When the services were closed, and Earnest came forward to accompany
+his aged foster parents from the church, they felt themselves more than
+rewarded for all the care they had bestowed upon the orphan boy; and
+they might have said, as did Simeon of old,--
+
+"Lord, now lettest thou thy servants depart in peace according to thy
+word, for our eyes have seen thy salvation."
+
+To the boys who may read this story I would say: As you value your own
+well-being in time and eternity, avoid evil companions--for these have
+worked the ruin of many a promising youth.
+
+Should this little story be read by any who are mothers of families, it
+is my hope that it may afford them encouragement to persevere in their
+prayerful efforts, for the good of the immortal beings committed to
+their care. The letter penned by the feeble hand of his dying mother,
+under the divine blessing, saved Earnest Harwood from ruin. Let this
+circumstance encourage you, never to grow weary nor discouraged in your
+labours for the good of your children, and "ye shall in no wise lose
+your reward."
+
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+[Transcriber's note: Punctuation inconsistencies of the original have
+been retained in this etext.]
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Path of Duty, and Other Stories, by
+H. S. Caswell
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