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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Governess, by Sarah Fielding
+
+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 Governess
+       The Little Female Academy
+
+Author: Sarah Fielding
+
+Posting Date: October 10, 2008 [EBook #1905]
+Last Updated: November 6, 2016
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: UTF-8
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE GOVERNESS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Pat Pflieger
+
+
+
+
+
+THE GOVERNESS;
+
+OR, THE LITTLE FEMALE ACADEMY (1749)
+
+by Sarah Fielding
+
+
+
+There lived in the northern parts of England, a gentlewoman who
+undertook the education of young ladies; and this trust she endeavoured
+faithfully to discharge, by instructing those committed to her care in
+reading, writing, working, and in all proper forms of behaviour. And
+though her principal aim was to improve their minds in all useful
+knowledge; to render them obedient to their superiors, and gentle, kind,
+and affectionate to each other; yet did she not omit teaching them an
+exact neatness in their persons and dress, and a perfect gentility in
+their whole carriage.
+
+This gentlewoman, whose name was Teachum, was the widow of a clergyman,
+with whom she had lived nine years in all the harmony and concord which
+forms the only satisfactory happiness in the married state. Two little
+girls (the youngest of which was born before the second year of their
+marriage was expired) took up a great part of their thoughts; and it was
+their mutual design to spare no pains or trouble in their education.
+
+Mr. Teachum was a very sensible man, and took great delight in improving
+his wife; as she also placed her chief pleasure in receiving his
+instructions. One of his constant subjects of discourse to her was
+concerning the education of children: so that, when in his last illness
+his physicians pronounced him beyond the power of their art to relieve
+him, he expressed great satisfaction in the thought of leaving his
+children to the care of so prudent a mother.
+
+Mrs. Teachum, though exceedingly afflicted by such a loss, yet thought
+it her duty to call forth all her resolutions to conquer her grief, in
+order to apply herself to the care of these her dear husband’s children.
+But her misfortunes were not here to end: for within a twelvemonth after
+the death of her husband, she was deprived of both her children by a
+violent fever that then raged in the country; and, about the same time,
+by the unforeseen breaking of a banker, in whose hands almost all her
+fortune was just then placed, she was bereft of the means of her future
+support.
+
+The Christian fortitude with which (through her husband’s instructions)
+she had armed her mind, had not left it in the power of any outward
+accident to bereave her of her understanding, or to make her incapable
+of doing what was proper on all occasions. Therefore, by the advice
+of all her friends, she undertook what she was so well qualified for;
+namely, the education of children. But as she was moderate in her
+desires, and did not seek to raise a great fortune, she was resolved to
+take no more scholars than she could have an eye to herself without
+the help of other teachers; and instead of making interest to fill her
+school, it was looked upon as a great favour when she would take any
+girl. And as her number was fixed to nine, which she on no account
+would be prevailed on to increase, great application was made, when any
+scholar went away, to have her place supplied; and happy were they who
+could get a promise for the next vacancy.
+
+Mrs. Teachum was about forty years old, tall and genteel in her person,
+though somewhat inclined to fat. She had a lively and commanding eye,
+insomuch that she naturally created an awe in all her little scholars;
+except when she condescended to smile, and talk familiarly to them;
+and then she had something perfectly kind and tender in her manner. Her
+temper was so extremely calm and good, that though she never omitted
+reprehending, and that pretty severely, any girl that was guilty of the
+smallest fault proceeding from an evil disposition; yet for no cause
+whatsoever was she provoked to be in a passion; but she kept up such a
+dignity and authority, by her steady behavior, that the girls greatly
+feared to incur her displeasure by disobeying her commands; and were
+equally pleased with her approbation, when they had done anything worthy
+her commendation.
+
+At the time of the ensuing history, the school (being full) consisted of
+the nine following young ladies:
+
+     Miss JENNY PEACE.
+     Miss NANNY SPRUCE.
+     Miss SUKEY JENNETT.
+     Miss BETTY FORD.
+     Miss DOLLY FRIENDLY.
+     Miss HENNY FRET.
+     Miss LUCY SLY.
+     Miss POLLY SUCKLING.
+     Miss PATTY LOCKIT.
+
+The eldest of these was but fourteen years old, and none of the rest had
+yet attained their twelfth year.
+
+
+
+
+AN ACCOUNT OF A FRAY,
+
+BEGUN AND CARRIED ON FOR THE SAKE OF AN APPLE: IN WHICH ARE SHOWN THE
+SAD EFFECTS OF RAGE AND ANGER.
+
+It was on a fine summer’s evening when the school-hours were at an end,
+and the young ladies were admitted to divert themselves for some time,
+as they thought proper, in a pleasant garden adjoining to the house,
+that their governess, who delighted in pleasing them, brought out a
+little basket of apples, which were intended to be divided equally
+amongst them; but Mrs. Teachum being hastily called away (one of her
+poor neighhours having had an accident which wanted her assistance),
+she left the fruit in the hands of Miss Jenny Peace, the eldest of her
+scholars, with a strict charge to see that every one had an equal share
+of her gift.
+
+But here a perverse accident turned good Mrs. Teachum’s design of giving
+them pleasure into their sorrow, and raised in their little hearts
+nothing but strife and anger: for, alas! there happened to be one apple
+something larger than the rest, on which the whole company immediately
+placed their desiring eyes, and all at once cried out, ‘Pray, Miss
+Jenny, give me that apple.’ Each gave her reasons why she had the best
+title to it: the youngest pleaded her youth, and the eldest her age; one
+insisted on her goodness, another from her meekness claimed a title to
+preference; and one, in confidence of her strength, said positively,
+she would have it; but all speaking together, it was difficult to
+distinguish who said this, or who said that.
+
+Miss Jenny begged them all to be quiet, but in vain; for she could not
+be heard: they had all set their hearts on that fine apple, looking upon
+those she had given them as nothing. She told them they had better
+be contented with what they had, than be thus seeking what it was
+impossible for her to give to them all. She offered to divide it into
+eight parts, or to do anything to satisfy them; but she might as well
+have been silent; for they were all talking and had no time to hear.
+At last as a means to quiet the disturbance, she threw this apple,
+the cause of their contention, with her utmost force over a hedge into
+another garden, where they could not come at it.
+
+At first they were all silent, as if they were struck dumb with
+astonishment with the loss of this one poor apple, though at the same
+time they had plenty before them.
+
+But this did not bring to pass Miss Jenny’s design: for now they all
+began again to quarrel which had the most right to it, and which ought
+to have had it, with as much vehemence as they had before contended for
+the possession of it; and their anger by degrees became so high, that
+words could not vent half their rage; and they fell to pulling of caps,
+tearing of hair, and dragging the clothes off one another’s backs:
+though they did not so much strike, as endeavour to scratch and pinch
+their enemies.
+
+Miss Dolly Friendly as yet was not engaged in the battle; but on hearing
+her friend Miss Nanny Spruce scream out, that she was hurt by a sly
+pinch from one of the girls, she flew on this sly pincher, as she called
+her, like an enraged lion on its prey; and not content only to return
+the harm her friend had received, she struck with such force, as felled
+her enemy to the ground. And now they could not distinguish between
+friend and enemy; but fought, scratched, and tore, like so many cats,
+when they extend their claws to fix them in their rival’s heart.
+
+Miss Jenny was employed in endeavouring to part them.
+
+In the midst of this confusion appeared Mrs. Teachum, who was returning
+in hopes to see them happy with the fruit she had given them; but she
+was some time there before either her voice or presence could awaken
+them from their attention to the fight; when on a sudden they all faced
+her, and fear of punishment began now a little to abate their rage.
+Each of the misses held in her right hand, fast clenched, some marks
+of victory; for they beat and were beaten by turns. One of them held a
+little lock of hair torn from the head of her enemy; another grasped a
+piece of a cap, which, in aiming at her rival’s hair, had deceived her
+hand, and was all the spoils she could gain; a third clenched a piece of
+an apron; a fourth, of a frock. In short, everyone unfortunately held
+in her hand a proof of having been engaged in the battle. And the ground
+was spread with rags and tatters, torn from the backs of the little
+inveterate combatants.
+
+Mrs. Teachum stood for some time astonished at the sight; but at last
+she enquired of Miss Jenny Peace, who was the only person disengaged,
+to tell her the whole truth, and to inform her of the cause of all this
+confusion.
+
+Miss Jenny was obliged to obey the commands of her governess; though
+she was so good natured that she did it in the mildest terms; and
+endeavoured all she could to lessen, rather than increase, Mrs.
+Teachum’s anger. The guilty persons now began all to excuse themselves
+as fast as tears and sobs would permit them.
+
+One said, ‘Indeed, madam, it was none of my fault; for I did not begin;
+for Miss Sukey Jennett, without any cause in the world (for I did
+nothing to provoke her), hit me a great slap in the face, and made my
+tooth ache; the pain DID make me angry; and then, indeed, I hit her a
+little tap; but it was on her back; and I am sure it was the smallest
+tap in the world and could not possibly hurt her half so much as her
+great blow did me.’
+
+‘Law, miss!’ replied Miss Jennett, ‘how can you say so? when you know
+that you struck me first, and that yours was the great blow, and mine
+the little tap; for I only went to defend myself from your monstrous
+blows.’
+
+Such like defences they would all have made for themselves, each
+insisting on not being in fault, and throwing the blame on her
+companion; but Mrs. Teachum silenced them by a positive command; and
+told them, that she saw they were all equally guilty, and as such would
+treat them.
+
+Mrs. Teachum’s method of punishing I never could find out. But this
+is certain, the most severe punishment she had ever inflicted on any
+misses, since she had kept a school, was now laid on these wicked girls,
+who had been thus fighting, and pulling one another to pieces, for a
+sorry apple.
+
+The first thing she did was to take away all the apples; telling them,
+that before they had any more instances of such kindness from her, they
+should give her proofs of their deserving them better. And when she had
+punished them as much as she thought proper, she made them all embrace
+one another, and promise to be friends for the future; which, in
+obedience to her commands, they were forced to comply with, though there
+remained a grudge and ill-will in their bosoms; every one thinking she
+was punished most, although she would have it, that she deserved to be
+punished least; and they continued all the sly tricks they could think
+on to vex and tease each other.
+
+
+
+
+A DIALOGUE BETWEEN MISS JENNY PEACE AND MISS SUKEY JENNETT;
+
+WHEREIN THE LATTER IS AT LAST CONVINCED OF HER OWN FOLLY IN BEING SO
+QUARRELSOME; AND, BY HER EXAMPLE, ALL HER COMPANIONS ARE BROUGHT TO SEE
+AND CONFESS THEIR FAULT.
+
+The next morning Miss Jenny Peace used her utmost endeavours to bring
+her schoolfellows to be heartily reconciled, but in vain: for each
+insisted on it, that she was not to blame; but that the whole quarrel
+arose from the faults of others. At last ensued the following dialogue
+between Miss Jenny Peace and Miss Sukey Jennett, which brought about
+Miss Jenny’s designs; and which we recommend to the consideration of all
+our young readers.
+
+MISS JENNY. Now pray, Miss Sukey, tell me, what did you get by your
+contention and quarrel about that foolish apple?
+
+MISS SUKEY. Indeed, ma’am, I shall not answer you; I know that you only
+want to prove, that you are wiser than I, because you are older. But I
+don’t know but some people may understand as much at eleven years old as
+others at thirteen: but, because you are the oldest in the school, you
+always want to be tutoring and governing. I don’t like to have more than
+one governess; and if I obey my mistress, I think that is enough.
+
+MISS JENNY. Indeed, my dear, I don’t want to govern you, nor to prove
+myself wiser than you; I only want that instead of quarrelling, and
+making yourself miserable, you should live at peace and be happy.
+Therefore, pray do answer my question, whether you get anything by your
+quarrel?
+
+MISS SUKEY. No I cannot say I got anything by it: for my mistress was
+angry, and punished me; and my hair was pulled off, and my clothes torn
+in the scuffle; neither did I value the apple; but yet I have too much
+spirit to be imposed on. I am sure I had as good a right to it as any of
+the others; and I would not give up my right to anyone.
+
+MISS JENNY. But don’t you know, Miss Sukey, it would have shown much
+more spirit to have yielded the apple to another, than to have fought
+about it? Then indeed you would have proved your sense; for you would
+have shown, that you had too much understanding to fight about a trifle.
+Then your clothes had been whole, your hair not torn from your head,
+your mistress had not been angry, nor had your fruit been taken away
+from you.
+
+MISS SUKEY. And so, miss, you would fain prove, that it is wisest to
+submit to everybody that would impose upon one? But I will not believe
+ii, say what you will.
+
+MISS JENNY. But is not what I say true? If you had not been in the
+battle, would not your clothes have been whole, your hair not torn, your
+mistress pleased with you, and the apples your own?
+
+
+Here Miss Sukey paused for some time: for as Miss Jenny was in the right
+and had truth on her side, it was difficult for Miss Sukey to know what
+to answer. For it is impossible, without being very silly, to contradict
+truth; and yet Miss Sukey was so foolish, that she did not care to own
+herself in the wrong; though nothing could have been so great a sign of
+her understanding.
+
+When Miss Jenny saw her thus at a loss for an answer, she was in hopes
+of making her companion happy; for, as she had as much good nature as
+understanding, that was her design. She therefore pursued her discourse
+in the following manner:
+
+
+MISS JENNY. Pray, Miss Sukey, do answer me one question more. Don’t you
+lie awake at nights, and fret and vex yourself, because you are angry
+with your school-fellows? Are not you restless and uneasy, because you
+cannot find a safe method to be revenged on them, without being punished
+yourself? Do tell me truly, is not this your case?
+
+MISS SUKEY. Yes it is. For if I could but hurt my enemies, without
+being hurt myself, it would be the greatest pleasure I could have in the
+world.
+
+MISS JENNY. Oh fie, Miss Sukey! What you have now said is wicked. Don’t
+you consider what you say every day in your prayers’? And this way of
+thinking will make you lead a very uneasy life. If you would hearken to
+me, I could put you into a method of being very happy, and making all
+those misses you call your enemies, become your friends.
+
+MISS SUKEY. You could tell me a method, miss? Do you think I don’t know
+as well as you what is fit to be done? I believe I am as capable of
+finding the way to be happy, as you are of teaching me.
+
+
+Here Miss Sukey burst into tears, that anybody should presume to tell
+her the way to be happy.
+
+
+MISS JENNY. Upon my word, my dear, I don’t mean to vex you; but only,
+instead of tormenting yourself all night in laying plots to revenge
+yourself, I would have you employ this one night in thinking of what I
+have said. Nothing will show your sense so much, as to own that you have
+been in the wrong. Nor will anything prove a right spirit so much as
+to confess your fault. All the misses will be your friends, and perhaps
+follow your example. Then you will have the pleasure of having caused
+the quiet of the whole school; your governess will love you; and you
+will be at peace in your mind, and never have any more foolish quarrels,
+in which you all get nothing but blows and uneasiness.
+
+
+Miss Sukey began now to find, that Miss Jenny was in the right, and she
+herself in the wrong; but yet she was so proud she would not own it.
+Nothing could be so foolish as this pride; because it would have been
+both good and wise in her to confess the truth the moment she saw it.
+However, Miss Jenny was so discreet as not to press her any farther that
+night; but begged her to consider seriously on what she had said, and to
+let her know her thoughts the next morning and then left her.
+
+When Miss Sukey was alone she stood some time in great confusion. She
+could not help seeing how much hitherto she had been in the wrong; and
+that thought stung her to the heart. She cried, stamped, and was in as
+great an agony as if some sad misfortune had befallen her. At last, when
+she had somewhat vented her passion by tears, she burst forth into the
+following speech:
+
+‘It is very true what Miss Jenny Peace says; for I am always uneasy. I
+don’t sleep in quiet because I am always thinking, either that I have
+not my share of what is given us, or that I cannot be revenged on any of
+the girls that offend me. And when I quarrel with them, I am scratched
+and bruised; or reproached. And what do I get by all this? Why, I
+scratch, bruise, and reproach them in my turn. Is not that gain enough?
+I warrant I hurt them as much as they hurt me. But then indeed, as Miss
+Jenny says, if I could make these girls my friends, and did not wish
+to hurt them, I certainly might live a quieter, and perhaps a happier,
+life. But what then, have I been always in the wrong all my lifetime?
+for I always quarrelled and hated everyone who had offended me. Oh! I
+cannot bear that thought! It is enough to make me mad! when I imagined
+myself so wise and so sensible, to find out that I have been always a
+fool. If I think a moment longer about it, I shall die with grief and
+shame. I must think myself in the right; and I will too. But, as Miss
+Jenny says, I really am unhappy; for I hate all my schoolfellows; and
+yet I dare not do them any mischief; for my mistress will punish me
+severely if I do. I should not so much mind that neither; but then those
+I intend to hurt will triumph over me, to see me punished for their
+sakes. In short, the more I reflect, the more I am afraid Miss Jenny is
+in the right; and yet it breaks my heart to think so.’
+
+Here the poor girl wept so bitterly, and was so heartily grieved, that
+she could not utter one word more; but sat herself down, reclining her
+head upon her hand, in the most melancholy posture that could be; nor
+could she close her eyes all night, but lay tossing and raving with the
+thought how she should act, and what she should say to Miss Jenny the
+next day.
+
+When the morning came, Miss Sukey dreaded every moment, as the time drew
+nearer when she must meet Miss Jenny. She knew it would not be possible
+to resist her arguments; and yet shame for having been in fault overcame
+her.
+
+As soon as Miss Jenny saw Miss Sukey with her eyes cast down, and
+confessing, by a look of sorrow, that she would take her advice, she
+embraced her kindly; and, without giving her the trouble to speak, took
+it for granted, that she would leave off quarreling, be reconciled to
+her schoolfellows, and make herself happy.
+
+Miss Sukey did indeed stammer out some words, which implied a confession
+of her fault; but they were spoke so low they could hardly be heard;
+only Miss Jenny, who always chose to look at the fairest side of
+her companions’ actions, by Miss Sukey’s look and manner guessed her
+meaning.
+
+In the same manner did this good girl, Jenny, persuade, one by one, all
+her schoolfellows to be reconciled to each with sincerity and love.
+
+Miss Dolly Friendly, who had too much sense to engage the battle for
+the sake of an apple, and who was provoked to strike a blow only for
+friendship’s sake, easily saw the truth of what Miss Jenny said; and was
+therefore presently convinced, that the best part she could have acted
+for her friend, would have been to have withdrawn her from the scuffle.
+
+
+
+
+A SCENE OF LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP, QUITE THE REVERSE OF THE BATTLE,
+
+WHEREIN ARE SHOWN THE DIFFERENT EFFECTS OF LOVE AND GOODNESS FROM THOSE
+ATTENDING ANGER, STRIFE, AND WICKEDNESS: WITH THE LIFE OF MISS JENNY
+PEACE.
+
+After Miss Jenny had completed the good work of making all her
+companions friends, she drew them round her in a little arbour, in that
+very garden which had been the scene of their strife, and consequently
+of their misery; and then spoke to them the following speech; which
+she delivered in so mild a voice, that it was sufficient to charm her
+hearers into attention, and to persuade them to be led by her advice,
+and to follow her example in the paths of goodness.
+
+‘My dear friends and schoolfellows, you cannot imagine the happiness it
+gives me to see you thus all so heartily reconciled. You will find
+the joyful fruits of it. Nothing can show so much sense as thus to own
+yourselves in fault; for could anything have been so foolish as to spend
+all your time in misery, rather than at once to make use of the power
+you have of making yourselves happy? Now if you will use as many
+endeavours to love as you have hitherto done to hate each other, you
+will find that every one amongst you, whenever you have anything given
+you, will have double, nay, I may say eight times (as there are eight of
+you) the pleasure, in considering that your companions are happy. What
+is the end of quarrels, but that everyone is fretted and vexed, and
+no one gains anything! Whereas by endeavouring to please and love each
+other, the end is happiness to ourselves, and joy to everyone around us.
+I am sure, if you will speak the truth, none of you have been so easy
+since you quarrelled, as you are now you are reconciled. Answer me
+honestly, if this is not truth.’
+
+Here Miss Jenny was silent, and waited for an answer. But the poor
+girls, who had in them the seeds of goodwill to each other, although
+those seeds were choked and overrun with the weeds of envy and pride;
+as in a garden the finest strawberries will be spoiled by rank weeds, if
+care is not taken to root them out; these poor girls, I say, now struck
+with the force of truth, and sorry for what they had done, let drop some
+tears, which trickled down their cheeks, and were signs of meekness,
+and sorrow for their fault. Not like those tears which burst from their
+swollen eyes, when anger and hatred choked their words, and their proud
+hearts laboured with stubbornness and folly; when their skins reddened,
+and all their features were changed and distorted by the violence of
+passion, which made them frightful to the beholders, and miserable
+to themselves;-- No! Far other cause had they now for tears, and far
+different were the tears they shed; their eyes, melted with sorrow for
+their faults, let fall some drops, as tokens of their repentance; but,
+as soon as they could recover themselves to speak, they all with one
+voice cried out, ‘Indeed, Miss Jenny, we are sorry for our fault, and
+will follow your advice; which we now see is owing to your goodness.’
+
+Miss Jenny now produced a basket of apples, which she had purchased out
+of the little pocket-money she was allowed, in order to prove, that the
+same things may be a pleasure or a pain, according as the persons to
+whom they are given are good or bad.
+
+These she placed in the midst of her companions, and desired them to
+eat, and enjoy themselves; and now they were so changed, that each
+helped her next neighbour before she would touch any for herself; and
+the moment they were grown thus good natured and friendly, they were as
+well-bred, and as polite, as it is possible to describe.
+
+Miss Jenny’s joy was inexpressible, that she had caused this happy
+change; nor less was the joy of her companions, who now began to
+taste pleasures, from which their animosity to each other had hitherto
+debarred them. They all sat looking pleased on their companions; their
+faces borrowed beauty from the calmness and goodness of their minds;
+and all those ugly frowns, and all that ill-natured sourness, which when
+they were angry and cross were but too plain in their faces, were now
+entirely fled; jessamine and honeysuckles surrounded their seats, and
+played round their heads, of which they gathered nosegays to present
+each other with. They now enjoyed all the pleasure and happiness that
+attend those who are innocent and good.
+
+Miss Jenny, with her heart overflowing with joy at this happy change,
+said, ‘Now, my dear companions, that you may be convinced what I have
+said and done was not occasioned by any desire of proving myself wiser
+than you, as Miss Sukey hinted while she was yet in her anger, I will,
+if you please, relate to you the history of my past life; by which you
+will see in what manner I came by this way of thinking; and as you will
+perceive it was chiefly owing to the instructions of a kind mamma, you
+may all likewise reap the same advantage under good Mrs. Teachum, if
+you will obey her commands, and attend to her precepts. And after I have
+given you the particulars of my life, I must beg that every one of you
+will, some day or other, when you have reflected upon it, declare all
+that you can remember of your own; for, should you not be able to relate
+anything worth remembering as an example, yet there is nothing more
+likely to amend the future part of anyone’s life, than the recollecting
+and confessing the faults of the past.’
+
+All our little company highly approved of Miss Jenny’s proposal, and
+promised, in their turns, to relate their own lives; and Miss Polly
+Suckling cried out, ‘Yes indeed, Miss Jenny, I’ll tell all when it comes
+to my turn; so pray begin, for I long to hear what you did, when you was
+no bigger than I am now.’ Miss Jenny then kissed little Polly, and said
+she would instantly begin.
+
+But as in the reading of any one’s story, it is an additional pleasure
+to have some acquaintance with their persons; and as I delight in giving
+my little readers every pleasure that is in my power; I shall endeavour,
+as justly as I can, by description, to set before their eyes the picture
+of this good young creature: and in the same of every one of our young
+company, as they begin their lives.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS JENNY PEACE.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace was just turned of fourteen, and could be called
+neither tall nor short of her age; but her whole person was the most
+agreeable that can be imagined. She had an exceeding fine complexion,
+with as much colour in her cheeks as is the natural effect of perfect
+health. Her hair was light brown, and curled in so regular and yet easy
+a manner, as never to want any assistance from art. Her eyebrows (which
+were not of that correct turn as to look as if they were drawn with a
+pencil) and her eyelashes were both darker than her hair; and the
+latter being very long, gave such a shade to her eyes as made them often
+mistaken for black, though they were only a dark hazel. To give any
+description of her eyes beyond the colour and size, which was perfectly
+the medium, would be impossible; except by saying they were expressive
+of everything that is amiable and good; for through them might be read
+every single thought of the mind; from whence they had such a brightness
+and cheerfulness, as seemed to cast a lustre over her whole face. She
+had fine teeth, and a mouth answering to the most correct rules of
+beauty; and when she spoke (though you were at too great a distance to
+hear what she said) there appeared so much sweetness, mildness, modesty
+and good nature, that you found yourself filled more with pleasure than
+admiration in beholding her. The delight which everyone took in looking
+on Miss Jenny was evident in this, that though Miss Sukey Jennett and
+Miss Patty Lockit were both what may be called handsomer girls (and if
+you asked any persons in company their opinion, they would tell you so)
+yet their eyes were a direct contradiction to their tongues, by being
+continually fixed on Miss Jenny; for, while she was in the room, it
+was impossible to fix them anywhere else. She had a natural ease and
+gentility in her shape; and all her motions were more pleasing, though
+less striking than what is commonly acquired by the instruction of
+dancing masters.
+
+Such was the agreeable person of Miss Jenny Peace, who, in her usual
+obliging manner, and with an air pleasing beyond my power to express, at
+the request of her companions began to relate the history of her life,
+as follows:
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS JENNY PEACE.
+
+‘My father dying when I was but half a year old, I was left to the care
+of my mamma, who was the best woman in the world, and to whose memory
+I shall ever pay the most grateful honour. From the time she had any
+children, she made it the whole study of her life to promote their
+welfare, and form their minds in the manner she thought would best
+answer her purpose of making them both good and happy; for it was her
+constant maxim, that goodness and happiness dwelt in the same bosoms,
+and were generally found to life so much together, that they could not
+easily be separated.
+
+‘My mother had six children born alive; but could preserve none beyond
+the first year, except my brother, Harry Peace, and myself. She made it
+one of her chief cares to cultivate and preserve the most perfect love
+and harmony between us. My brother is but a twelvemonth older than I;
+so that, till I was six years old (for seven was the age in which he was
+sent to school) he remained at home with me; in which time we often had
+little childish quarrels; but my mother always took care to convince us
+of our error in wrangling and fighting about nothing, and to teach
+us how much more pleasure we enjoyed whilst we agreed. She showed no
+partiality to either, but endeavoured to make us equal in all things,
+any otherwise than that she taught me I owed a respect to my brother as
+the eldest.
+
+‘Before my brother went to school, we had set hours appointed us, in
+which we regularly attended to learn whatever was thought necessary
+for our improvement; my mamma herself daily watching the opening of our
+minds, and taking great care to instruct us in what manner to make the
+best use of the knowledge we attained. Whatever we read she explained to
+us, and made us understand, that we might be the better for our lessons.
+When we were capable of thinking, we made it so much a rule to obey our
+parent, the moment she signified her pleasure, that by that means we
+avoided many accidents and misfortunes; for example: my brother was
+running one day giddily round the brink of a well; and if he had made
+the least false step, he must have fallen to the bottom, and been
+drowned; my mamma, by a sign with her finger that called him to her,
+preserved him from the imminent danger he was in of losing his life;
+and then she took care that we should both be the better for this little
+incident, by laying before us how much our safety and happiness, as well
+as our duty, were concerned in being obedient.
+
+‘My brother and I once had a quarrel about something as trifling as
+your apple of contention; and, though we both heartily wished to be
+reconciled to each other, yet did our little hearts swell so much with
+stubbornness and pride, that neither of us would speak first; by which
+means we were so silly as to be both uneasy, and yet would not use the
+remedy that was in our own power to remove that uneasiness. My mamma
+found it out, and sent for me into her closet, and said, “She was sorry
+to see her instructions had no better effect on me; for,” continued she,
+“indeed, Jenny, I am ashamed of your folly, as well as wickedness, in
+thus contending with your brother.” A tear, which I believe flowed from
+shame, started from my eyes at this reproof; and I fixed them on the
+ground, being too much overwhelmed with confusion to dare to lift them
+up on mamma. On which she kindly said, “She hoped my confusion was a
+sign of my amendment. That she might indeed have used another method, by
+commanding me to seek a reconciliation with my brother; for she did not
+imagine I was already so far gone in perverseness, as not to hold her
+commands as inviolable; but she was willing, for my good, first to
+convince me of my folly.” As soon as my confusion would give me leave
+to speak, on my knees I gave her a thousand thanks for her goodness,
+and went immediately to seek my brother. He joyfully embraced the
+first opportunity of being reconciled to me; and this was one of the
+pleasantest hours of my life. This quarrel happened when my brother came
+home at a breaking-up, and I was nine years old.
+
+‘My mamma’s principal care was to keep up a perfect amity between me
+and my brother. I remember once, when Harry and I were playing in the
+fields, there was a small rivulet stopped me in my way. My brother,
+being nimbler and better able to jump than myself, with one spring
+leaped over, and left me on the other side of it; but seeing me uneasy
+that I could not get over to him, his good nature prompted him to come
+back and to assist me; and, by the help of his hand, I easily passed
+over. On this my good mamma bid me remember how much my brother’s
+superior strength might assist me in his being my protector; and that I
+ought to return to use my utmost endeavours to oblige him; and that
+then we should be mutual assistants to each other throughout life. Thus
+everything that passed was made use of to improve my understanding and
+amend my heart.
+
+‘I believe no child ever spent her time more agreeably than I did; for I
+not only enjoyed my own pleasures, but also those of others. And when my
+brother was carried abroad, and I was left at home, that HE was pleased,
+made me full amends for the loss of any diversion, the contentions
+between us (where our parent’s commands did not interfere) were always
+exerted in endeavours each to prefer the other’s pleasures to our own.
+My mind was easy and free from anxiety; for as I always took care to
+speak truth, I had nothing to conceal from my mamma, and consequently
+had never any fears of being found in a lie. For one lie obliges us
+to tell a thousand others to conceal it; and I have no notion of
+any conditions being so miserable, as to live in a continual fear of
+detection. Most particularly, my mamma instructed me to beware of all
+sorts of deceit; so that I was accustomed, not only in words to speak
+truth, but also not to endeavour by any means to deceive.
+
+‘But though the friendship between my brother and me was so strongly
+cultivated, yet we were taught, that lying for each other, or praising
+each other when it was not deserved, was not only a fault, but a very
+great crime; for this, my mamma used to tell us, was not love, but
+hatred; as it was encouraging one another in folly and wickedness.
+And though my natural disposition inclined me to be very tender of
+everything in my power, yet was I not suffered to give way even to THIS
+in an unreasonable degree. One instance of which I remember.
+
+‘When I was about eleven years old, I had a cat that I had bred up from
+a little kitten, that used to play round me, till I had indulged for the
+poor animal a fondness that made me delight to have it continually with
+me wherever I went; and, in return for my indulgence, the cat seemed
+to have changed its nature, and assumed the manner that more properly
+belongs to dogs than cats; for it would follow me about the house and
+gardens, mourn for my absence, and rejoice at my presence. And, what was
+very remarkable, the poor animal would, when fed by my hand, lose that
+caution which cats are known to be possessed of, and eat whatever I gave
+it, as if it could reflect that I meant only its good, and no harm could
+come from me.
+
+‘I was at last so accustomed to see this little Frisk (for so I called
+it) playing round me, that I seemed to miss part of myself in its
+absence. But one day the poor little creature followed me to the door;
+when a parcel of schoolboys coming by, one of them catched her up in his
+arms, and ran away with her. All my cries were to no purpose; for he was
+out of sight with her in a moment, and there was no method to trace his
+steps. The cruel wretches, for sport, as they called it, hunted it the
+next day from one to the other, in the most barbarous manner; till at
+last it took shelter in that house that used to be its protection, and
+came and expired at my feet.
+
+‘I was so struck with the sight of the little animal dying in that
+manner, that the great grief of my heart overflowed at my eyes, and I
+was for some time inconsolable.
+
+‘My indulgent mamma comforted without blaming me, till she thought I
+had sufficient time to vent my grief; and then, sending for me into her
+chamber, spoke as follows:
+
+‘“Jenny, I have watched you ever since the death of your little
+favourite cat; and have been in hopes daily, that your lamenting and
+melancholy on that account would be at an end. But I find you still
+persist in grieving, as if such a loss was irreparable. Now, though
+I have always encouraged you in all sentiments of good nature and
+compassion; and am sensible, that where those sentiments are strongly
+implanted, they will extend their influence even to the least animal;
+yet you are to consider, my child, that you are not to give way to
+any passions that interfere with your duty; for whenever there is any
+contention between your duty and your inclinations, you must conquer the
+latter, or become wicked and contemptible. If, therefore, you give way
+to this melancholy, how will you be able to perform your duty towards
+me, in cheerfully obeying my commands, and endeavouring, by your lively
+prattle and innocent gaiety of heart, to be my companion and delight?
+Nor will you be fit to converse with your brother, whom (as you lost
+your good papa when you were too young to know that loss) I have
+endeavoured to educate in such a manner, that I hope he will be a father
+to you, if you deserve his love and protection. In short, if you do
+not keep command enough of yourself to prevent being ruffled by every
+accident, you will be unfit for all the social offices of life, and be
+despised by all those whose regard and love are worth your seeking. I
+treat you, my girl, as capable of considering what is for your own good;
+for though you are but eleven years of age, yet I hope the pains I have
+taken in explaining all you read, and in answering all your questions in
+search of knowledge, has not been so much thrown away, but that you are
+more capable of judging, than those unhappy children are, whose parents
+have neglected to instruct them. And therefore, farther to enforce what
+I say, remember, that repining at any accident that happens to you, is
+an offence to that God to whom I have taught you daily to pray for all
+the blessings you can receive, and to whom you are to return humble
+thanks for every blessing.”
+
+‘“I expect therefore, Jenny, that you now dry up your tears, and resume
+your usual cheerfulness. I do not doubt but your obedience to me will
+make you at least put on the appearance of cheerfulness in my sight. But
+you will deceive yourself, if you think that is performing your duty;
+for if you would obey me as you ought, you must try heartily to root
+from your mind all sorrow and gloominess. You may depend upon it, this
+command is in your power to obey; for you know I never require anything
+of you that is impossible.”
+
+‘After my mamma had made this speech, she went out to take a walk in the
+garden, and left me to consider of what she had said.
+
+‘The moment I came to reflect seriously, I found it was indeed in my
+power to root all melancholy from my heart, when I considered it was
+necessary, in order to perform my duty to God, to obey the best of
+mothers, and to make myself a blessing and a cheerful companion to her,
+rather than a burden, and the cause of her uneasiness, by my foolish
+melancholy.
+
+‘This little accident, as managed by my mamma, has been a lesson to me
+in governing my passions ever since.
+
+‘It would be endless to repeat all the methods this good mother invented
+for my instruction, amendment, and improvement. It is sufficient to
+acquaint you, that she contrived that every new day should open to me
+some new scene of knowledge; and no girl could be happier than I was
+during her life. But, alas! when I was thirteen years of age, the scene
+changed. My dear mamma was taken ill of a scarlet fever. I attended her
+day and night whilst she lay ill, my eyes starting with tears to see her
+in that condition; and yet I did not dare to give my sorrows vent, for
+fear of increasing her pain.’
+
+Here a trickling tear stole from Miss Jenny’s eyes. She suppressed some
+rising sobs that interrupted her speech, and was about to proceed in her
+story, when, casting her eyes on her companions, she saw her sorrow had
+such an effect upon them all, that there was not one of her hearers who
+could refrain from shedding a sympathising tear. She therefore thought
+it was more strictly following her mamma’s precepts to pass this part
+of her story in silence, rather than to grieve her friends; and having
+wiped away her tears, she hastened to conclude her story; which she did
+as follows:
+
+‘After my mamma’s death, my Aunt Newman, my father’s sister, took the
+care of me; but being obliged to go to Jamaica, to settle some affairs
+relating to an estate she is possessed of there, she took with her my
+Cousin Harriet, her only daughter, and left me under the care of the
+good Mrs. Teachum till her return. And since I have been here, you all
+know as much of my history as I do myself.’
+
+
+As Miss Jenny spoke these words, the bell summoned them to supper into
+the presence of their governess, who having narrowly watched their looks
+ever since the fray, had hitherto plainly perceived, that though they
+did not dare to break out again into an open quarrel, yet their hearts
+had still harboured unkind thoughts of one another. She was surprised
+NOW, as she stood at a window in the hall that overlooked the garden, to
+see all her scholars walk towards her hand in hand, with such cheerful
+countenances, as plainly showed their inward good humour. And as she
+thought proper to mention to them her pleasure in seeing them thus
+altered, Miss Jenny Peace related to her governess all that had passed
+in the arbour, with their general reconciliation. Mrs. Teachum gave Miss
+Jenny all the applause due to her goodness, saying, she herself had only
+waited a little while, to see if their anger would subside, and love
+take its place in their bosoms, without her interfering again; for THAT
+she certainly should otherwise have done, to have brought about what
+Miss Jenny had so happily effected.
+
+Miss Jenny thanked her governess for her kind approbation, and said,
+that if she would give them leave, she would spend what time she was
+pleased to allow them from school in this little arbour, in reading
+stories, and such things as she should think a proper and innocent
+amusement.
+
+Mrs. Teachum not only gave leave, but very much approved of this
+proposal; and desired Miss Jenny, as a reward for what she had already
+done, to preside over these diversions, and to give her an account in
+what manner they proceeded. Miss Jenny promised in all things to be
+guided by good Mrs. Teachum. And now, soon after supper, they retired to
+rest, free from those uneasy passions which used to prevent their quiet;
+and as they had passed the day in pleasure, at night they sunk in soft
+and sweet repose.
+
+
+
+
+MONDAY.
+
+THE FIRST DAY AFTER THEIR REPENTANCE; AND, CONSEQUENTLY, THE FIRST DAY
+OF THE HAPPINESS OF MISS JENNY PEACE AND HER COMPANIONS.
+
+Early in the morning, as soon as Miss Jenny arose, all her companions
+flocked round her; for they now looked on her as the best friend they
+had in the world; and they agreed, when they came out of school, to
+adjourn into their arbour, and divert themselves till dinner-time; which
+they accordingly did. When Miss Jenny proposed, if it was agreeable to
+them to hear it, to read them a story which she had put in her pocket
+for that purpose; and as they now began to look upon her as the most
+proper person to direct them in their amusements, they all replied, What
+was most agreeable to her would please them best. She then began to
+read the following story, with which we shall open their first day’s
+amusement.
+
+
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE CRUEL GIANT BARBARICO, THE GOOD GIANT BENEFICO,
+
+AND THE LITTLE PRETTY DWARF MIGNON.
+
+A great many hundred years ago, the mountains of Wales were inhabited
+by two giants; one of whom was the terror of all his neighbours and the
+plague of the whole country. He greatly exceeded the size of any giant
+recorded in history; and his eyes looked so fierce and terrible, that
+they frightened all who were so unhappy as to behold them.
+
+The name of this enormous wretch was Barbarico. A name which filled
+all who heard it with fear and astonishment. The whole delight of this
+monster’s life was in acts of inhumanity and mischief; and he was the
+most miserable as well as the most wicked creature that ever yet was
+born. He had no sooner committed one outrage, but he was in agonies
+till he could commit another; never satisfied, unless he could find an
+opportunity of either torturing or devouring some innocent creature.
+And whenever he happened to be disappointed in any of his malicious
+purposes, he would stretch his immense bulk on the top of some high
+mountain, and groan, and beat the earth, and bellow with such a hollow
+voice, that the whole country heard and trembled at the sound.
+
+The other giant, whose name was Benefico, was not so tall and bulky as
+the hideous Barbarico. He was handsome, well proportioned, and of a very
+good-natured turn of mind. His delight was no less in acts of goodness
+and benevolence than the other’s was in cruelty and mischief. His
+constant care was to endeavour if possible to repair the injuries
+committed by this horrid tyrant, which he had sometimes an opportunity
+of doing; for though Barbarico was much larger and stronger than
+Benefico, yet his coward mind was afraid to engage with him, and always
+shunned a meeting; leaving the pursuit of any prey, if he himself was
+pursued by Benefico: nor could the good Benefico trust farther to
+this coward spirit of his base adversary, than only to make the horrid
+creature fly; for he well knew that a close engagement might make him
+desperate; and fatal to himself might be the consequence of such a
+brutal desperation; therefore he prudently declined any attempt to
+destroy this cruel monster, till he should gain some sure advantage over
+him.
+
+It happened on a certain day, that as the inhuman Barbarico was prowling
+along the side of a craggy mountain overgrown with brambles and briery
+thickets, taking most horrid strides, rolling his ghastly eyes around
+in quest of human blood, and having his breast tortured with inward rage
+and grief, that he had been so unhappy as to live one whole day without
+some act of violence, he beheld, in a pleasant valley at a distance, a
+little rivulet winding its gentle course through rows of willows mixed
+with flowery shrubs. Hither the giant hasted; and being arrived, he
+gazed about to see if in this sweet retirement any were so unhappy as to
+fall within his power; but finding none, the disappointment set him in
+a flame of rage, which, burning like an inward furnace, parched his
+throat. And now he laid him down on the bank, to try if in the cool
+stream, that murmured as it flowed, he could assuage or slack the fiery
+thirst that burnt within him.
+
+He bent him down to drink; and at the same time casting his baleful eyes
+towards the opposite side, he discovered within a little natural arbour
+formed by the branches of a spreading tree, within the meadow’s flowery
+lawn, the shepherd Fidus and his loved Amata.
+
+The gloomy tyrant no sooner perceived this happy pair, than his heart
+exulted with joy; and, suddenly leaping up on the ground, he forgot his
+thirst, and left the stream untasted. He stood for a short space to
+view them in their sweet retirement; and was soon convinced that, in
+the innocent enjoyment of reciprocal affection, their happiness was
+complete. His eyes, inflamed with envy to behold such bliss, darted a
+fearful glare; and his breast swelling with malice and envenomed rage,
+he with gigantic pace approached their peaceful seat.
+
+The happy Fidus was at that time busy in entertaining his loved Amata
+with a song which he had that very morning composed in praise of
+constancy; and the giant was now within one stride of them, when Amata,
+perceiving him, cried out in a trembling voice, ‘Fly, Fidus, fly, or
+we are lost for ever; we are pursued by the hateful Barbarico!’ She had
+scarce uttered these words, when the savage tyrant seized them by the
+waist in either hand, and holding up to his nearer view, thus said:
+‘Speak, miscreants; and, if you would avoid immediate death, tell me
+who you are, and whence arises that tranquility of mind, which even at a
+distance was visible in your behaviour.’
+
+Poor Fidus, with looks that would have melted the hardest heart,
+innocently replied, that they were wandering that way without designing
+offence to any creature on earth. That they were faithful lovers; and,
+with the consent of all their friends and relations, were soon to be
+married; therefore he entreated him not to part them.
+
+The giant now no sooner perceived, from the last words of the affrighted
+youth, what was most likely to give them the greatest torment, than with
+a spiteful grin which made his horrible face yet more horrible, and in
+a hollow voice, as loud as thunder, he tauntingly cried out, ‘Ho-hoh!
+You’d not be parted, would you? For once I’ll gratify thy will, and thou
+shalt follow this thy whimpering fondling down my capatious maw.’ So
+saying, he turned his ghastly visage on the trembling Amata who, being
+now no longer able to support herself under his cruel threats, fainted
+away, and remained in his hand but as a lifeless corpse. When lifting
+up his eyes towards the hill on the opposite side, he beheld Benefico
+coming hastily towards him. This good giant having been that morning
+informed that Barbarico was roaming in the mountains after prey,
+left his peaceful castle, in hopes of giving protection to whatever
+unfortunate creature should fall into the clutches of this so cruel a
+monster.
+
+Barbarico, at the sight of the friendly Benefico, started with fear; for
+although in bulk and stature he was, as we have said, the superior: yet
+that cowardice, which ever accompanies wickedness, now wrought in him in
+such a manner that he could not bear to confront him, well knowing the
+courage and fortitude that always attend the good and virtuous; and
+therefore instantly putting Fidus into the wallet that hung over his
+shoulder, he flung the fainting Amata, whom he took to be quite expired,
+into the stream that ran hard by, and fled to his cave, not daring once
+to cast his eyes behind him.
+
+The good Benefico perceiving the monster’s flight, and not doubting but
+he had been perpetrating some horrid mischief, immediately hastened
+to the brook; where he found the half-expiring Amata floating down
+the stream, for her clothes had yet borne her up on the surface of the
+water. He speedily stepped in and drew her out, and taking her in his
+arms, pressed her to his warm bosom; and in a short space perceiving
+in her face the visible marks of returning life, his heart swelled with
+kind compassion, and he thus bespoke the tender maid: ‘Unhappy damsel,
+lift up thy gentle eyes, and tell me by what hard fate thou hast fallen
+into the power of that barbarous monster, whose savage nature delights
+in nothing but ruin and desolation. Tremble not thus, but without fear
+or terror behold one who joys in the thought of having saved thee from
+destruction, and will bring thee every comfort his utmost power can
+procure.’
+
+The gentle Amata was now just enough recovered to open her eyes: but
+finding herself in a giant’s arms, and still retaining in her mind the
+frightful image of the horrid Barbarico, she fetched a deep sigh, crying
+out in broken accents, ‘Fly, Fidus, fly;’ and again sunk down upon the
+friendly giant’s breast. On hearing these words, and plainly seeing by
+the anguish of her mind that some settled grief was deeply rooted at her
+heart, and therefore despairing to bring her to herself immediately, the
+kind Benefico hastened with her to his hospitable castle; where every
+imaginable assistance was administered to her relief, in order to
+recover her lost sense, and to reconcile her to her wretched fate.
+
+The cruel Barbarico was no sooner arrived at his gloomy cave, than he
+called to him his little page; who, trembling to hear the tyrant now
+again returned, quickly drew near to attend his stern commands: when
+drawing out of the wallet the poor Fidus, more dead than alive, the
+monster cried out, ‘Here, caitiff, take in charge this smoothed-faced
+miscreant; and, d’ye hear me? see that his allowance be no more than one
+small ounce of mouldy bread and half a pint of standing water, for each
+day’s support, till his now blooming skin be withered, his flesh be
+wasted from his bones, and he dwindle to a meagre skeleton.’ So saying
+he left them, as he hoped, to bewail each other’s sad condition. But the
+unhappy Fidus, bereft of his Amata, was not to be appalled by any of the
+most horrid threats; for now his only comfort was the hopes of a speedy
+end to his miserable life, and to find a refuge from his misfortunes
+in the peaceful grave. With this reflection the faithful Fidus was
+endeavouring to calm the inward troubles of his mind, when the little
+page, with looks of the most tender compassion, and in gentle words,
+bid him be comforted, and with patience endure his present affliction;
+adding that he himself had long suffered the most rigorous fate, yet
+despaired not but that one day would give them an opportunity to free
+themselves from the wicked wretch, whose sole delight was in others’
+torments. ‘As to his inhuman commands,’ continued he, ‘I will sooner
+die than obey them; and in a mutual friendship perhaps we may find some
+consolation, even in this dismal cave.’
+
+This little page the cruel Barbarico had stolen from his parents at five
+years old; ever since which time he had tortured and abused him, till he
+had now attained the age of one-and-twenty. His mother had given him
+the name of Mignon; by which name the monster always called him, as it
+gratified his insolence to make use of that fond appellation whilst he
+was abusing him, only when he said Mignon he would in derision add the
+word Dwarf; for, to say the truth, Mignon was one of the least men that
+was ever seen, though at the same time one of the prettiest: his limbs,
+though small, were exactly proportioned; his countenance was at once
+sprightly and soft; and whatever his head thought, or his heart felt,
+his eyes by their looks expressed; and his temper was as sweet as his
+person was amiable. Such was the gentle creature Barbarico chose to
+torment. For wicked giants, no less than wicked men and women, are
+constantly tormented at the appearance of those perfections in another,
+to which they themselves have no pretensions.
+
+The friendship and affection of Fidus and Mignon now every day
+increased; and the longer they were acquainted, the mere delight
+they took in each other’s company. The faithful Fidus related to
+his companion the story of his loved Amata, whilst the tender Mignon
+consoled his friend’s inward sorrows, and supplied him with necessaries,
+notwithstanding the venture he run of the cruel tyrant’s heavy
+displeasure. The giant ceased not every day to view the hapless Fidus,
+to see if the cruelty of his intentions had in any degree wrought its
+desired effect; but perceiving in him no alteration, he now began to be
+suspicious that the little Mignon had not punctually obeyed his savage
+command. In order therefore to satisfy his wicked curiosity, he resolved
+within himself narrowly to watch every occasion these poor unhappy
+captives had of conversing with each other. Mignon, well knowing the
+implacable and revengeful disposition of this barbarous tyrant, had
+taken all the precautions imaginable to avoid discovery; and therefore
+generally sought every opportunity of being alone with Fidus, and
+carrying him his daily provisions at those hours he knew the giant was
+most likely to be asleep.
+
+It so befell that, on a certain day, the wicked giant had, as was his
+usual custom, been abroad for many hours in search of some unhappy
+creature on whom to glut his hateful inhumanity; when, tired with
+fruitless roaming, he returned to his gloomy cave, beguiled of all his
+horrid purposes; for he had not once that day espied so much as the
+track of man, or other harmless animal, to give him hopes even to
+gratify his rage or cruelty; but now raving with inward torment and
+despair, he laid him down upon his iron couch, to try if he could close
+his eyes and quiet the tumultuous passions of his breast. He tossed and
+tumbled and could get no rest, starting with fearful dreams, and horrid
+visions of tormenting furies.
+
+Meanwhile the gentle Mignon had prepared a little delicate repast, and
+having seen the monster lay himself at length, and thinking now that a
+fit occasion offered in which to comfort and refresh his long-expecting
+friend, was hastening with it to the cell where the faithful Fidus
+was confined. At the fatal moment the giant, rearing himself up on his
+couch, perceived the little Mignon just at the entrance of the cell;
+when calling to him in a hollow voice, that dismally resounded through
+the cave, he so startled the poor unhappy page, that he dropped the
+cover from his trembling hand and stood fixed and motionless as a
+statue.
+
+‘Come hither, Mignon, caitiff, dwarf,’ said then the taunting homicide:
+but the poor little creature was so thunderstruck he was quite unable
+to stir one foot. Whereat the giant, rousing himself from off his couch,
+with one huge stride reached out his brawny arm, and seized him by
+the waist; and, pointing to the scattered delicates, cried out, ‘Vile
+miscreant! is it thus thou hast obeyed my orders? Is this the mouldy
+bread and muddy water, with which alone it was my command thou shouldst
+sustain that puny mortal? But I’ll--’ Here raising him aloft, he was
+about to dash him to the ground, when suddenly revolving in his wicked
+thoughts, that if at once he should destroy his patient slave, his
+cruelty to him must also have an end, he paused--and then recovering, he
+stretched out his arm, and bringing the little trembler near his glaring
+eyes, he thus subjoins: ‘No; I’ll not destroy thy wretched life; but
+thou shalt waste thy weary days in a dark dungeon, as far remote from
+the least dawn of light as from thy loved companion. And I myself will
+carefully supply you both so equally with mouldy bread and water,
+that each by his own sufferings shall daily know what his dear friend
+endures.’ So saying, he hastened with him to his deepest dungeon; and
+having thrust him in, he doubly barred the iron door. And now again
+retiring to his couch, this new-wrought mischief, which greatly
+gratified his raging mind, soon sunk him down into a sound and heavy
+sleep. The reason this horrid monster had not long ago devoured his
+little captive (for he thought him a delicious morsel) was, that he
+might never want an object at hand to gratify his cruelty. For though
+extremely great was his voracious hunger, yet greater still was his
+desire of tormenting; and oftentimes when he had teased, beat, and
+tortured the poor gentle Mignon, so as to force from him tears, and
+sometimes a soft complaint, he would, with a malicious sneer, scornfully
+reproach him in the following words: ‘Little does it avail to whine, to
+blubber, or complain; for, remember, abject wretch,
+
+     I am a giant, and I can eat thee:
+     Thou art a dwarf, and thou canst not eat me.’
+
+When Mignon was thus alone, he threw himself on the cold ground,
+bemoaning his unhappy fate. However, he soon recollected that patience
+and resignation were his only succour in this distressful condition; not
+doubting but that, as goodness cannot always suffer, he should in time
+meet with some unforeseen deliverance from the savage power of the
+inhuman Barbarico.
+
+Whilst the gentle Mignon was endeavouring to comfort himself in his
+dungeon with these good reflections, he suddenly perceived, at a little
+distance from him, a small glimmering light. Immediately he rose from
+the ground, and going towards it, found that it shone through a little
+door that had been left at jar, which led him to a spacious hall,
+wherein the giant hoarded his immense treasures. Mignon was at first
+dazzled with the lustre of so much gold and silver, and sparkling jewels
+as were there heaped together. But casting his eyes on a statue that was
+placed in the middle of the room, he read on the pedestal, written in
+very small letters, the following verses:
+
+     Wouldst thou from the rage be free
+     Of the tyrant’s tyranny,
+     Loose the fillet which is bound
+     Twice three times my brows around;
+     Bolts and bars shall open fly,
+     By a magic sympathy.
+     Take him in his sleeping hour;
+     Bind his neck and break his pow’r.
+     Patience bids, make no delay:
+     Haste to bind him, haste away.
+
+Mignon’s little heart now leapt for joy, that he had found the means
+of such a speedy deliverance; and eagerly climbing up the statue, he
+quickly unbound the magic fillet; which was no sooner done, but suddenly
+the bolts and bars of the brazen gates through which the giant used to
+pass to this his treasury, were all unloosed, and the folding-doors of
+their own accord flew open, grating harsh thunder on their massy hinges.
+At the same instant, stretched on his iron couch in the room adjoining
+to the hall, the giant gave a deadly groan. Here again the little
+Mignon’s trembling heart began to fail; for he feared the monster was
+awakened by the noise, and that he should now suffer the cruellest
+torments his wicked malice could invent. Wherefore for a short space he
+remained clinging round the statue, till he perceived that all again was
+hushed and silent; when, getting down, he gently stole into the giant’s
+chamber, where he found him still in a profound sleep.
+
+
+But here, to the great mortification of Miss Jenny’s attentive hearers,
+the hour of entertaining themselves being at an end, they were obliged
+to leave the poor little Mignon in the greatest distress and fright
+lest the giant should awake before he could fulfil the commands of
+the oracle, and to wait for the remainder of the story till another
+opportunity.
+
+In the evening, as soon as school was over, the little company again met
+in their arbour, and nothing could be greater than their impatience to
+hear the event of Mignon’s hazardous undertaking. Miss Dolly Friendly
+said that if the poor little creature was destroyed, she should not
+sleep that night. But they all joined in entreating Miss Jenny to
+proceed; which she did in the following manner:
+
+
+
+
+A CONTINUATION OF THE STORY OF THE GIANTS.
+
+Now, thought Mignon, is the lucky moment to fulfil the instructions of
+the oracle. And then cautiously getting up the side of the couch, with
+trembling hands he put the fillet round the monster’s neck, and tied it
+firmly in a threefold knot; and again softly creeping down, he retired
+into a corner of the room to wait the wished event. In a few minutes the
+giant waked; and opening his enormous eyes, he glared their horrid orbs
+around (but without the least motion of his head or body) and spied the
+little Mignon where he lay, close shrinking to avoid his baleful sight.
+
+The giant no sooner perceived his little page at liberty, but his heart
+sorely smote him, and he began to suspect the worst that could befall;
+for, recollecting that he had carelessly left open the little door
+leading from the dungeon to the great hall wherein was placed the fatal
+magic statue, he was now entirely convinced that Mignon had discovered
+the secret charm on which his power depended; for he already found the
+magic of the fillet round his neck fully to operate, his sinews all
+relax, his joints all tremble; and when he would by his own hand have
+tried to free himself, his shivering limbs he found refused obedience to
+their office. Thus bereft of all his strength, and well nigh motionless,
+in this extremity of impotence he cast about within himself by what sly
+fraud (for fraud and subtlety were now his only refuge) he best might
+work upon the gentle Mignon to lend his kind assistance to unloose him.
+Wherefore with guileful words and seeming courtesy, still striving to
+conceal his cursed condition, he thus bespake his little captive:
+
+‘Come hither Mignon; my pretty gentle boy, come near me. This fillet
+thou has bound around my neck, to keep me from the cold, gives me some
+pain. I know thy gentle nature will not let thee see thy tender master
+in the least uneasiness, without affording him thy cheerful aid and kind
+relief. Come hither, my dear child, I say, and loose the knot which in
+thy kind concern (I thank thee for thy care) thou hast tied so hard, it
+somewhat frets my neck.’
+
+These words the insidious wretch uttered in such a low trembling tone of
+voice, and with such an affectation of tenderness, that the little page,
+who had never before experience from him any such kind of dialect, and
+but too well knew his savage nature to believe that anything but guile
+or want of power could move him to the least friendly speech, or kind
+affection, began now strongly to be persuaded that all was as he wished,
+and that the power of the inhuman tyrant was at an end. He knew full
+well, that if the giant had not lost the ability of rising from the
+couch, he should ere now too sensibly have felt the sad effects of his
+malicious resentment, and therefore boldly adventured to approach him,
+and coming near the couch, and finding not the least effort in the
+monster to reach him, and from thence quite satisfied of the giant’s
+total incapacity of doing farther mischief, he flew with raptures to the
+cell where Fidus lay confined.
+
+Poor Fidus all this time was quite disconsolate; nor could he guess the
+cause why his little friend so long had kept away; one while he thought
+the giant’s stern commands had streightened him of all subsistence;
+another while his heart misgave him for his gentle friend, lest unawares
+his kind beneficence towards him had caused him to fall a sacrifice
+to the tyrant’s cruel resentment. With these and many other like
+reflections the unhappy youth was busied, when Mignon, suddenly unbarred
+the cell, flew to his friend, and eagerly embraced him, cried out, ‘Come
+Fidus, haste, my dearest friend; for thou and all of us are from this
+moment free. Come and behold the cruel monster, where he lies, bereft of
+all his strength. I cannot stay to tell thee now the cause; but haste,
+and thou shall see the dreadful tyrant stretched on his iron couch,
+deprived of all his wicked power. But first let us unbar each cell,
+wherein is pent some wretched captive, that we may share a general
+transport for this our glad deliverance.’
+
+The faithful Fidus, whose heart had known but little joy since he had
+lost his loved Amata, now felt a dawning hope that he might once more
+chance to find her, if she had survived their fatal separation; and,
+without one word of answer, he followed Mignon to the several cells, and
+soon released all the astonished captives.
+
+Mignon first carried them to behold their former terror, now, to
+appearance, almost a lifeless corpse; who on seeing them all surround
+his couch, gave a most hideous roar, which made them tremble, all but
+the gentle Mignon, who was convinced of the impotence of his rage, and
+begged them to give him their attendance in the hall; where they were no
+sooner assembled than he showed them the statue, read them the oracle,
+and told them every circumstance before related.
+
+They now began to bethink themselves of what method was to be taken
+to procure their entire liberty; for the influence of the magic
+fillet extended only to the gates of the hall; and still they remained
+imprisoned within the dismal cave; and though they knew from the oracle,
+as well as from what appeared, that the monster’s power was at an end,
+yet still were they to seek the means of their escape from this his
+horrid abode. At length Mignon again ascended the couch to find the
+massy key, and spying one end of it peep out from under the pillow, he
+called to Fidus, who first stepped up to his friend’s assistance; the
+rest by his example quickly followed; and now, by their united force,
+they dragged the ponderous key from under the monster’s head; and then
+descending they all went to the outer door of the cave, where, with some
+difficulty, they set wide open the folding iron gates.
+
+They now determined to dispatch a messenger to the good Benefico with
+the news, which they knew would be so welcome to him and all his guests,
+and with one voice agreed that Fidus should bear the joyful tidings;
+and then returned to observe the monster, and to wait the coming of
+Benefico. The nimble Fidus soon reached the giant’s dwelling, where, at
+a little distance from the castle, he met the good Benefico with a
+train of happy friends, enjoying the pleasures of the evening, and the
+instructive and cheerful conversation of their kind protector. Fidus
+briefly told his errand; and instantly Benefico, with all his train,
+joyfully hastened to behold the wonders he had related; for now many
+hearts leapt for joy, in hopes of meeting some friend of whom they had
+been bereft by the cruelty of the savage Barbarico.
+
+They were not long before they arrived at the horrid cave, where
+Benefico, proceeding directly to the monster’s chamber, suddenly
+appeared to him at the side of his couch. Barbarico, on seeing him,
+gave a hideous yell, and rolled his glaring eyes in such a manner as
+expressed the height of rage and envious bitterness.
+
+Benefico, turning to all the company present, thus spoke, ‘How shall I
+enough praise and admire the gentle Mignon for having put in my power
+to justice on this execrable wretch, and freeing you all from an
+insufferable slavery, and the whole country from their terror?’ Then
+reaching the monster’s own sword, which hung over his couch, his hand
+yet suspended over the impious tyrant, he thus said, ‘Speak, wretch,
+if yet the power of speech is left thee; and with thy latest breath
+declare, what advantage hast thou found of all thy wicked life?’
+
+Barbarico well knew that too bad had been that life, to leave the least
+room for hope of mercy; and therefore, instead of an answer, he gave
+another hideous yell, gnashing his horrid teeth, and again rolling his
+ghastly eyes on all around.
+
+Benefico seeing him thus impenitent and sullen, lifted on high the
+mighty sword, and with one blow severed his odious head from his
+enormous body.
+
+The whole assembly gave a shout for joy; and Benefico holding in his
+hand the monster’s yet grinning head, thus addressed his half-astonished
+companions: ‘See here, my friends, the proper conclusion of a rapacious
+cruel life. But let us hasten from this monster’s gloomy cave; and on
+the top of one of our highest mountains, fixed on a pole, will I set up
+this joyful spectacle, that all the country round may know themselves at
+liberty to pursue their rural business or amusements, without the
+dread of any annoyance from a devouring vile tormentor. And when his
+treasures, which justly all belong to the good patient Mignon, are
+removed, we will shut up the mouth of this abominable dwelling; and,
+casting on the door a heap of earth, we’ll hope, in time, that both
+place and remembrance of this cruel savage may in time be lost.’
+
+Every one readily cried out, that to Benefico, the good Benefico,
+alone belonged the tyrant’s treasures; that Benefico should ever be, as
+heretofore, their governor, their father, and their kind protector.
+
+The beneficent heart of the good giant was quite melted with this their
+kind confidence and dependence upon him, and assured them, he should
+ever regard them as his children: and now, exulting in the general joy
+that must attend the destruction of this savage monster, when the whole
+country should find themselves freed from the terror his rapine and
+desolation, he sent before to his castle, to give intelligence to all
+within that happy place of the grim monster’s fall, and little Mignon’s
+triumph; giving in charge to the harbinger of these tidings, that it
+should be his first and chiefest care to glad the gentle bosom of a
+fair disconsolate (who kept herself retired and pent up within her own
+apartment) with the knowledge that the inhuman monster was no more; and
+that henceforth sweet peace and rural innocence might reign in all their
+woods and groves. The hearts of all within the castle bounded with
+joy, on hearing the report of the inhuman monster’s death, and the
+deliverance of all his captives, and with speedy steps they hastened
+to meet their kind protector; nor did the melancholy fair one, lest
+she should seem unthankful for the general blessing, refuse to join the
+train.
+
+It was not long after the messenger that Benefico, and those his joyful
+friends, arrived: but the faithful Fidus alone, of all this happy
+company, was tortured with the inward pangs of a sad grief he could
+not conquer, and his fond heart remained still captivated to a melting
+sorrow: nor could even the tender friendship of the gentle Mignon quite
+remove, though it alleviated, his sadness; but the thoughts of his loved
+lost amata embittered every joy, and overwhelmed his generous soul with
+sorrow.
+
+When the company from the castle joined Benefico, he declared to them in
+what manner their deliverance was effected; and, as a general shout of
+joy resounded through the neighbouring mountains, Fidus, lifting up
+his eyes, beheld in the midst of the multitude, standing in a pensive
+posture, the fair disconsolate. Her tender heart was at the instant
+overflowing in soft tears, caused by a kind participation of their
+present transport, yet mixed with the deep sad impression of a grief her
+bosom was full fraught with. Her face, at first, was almost hid by her
+white handkerchief, with which she wiped away the trickling drops, which
+falling, had bedewed her beauteous cheeks: but as she turned her lovely
+face to view the joyful conquerors, and to speak a welcome to her kind
+protector, what words can speak the raptures, the astonishment, that
+swelled the bosom of the faithful youth, when in this fair disconsolate
+he saw his loved, his constant, his long-lost Amata! Their delighted
+eyes in the same instant beheld each other, and, breaking on each
+side from their astonished friends, they flew like lightning into each
+other’s arms.
+
+After they had given a short account of what had passed in their
+separation, Fidus presented to his loved Amata the kind, the gentle
+Mignon, with lavish praises of his generous friendship, and steady
+resolution, in hazarding his life by disobeying the injunctions of the
+cruel tyrant. No sooner had Amata heard the name of Mignon, but she
+cried out, ‘Surely my happiness is now complete, and all my sorrows, by
+this joyful moment, are more than fully recompensed; for, in the kind
+preserver of my Fidus, I have found my brother. My mother lost her
+little Mignon when he was five years old; and pining grief, after some
+years vain search, ended her wretched life.’
+
+The generous hearts of all who were present shared the raptures of
+the faithful Fidus, the lovely Amata, and gentle Mignon, on this happy
+discovery; and in the warmest congratulations they expressed their joy.
+
+Benefico now led all the delighted company into his castle, where
+freedom was publicly proclaimed; and every one was left a liberty either
+to remain there with Benefico, or, loaded with wealth sufficient for
+their use, to go where their attachments or inclinations might invite
+them.
+
+Fidus, Amata, and the little Mignon, hesitated not one moment to declare
+their choice of staying with the generous Benefico.
+
+The nuptials of the faithful Fidus, and his loved Amata, were solemnized
+in the presence of all their friends.
+
+Benefico passed the remainder of his days in pleasing reflections on his
+well-spent life.
+
+The treasures of the dead tyrant were turned into blessings by the use
+they were now made of: little Mignon was loved and cherished by all his
+companions. Peace, harmony and love reigned in every bosom; dissension,
+discord, and hatred were banished from this friendly dwelling; and that
+happiness, which is the natural consequence of goodness, appeared in
+every cheerful countenance throughout the castle of the good Benefico;
+and as heretofore affright and terror spread itself from the monster’s
+hateful cave, so now from this peaceful castle was diffused tranquility
+and joy through all the happy country round.
+
+
+Thus ended the story of the two giants: and Miss Jenny being tired with
+reading, they left the arbour for that night, and agreed to meet there
+again the next day.
+
+As soon as they had supped, Mrs. Teachum sent for Miss Jenny Peace into
+her closet, and desired an exact account from her of this their first
+day’s amusement, that she might judge from thence how far they might be
+trusted with the liberty she had given them.
+
+Miss Jenny showed her governess the story she had read; and said, ‘I
+hope, madam, you will not think it an improper one; for it was given
+me by my mamma; and she told me, that she thought it contained a very
+excellent moral.’
+
+Mrs. Teachum, having looked it over, thus spoke: ‘I have no objection,
+Miss Jenny, to your reading any stories to amuse you, provided you read
+them with the proper disposition of mind not to be hurt by them. A very
+good moral may indeed be drawn from the whole, and likewise from almost
+every part of it; and as you had this story from your mamma, I doubt not
+but you are very well qualified to make the proper remarks yourself
+upon the moral of it to your companions. But here let me observe to you
+(which I would have you communicate to your little friends) that giants,
+magic, fairies, and all sorts of supernatural assistances in a story,
+are only introduced to amuse and divert: for a giant is called so only
+to express a man of great power; and the magic fillet round the statue
+was intended only to show you, that by patience you will overcome all
+difficulties. Therefore, by no means let the notion of giants or magic
+dwell upon your minds. And you may farther observe, that there is
+a different style adapted to every sort of writing; and the various
+sounding epithets given to Barbarico are proper to express the raging
+cruelty of his wicked mind. But neither this high-sounding language, nor
+the supernatural contrivances in this story, do I so thoroughly approve,
+as to recommend them much to your reading; except, as I said before,
+great care is taken to prevent your being carried away, by these
+high-flown things, from that simplicity of taste and manners which it is
+my chief study to inculcate.’
+
+Here Miss Jenny looked a little confounded; and, by her down-cast eye,
+showed a fear that she had incurred the disapprobation, if not the
+displeasure, of her governess: upon which Mrs. Teachum thus proceeded:
+
+‘I do not intend by this, my dear, to blame you for what you have done;
+but only to instruct you how to make the best use of even the most
+trifling things: and if you have any more stories of this kind, with
+an equal good moral, when you are not better employed, I shall not be
+against your reading them; always remembering the cautions I have this
+evening been giving you.’
+
+Miss Jenny thanked her governess for her instructions, and kind
+indulgence to her, and promised to give her an exact account of their
+daily amusements; and, taking leave, retired to her rest.
+
+
+
+
+TUESDAY. THE SECOND DAY.
+
+That Miss Jenny’s meeting with her companions in the morning, after
+school, she asked them how they liked the history of the giants? They
+all declared they thought it a very pretty diverting story. Miss Jenny
+replied, though she was glad they were pleased, yet she would have them
+look farther than the present amusement: ‘for,’ continued she, ‘my mamma
+always taught me to understand what I read; otherwise, she said, it was
+to no manner of purpose to read ever so many books, which would only
+stuff my brain, without being any improvement to my mind.’
+
+The misses all agreed, that certainly it was of no use to read, without
+understanding what they read; and began to talk of the story of the
+giants, to prove they could make just remarks on it.
+
+Miss Sukey Jennett said, ‘I am most pleased with that part of the story
+where the good Benefico cuts off the monster’s head, and puts an end
+to his cruelty, especially as he was so sullen he would not confess his
+wickedness; because, you know, Miss Jenny, if he had had sense enough to
+have owned his error, and have followed the example of the good giant,
+he might have been happy.’
+
+Miss Lucy Sly delivered the following opinion: ‘My greatest joy was
+whilst Mignon was tying the magic fillet round the monster’s neck, and
+conquering him.’
+
+‘Now I (said Miss Dolly Friendly) am most pleased with that part of the
+story, were Fidus and Amata meet the reward of their constancy and love,
+when they find each other after all their sufferings.’
+
+Miss Polly Suckling said, with some eagerness, ‘My greatest joy was in
+the description of Mignon; and to think that it should be in the power
+of that little creature to conquer such a great monster.’
+
+Miss Patty Lockit, Miss Nanny Spruce, Miss Betty Ford, and Miss Henny
+Fret, advanced no new opinions; but agreed some to one, and some to
+another, of those that were already advanced. And as every one was eager
+to maintain her own opinion, an argument followed, the particulars of
+which I could never learn: only thus much I know, that it was concluded
+by Miss Lucy Sly, saying, with an air and tone of voice that implied
+more anger than had been heard since the reconciliation, that she was
+sure Miss Polly Suckling only liked that part about Mignon, because she
+was the least in the school; and Mignon being such a little creature,
+put her in mind of herself.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace now began to be frighted, lest this contention should
+raise another quarrel; and therefore begged to be heard before they went
+any farther. They were not yet angry enough to refuse hearing what she
+had to say: and then Miss Jenny desired them to consider the moral of
+the story, and what use they might make of it, instead of contending
+which was the prettiest part: ‘For otherwise,’ continued she, ‘I have
+lost my breath in reading to you; and you will be worse, rather than
+better, for what you have heard. Pray observe, that Benefico’s happiness
+arose entirely from his goodness: he had less strength, and less riches,
+than the cruel monster; and yet, by the good use he made of what he
+possessed, you see how he turned all things to his advantage. But
+particularly remember, that the good little Mignon, in the moment
+that he was patiently submitting to his sufferings, found a method of
+relieving himself from them, and of overcoming a barbarous monster, who
+had so cruelly abused him.
+
+‘Our good governess last night not only instructed me in this moral I
+am now communicating to you, but likewise bid me warn you by no means
+to let the notion of giants or magic to dwell upon your minds; for by a
+giant is meant no more than a man of great power; and the magic fillet
+round the head of the statue was only intended to teach you, that by the
+assistance of patience you may overcome all difficulties.
+
+‘In order therefore to make what you read of any use to you, you must
+not only think of it thus in general, but make the application to
+yourselves. For when (as now) instead of improving yourselves by
+reading, you make what you read a subject to quarrel about, what is this
+less than being like the monster Barbarico, who turned his very riches
+to a curse? I am sure it is not following the example of Benefico, who
+made everything a blessing to him. Remember, if you pinch and abuse a
+dog or cat, because it is in your power, you are like the cruel Monster,
+when he abused the little Mignon, and said,
+
+     I am a giant, and I can eat thee;
+     Thou art a dwarf, and thou canst not eat me.
+
+‘In short, if you will reap any benefit from this story towards
+rendering you happy, whenever you have any power, you must follow the
+example of the giant Benefico, and do good with it: and when you are
+under any sufferings, like Mignon, you must patiently endure them till
+you can find a remedy: then, in one case, like Benefico, you will enjoy
+what you possess; and, in the other, you will in time, like Mignon,
+overcome your sufferings: for the natural consequence of indulging
+cruelty and revenge in the mind, even where there is the highest power
+to gratify it, is misery.’
+
+Here Miss Sukey Jennet interrupted Miss Jenny, saying, that she herself
+had experienced the truth of that observation in the former part of her
+life: for she never had known either peace or pleasure, till she had
+conquered in her mind the desire of hurting and being revenged on those
+who she thought did not by their behaviour show the same regard for her,
+that her own good opinion of herself made her think she deserved. Miss
+Jenny then asked her, if she was willing to lead the way to the rest of
+her companions, by telling her past life? She answered, she would do it
+with all her heart; and, by having so many and great faults to confess,
+she hoped she should, by her true confessions, set them an example of
+honesty and ingenuity.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS SUKEY JENNETT.
+
+Miss Sukey Jennett, who was next in years to Miss Jenny Peace, was not
+quite twelve years old; but so very tall of her age, that she was within
+a trifle as tall as Miss Jenny Peace; and, by growing so fast, was
+much thinner: and though she was not really so well made, yet, from an
+assured air in her manner of carrying herself, she was called much the
+genteelest girl. There was, on first view, a great resemblance in their
+persons. Her face was very handsome, and her complexion extremely good;
+but a little more inclined to pale than Miss Jenny’s. Her eyes were a
+degree darker, and had a life and fire in them which was very beautiful:
+but yet her impatience on the least contradiction often brought a
+fierceness into her eyes, and gave such a discomposure to her whole
+countenance, as immediately took off your admiration. But her eyes had
+now, since her hearty reconciliation with her companions, lost a great
+part of their fierceness; and with great mildness, and an obliging
+manner, she told her story as follows:
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS SUKEY JENNETT.
+
+‘My mamma died when I was so young that I cannot remember her; and my
+papa marrying again within half a year after her death, I was chiefly
+left to the care of an old servant, that had lived many years in the
+family. I was a great favourite of hers, and in everything had my own
+way. When I was but four years old, if ever anything crossed me, I was
+taught to beat it, and be revenged of it, even though it could not
+feel. If I fell down and hurt myself, the very ground was to be beat for
+hurting the sweet child: so that, instead of fearing to fall, I did not
+dislike it; for I was pleased to find, that I was of such consequence,
+that everything was to take care that I came by no harm.
+
+‘I had a little playfellow, in a child of one of my papa’s servants, who
+was to be entirely under my command. This girl I used to abuse and beat,
+whenever I was out of humour; and when I had abused her, if she dared
+to grumble, or make the least complaint, I thought it the greatest
+impudence in the world; and, instead of mending my behaviour to her,
+I grew very angry that she should dare to dispute my power: for my
+governess always told her, that she was but a servant’s girl, and I was
+a gentleman’s daughter; and that therefore she ought to give way to me;
+for that I did her great honour in playing with her. Thus I thought the
+distance between us was so great, that I never considered that she could
+feel: but whilst I myself suffered nothing, I fancied everything was
+very right; and it never once came into my head, that I could be in the
+wrong.
+
+‘This life I led till I came to school, when I was eleven years
+old. Here I had nobody in my power; for all my schoolfellows thought
+themselves my equals: so that I could only quarrel, fight, and contend
+for everything: but being liable to be punished, when I was trying to be
+revenged on any of my enemies, as I thought them, I never had a moment’s
+ease or pleasure, till Miss Jenny was so good to take the pains to
+convince me of my folly, and made me be reconciled to you, my dear
+companions.’
+
+Here Miss Sukey ceased; and Miss Jenny smiled with pleasure, at the
+thoughts that she had been the cause of her happiness.
+
+Mrs. Teachum being now come into the arbour, to see in what manner
+her little scholars passed their time, they all rose up and do her
+reverence. Miss Jenny gave her an account how they had been employed;
+and she was much pleased with their innocent and useful entertainment;
+but especially with the method they had found out of relating their past
+lives. She took little Polly Suckling by the hand, and bidding the rest
+follow, it being now dinner time, she walked towards the house, attended
+by the whole company.
+
+Mrs. Teachum had a great inclination to hear the history of the lives
+of all her little scholars: but she thought, that being present at those
+relations might be a balk to the narration, as perhaps they might be
+ashamed freely to confess their past faults before her; and therefore,
+that she might not be any bar in this case to the freedom of their
+speech, and yet might be acquainted with their stories (though this was
+not merely a vain curiosity, but a desire by this means to know their
+different dispositions), she called Miss Jenny Peace to her parlour
+after dinner, and told her, she would have her get the lives of her
+companions in writing, and bring them to her; and Miss Jenny readily
+promised to obey her commands.
+
+In the evening our little company again met in their charming arbour;
+where they were no sooner seated, with that calmness and content which
+now always attended them, than the cries and sobs of a child, at a
+little distance from their garden, disturbed their tranquility.
+
+Miss Jenny, ever ready to relieve the distressed, ran immediately to
+the place whence the sound seemed to come, and was followed by all her
+companions: when, at a small distance from Mrs. Teachum’s garden-wall,
+over which from the terrace our young company looked, they saw, under a
+large spreading tree, part of the branches of which shaded a seat at
+the end of that terrace, a middle-aged woman beating a little girl, who
+looked to be about eight years old, so severely, that it was no wonder
+her cries had reached their arbour.
+
+Miss Jenny could not forbear calling out to the woman, and begging her
+to forbear: and little Polly Suckling cried as much as the girl, and
+desired she might not be beat any more. The woman, in respect to them,
+let the child go; but said, ‘Indeed, young ladies, you don’t know what
+a naughty girl she is: for though you now see me correct her in this
+manner, yet am I in all respects very kind to her, and never strike her
+but for lying. I have tried all means, good and bad, to break her of
+this vile fault; but hitherto all I have done has been in vain: nor
+can I ever get one word of truth out of her mouth. But I am resolved to
+break her of this horrid custom, or I cannot live with her: for though I
+am but poor, yet I will breed up my child to be honest, both in word and
+deed.’
+
+Miss Jenny could not but approve of what the poor woman said. However,
+they all joined in begging forgiveness for the girl this time, provided
+she promised amendment for the future: and then our little society
+returned to their arbour.
+
+Miss Jenny could not help expressing her great detestation of all lying
+whatsoever; when Miss Dolly Friendly, colouring, confessed she had often
+been guilty of this fault, though she never scarcely did it but for her
+friend.
+
+Here Miss Jenny, interrupting her, said, that even that was no sort of
+excuse for lying; besides that the habit of it on any occasion, even
+with the appearance of a good intention, would but too likely lead to
+the use of it on many others: and as she did not doubt, by Miss Dolly’s
+blushing, that she was now very sensible of the truth of what she had
+just been saying, she hoped she would take this opportunity of obliging
+them with the history of her past life: which request she made no
+hesitation to grant, saying, the shame of her past faults should by o
+means induce her to conceal them.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS DOLLY FRIENDLY.
+
+Miss Dolly Friendly was just turned of eleven years of age. Her person
+was neither plain nor handsome: and though she had not what is properly
+called one fine feature in her face, yet the disposition of them were so
+suitable to each other, that her countenance was rather agreeable than
+otherwise. She had generally something very quiet, or rather indolent,
+in her look, except when she was moved by anger; which seldom happened,
+but in defense of some favourite or friend; and she had then a
+fierceness and eagerness which altered her whole countenance: for she
+could not bear the least reflection or insult on those she loved. This
+disposition made her always eager to comply with her friends’ requests;
+and she immediately began, as follows:
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS DOLLY FRIENDLY.
+
+‘I was bred up, till I was nine years of age, with a sister, who was one
+year younger than myself. The chief care of our parents was to make us
+love each other; and, as I was naturally inclined to have very strong
+affections, I became so fond of my sister Molly, which was her name,
+that all my delight was to please her; and this I carried to such a
+height, that I scrupled no lies to excuse her faults: and whatever she
+did, I justified, and thought right, only because she did it.
+
+‘I was ready to fight her quarrels, whether right or wrong; and hated
+everybody that offended her. My parents winked at whatever I did in
+defence of my sister; and I had no notion that any thing done for her
+could be unreasonable. In short, I made it my study to oblige and please
+her, till I found at last it was out of my power; for she grew so very
+humoursome, that she could not find out what she had most mind to have;
+and I found her always miserable; for she would cry only because she did
+not know her own mind.
+
+‘She never minded what faults she committed, because she knew I would
+excuse her; and she was forgiven in consideration of our friendship,
+which gave our parents great pleasure.
+
+‘My poor little sister grew very sickly, and she died just before I
+came to school: but the same disposition still continued; and it was my
+friend’s outcries of being hurt, that drew me into that odious quarrel,
+that we have all now repented.’
+
+
+
+Here Miss Dolly Friendly ceased; and Miss Jenny said, she hoped Miss
+Dolly would remember, for the rest of her life, what HER good mamma had
+always taught her; namely, that it was not the office of friendship, to
+justify or excuse our friend when in the wrong; for that was the way
+to prevent their ever being in the right: that it was rather hatred,
+or contempt, than love, when the fear of another’s anger made us forego
+their good, for the sake of our own present pleasure; and that the
+friends who expected such flattery were not worth keeping.
+
+The bell again summoned our little company to supper: but, before they
+went in, Miss Dolly Friendly said, if Miss Jenny approved of it, she
+would the next morning read them a story given her by an uncle of
+hers, that, she said, she was sure would please her, as its subject was
+friendship. Miss Jenny replied, that she was certain it would be a great
+pleasure to them all, to hear any story Miss Dolly thought proper to
+read them.
+
+
+
+
+WEDNESDAY. THE THIRD DAY.
+
+As soon as school was over in the morning, our little company were
+impatient to go into the arbour, to hear Miss Dolly’s story: but
+Mrs. Teachum told them they must be otherwise employed; for their
+writing-master, who lived some miles off; and who was expected in the
+afternoon, was just then come in, and begged that they would give him
+their attendance, though out of school-time; because he was obliged to
+be at home again before the afternoon, to meet a person who would confer
+some favour on him, and would be highly disobliged should he not keep
+his appointment: ‘And I know (said Mrs. Teachum) my little dears, you
+would rather lose your own amusement, than let any one suffer a
+real inconvenience on your accounts.’ They all readily complied, and
+cheerfully set to their writing; and in the afternoon Mrs. Teachum
+permitted them to leave off work an hour sooner than usual, as a reward
+for their readiness to lose their amusement in the morning: and being
+met in their arbour, Miss Dolly read as follows:
+
+
+
+
+THE STORY OF CAELIA AND CHLOE.
+
+Caelia and Chloe were both left orphans, at the tender age of six years.
+Amanda their aunt, who was very rich, and a maiden, took them directly
+under her care, and bred them up as her own children. Caelia’s mother
+was Amanda’s sister; and Chloe’s father was her brother; so that she was
+equally related to both.
+
+They were left entirely unprovided for; were both born on the same day;
+and both lost their mothers on the day of their birth: their fathers
+were soldiers of fortune; and both killed in one day, in the fame
+engagement. But their fortunes were not more similar than their persons
+and dispositions. They were both extremely handsome; and in their
+Childhood were so remarkable for liveliness of parts, and sweetness of
+temper, that they were the admiration of the whole country where they
+lived.
+
+Their aunt loved them with a sincere and equal affection, and took the
+greatest pleasure imaginable in their education, and particularly to
+encourage that love and friendship which she with pleasure perceived
+between them. Amanda being (as was said) very rich, and having no other
+relations, it was supposed that these her nieces would be very great
+fortunes; and as soon as they became women, they were addressed by all
+the men of fortune and no fortune round the neighbourhood. But as the
+love of admiration, and a desire of a large train of admirers, had
+no place in their minds, they soon dismissed, in the most civil and
+obliging manner, one after another, all these lovers.
+
+The refusing such numbers of men, and some such as by the world were
+called good offers, soon got them the name of jilts; and by that means
+they were freed from any farther importunity, and for some years enjoyed
+that peace and quiet they had long wished. Their aunt, from being their
+mother and their guardian, was now become their friend. For, as she
+endeavoured not in the least to force their inclinations, they never
+kept anything concealed from her; and every action of their lives was
+still guided by her advice and approbation.
+
+They lived on in this way, perfectly happy in their own little
+community, till they were about two-and-twenty years old when there
+happened to be a regiment quartered in the neighbouring town, to which
+their house was nearly situated; and the lieutenant-colonel, a man about
+four-and-thirty years old, hearing their names, had a great desire to
+see them. For when he was a boy of sixteen, he was put into the Army
+under the care of Chloe’s father, who treated him with the greatest
+tenderness; and (in that fatal engagement in which he lost his life)
+received his death’s wound by endeavouring to save him from being taken
+by the enemy. And gratitude to the memory of so good a friend was as
+great an inducement to make him desire to see his daughter, as the
+report he had heard both of hers and her cousin’s great beauty.
+
+Sempronius (for so this Colonel was called) was a very sensible,
+well-bred, agreeable man; and from the circumstances of his former
+acquaintance, and his present proper and polite behaviour, he soon
+became very intimate in the family. The old lady was particularly
+pleased with him; and secretly wished, that before she died she might
+be so happy as to see one of her nieces married to Sempronius. She could
+not from his behaviour see the least particular liking to either, though
+he showed an equal and very great esteem and regard for both.
+
+He in reality liked them both extremely; and the reason of making no
+declaration of love was, his being so undetermined in any preference
+that was due to either. He saw plainly that he was very agreeable to
+both; and with pleasure he observed, that they made use of none of those
+arts which women generally do to get away a disputed lover: and this
+sincere friendship which subsisted between them raised in him the
+highest degree of love and admiration. However he at last determined to
+make the following trial:
+
+He went first to Chloe, and (finding her alone) told her, that he had
+the greatest liking in the world to her cousin; and had really a mind
+to propose himself to her: but as he saw a very great friendship between
+them, he was willing to ask her advice in the matter; and conjured her
+to tell him sincerely, whether there was anything in Caelia’s temper
+(not discoverable by him) which as a wife would make him unhappy? He
+told her, that, if she knew any such thing, it would be no treachery,
+but rather kind in her to declare it, as it would prevent her friend’s
+being unhappy; which must be the consequence, in marriage, of her making
+him so.
+
+Chloe could not help seeing very plainly, that if Caelia was removed she
+stood the very next in Sempronius’s favour. Her lover was present--her
+friend was absent--and the temptation was too strong and agreeable to be
+resisted. She then answered, that since he insisted upon the truth, and
+had convinced her that it was in reality acting justly and kindly by her
+friend, she must confess, that Caelia was possessed (though in a very
+small degree) of what she had often heard him declare most against of
+anything in the world; and that was, an artfulness of temper, and some
+few sparks of envy.
+
+Chloe’s confused manner of speaking, and frequent hesitation, as
+unwilling to pronounce her friend’s condemnation (which, as being
+unused to falsehood, was really unaffected) he imputed to tenderness
+and concern for Caelia; but he did not in the least doubt, but on his
+application to her he should soon be convinced of the truth of what
+Chloe had said.
+
+He then went directly to the arbour at the end of the garden, and there
+to his wish he found Caelia quite alone; and he addressed her exactly in
+the same manner concerning her cousin, as he had before spoke to Chloe
+concerning her. Caelia suddenly blushed (from motives I leave those to
+find out who can put themselves in her circumstances) and then fetched a
+soft sigh, from the thought that she was hearing a man she loved declare
+a passion of which she was not the object. But after some little
+pause, she told him, that if Chloe had any faults, they were to her yet
+undiscovered, and she really and sincerely believed her cousin would
+make him extremely happy. Sempronius then said, that of all other
+things, TREACHERY and ENVY were what he had the greatest dislike to: and
+he asked her, if she did not think her cousin was a little tainted with
+these?--Here Caelia could not help interrupting, and assuring him, that
+she believed her totally free from both. And, from his casting on
+her friend an aspersion which her very soul abhorred, forgetting all
+rivalship, she could not refrain from growing quite lavish in her
+praise. ‘Suppose then (said Sempronius) I was to say the same to your
+cousin concerning my intentions towards you as I have to you concerning
+her, do you think she would say as many fine things in your praise as
+you have done in hers?’
+
+Caelia answered, that she verily believed her cousin would say as much
+for her as she really deserved; but whether that would be equal to what
+with justice she could say of Chloe, her modesty left her in some doubt
+of.
+
+Sempronius had too much penetration not to see the real and true
+difference in the behaviour of these two women, and could not help
+crying out, ‘O Caelia! your honest truth and goodness in every word and
+look are too visible to leave me one doubt of their reality. But, could
+you believe it? this friend of yours is false. I have already put her
+to the trial, by declaring to her my sincere and unalterable passion
+for you. When, on my insisting, as I did to you, upon her speaking the
+truth, she accused you of what nothing should now convince me you are
+guilty of. I own, that hitherto my regard, esteem, and love, have been
+equal to both; but now I offer to the sincere, artless, and charming
+Caelia, my whole heart, love, and affection, and the service of every
+minute of my future life; and from this moment I banish from my mind the
+false and ungrateful Chloe.’
+
+Caelia’s friendship for Chloe was so deeply rooted in her breast, that
+even a declaration of love from Sempronius could not blot it one moment
+from her heart; and on his speaking the words ‘false Chloe,’ she burst
+into tears, and said, ‘Is it possible that Chloe should act such a part
+towards her Caelia! You must forgive her, Sempronius: it was her violent
+passion for you, and fear of losing you, which made her do what hitherto
+her nature has ever appeared averse to.’
+
+Sempronius answered, ‘that he could not enough admire her goodness to
+her friend Chloe; but such proofs of passion, he said, were to him at
+the same time proofs of its being such a passion as he had no regard
+for; since it was impossible for any one to gain or increase his love
+by an action which at the same time lessened his esteem.’ This was so
+exactly Caelia’s own way of thinking, that she could not but assent to
+what he said.
+
+But just as they were coming out of the arbour, Chloe, unseen by them,
+passed by; and from seeing him kiss her hand, and the complacency of
+Caelia’s look, it was easy for her to guess what had been the result
+of their private conference. She could not however help indulging her
+curiosity, so far as to walk on the other side of a thick yew hedge, to
+listen to their discourse; and as they walked on, she heard Sempronius
+entreat Caelia to be cheerful, and think no more of her treacherous
+friend, whose wickedness he doubted not would sufficiently punish
+itself. She then heard Caelia say, ‘I cannot bear, Sempronius, to hear
+you speak so hardly of my Chloe. Say that you forgive her, and I will
+indeed be cheerful.’
+
+Nothing upon earth can be conceived so wretched as poor Chloe, for on
+the first moment that she suffered herself to reflect on what she had
+done, she thoroughly repented, and heartily detested herself for
+such baseness. She went directly into the garden in hopes of meeting
+Sempronius, to have thrown herself at his feet, confessed her treachery,
+and to have begged him never to have mentioned it to Caelia; but now she
+was conscious her repentance would come too late; and he would despise
+her, if possible still more, for such a recantation, after her knowledge
+of what had passed between him and Caelia.
+
+She could indeed have gone to him, and not have owned what she had seen
+or heard; but now her abhorrence of even the appearance of treachery or
+cunning was so great, that she could not bear to add the smallest grain
+of falsehood or deceit to the weight of her guilt, which was already
+almost insupportable: and should she tell him of her repentance, with a
+confession of her knowledge of his engagement with Caelia, it would (as
+has been before observed) appear both servile and insincere.
+
+Nothing could now appear so altered as the whole face of this once happy
+family. Sempronius as much as possible shunned the sight of Chloe; for
+as she was the cause of all the confusion amongst them, he had almost an
+aversion to her. Though he was not of an implacable temper, yet, as the
+injury was intended to one he sincerely loved, he found it much harder
+to forgive it, than if it had even succeeded against himself; and as he
+still looked upon Chloe as the cause of melancholy in his dear Caelia,
+he could hardly have any patience with her.
+
+No words can describe the various passions which were expressed in the
+sad countenance of Chloe, when first she met her friend. They were both
+afraid of speaking. Shame, and the fear of being (and with too good
+reason) suspected of insincerity, withheld Chloe; and an unwillingness
+to accuse or hurt her friend withheld the gentle Caelia. She sometimes
+indeed thought she saw repentance in Chloe’s face, and wished for
+nothing more than to seal her pardon. But till it was asked, she was
+in doubt (from what had passed) whether such pardon and proffered
+reconciliation might not be rejected. She knew that her friend’s
+passions were naturally stronger than hers; and she therefore trembled
+at the consequences of coming to an explanation.
+
+But there was hardly a greater sufferer in this scene of confusion than
+the poor old Lady Amanda. She saw a sort of horror and wildness in the
+face of Chloe; and in Caelia’s a settled melancholy, and such an unusual
+reserve in both towards each other, as well as to herself, as quite
+astonished her.
+
+Sempronius came indeed to the house as often as usual; but in his
+countenance she could perceive a sort of anger and concern which
+perfectly frightened her. But as they did not speak to her, she could
+not bring herself to ask the cause of this woeful change, for fear of
+hearing something too bad to bear.
+
+Caelia had absolutely refused granting to Sempronius leave to ask her
+aunt’s consent, till she should come to some explanation with Chloe,
+which seemed every day farther off than ever.
+
+The great perturbation of Chloe’s mind threw her into a disorder not
+many degrees short of madness; and at last she was seized with a violent
+fever so as to keep her bed. She said she could not bear to look on
+Amanda; but begged Caelia to be with her as much as possible; which she
+did, in hopes of bringing herself to ease her mind, by speaking to her
+of what had given them all this torment.
+
+Caelia watched with her night and day for three days, when the physician
+who attended her pronounced that there was no hope of her life. Caelia
+could not any longer bear to stay in the room, and went downstairs,
+expecting every moment to hear she was expired.
+
+Chloe soon perceived by Caelia’s abrupt leaving the room, and the looks
+of those who were left in it, that her fate was pronounced; which,
+instead of sinking her spirits, and making her dejected, gave a
+tranquillity to her mind; for she thought within herself, ‘I shall now
+make my dear cousin happy, by removing out of her way an object that
+must embitter all her joy; and now likewise, as she is convinced I am on
+my death-bed, she will once more believe me capable of speaking truth;
+and will, in the manner I could wish, receive my sincere repentance.’
+Then sending for Caelia up to her bedside, she in a weak voice, with
+hardly strength for utterance, spoke in this manner: ‘My dear Caelia,
+though you know me to be a worthless base wretch, yet do not think so
+hardly of me, as to imagine I would deceive you with my last breath.
+Believe me then when I tell you, that I sincerely repent of my treachery
+towards you; and as sincerely rejoice that it has in reality been
+the cause of your happiness with Sempronius. Tell him this; and then,
+perhaps, he will not hate my memory.’ Here she fainted away, and they
+forced Caelia out of the room, thinking her breath was for ever flown.
+But in some time she came again to herself, and cried out, ‘What! would
+not my dear Caelia say that she forgave me? Methinks I would not die,
+till I had obtained her pardon. She is too good to refuse her friend
+this last request.’ Her attendants then told her, that seeing her faint
+away, they had forced Caelia out of the room; and they begged her to try
+to compose herself, for they were sure that seeing her friend again, at
+this time, would only disturb her mind, and do her an injury.
+
+Chloe, from the vent she had given her grief in speaking to Caelia,
+found herself something more easy and composed; and desiring the room to
+be made perfectly quiet, she fell into a gentle sleep, which lasted two
+hours; and when she awaked she found herself so much better, that those
+about her were convinced, from her composed manner of speaking, that she
+was now able to bear another interview.
+
+They again called for Caelia, and told her of her cousin’s amendment.
+She flew with all speed to her chamber; and the moment she entered,
+Chloe cried out, ‘Can you forgive me, Caelia?’ ‘Yes, with the greatest
+joy and sincerity imaginable, my dearest Chloe,’ answered Caelia, ‘and
+never let it be again mentioned or remembered.’
+
+The sudden recovery of Chloe was almost incredible; for in less than a
+week she was able to quit both her bed and room, and go into her aunt’s
+chamber. The good old lady shed tears of joy, to see such a return of
+Chloe’s health, and of cheerfulness in the family; and was perfectly
+contented, now she saw their melancholy removed, not to inquire into the
+late cause of it, for fear of renewing their trouble even one moment by
+the remembrance of it.
+
+Sempronius, in the meantime, upon some affairs of his duty in the army,
+had been called away, and was absent the whole time of Chloe’s illness,
+and was not yet returned. Caelia spent almost her whole time with Chloe;
+but three weeks passed on, and they were often alone; yet they had never
+once mentioned the name of Sempronius, which laid Caelia still under
+the greatest difficulty how to act, so as to avoid giving her friend any
+uneasiness, and yet not disoblige Sempronius; for she had promised
+him at his departure, that she would give him leave to ask her aunt’s
+consent immediately upon his return. But the very day he was expected,
+she was made quite easy by what passed between her and her friend.
+
+Chloe, in this time, by proper reflections, and a due sense of Caelia’s
+great goodness and affection to her, had so entirely got the better
+of herself in this affair, that she found she could now, without any
+uneasiness, see them married; and calling Caelia to her, she said with a
+smile, ‘I have, my dear friend, been so long accustomed to read in that
+intelligible index, your countenance, all your most inmost thoughts,
+that I have not been unobserving of those kind fears you have had on
+my account; and the reason I have so long delayed speaking was, my
+resolution, if possible, never again to deceive you. I can with pleasure
+now assure you, that nothing can give me so much joy as to see your
+wedding with Sempronius. I make no doubt, but if you ask it, you will
+have my aunt’s consent; and, if any intercession should be wanting
+towards obtaining it, I will (if you can trust me) use all my influence
+in your behalf. Be assured, my dear Caelia, I have now no farther regard
+left for Sempronius, than as your husband; and that regard will increase
+in proportion as he is the cause of your happiness.’
+
+They were interrupted in their discourse by news being brought of
+the arrival of Sempronius, and Chloe received him with that ease and
+cheerfulness as convinced Caelia her professions were unfeigned.
+
+Caelia related to Sempronius all that had passed between her and
+Chloe; and by her continued cheerfulness of behaviour, the peace and
+tranquillity of the family was perfectly restored, and their joy greatly
+increased by Amanda’s ready consent to the marriage of Sempronius and
+Caelia, having first settled all her fortune to be divided at her death
+equally between her nieces; and in her lifetime there was no occasion of
+settlements, or deeds of gift, for they lived all together, and separate
+property was not so much as mentioned or thought on in this family of
+harmony and peace.
+
+Here Miss Dolly ceased reading; and all her hearers sat some little time
+silent, and then expressed their great joy that Caelia and Chloe were at
+last happy; for none of them had been able to refrain from tears whilst
+they were otherwise. On which Miss Jenny Peace begged them to observe
+from this story, the miserable effects that attend deceit and treachery:
+‘For,’ continued she, ‘you see you could not refrain from tears, only by
+imagining what Chloe must feel after her wickedness (by which indeed she
+lost the very happiness she intended treacherously to gain); nor could
+she enjoy one moment’s peace, till by confessing her fault, and
+heartily repenting of it, her mind was restored to its former calm and
+tranquility.’ Miss Dolly thanked Miss Jenny for her remarks; but Miss
+Lucy Sly was most sensibly touched with this story, as cunning had
+formerly entirely possessed HER mind; and said, that if her companions
+were not weary at present of their arbour, she would now recount to them
+the history of her life, as this story was a proper introduction to it.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS LUCY SLY.
+
+Miss Lucy Sly was of the same age as Miss Dolly Friendly; but shorter,
+at least, by half the head. She was generally called a pretty girl,
+from having a pair of exceeding fine black eyes, only with the allay of
+something cunning in their look. She had a high forehead, and very good
+curling black hair. She had a sharp high nose, and a very small mouth.
+Her complexion was but indifferent, and the lower part of her face
+ill-turned, for her chin was too long for due proportion.
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS LUCY SLY.
+
+From the time I was two years old, (said Miss Lucy) my mamma was so
+sickly, that she was unable to take any great care of me herself, and I
+was left to the care of a governess, who made it her study to bring me
+to do what she had a mind to have done, without troubling her head what
+induced me so to do. And whenever I did anything wrong, she used to say
+it was the foot-boy, and not miss, that was naughty. Nay, she would say,
+it was the dog, or the cat, or anything she could lay the blame upon,
+sooner than own it was me. I thought this pure, that I was never in
+fault; and soon got into a way of telling any lies, and of laying my own
+faults on others, since I found I should be believed. I remember once,
+when I had broken a fine china-cup, that I artfully got out of the
+scrape, and hid the broken cup in the foot-boy’s room. He was whipped
+for breaking it; and the next day whilst I was at play about the room,
+I heard my governess say to a friend who was with her, “Yesterday Miss
+Lucy broke a china-cup; but the artful little hussy went and hid it
+in the foot-boy’s room, and the poor boy was whipped for it. I don’t
+believe there was ever a girl of her age that had half her cunning and
+contrivance.” I knew by her tone of voice, and her manner of speaking,
+that she did not blame me in her heart, but rather commended my
+ingenuity. And I thought myself so wise, that I could thus get off the
+blame from myself, that I every day improved in new inventions to save
+myself, and have others punished in my place.
+
+‘This life of endeavouring to deceive I led till I came to school. But
+here I found that I could not so well carry on my little schemes; for I
+was found out and punished for my own faults; and this created in me a
+hatred to my companions. For whatever Miss I had a mind to serve as I
+used to serve our foot-boy, in laying the blame falsely upon her, if she
+could justify herself, and prove me in the wrong, I was very angry with
+her, for daring to contradict me, and not submitting as quietly to be
+punished wrongfully, as the foot-boy was forced to do.
+
+‘This is all I know of my life hitherto.’
+
+
+Thus ended Miss Lucy Sly: and Miss Jenny Peace commended Miss Lucy for
+her free confession of her faults, and said, ‘She doubted not but she
+would find the advantage of amending, and endeavouring to change a
+disposition so very pernicious to her own peace and quiet, as well as
+to that of all her friends;’ but they now obeyed the summons of the
+supper-bell, and soon after retired to rest.
+
+
+
+
+THURSDAY. THE FOURTH DAY.
+
+Our little company, as soon as the morning school-hours were over,
+hastened to their arbour, and were attentive to what Miss Jenny Peace
+should propose to them for their amusement till dinner-time; when Miss
+Jenny, looking round upon them, said, ‘that she had not at present any
+story to read; but that she hoped, from Miss Dolly Friendly’s example
+yesterday, some of the rest might endeavour sometimes to furnish out
+the entertainment of the day.’ Upon which Miss Sukey Jennett said,
+‘that though she could not promise them such an agreeable story as Miss
+Dolly’s; yet she would read them a letter she had received the evening
+before from her Cousin Peggy Smith, who lived at York; in which there
+was a story that she thought very strange and remarkable. They were all
+very desirous of it, when Miss Sukey read as follows:
+
+
+‘Dear cousin,--I promised, you know, to write to you when I had anything
+to tell you; and as I think the following story very extraordinary, I
+was willing to keep my word.
+
+‘Some time ago there came to settle in this city, a lady, whose name was
+Dison. We all visited her: but she had so deep a melancholy, arising, as
+it appeared, from a settled state of ill health, that nothing we could
+do could afford her the least relief, or make her cheerful. In this
+condition she languished amongst us five years, still continuing to grow
+worse and worse.
+
+‘We all grieved at her fate. Her flesh was withered away; her appetite
+decayed by degrees, till all food became nauseous to her sight; her
+strength failed her; her feet could not support her tottering body,
+lean and worn away as it was; and we hourly expected her death. When, at
+last, she one day called her most intimate friends to her bedside, and,
+as well as she could, spoke to the following purpose: “I know you all
+pity me; but, alas! I am not so much the object of your pity, as your
+contempt; for all my misery is of my own seeking, and owing to the
+wickedness of my own mind. I had two sisters, with whom I was bred up;
+and I have all my lifetime been unhappy, for no other cause but for
+their success in the world. When we were young, I could neither eat nor
+sleep in peace, when they had either praise or pleasure. When we grew
+up to be women, they were both soon married much to their advantage and
+satisfaction. This galled me to the heart; and, though I had several
+good offers, yet as I did not think them in all respects equal to my
+sisters, I would not accept them; and yet was inwardly vexed to refuse
+them, for fear I would get no better. I generally deliberated so long
+that I lost my lovers, and then I pined for that loss. I never wanted
+for anything; and was in a situation in which I might have been happy,
+if I pleased. My sisters loved me very well, for I concealed as much
+as possible from them my odious envy; and yet never did any poor wretch
+lead so miserable a life as I have done; for every blessing they enjoyed
+was as so many daggers to my heart. ‘Tis this envy that has caused all
+my ill health, has preyed upon my very vitals, and will now bring me to
+my Grave.”
+
+‘In a few days after this confession she died; and her words and death
+made such a strong impression on my mind, that I could not help sending
+you this relation; and begging you, my dear Sukey, to remember how
+careful we ought to be to curb in our minds the very first risings of a
+passion so detestable, and so fatal, as this proved to poor Mrs. Dison.
+I know I have no particular reason for giving you this caution; for I
+never saw anything in you, but what deserved the love and esteem of
+
+‘Your very affectionate cousin,
+
+‘M. SMITH.’
+
+
+As soon as Miss Sukey had finished her letter, Miss Patty Lockit rose
+up, and, flying to Miss Jenny Peace, embraced her, and said, ‘What
+thanks can I give you, my dear friend, for having put me into a way of
+examining my heart, and reflecting on my own actions; by which you have
+saved me, perhaps, from a life as miserable as that of the poor woman
+in Miss Sukey’s letter!’ Miss Jenny did not thoroughly understand her
+meaning; but imagining it might be something relating to her past life,
+desired her to explain herself; which she said she would do, telling
+now, in her turn, all that had hitherto happened to her.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS PATTY LOCKIT.
+
+Miss Patty Lockit was but ten years old; tall, inclined to fat. Her
+neck was short; and she was not in the least genteel. Her face was very
+handsome; for all her features were extremely good. She had large blue
+eyes; was exceeding fair; and had a great bloom on her cheeks. Her hair
+was the very first degree of light brown; was bright and shining; and
+hung in ringlets half way down her back. Her mouth was rather too large;
+but she had such fine teeth, and looked so agreeably when she smiled,
+that you was not sensible of any fault in it.
+
+This was the person of Miss Patty Lockit, who was slow to relate her
+past life; which she did, in the following manner:
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS PATTY LOCKIT.
+
+I lived, till I was six years old, in a very large family; for I had
+four sisters, all older than myself, and three brothers. We played
+together, and passed our time much in the common way: sometimes we
+quarrelled, and sometimes agreed, just as accident would have it. Our
+parents had no partiality to any of us; so we had no cause to envy one
+another on that account; and we lived tolerably well together.
+
+‘When I was six years old, my grandmother by my father’s side (and
+who was also my godmother) offering to take me to live with her, and
+promising to look upon me as her own child, and entirely to provide
+for me, my father and mother, as they had a large family, very readily
+accepted her offer, and sent me directly to her house.
+
+‘About half a year before this, she had taken another goddaughter, the
+only child of my Aunt Bradly, who was lately dead, and whose husband was
+gone to the West Indies. My cousin, Molly Bradly, was four years older
+than I; and her mother had taken such pains in her education, that the
+understood more than most girls of her age; and had so much liveliness,
+good humour, and ingenuity, that everybody was fond of her; and wherever
+we went together, all the notice was taken of my cousin, and I was very
+little regarded.
+
+‘Though I had all my life before lived in a family where every one in it
+was older, and knew more than myself, yet I was very easy; for we were
+generally together in the nursery; and nobody took much notice of us,
+whether we knew anything, or whether we did not. But now, as I lived
+in the house with only one companion, who was so much more admired than
+myself, the comparison began to vex me, and I found a strong hatred and
+aversion for my cousin arising in my mind; and yet, I verily believe I
+should have got the better of it, and been willing to have learnt of my
+cousin, and should have loved her for teaching me, if any one had told
+me it was right; and if it had not been that Betty, the maid who took
+care of us, used to be for ever teasing me about the preference that was
+shown to my cousin, and the neglect I always met with. She used to tell
+me, that she wondered how I could bear to see Miss Molly so caressed;
+and that it was want of spirit not to think myself as good as she was;
+and, if she was in my place, she would not submit to be taught by a
+child; for my Cousin Molly frequently offered to instruct me in anything
+she knew; but I used to say (as Betty had taught me) that I would not
+learn of her; for she was but a child, though she was a little older;
+and that I was not put under her care, but that of my grandmamma. But
+she, poor woman, was so old and unhealthy, that she never troubled her
+head much about us, but only to take care that we wanted for nothing. I
+lived in this manner three years, fretting and vexing myself that I did
+not know so much, nor was not so much liked, as my Cousin Molly, and yet
+resolving not to learn anything she could teach me; when my grandmamma
+was advised to send me to school; but, as soon as I came here, the case
+was much worse; for, instead of one person to envy, I found many;
+for all my schoolfellows had learned more than I; and, instead of
+endeavouring to get knowledge, I began to hate all those who knew more
+than myself; and this, I am now convinced, was owing to that odious
+envy, which, if not cured, would always have made me as miserable as
+Mrs. Dison was and which constantly tormented me, till we came to live
+in that general peace and good-humour we have lately enjoyed: and as I
+hope this wicked spirit was not natural to me, but only blown up by
+that vile Betty’s instigations, I don’t doubt but I shall now grow
+very happy, and learn something every day, and be pleased with being
+instructed, and that I shall always love those who are so good as to
+instruct me.’
+
+
+Here Miss Patty Lockit ceased; and the dinner-bell called them from
+their arbour.
+
+Mrs. Teachum, as soon as they had dined, told them, that she thought
+it proper they would use some bodily exercise, that they might not,
+by sitting constantly still, impair their health. Not but that she was
+greatly pleased with their innocent and instructive manner of employing
+their leisure hours; but this wise woman knew that the faculties of the
+mind grow languid and useless, when the health of the body is lost.
+
+As soon as they understood their governess’s pleasure, they readily
+resolved to obey her commands, and desired that, after school, they
+might take a walk as far as the dairy house, to eat some curds and
+cream. Mrs. Teachum not only granted their request, but said she would
+dispense with their school-attendance that afternoon, in order to give
+them more time for their walk, which was between two and three miles;
+and she likewise added, that she herself would go with them. They all
+flew like lightning to get their hats, and to equip themselves for their
+walk; and, with cheerful countenances, attended Mrs. Teachum in the
+schoolroom. This good gentlewoman, so far from laying them under a
+restraint by her presence, encouraged them to run in the fields, and
+to gather flowers; which they did, each miss trying to get the best
+to present to her governess. In this agreeable manner, with laughing,
+talking, and singing, they arrived at the dairy-house, before they
+imagined they had walked a mile.
+
+There lived at this dairy-house an old woman, near seventy years of age.
+She had a fresh colour in her face; but was troubled with the palsy,
+that made her head shake a little. She was bent forward with age, and
+her hair was quite grey: but she retained much good-humour, and received
+this little party with hearty welcome.
+
+Our little gentry flocked about this good woman, asking her a thousand
+questions. Miss Polly Suckling asked her, ‘Why she shook her head so?’
+and Miss Patty Lockit said, ‘She hoped her hair would never be of such a
+colour.’
+
+Miss Jenny Peace was afraid they would say something that would offend
+the old woman, and advised them to turn their discourse. ‘Oh! let the
+dear rogues alone,’ says the old woman; ‘I like their prattle;’ and,
+taking Miss Polly by the hand, said, ‘Come, my dear, we will go into
+the dairy, and skim the milk pans.’ At which words they all run into the
+dairy, and some of them dipped their fingers in the cream; which when
+Mrs. Nelly perceived (who was the eldest daughter of the old woman,
+and who managed all the affairs) she desired they would walk out of the
+dairy, and she would bring them what was fit for them: upon which Miss
+Dolly Friendly said, ‘she had rather be as old and good-natured as the
+mother, than as young and ill-natured as the daughter.’
+
+The old woman desired her company to sit down at a long table, which
+she soon supplied with plenty of cream, strawberries, brown bread, and
+sugar. Mrs. Teachum took her place at the upper end, and the rest sat
+down in their usual order, and eat plentifully of these good things.
+After which, Mrs. Teachum told them they might walk out and see the
+garden and orchard, and by that time it would be proper to return home.
+
+The good old woman showed them the way into the garden; and gathered the
+finest roses and pinks she could pick, and gave them to Miss Polly, to
+whom she had taken a great Fancy.
+
+At their taking leave, Mrs. Teachum rewarded the good old woman for her
+trouble; who, on her part, expressed much pleasure in feeing so many
+well-behaved young ladies; and said, she hoped they would come often.
+
+These little friends had not walked far in their way home, before they
+met a miserable ragged fellow, who begged their charity. Our young
+folks immediately gathered together about this poor creature, and were
+hearkening very earnestly to his story, which he set forth in a terrible
+manner, of having been burnt out of his house, and, from one distress
+to another, reduced to that miserable state they saw him in, when Mrs.
+Teachum came up to them. She was not a little pleased to see all
+the misses’ hands in their pockets, pulling out half-pence, and some
+sixpences. She told them, she approved of their readiness to assist the
+poor fellow, as he appeared to them; but oftentimes those fellows made
+up dismal stories without much foundation, and because they were lazy,
+and would not work. Miss Dolly said, indeed she believed the poor
+man spoke truth; for he looked honest; and, besides, he seemed almost
+starved.
+
+Mrs. Teachum told them it would be late before they could get home;
+so, after each of them had given what they thought proper, they pursued
+their walk, prattling all the way.
+
+They got home about nine o’clock; and, as they did not choose any
+supper, the bell rang for prayers; after which our young travellers
+retired to their rest, where we doubt not but they had a good repose.
+
+
+
+
+FRIDAY. THE FIFTH DAY.
+
+Mrs. Teachum, in the morning, inquired how her scholars did after
+their walk, and was pleased to hear they were all very well. They then
+performed their several tasks with much cheerfulness; and, after the
+school-hours, they were hastening, as usual, to their arbour, when Miss
+Jenny desired them all to go thither without her, and she would soon
+follow them; which they readily consented to; but begged her not to
+deprive them long of the pleasure of her sweet company.
+
+Miss Jenny then went directly into her governess’s parlour, and told her
+that she had some thoughts of reading to her companions a fairy tale,
+which was also given her by her mamma; and though it was not in such a
+pompous style, nor so full of wonderful images, as the giant-story;
+yet she would not venture to read anything of that kind without her
+permission; but, as she had not absolutely condemned all that sort
+of writing, she hoped she was not guilty of a fault in asking that
+permission. Mrs. Teachum, with a gracious smile, told her, that she
+seemed so thoroughly well to understand the whole force of her Monday
+night’s discourse to her, that she might be trusted almost in anything;
+and desired her to go and follow her own judgment and inclinations in
+the amusement of her happy friends. Miss Jenny, overjoyed with this kind
+condescension in her governess, thanked her, with, a low courtesy, and
+said, she hoped she should never do anything unworthy of the confidence
+reposed on her; and, hastening to the arbour, she there found all her
+little companions quite impatient of this short absence.
+
+Miss Jenny told them, that she had by her a fairy-tale, which, if they
+liked it, she would read; and, as it had pleased her, she did not doubt
+but it would give them equal pleasure.
+
+It was the custom now so much amongst them to assent to any proposal
+that came from Miss Jenny, that they all with one voice desired her
+to read it; till Miss Polly Suckling said, ‘that although she was very
+unwilling to contradict anything Miss Jenny liked, yet she could not
+help saying, she thought it would be better if they were to read some
+true history, from which they might learn something; for she thought
+fairy-tales were fit only for little children.
+
+Miss Jenny could not help smiling at such an objection’s coming from
+the little dumpling, who was not much above seven years of age; and then
+said, ‘I will tell you a story, my little Polly, of what happened to me
+whilst I was at home.
+
+‘There came into our village, when I was six years old, a man who
+carried about a raree-show, which all the children of the parish were
+fond of seeing; but I had taken it into my head, that it was beneath my
+wisdom to see raree-shows; and therefore would not be persuaded to
+join my companions to see this sight; and although I had as great an
+inclination as any of them to see it, yet I avoided it, in order to
+boast of my own great sense, in that I was above such trifles.
+
+‘When my mamma asked me, why I would not see the show, when she had
+given me leave? I drew up my head, and said, “Indeed I did not like
+raree-shows. That I had been reading; and I thought that much more
+worth my while, than to lose my time at such foolish entertainments.”
+ My mamma, who saw the cause of my refusing this amusement was only a
+pretence of being wise, laughed, and said, “She herself had seen it,
+and it was really very comical and diverting.” On hearing this, I was
+heartily vexed to think I had denied myself a pleasure, which I fancied
+was beneath me, when I found even my mamma was not above seeing it. This
+in a great measure cured me of the folly of thinking myself above any
+innocent amusement. And when I grew older, and more capable of hearing
+reason, my mamma told me, “She had taken this method of laughing at me,
+as laughing is the proper manner of treating affectation; which of all
+things, she said, she would have me carefully avoid; otherwise, whenever
+I was found out, I should become contemptible.”’
+
+Here Miss Jenny ceased speaking; and Miss Polly Suckling, blushing that
+she had made any objection to what Miss Jenny had proposed, begged her
+to begin the fairy tale; when just at that instant, Mrs. Teachum, who
+had been taking a walk in the garden, turned into the arbour to delight
+herself with a view of her little school united in harmony and love, and
+Miss Jenny, with great good humour, told her mistress the small contest
+she had just had with Miss Polly about reading a fairy tale, and the
+occasion of it. Mrs. Teachum kindly chucking the little dumpling under
+the chin, said, she had so good an opinion of Miss Jenny, as to answer
+for her, that she would read nothing to them but what was proper; and
+added, that she herself would stay and hear this fairy tale which Miss
+Jenny, on her commands, immediately began.
+
+
+
+
+THE PRINCESS HEBE. A FAIRY TALE.
+
+Above two thousand years ago, there reigned over the kingdom of Tonga,
+a king, whose name was Abdallah. He was married to a young princess, the
+daughter of a king of a neighbouring country, whose name was Rousignon.
+Her beauty and prudence engaged him so far in affection to her, that
+every hour he could possibly spare from attending the affairs of his
+kingdom he spent in her apartment. They had a little daughter, to whom
+they gave the name of Hebe, who was the darling and mutual care of both.
+
+The king was quiet in his dominion, beloved by his subjects, happy in
+his family, and all his days rolled on in calm content and joy. The
+king’s brother Abdulham was also married to a young princess, named
+Tropo, who in seven years had brought him no children; and she conceived
+so mortal a hatred against the queen (for she envied her the happiness
+of the little Princess Hebe) that she resolved to do her some mischief.
+It was impossible for her, during the king’s lifetime, to vent her
+malice without being discovered, and therefore she pretended the
+greatest respect and friendship imaginable for the unsuspecting queen.
+
+Whilst things were in this situation, the king fell into a violent
+fever, of which he died; and during the time that the queen was in the
+height of her affliction for him, and could think of nothing but his
+loss, the Princess Tropo took the opportunity of putting in execution
+her malicious intentions. She inflamed her husband’s passions, by
+setting forth the meanness of his spirit, in letting a crown be ravished
+from his head by a female infant, till ambition seized his mind, and he
+resolved to wield the Tongian sceptre himself. It was very easy to bring
+this about, for, by his brother’s appointment, he was protector of
+the realm, and guardian to the young princess his niece; and the queen
+taking him and the princess his wife for her best friends, suspected
+nothing of their designs, but in a manner gave herself up to their
+power.
+
+The protector Abdulham, having the whole treasure of the kingdom at
+his command, was in possession of the means to make all his schemes
+successful; and the Princess Tropo, by lavishly rewarding the
+instruments of her treachery, contrived to make it generally believed,
+that the queen had poisoned her husband, who was so much beloved by his
+subjects, that the very horror of the action, without any proof of her
+guilt, raised against the poor unhappy Queen a universal clamour, and a
+general aversion throughout the whole kingdom. The princess had so well
+laid her scheme, that the guards were to seize the queen, and convey her
+to a place of confinement, till she could prove her innocence; which,
+that she might never be able to do, proper care was taken by procuring
+sufficient evidence to accuse her on oath; and the Princess Hebe, her
+daughter, was to be taken from her, and educated under the care of her
+uncle. But the night before this cruel design was to have been put in
+execution, a faithful attendant of the queen’s, named Loretta, by the
+assistance of one of the Princess Tropo’s confidants (who had long
+professed himself her lover) discovered the whole secret, of which she
+immediately informed her royal mistress.
+
+The horrors which filled the queen’s mind at the relation of the
+Princess Tropo’s malicious intentions, were inexpressible, and her
+perturbation so great, that she could not form any scheme that appeared
+probable to execute for her own preservation. Loretta told her that the
+person who had given her this timely notice, had also provided a peasant
+who knew the country, and would meet her at the western gate of the
+city, and, carrying the young Princess Hebe in his arms, would conduct
+her to some place of safety; but she must consent to put on a disguise,
+and escape that very night from the palace, or she would be lost for
+ever. Horses or mules, she said, it would be impossible to come at
+without suspicion; therefore she must endeavour (though unused to such
+fatigue) to travel afoot till she got herself concealed in some cottage
+from her pursuers, if her enemies should think of endeavouring to find
+her out. Loretta offered to attend her mistress, but she absolutely
+forbad her going any farther than to the western gate; where delivering
+the little Princess Hebe into the arms of the peasant, who was there
+waiting for them, she reluctantly withdrew.
+
+The good queen, who saw no remedy to this her terrible disgrace, could
+have borne this barbarous usage without much repining, had she herself
+been the only sufferer by it; for the loss of the good king her husband
+so far exceeded all her other misfortunes, that every everything else
+was trifling in comparison of so dreadful an affliction. But the young
+Princess Hebe, whom she was accustomed to look on as her greatest
+blessing, now became to her an object of pity and concern; for, from
+being heiress to a throne, the poor infant, not yet five years old, was,
+with her wretched mother, become a vagabond, and knew not whither to fly
+for protection.
+
+Loretta had prevailed on her royal mistress to take with her a few
+little necessaries, besides a small picture of the king, and some of her
+jewels, which the queen contrived to conceal under her night-clothes, in
+the midst of that hair they were used to adorn, when her loved husband
+delighted to see it displayed in flowing ringlets round her snowy neck.
+This lady, during the life of her fond husband, was by his tender
+care kept from every inclemency of the air, and preserved from every
+inconvenience that it was possible for human nature to suffer. What then
+must be her condition now, when through bypaths and thorny ways, she was
+obliged to fly with all possible speed, to escape the fury of her cruel
+pursuers: for she too well knew the merciless temper of her enemies,
+to hope that they would not pursue her with the utmost diligence,
+especially as she was accompanied by the young Princess Hebe; whose life
+was the principal cause of their disquiet, and whose destruction they
+chiefly aimed at.
+
+The honest peasant, who carried the Princess Hebe in his arms, followed
+the queen’s painful steps; and seeing the day begin to break, he begged
+her, if possible, to hasten on to a wood which was not far off, where it
+was likely she might find a place of safety. But the afflicted queen,
+at the sight of the opening morn (which once used to fill her mind with
+rising joy) burst into a flood of tears, and, quite overcome with
+grief and fatigue, cast herself on the ground, crying out in the most
+affecting manner, ‘The end of my misfortunes is at hand. My weary limbs
+will no longer support me. My spirits fail me. In the grave alone must
+I seek for shelter.’ The poor princess, seeing her mother in tears, cast
+her little arms about her neck, and wept also, though she knew not why.
+
+Whilst she was in this deplorable condition, turning round her head, she
+saw behind her a little girl, no older in appearance than the Princess
+Hebe; who, with an amiable and tranquil countenance, begged her to
+rise and follow her, and she would lead her where she might refresh and
+repose herself.
+
+The queen was surprised at the manner of speaking of this little child,
+as she took her to be; but soon thought it was some kind fairy sent to
+protect her, and was very ready to submit herself to her guidance and
+protection.
+
+The little fairy (for such indeed was the seeming child who had thus
+accosted them) ordered the peasant to return back, and said that she
+would take care of the queen, and her young daughter; and he, knowing
+her to be the good fairy Sybella, very readily obeyed.
+
+Sybella then striking the ground three times with a little wand, there
+suddenly rose up before them a neat plain car, and a pair of milk-white
+horses; and placing the queen with the Princess Hebe in her lap by her
+side, she drove with excessive swiftness full westward for eight hours;
+when (just as the sun began to have power enough to make the queen
+almost faint with the heat and her former fatigue) they arrived at the
+side of a shady wood; upon entering of which, the fairy made her horses
+slacken in their speed, and having travelled about a mile and a half,
+through rows of elms and beech trees, they came to a thick grove of
+firs, into which there seemed to be no entrance. For there was not any
+opening to a path, and the underwood consisting chiefly of rose-bushes,
+white-thorn, eglantine, and other flowering shrubs, was so thick, that
+it appeared impossible to attempt forcing through them. But alighting
+out of the car (which immediately disappeared) the fairy (bidding the
+queen follow her) pushed her way through a large bush of jessamine,
+whose tender branches gave way for their passage and then closed again,
+so as to leave no traces of an entrance into this charming grove.
+
+Having gone a little way through an extreme narrow path, they came into
+an opening (quite surrounded by these firs and sweet underwood) not very
+large, but in which was contained everything that is necessary towards
+making life comfortable. At the end of a green meadow was a plain neat
+house, built more for convenience than beauty, fronting the rising sun;
+and behind it was a small garden, stored only with fruits and useful
+herbs. Sybella conducted her guests into this her simple lodging; and
+as repose was the chief thing necessary for the poor fatigued queen,
+she prevailed with her to lie down on a couch. Some hours’ sound sleep,
+which her weariness induced, gave her a fresh supply of spirits; the
+ease and safety from her pursuers, in which she then found herself, made
+her for a short time tolerably composed; and she begged the favour
+of knowing to whom she was so greatly obliged for this her happy
+deliverance; but the fairy seeing her mind too unsettled to give any
+due attention to what she should say, told her that she would defer the
+relation of her own life (which was worth her observation) till she had
+obtained a respite from her own sorrows; and in the meantime, by all
+manner of obliging ways, she endeavoured to divert and amuse her.
+
+The queen, after a short interval of calmness of mind, occasioned only
+by her so sudden escape from the terrors of pursuit, returned to her
+former dejection, and for some time incessantly wept at the dismal
+thought, that the princess seemed now, by this reverse of fate, to be
+for ever excluded all hopes of being seated on her father’s throne;
+and, by a strange perverse way of adding to her own grief, she afflicted
+herself the more, because the little princess was ignorant of her
+misfortune; and whenever she saw her diverting herself with little
+childish plays, instead of being pleased with such her innocent
+amusement, it added to her sorrow, and made her tears gush forth in a
+larger stream than usual. She could not divert her thoughts from the
+palace from which she had been driven, to fix them on any other object;
+nor would her grief suffer her to reflect, that it was possible for the
+princess to be happy without a crown.
+
+At length time, the great cure of all ills, in some measure abated her
+Sorrows; her grief began to subside; in spite of herself, the reflection
+that her misery was only in her own fancy, would sometimes force itself
+on her mind. She could not avoid seeing, that her little hostess enjoyed
+as perfect a state of happiness as is possible to attain in this world;
+that she was free from anxious cares, undisturbed by restless passions,
+and mistress of all things that could be of any use to make life easy or
+agreeable. The oftener this reflection presented itself to her thoughts,
+the more strength it gained; and, at last, she could even bear to think,
+that her beloved child might be as happy in such a situation, as was her
+amiable hostess. Her countenance now grew more cheerful; she could take
+the Princess Hebe in her arms, and thinking the jewels she had preserved
+would secure her from any fear of want, look on her with delight; and
+began even to imagine, that her future life might be spent in calm
+content and pleasure.
+
+As soon as the voice of reason had gained this power over the queen,
+Sybella told her, that now her bosom was so free from passion, she would
+relate the history of her life. The queen, overjoyed that her curiosity
+might now be gratified, begged her not to delay giving her that pleasure
+one moment; on which our little fairy began in the following manner.
+
+
+But there Mrs. Teachum told Miss Jenny that the bell rung for dinner; on
+which she was obliged to break off. But meeting again in the same arbour
+in the evening, when their good mistress continued to them the favour of
+her presence, Miss Jenny pursued her story.
+
+
+
+
+THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED.
+
+‘My father,’ said the fairy, ‘was a magician: he married a lady for
+love, whose beauty far outshone that of all her neighbours; and by means
+of that beauty, she had so great an influence over her husband, that she
+could command the utmost power of his art. But better had it been for
+her, had that beauty been wanting; for her power only served to make her
+wish for more, and the gratification of every desire begot a new one,
+which often it was impossible for her to gratify. My father, though he
+saw his error in thus indulging her, could not attain steadiness of mind
+enough to mend it, nor acquire resolution enough to suffer his beloved
+wife once to grieve or shed a tear to no purpose, though in order to
+cure her of that folly which made her miserable.
+
+‘My grandfather so plainly saw the temper and disposition of his son
+towards women, that he did not leave him at liberty to dispose of his
+magic art to any but his posterity, that it might not be in the power
+of a wife to tease him out of it. But his caution was to very little
+purpose; for although my mother could not from herself exert any magic
+power, yet such was her unbounded influence over her husband, that she
+was sure of success in every attempt to persuade him to gratify her
+desires. For if every argument she could invent happened to fail, yet
+the shedding but one tear was a certain method to prevail with him to
+give up his reason, whatever might be the consequence.
+
+‘When my father and mother had been married about a year, she was
+brought to bed of a daughter, to whom she gave the name of Brunetta. Her
+first request to my father was, that he would endow this infant with as
+much beauty as she herself was possessed of, and bestow on her as much
+of his art as should enable her to succeed in all her designs. My father
+foresaw the dreadful tendency of granting this request, but said he
+would give it with this restriction, that she should succeed in all
+her designs that were not wicked; for, said he, the success of wicked
+designs always turns out as a punishment to the person so succeeding.
+In this resolution he held for three days, till my mother (being weak
+in body after her lying-in) worked herself with her violent passions to
+such a degree, that the physicians told my father, they despaired of her
+life, unless some method could be found to make her mind more calm
+and easy. His fondness for his wife would not suffer him to bear the
+thoughts of losing her, and the horror with which that apprehension had
+but for a moment possessed his mind, prevailed with him to bestow on
+the little Brunetta (though foreseeing it would make her miserable) the
+fatal gift in its full extent. But one restriction it was out of his
+power to take off, namely, that all wicked designs ever could and should
+be rendered ineffectual by the virtue and perseverance of those against
+whom they were intended, if they in a proper manner exerted that virtue.
+
+‘I was born in two years after Brunetta, and was called Sybella: but my
+mother was so taken up with her darling Brunetta, that she gave herself
+nut the least concern about me; and I was left wholly to the care of my
+father. In order to make the gift she had extorted from her fond husband
+as fatal as possible to her favourite child, she took care in her
+education (by endeavouring to cultivate in her the spirit of revenge and
+malice against those who had in the least degree offended her) to
+turn her mind to all manner of mischief; by which means she lived in a
+continual passion.
+
+‘My father, as soon as I was old enough to hearken to reason, told me
+of the gift he had conferred on my sister; said he could not retract it;
+and therefore, if she had any mischievous designs against me, they must
+in some measure succeed; but she would endow me with a power superior to
+this gift of my sister’s, and likewise superior to any thing else that
+he was able to bestow, which was strength and constancy of mind enough
+to bear patiently any injuries I might receive; and this was a strength,
+he said, which would not decay, but rather increase, by every new
+exercise of it; and, to secure me in the possession of this gift, he
+likewise gave me a perfect knowledge of the true value of everything
+around me, by which means I might learn, whatever outward accidents
+befell me, not to lose the greatest blessing in this world, namely, a
+calm and contented mind. He taught me so well my duty, that I cheerfully
+obeyed my mother in all things, though she seldom gave me a kind word,
+or even a kind look; for my spiteful sister was always telling some lies
+to make her angry with me. But my heart overflowed with gratitude to my
+father, that he would give me leave to love him, whilst he instructed me
+that it was my duty to pay him the most strict obedience.
+
+‘Brunetta was daily encouraged by her mother to use me ill, and chiefly
+because my father loved me; and although she succeeded in all her
+designs of revenge on me, yet was she very uneasy, because she could not
+take away the cheerfulness of my mind; for I bore with patience whatever
+happened to me: and she would often say, “must I with all my beauty,
+power, and wisdom (for so she called her low cunning) be suffering
+perpetual uneasiness? and shall you, who have neither beauty, power, nor
+wisdom, pretend to be happy and cheerful?” Then would she cry and stamp,
+and rave like a mad creature, and set her invention at work to make my
+mother beat me, or lock me up, or take from me some of my best clothes
+to give to her; yet still could not her power extend to vex my mind: and
+this used to throw her again into such passions, as weakened her health,
+and greatly impaired her so much boasted beauty.
+
+‘In this manner we lived, till on a certain day, after Brunetta had been
+in one of her rages with me for nothing, my father came in and chid
+her for it; which, when my mother heard, she threw herself into such a
+violent passion, that her husband could not pacify her. And, being big
+with child, the convulsions, caused by her passions, brought her to her
+grave. Thus my father lost her, by the same uncontrollable excesses, the
+fatal effects of which he had before ruined his daughter to preserve her
+from. He did not long survive her; but, before he died, gave me a little
+wand, which, by striking three times on the ground, he said, would at
+any time produce me any necessary or convenience of life, which I really
+wanted, either for myself, or the assistance of others; and this he gave
+me, because he was very sensible, he said, that as soon as he was dead,
+my sister would never rest till she had got from me both his castle,
+and everything that I had belonging to me, in it. “But,” continued he,
+“whenever you are driven from thence, bend your course directly into the
+pleasant wood Ardella; there strike with your wand, and everything you
+want, will be provided for you. But keep this wand a profound secret, or
+Brunetta will get it from you; and then (though you can never, while you
+preserve your patience, be unhappy) you will not have it in your power
+to be of so much use as you would wish to be, to those who shall stand
+in need of your assistance.” Saying these words, he expired, as I
+kneeled by his bedside, attending his last commands, and bewailing the
+loss of so good a father.
+
+‘In the midst of this our distress, we sent to my Uncle Sochus, my
+father’s brother, to come to us, and to assist us in an equal division
+of my deceased father’s effects; but my sister soon contrived to make
+him believe, that I was the wickedest girl alive, and had always set
+my father against her by my art, which she said I pretended to call my
+wisdom; and by several handsome presents she soon persuaded him (for he
+did not care a farthing for either of us) to join with her in saying,
+that, as she was the eldest sister, she had a full right to the castle,
+and everything in it; but she told me I was very welcome to stay there,
+and live with her, if I pleased; and while I behaved myself well, she
+should be very glad of my company.
+
+‘As it was natural for me to love every one that would give me leave to
+love them, I was quite overjoyed at this kind offer of my sister’s, and
+never once thought on the treachery she had so lately been guilty of;
+and I have since reflected, that happy was it for me, that passion was
+so much uppermost with her, that she could not execute any plot, that
+required a dissimulation of any long continuance; for had her good
+humour lasted but one four-and-twenty hours, it is very probable that
+I should have opened my whole heart to her; should have endeavoured to
+have begun a friendship with her, and perhaps have betrayed the secret
+of my wand; but just as it was sunset, she came into the room where I
+was, in the most violent passion in the world, accusing me to my uncle
+of ingratitude to her great generosity, in suffering me to live in her
+castle. She said, “that she had found me out, and that my crimes were of
+the blackest dye,” although she would not tell me either what they were,
+or who were my accusers. She would not give me leave to speak, either
+to ask what my offence was, or to justify my innocence; and I plainly
+perceived, that her pretended kindness was only designed to make my
+disappointment the greater; and that she was now determined to find me
+guilty, whether I pleaded, or not. And after she had raved on for some
+time, she said to me with a sneer, “Since you have always boasted of
+your calm and contented mind, you may now try to be contented this night
+with the softness of the grass for your bed; for here in my castle you
+shall not stay one moment longer.” And so saying, she and my uncle led
+me to the outer court, and thrusting me with all their force from them,
+they shut up the gates, bolting and barring them as close as if to keep
+out a giant; and left me, at that time of night, friendless, and, as
+they thought, destitute of any kind of support.
+
+‘I then remembered my dear father’s last words, and made what haste I
+could to this wood, which is not above a mile distant from the castle;
+and being, as I thought, about the middle of it, I struck three times
+with my wand, and immediately up rose this grove of trees, which you
+see, this house, and all the other conveniences, which I now enjoy; and
+getting that very night into this my plain and easy bed, I enjoyed as
+sweet a repose as ever I did in my life, only delayed, indeed, a short
+time, by a few sighs, for the loss of so good a parent, and the unhappy
+state of a self-tormented sister, whose slumbers (I fear) on a bed of
+down, were more restless and interrupted that night than mine would have
+been, even had not my father’s present of the wand prevented me from the
+necessity of using the bed of grass, which she, in her wrath, allotted
+me. In this grove, which I call Placid Grove, is contained all that I
+want; and it is so well secured from any invaders, by the thick briars
+and thorns which surround it, having no entrance but through that tender
+jessamine, that I live in no apprehensions of any disturbance, though so
+near my sister’s castle. But once, indeed, she came with a large train,
+and, whilst I was asleep, set fire to the trees all around me; and
+waking, I found myself almost suffocated with smoke, and the flames had
+reached one part of my House. I started from my bed, and striking on
+the ground three times with my wand, there came such a quantity of water
+from the heavens, as soon extinguished the fire; and the next morning,
+by again having recourse to my wand, all things grew up into their
+convenient and proper order. When my sister Brunetta found that I had
+such a supernatural power at my command, though she knew not what it
+was, she desisted from ever attempting any more by force to disturb me;
+and now only uses all sorts of arts and contrivances to deceive me,
+or any persons whom I would wish to secure. One of my father’s daily
+lessons to me was, that I should never omit any one day of my life
+endeavouring to be as serviceable as I possibly could to any person in
+distress. And I daily wander, as far as my feet will carry me, in search
+of any such, and hither I invite them to peace and calm contentment. But
+my father added also this command, that I should never endeavour doing
+any farther good to those whom adversity had not taught to hearken to
+the voice of reason, enough to enable them so to conquer their passions
+as not to think themselves miserable in a safe retreat from noise and
+confusion. This was the reason I could not gratify you in relating the
+history of my life, whilst you gave way to raging passions, which only
+serve to blind your eyes, and shut your ears from truth. But now, great
+queen (for I know your state, from what you vented in your grief), I am
+ready to endow this little princess with any gift in my power, that I
+know will tend really to her good; and I hope your experience of the
+world has made you too reasonable to require any other.’
+
+The queen considered a little while, and then desired Sybella to endow
+the princess with that only wisdom which would enable her to see and
+follow what was her own true good, to know the value of everything
+around her, and to be sensible that following the paths of goodness and
+performing her duty was the only road to content and happiness.
+
+Sybella was overjoyed at the queen’s request, and immediately granted
+it, only telling the Princess Hebe, that it was absolutely necessary
+towards the attainment of this great blessing, that she should entirely
+obey the queen her mother, without ever pretending to examine her
+commands; for ‘true obedience (said she) consists in submission; and
+when we pretend to choose what commands are proper and fit for us,
+we don’t obey, but set up our own wisdom in opposition to our
+governors--this, my dear Hebe, you must be very careful of avoiding, if
+you would be happy.’ She then cautioned her against giving way to the
+persuasions of any of the young shepherdesses thereabouts, who would
+endeavour to allure her to disobedience, by striving to raise in her
+mind a desire of thinking herself wise, whilst they were tearing from
+her what was indeed true wisdom. ‘For (said Sybella) my sister Brunetta,
+who lives in the castle she drove me from (about a mile from this wood)
+endows young shepherdesses with great beauty, and everything that is in
+appearance amiable, and likely to persuade, in order to allure away and
+make wretched, those persons I would preserve: and all the wisdom with
+which I have endowed the Princess Hebe will not prevent her falling into
+my sister’s snares, if she gives the least way to temptation; for my
+father’s gift to Brunetta, in her infancy, enables her (as I told you)
+to succeed in all her designs, except they are resisted by the virtue of
+the person she is practising against. Many poor wretches has my sister
+already decoyed away from me, whom she now keeps in her castle;
+where they live in splendor and seeming joy, but in real misery, from
+perpetual jars and tumults, railed by envy, malice, and all the train of
+tumultuous and tormenting passions.’
+
+The Princess Hebe said, she doubted not but she should be able to
+withstand any of Brunetta’s temptations. Her mother interrupting her,
+cried out, ‘Oh, my dear child, though you are endowed with wisdom enough
+to direct you in the way to virtue, yet if you grow conceited and proud
+of that wisdom, and fancy yourself above temptation, it will lead you
+into the worst of all evils.’ Here the fairy interposed, and told the
+Princess Hebe, that if she would always carefully observe and obey her
+mother, who had learned wisdom in that best school, adversity, she would
+then, indeed, be able to withstand and overcome every temptation, and
+would likewise be happy herself, and able to dispense happiness to all
+around her. Nothing was omitted by the fairy to make this retirement
+agreeable to her royal guests; and they had now passed near seven years
+in this delightful grove, in perfect peace and tranquillity; when one
+evening, as they were walking in the pleasant wood which surrounded
+their habitation, they espied under the shade, and leaning against
+the bark of a large oak, a poor old man, whose limbs were withered and
+decayed, and whose eyes were hollow, and sunk with age and misery. They
+stopped as soon as they saw him, and heard him in the anguish of his
+heart, with a loud groan, utter these words: ‘When will my sorrows end?
+Where shall I find the good fairy Sybella?’ The fairy immediately begged
+to know his business with her; and said, if his sorrows would end on
+finding Sybella, he might set his heart at ease; for she stood now
+before him, and ready to serve him, if his distresses were such as would
+admit of relief, and he could prove himself worthy of her friendship.
+The old Man appeared greatly overjoyed at having found the fairy, and
+began the following story:
+
+‘I live from hence a thousand leagues. All this tiresome way have I come
+in search of you. My whole life has been spent in amassing wealth, to
+enrich one only son, whom I doted on to distraction. It is now five
+years since I have given him up all the riches I had laboured to get,
+only to make him happy. But, alas how am I disappointed! His wealth
+enables him to command whatever this world produces; and yet the poorest
+wretch that begs his bread cannot be more miserable. He spends his days
+in riot and luxury; has more slaves and attendants than wait in the
+palace of a prince; and still he sighs from morning till night, because,
+he says, there is nothing in this world worth living for. All his
+dainties only sate his palate, and grow irksome to his sight. He daily
+changes his opinion of what is pleasure; and, on the trial, finds
+none that he can call such; and then falls to sighing again, for the
+emptiness of all that he has enjoyed. So that, instead of being my
+delight, and the comfort of my old age, sleepless nights, and anxious
+days, are all the rewards of my past labours for him. But I have had
+many visions and dreams to admonish me, that if I would venture with my
+old frame to travel hither a-foot in search of the fairy Sybella, she
+had a glass, which if she showed him, he would be cured of this dreadful
+melancholy, and I have borne the labour and fatigue of coming this
+long tiresome way, that I may not breathe my last with the agonizing
+reflection, that all the labours of my life have been thrown away.
+But what shall I say to engage you to go with me? Can riches tempt, or
+praise allure you?’
+
+‘No, (answered the fairy) neither of them has power to move me; but
+I compassionate your age; and if I thought I could succeed, would not
+refuse you. The glass which I shall bid him look in, will show him his
+inward self; but if he will not open both his eyes and heart enough to
+truth, to let him understand, that the pleasures he pursues not only are
+not but cannot be satisfactory, I can be of no sort of service to him.
+And know, old man, that the punishment you now feel is the natural
+result of your not having taught him this from his infancy; for, instead
+of heaping up wealth, to allure him to seek for happiness from such
+deceitful means, you should have taught him, that the only path to it
+was to be virtuous and good.’
+
+The old man said, he heartily repented of his conduct, and on his knees
+so fervently implored Sybella’s assistance, that at last she consented
+to go with him. Then striking on the ground three times with her wand,
+the car and horses rose up, and placing the old Man by her, after taking
+leave of the queen, and begging the Princess Hebe to be careful to guard
+against all temptations to disobedience, she set out on her journey.
+
+
+It being now come to the latest hour that Mrs. Teachum thought proper
+for her little scholars to stay out in the air, she told Miss Jenny that
+she must defer reading the remaining part of her story till the next
+day. Miss Jenny always with great cheerfulness obeyed her governess, and
+immediately left off reading; and said she was ready to attend her; and
+the whole company rose up to follow her.
+
+Mrs. Teachum had so much judgment, that, perceiving such a ready
+obedience to all her commands, she now endeavoured, by all means she
+could think of; to make her scholars throw off that reserve before her,
+which must ever make it uneasy to them for her ever to be present
+whilst they were following their innocent diversions; for such was the
+understanding of this good woman, that she could keep up the authority
+of the governess in her school, yet at times become the companion of
+her scholars. And as she now saw, by their good behaviour, they deserved
+that indulgence, she took the little dumpling by the hand, and, followed
+by the rest, walked towards the house, and discoursed familiarly with
+them the rest of the evening, concerning all their past amusements.
+
+
+
+
+SATURDAY. THE SIXTH DAY.
+
+It was the custom on Saturdays to have no school in the afternoon, and
+it being also their writing day from morning-school till dinner, Mrs.
+Teachum, knowing how eager Miss Jenny’s hearers were for the rest of the
+story, accompanied them into the arbour, early in the afternoon, when
+Miss Jenny went on as follows:
+
+
+
+
+THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED.
+
+The queen and the Princess Hebe remained, by the good fairy’s desire, in
+her habitation during her absence. They spent their time in serenity and
+content; the princess daily improving herself in wisdom and goodness, by
+hearkening to her mother’s instructions, and obeying all her commands,
+and the queen in studying what would be of most use to her child. She
+had now forgot her throne and palace, and desired nothing for her, than
+her present peaceful retreat. One morning, as they were sitting in a
+little arbour at the corner of a pleasant meadow, on a sudden they
+heard a voice, much sweeter than they had ever heard, warble through the
+following song:
+
+
+A SONG.
+
+     Virtue, soft balm of every woe,
+       Of ev’ry grief the cure,
+     ‘Tis thou alone that canst best bestow
+       Pleasures unmix’d and pure.
+
+     The shady wood, the verdant mead,
+       Are Virtue’s flow’ry road;
+     Nor painful are the steps which lead
+       To her divine abode.
+
+     ‘Tis not in palaces of halls,
+       She or their train appear;
+     Far off she flies from pompous walls;
+       Virtue and Peace dwell here.
+
+
+The queen was all attention, and at the end of the song she gazed around
+her, in hopes of seeing the person whose enchanting voice she had been
+so eagerly listening to, when she espied a young shepherdess, not
+much older than the Princess Hebe, but possessed of such uncommon and
+dazzling beauty, that it was some time before she could disengage her
+eyes from so agreeable an object. As soon as the young shepherdess found
+herself observed, she seemed modestly to offer to withdraw; but the
+queen begged her not to go till she had informed them who she was, that,
+with such a commanding aspect, had so much engaged them in her favour.
+
+The shepherdess coming forward, with a bashful blush, and profound
+obedience, answered, that her name was Rozella, and she was the daughter
+of a neighbouring shepherd and shepherdess, who lived about a quarter of
+a mile from thence; and, to confess the truth, she had wandered thither,
+in hopes of seeing the young stranger, whose fame for beauty and wisdom
+had filled all that country round.
+
+The Princess Hebe, well knowing of whom she spoke, conceived from that
+moment such an inclination fur her acquaintance, that she begged her to
+stay and spend that whole day with them in Placid Grove. Here the queen
+frowned upon her, for she had, by the fairy’s desire, charged her never
+to bring any one, without her permission, into that peaceful grove.
+
+The young Rozella answered, that nothing could be more agreeable to her
+inclinations; but she must be at home by noon, for so in the morning
+had her father commanded her, and never yet in her life had she either
+disputed or disobeyed her parent’s commands. Here the young princess
+looked on her mother with eyes expressive of her joy at finding a
+companion, which she, and even the fairy herself, could not disapprove.
+
+When Rozella took her leave, she begged the favour that the little Hebe
+(for so she called her, not knowing her to be a princess) might come
+to her father’s small cottage, and there partake such homely fare as it
+afforded; a welcome, she said, she could insure her; and though poor,
+yet from the honesty of her parents, who would be proud to entertain
+so rare a beauty, she was certain no sort of harm could happen to the
+pretty Hebe, from such a friendly visit; and she would be in the same
+place again tomorrow, to meet her, in hopes, as she said, to conduct her
+to her humble habitation.
+
+When Rozella was gone, the queen, though highly possessed in her favour,
+both by her beauty and modest behaviour, yet pondered some time on the
+thought, whether or no she was a fit companion for her daughter. She
+remembered what Sybella had told her, concerning Brunetta’s adorning
+young shepherdesses with beauty, and other excellences, only to enable
+them the better to allure and entice others into wickedness. Rozella’s
+beginning her acquaintance too with the princess, by flattery, had no
+good aspect; and the sudden effect it had upon her, so as to make her
+forget, or wilfully disobey, her commands, by inviting Rozella to
+Placid Grove, were circumstances which greatly alarmed her. But, by
+the repeated entreaties of the princess, she gave her consent that she
+should meet Rozella the next day, and walk with her in that meadow, and
+in the wood, but upon no account should she go home with her, or
+bring Rozella back with her. The queen then, in gentle terms, chid the
+princess for her invitation to the young shepherdess, which was contrary
+to an absolute command; and said, ‘You must, my dear Hebe, be very
+careful to guard yourself extremely well against those temptations
+which wear the face of virtue. I know that your sudden affection to this
+apparent good girl, and your desire of her company, to partake with
+you the innocent pleasures of this happy place, arise from a good
+disposition; but where the indulgence of the most laudable passion, even
+benevolence and compassion itself, interferes with, or runs counter to
+your duty, you must endeavour to suppress it, or it will fare with you,
+as it did with that hen, who, thinking that she heard the voice of a
+little duckling in distress, flew from her young ones, to go and give it
+assistance, and following the cry, came at last to a hedge, out of which
+jumped a subtle and wicked fox, who had made that noise to deceive
+her, and devoured her in an instant. A kite at the same time, taking
+advantage of her absence, carried away, one by one, all her little
+innocent brood, robbed of that parent who should have been their
+protector.’ The princess promised her mother that she would punctually
+obey all her commands, and be very watchful and observant of everything
+Rozella said and did, till she had approved herself worthy of her
+confidence and friendship.
+
+The queen the next morning renewed her injunctions to her daughter, that
+she should by no means go farther out of the wood than into the meadow,
+where she was to meet Rozella, and that she should give her a faithful
+account of all that should pass between them.
+
+They met according to appointment, and the princess brought home so good
+an account of their conversation, which the queen imagined would help to
+improve, rather than seduce her child, that she indulged her in the same
+pleasure as often as she asked it. They passed some hours every day
+in walking round that delightful wood, in which were many small green
+meadows, with little rivulets running through them, on the banks of
+which, covered with primroses and violets, Rozella, by the side of her
+sweet companion, used to sing the most enchanting songs in the world:
+the words were chiefly in praise of innocence and a country life.
+
+The princess came home every day more and more charmed with her young
+shepherdess, and recounted, as near as she could remember, every word
+that had passed between them. The queen very highly approved of their
+manner of amusing themselves; but again enjoined her to omit nothing
+that passed in conversation, especially if it had the least tendency
+towards alluring her from her duty.
+
+One day, as the princess Hebe and Rozella were walking alone, and
+talking, as usual, of their own happy state, and the princess was
+declaring how much her own happiness was owing to her thorough obedience
+to her mother, Rozella, with a tone of voice as half in jest, said, ‘But
+don’t you think, my little Hebe, that if I take a very great pleasure in
+any thing that will do me no hurt, though it is forbidden, I may disobey
+my parents in enjoying it, provided I don’t tell them of it to vex them
+with the thought that I have disobeyed them? And then, my dear, what
+harm is done?’
+
+‘Great harm (answered the princess, looking grave and half angry): I am
+ashamed to hear you talk so, Rozella. Are you not guilty of treachery,
+as well as disobedience? Neither ought you to determine that no harm
+is done, because you do not feel the immediate effects of your
+transgression; for the consequence may be out of our narrow
+inexperienced view; and I have been taught whenever my mother lays
+any commands on me, to take it for granted, she has some reason for
+so doing; and I obey her, without examining what those reasons are;
+otherwise, it would not be obeying her, but setting up my own wisdom,
+and doing what she bid me, only when I thought proper.’
+
+They held a long argument on this head, in which Rozella made use of
+many a fallacy to prove her point; but the princess, as she had not yet
+departed from Truth, nor failed in her duty, could not be imposed upon.
+Rozella, seeing every attempt to persuade her was in vain, turned all
+her past discourse into a jest; said she had only a mind to try her; and
+was overjoyed to find her so steady in the cause of truth and virtue.
+The princess resumed her usual cheerfulness and good humour. Rozella
+sung her a song in praise of constancy of mind; and they passed the rest
+of the time they stayed together, as they used to do.
+
+But, just before they parted, Rozella begged she would not tell her
+mother of the first part of the conversation that had passed between
+them. The princess replied, that it would be breaking through one of her
+mother’s commands, and therefore she dared not grant her request. Then,
+said Rozella, ‘Here I must for ever part with my dear little Hebe.
+Your mother, not knowing the manner in which I spoke, will have an ill
+opinion of me, and will never trust you again in my company. Thus will
+you be torn from me; and loss will be irreparable.’ These words she
+accompanied with a flood of tears, and such little tendernesses, as
+quite melted the princess into tears also. But she still said, that she
+could not dare to conceal from her mother anything that had happened,
+though she could not but own, she believed their separation would be
+the consequence. ‘Well then (cried Rozella) I will endeavour to be
+contented, as our separation will give you less pain than what you call
+this mighty breach of your duty: and though I would willingly undergo
+almost any torments that could be invented, rather than be debarred one
+moment the company of my dearest Hebe, yet I will not expect that she
+should suffer the smallest degree of pain, or uneasiness, to save me
+from losing what is the whole pleasure of my life.’
+
+The princess could not bear the thought of appearing ungrateful to such
+a warm friendship as Rozella expressed; and, without farther hesitation,
+promised to conceal what she had said, and to undergo anything, rather
+than lose so amiable a friend.
+
+After this they parted. But when the princess entered the Grove, she did
+not, as usual, run with haste and joy into the presence of her indulgent
+mother; for her mind was disturbed: she felt a conscious shame on seeing
+her, and turned away her face, as wanting to shun the piercing look of
+that eye, which she imagined would see the secret lurking in her
+bosom. Her mother observed with concern her downcast look, and want of
+cheerfulness. And asking her what was the matter, she answered, her
+walk had fatigued her, and she begged early to retire to rest. Her
+kind mother consented; but little rest had the poor princess that whole
+night, for the pain of having her mind touched with guilt, and the fear
+she was under of losing her dear companion, kept her thoughts in one
+continued tumult and confusion. The fairy’s gift now became her curse;
+for the power of seeing what was right, as she had acted contrary to her
+knowledge, only tormented her.
+
+She hastened the next morning to meet Rozella, and told her all that had
+passed in her own mind the preceding night; declaring that she would not
+pass such another for the whole world; but yet would not dispense with
+her promise to her, without her consent; and therefore came to ask her
+leave to acquaint her good mother with all that had passed: ‘For (said
+she) my dear Rozella, we must, if we would be happy, do always what is
+right, and trust for the consequences.’ Here Rozella drew her features
+into the most contemptuous sneer imaginable, and said, ‘Pray what are
+all these mighty pains you have suffered? Are they not owing only to
+your want of sense enough to know, that you can do your mother no harm,
+by concealing from her this, or anything else that will vex her? and,
+my dear girl (continued she) when you have once entered into this way of
+thinking, and have put this blind duty out of your head, you will spend
+no more such restless nights, which you must see was entirely owing to
+your own imaginations.’
+
+This startled the princess to such a degree, that she was breaking from
+her, but, putting on a more tender air, Rozella cried, ‘And can
+you then, my dear Hebe, determine to give me up for such a trifling
+consideration?’ Then raising her voice again, in a haughty manner, she
+said, ‘I ought to despise and laugh at you for your folly, or at best
+pity your ignorance, rather than offer a sincere friendship to one so
+undeserving.’
+
+The princess, having once swerved from her duty, was now in the power of
+every passion that should attack her.
+
+Pride and indignation, at the thought of being despised, bore more sway
+with her, than either her duty or affection to her fond mother; and she
+was now determined, she said, to think for herself, and make use of her
+own understanding, which she was convinced would always teach her what
+was right. Upon this Rozella took her by the hand, and, with tears
+of joy, said, ‘Now, my dearest girl, you are really wise, and cannot
+therefore (according to your own rule) fail of being happy. But to show
+that you are in earnest in this resolution, you shall this morning go
+home with me to my father’s cot; it is not so far off, but you will be
+back by the time your mother expects you; and as that will be obeying
+the chief command, it is but concealing from her the thing that would
+vex her, and there will be no harm done.’ Here a ray of truth broke in
+upon our young princess; but as a false shame, and fear of being laughed
+at, had now got possession of her, she, with a soft sigh, consented to
+the proposal.
+
+Rozella led the way. But just as they were turning round the walk, which
+leads out of the wood, a large serpent darted from one side out of a
+thicket, directly between them, and turning its hissing mouth towards
+the princess, as seeming to make after her, she fled hastily back, and
+ran with all her speed towards the grove, and panting for breath, flew
+into the arms of her ever kind protectress.
+
+Her mother was vastly terrified to see her tremble, and look so pale;
+and as soon as she was a little recovered, asked her the occasion of her
+fright, and added (with tears running down her cheeks) ‘I am afraid, my
+dear Hebe, some sad disaster has befallen you, for, indeed, my child, I
+but too plainly saw last night--’
+
+Here the princess was so struck with true shame and confusion, for her
+past behaviour, that she fell down upon her knees, confessed the whole
+truth, and implored forgiveness for her fault.
+
+The queen kindly raised her up, kissed and forgave her. ‘I am overjoyed,
+my dear child (said she) at this your sweet repentance, though the
+effect of mere accident, as it appears but sent, without doubt, by some
+good fairy, to save you from destruction; and I hope you are thoroughly
+convinced, that the serpent which drove you home, was not half so
+dangerous as the false Rozella.’
+
+The princess answered, that she was thoroughly sensible of the dangers
+she had avoided, and hoped she never should again, by her own folly and
+wickedness, deserve to be exposed to the danger from which she had so
+lately escaped.
+
+Some days passed, without the princess’s offering to stir out of the
+grove; and in that time she gave a willing and patient ear to all her
+mother’s instructions, and seemed thoroughly sensible of the great
+deliverance she had lately experienced. But yet there appeared in her
+countenance an uneasiness, which the queen wishing to remove, asked her
+the cause of.
+
+‘It is, dear madam,’ answered the princess, ‘because I have not yet had
+it in my power to convince you of my repentance, which (though I know it
+to be sincere) you have had no proof of, but in words only; and, indeed,
+my heart longs for an occasion to show you, that I am now able to resist
+any allurement which would tempt me from my duty; and I cannot be easy
+till you have given me an opportunity of showing you the firmness of
+my resolution; and if you will give me leave to take a walk in the
+wood alone, this evening, I shall return to you with pleasure, and will
+promise not to exceed any bounds that you shall prescribe.’
+
+The queen was not much pleased with this request; but the princess was
+so earnest with her to grant it, that she could not well refuse, without
+seeming to suspect her sincerity; which she did not, but only feared for
+her safety, and, giving her a strict charge, not to stir a step out of
+the wood, or to speak to the false Rozella, if she came in her way, she
+reluctantly gave her consent.
+
+The princess walked through all the flowery labyrinths, in which she had
+so often strayed with Rozella; but she was so shocked with the thoughts
+of her wickedness, that she hardly gave a sigh for the loss of a
+companion once so dear to her; and as a proof that her repentance
+was sincere, though she heard Rozella singing in an arbour (purposely
+perhaps to decoy her) she turned away without the least emotion, and
+went quite to the other side of the wood; where looking into the meadow,
+in which she first beheld that false friend, she saw a girl about her
+own age, leaning against a tree, and crying most bitterly. But the
+moment she came in sight, the young shepherdess (for such by her dress
+she appeared to be) cried out, ‘O help, dear young lady, help me; for I
+am tied here to this tree, by the spiteful contrivance of a wicked young
+shepherdess called Rozella: my hands too, you see, are bound behind me,
+so that I cannot myself unloose the knot; and if I am not released, here
+must I lie all night and my wretched parents will break their hearts,
+for fear some sad accident should have befallen their only child, their
+poor unhappy Florimel!’
+
+The Princess, hearing her speak of Rozella in that manner, had no
+suspicion of her being one of that false girl’s deluding companions;
+but rather thought that she was a fellow-sufferer with herself; and
+therefore, without any consideration of the bounds prescribed, she
+hastened to relieve her, and even thought that she should have great
+pleasure in telling her mother, that she had saved a poor young
+shepherdess from Rozella’s malice, and restored her to her fond parents.
+But as soon as she had unloosed the girl from the tree, and unbound her
+hands, instead of receiving thanks for what she had done, the wicked
+Florimel burst into a laugh, and suddenly snatching from the Princess
+Hebe’s side her father’s picture, which she always wore hanging in a
+ribbon, she ran away with it, as fast as she could, over the meadow.
+
+The Princess was so astonished at this strange piece of ingratitude
+and treachery, and was so alarmed for fear of losing what she knew her
+mother so highly valued, that hardly knowing what she was about, she
+pursued Florimel with all her speed, begging and entreating her not to
+bereave her so basely and ungratefully of that picture, which she would
+not part with for the world: but it was all to no purpose for Florimel
+continued her flight, and the princess her pursuit, till they arrived
+at Brunetta’s castle-gate; where the fairy herself appeared dressed and
+adorned in the most becoming manner, and, with the most bewitching smile
+that can come from dazzling beauty, invited the princess to enter her
+castle (into which Florimel was run to hide herself) and promised her,
+on that condition, to make the idle girl restore the picture.
+
+It was now so late, that it was impossible for the princess to think
+of returning home that night; and the pleasing address of Brunetta,
+together with the hopes of having her picture restored, soon prevailed
+with her to accept of the fairy’s invitation.
+
+The castle glittered with gaudy furniture; sweet music was heard in
+every room; the whole company, who were all of the most beautiful forms
+that could be conceived, strove who should be most obliging to this
+their new guest. They omitted nothing that could amuse and delight the
+senses. And the Princess Hebe was so entranced with joy and rapture,
+that she had not time for thought, or for the least serious reflection;
+and she now began to think, that she had attained the highest happiness
+upon earth.
+
+After they had kept her three days in this round of pleasure and
+delight, they began to pull of the mask; nothing was heard but quarrels,
+jars, and galling speeches. Instead of sweet music, the apartments were
+filled with screams and howling; for every one giving way to the most
+outrageous passions, they were always doing each other some malicious
+turn, and only universal horror and confusion reigned.
+
+The princess was hated by all, and was often asked, with insulting
+sneers, why she did not return to her peaceful grove, and condescending
+mother? But her mind having been thus turned aside from what was right,
+could not bear the thoughts of returning; and though by her daily tears,
+she showed her repentance, shame prevented her return: but this again
+was not the right sort of shame; for then she would humbly have taken
+the punishment due to her crime; and it was rather a stubborn pride,
+which, as she knew herself so highly to blame, would not give her leave
+to suffer the confusion of again confessing her fault; and till she
+could bring herself to such a state of mind, there was no remedy for her
+misery.
+
+
+Just as Miss Jenny had read these words, Mrs. Teachum remembering some
+orders necessary to give in her family, left them, but bid them go on,
+saying she would return again in a quarter of an hour. But she was no
+sooner gone from them, than our little company, hearing the sound of
+trumpets and kettle-drums, which seemed to be playing at some little
+distance from Mrs. Teachum’s house, suddenly started from their seats,
+running directly to the terrace; and, looking over the garden wall,
+they saw a troop of soldiers riding by, with these instruments of music
+playing before them.
+
+They were highly delighted with the gallant and splendid appearance of
+these soldiers, and watched them till they were out of sight, and were
+then returning to their arbour, where Miss Jenny had been reading; but
+Miss Nanny Spruce espied another such troop coming out of the lane from
+whence the first had issued, and cried out, ‘O! here is another fine
+sight; let us stay, and see these go by too.’ ‘Indeed (said Miss Dolly
+Friendly) I am in such pain for the poor princess Hebe, while she is in
+that sad castle, that I had rather hear how she escaped (for that I hope
+she will) than see all the soldiers in the world; and besides, it is but
+seeing the same thing we have just looked at before.’ Here some were for
+staying, and others for going back; but as Miss Dolly’s party was the
+strongest, the few were ashamed to avow their inclinations; and they
+were returning to the arbour, when they met Mrs. Teachum, who informed
+them their dancing master was just arrived, and they must attend him;
+but in the evening they might finish their story.
+
+They were so curious (and especially Miss Dolly Friendly) to know what
+was to become of the princess, that they could have wished not to have
+been interrupted; but yet, without one word of answer, they complied
+with what their governess thought most proper; and in the evening,
+hastening to their arbour, Mrs. Teachum herself being present, Miss
+Jenny went on in the following manner:
+
+
+
+
+THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED.
+
+The queen, in the meantime, suffered for the loss of her child more than
+words can express, till the good fairy Sybella returned. The queen burst
+into tears at the sight of her; but the fairy immediately cried out,
+‘You may spare yourself, my royal guest, the pain of relating what has
+happened. I know it all; for that old man, whom I took such pity on, was
+a phantom, raised by Brunetta, to allure me hence, in order to have an
+opportunity, in my absence, of seducing the princess from her duty.
+She knew nothing but a probable story could impose on me, and therefore
+raised that story of the misery of the old man’s son (from motives which
+too often, indeed, cause the misery of mortals); as knowing I should
+think it my duty to do what I could to relieve such a wretch. I will not
+tell you all my journey, nor what I have gone through. I know your
+mind is at present too much fixed on the princess, to attend to such
+a relation I’ll only tell you what concerns yourself. When the phantom
+found, that by no distress he could perturb my mind, he said he was
+obliged to tell the truth, what was the intention of my being deluded
+from home, and what had happened since; and then vanished away.’ Here
+the fairy related to the queen everything that had happened to the
+princess, as has already been written; and concluded with saying, that
+she would wander about the castle walls (for Brunetta had no power over
+her); and if she could get a sight of the princess, she would endeavour
+to bring her to a true sense of her fault, and then she might again be
+restored to happiness.
+
+The queen blessed the fairy for her goodness; and it was not long before
+Sybella’s continual assiduity got her a sight of the princess; for
+she often wandered a little way towards that wood she had once so
+much delighted in, but never could bring herself to enter into it: the
+thought of seeing her injured mother made her start back, and run half
+wild into the fatal castle. Rozella used frequently to throw herself
+in her way; and on hearing her sighs, and seeing her tears, would burst
+into a sneering laugh at her folly; to avoid which laugh, the poor
+princess first suffered herself to throw off all her principles of
+goodness and obedience, and was now fallen into the very contempt she so
+much dreaded.
+
+The first time the fairy got a sight of her, she called to her with the
+most friendly voice; but the princess, stung to the soul with the sight
+of her, fled away, and did not venture out again in several days. The
+kind Sybella began almost to despair of regaining her lost child; but
+never failed walking round the castle many hours every day. And one
+evening, just before the sun set, she heard within the gates a loud
+tumultuous noise, but more like riotous mirth, than either the voice
+either of rage or anger; and immediately she saw the princess rush out
+at the gate, and about a dozen girls, laughing and shouting, running
+after her. The poor princess flew with all her speed till she came to a
+little arbour, just by the side of the wood; and her pursuers, as they
+intended only to tease her, did not follow her very close; but, as soon
+as they lost sight of her, turned all back again to the castle.
+
+Sybella went directly into the arbour, where she found the little
+trembler prostrate on the ground, crying and sobbing as if her heart was
+breaking. The fairy seized her hand, and would not let her go till she
+had prevailed with her to return to the Placid Grove, to throw herself
+once more at her mother’s feet, assuring her, that nothing but this
+humble state of mind could cure her misery and restore her wonted peace.
+
+The queen was filled with the highest joy to see her child; but
+restrained herself so much, that she showed not the least sign of it,
+till she had seen her some time prostrate at her feet, and had heard
+her with tears properly confess, and ask pardon for, all her faults. She
+then raised, and once more forgave her; but told her that she must learn
+more humility and distrust of herself, before she should again expect to
+be trusted.
+
+The princess answered not, but with a modest downcast look which
+expressed her concern and true repentance, and in a short time recovered
+her former peace of mind; and as she never afterwards disobeyed her
+indulgent mother, she daily increased in wisdom and goodness.
+
+After having lived on in the most innocent and peaceful manner for three
+years (the princess being just turned of eighteen years old) the fairy
+told the queen that she would now tell her some news of her kingdom,
+which she had heard in her journey; namely, that her sister-in-law
+was dead, and her brother-in-law had made proclamation throughout the
+kingdom, of great rewards to any one who should produce the queen and
+the Princess Hebe, whom he would immediately reinstate on the throne.
+
+The Princess Hebe was by when she related this, and said she begged
+to lead a private life, and never more be exposed to the temptation of
+entering into vice, for which she already had so severely smarted.
+
+The fairy told her, that, since she doubted herself, she was now fit
+to be trusted; for, said she, ‘I did not like your being so sure of
+resisting temptation, when first I conferred on you the gift of wisdom.
+But you will, my princess, if you take the crown, have an opportunity
+of doing so much good, that, if you continue virtuous, you will have
+perpetual pleasures; for power, if made a right use of, is indeed a very
+great blessing.’
+
+The princess answered, that if the queen, her mother, thought it her
+duty to take the crown, she would cheerfully submit, though a private
+life would be otherwise her choice.
+
+The queen replied, that she did not blame her for choosing a private
+life; but she thought she could not innocently refuse the power that
+would give her such opportunities of doing good, and making others
+happy; since, by that refusal, the power might fall into hands that
+would make an ill use of it.
+
+After this conversation, they got into the same car in which they
+travelled to the wood of Ardella; arrived safely at the city of
+Algorada; and the Princess Hebe was seated, with universal consent, on
+her father’s throne; where she and her people were reciprocally happy,
+by her great wisdom and prudence; and the queen-mother spent the
+remainder of her days in peace and joy, to see her beloved daughter
+prove a blessing to such numbers of human creatures; whilst she herself
+enjoyed that only true content and happiness this world can produce;
+namely, a peaceful conscience, and a quiet mind.
+
+
+When Miss Jenny had finished her story, Mrs. Teachum left them for
+the present, that they might with the utmost freedom make their own
+observations; for she knew she should be acquainted with all their
+sentiments from Miss Jenny afterwards.
+
+The little hearts of all the company were swelled with joy, in that
+the Princess Hebe was at last made happy; for hope and fear had each by
+turns possessed their bosoms for the fate of the little princess; and
+Miss Dolly Friendly said, that Rozella’s artful manner was enough to
+have drawn in the wisest girl into her snares; and she did not see how
+it was possible for the Princess Hebe to withstand it, especially when
+she cried for fear of parting with her.
+
+Miss Sukey Jennett said, that Rozella’s laughing at her, and using her
+with contempt, she thought was insupportable, for who could bear the
+contempt of a friend?
+
+Many and various were the remarks made by Miss Jenny’s hearers on the
+story she had read to them. But now they were so confirmed in goodness,
+and every one was so settled in her affection for her companions,
+that, instead of being angry at any opposition that was made to their
+judgments, every one spoke her opinion with the utmost mildness.
+
+Miss Jenny sat some time silent to hear their conversation on her fairy
+tale. But her seeing them so much altered in their manner of talking to
+each other, since the time they made their little remarks on her story
+of the giants, filled her whole mind with the most sincere pleasure; and
+with a smile peculiar to herself, and which diffused a cheerfulness to
+all around her, she told her companions the joy their present behaviour
+had inspired her with; but saying that it was as late as their governess
+chose they should stay out, she rose, and walked towards the house,
+whither she was cheerfully followed by the whole company.
+
+Mrs. Teachum after supper, again, in a familiar manner, talked to
+them on the subject of the fairy tale, and encouraged them, as much as
+possible, to answer her freely in whatever she asked them; and at last
+said, ‘My good children, I am very much pleased when you are innocently
+amused; and yet I would have you consider seriously enough of what you
+read, to draw such morals from your books, as may influence your future
+practice; and as to fairy tales in general, remember, that the fairies,
+as I told Miss Jenny before of giants and magic, are only introduced by
+the writers of those tales, by way of amusement to the reader. For if
+the story is well written, the common course of things would produce the
+same incidents, without the help of fairies.
+
+‘As for example, in this of the Princess Hebe, you see the queen her
+mother was not admitted to know the fairy’s history, till she could calm
+her mind enough to hearken to reason; which only means, that whilst we
+give way to the raging of our passions, nothing useful can ever sink
+into our minds. For by the fairy Sybella’s story you find, that by our
+own faults we may turn the greatest advantages into our own misery, as
+Sybella’s mother did her beauty, by making use of the influence it gave
+her over her husband, to tease him into the ruin of his child; and as
+also Brunetta did, by depending on her father’s gift, to enable her to
+complete her desires, and therefore never endeavouring to conquer them.
+
+‘You may observe also on the other side, that no accident had any power
+to hurt Sybella, because she followed the paths of virtue, and kept her
+mind free from restless passions.
+
+‘You see happiness in the good Sybella’s peaceful grove, and misery
+in the wicked Brunetta’s gaudy castle. The queen desiring the fairy to
+endow her child with true wisdom, was the cause that the Princess Hebe
+had it in her power to be happy. But take notice, that when she swerved
+from her duty, all her knowledge was of no use, but only rendered her
+more miserable, by letting her see her own folly in the stronger light.
+Rozella first tempted the princess to disobedience, by moving her
+tenderness, and alarming her friendship, in fearing to part with her;
+and then by persuading her to set up her own wisdom, in opposition to
+her mother’s commands, rather than be laughed at, and despised by
+her friends. You are therefore to observe, that if you would steadily
+persevere in virtue, you must have resolution enough to stand the sneers
+of those who would allure you to vice; for it is the constant practice
+of the vicious, to endeavour to allure others to follow their example,
+by an affected contempt and ridicule of virtue.
+
+‘By the Princess Hebe’s being drawn at last beyond the prescribed
+bounds, by the cries and entreaties of that insidious girl, you are to
+learn, that whatever appearance of virtue any action may be attended
+with, yet if it makes you go contrary to the commands of those who know
+better what is for your good, than you do your selves, and who can see
+farther into the consequences of actions than can your tender years, it
+will certainly lead you into error and misfortune; and you find, as soon
+as the princess had once overleaped the bounds, another plausible excuse
+arose to carry her on; and by a false fear of incurring her mother’s
+displeasure, she really deserved that displeasure, and was soon reduced
+into the power of her enemy.
+
+‘The princess, you see, could have no happiness till she returned again
+to her obedience, and had confessed her fault. And though in this story
+all this is brought about by fairies, yet the moral of it is, that
+whenever we give way to our passions, and act contrary to our duty, we
+must be miserable.
+
+‘But let me once more observe to you, that these fairies are only
+intended to amuse you; for remember that the misery which attended the
+Princess Hebe, on her disobedience, was the natural consequence of that
+disobedience, as well as the natural consequence of her amendment and
+return to her duty, was content and happiness for the rest of her life.’
+
+Here good Mrs. Teachum ceased, and Miss Jenny, in the name of the
+company, thanked her for her kind instructions, and promised that they
+would endeavour, to the utmost of their power, to imprint them on their
+memory for the rest of their lives.
+
+
+
+
+SUNDAY. THE SEVENTH DAY.
+
+This morning our little society rose very early, and were all dressed
+with neatness and elegance, in order to go to church. Mrs. Teachum put
+Miss Polly Suckling before her, and the rest followed, two and two, with
+perfect regularity.
+
+Mrs. Teachum expressed great approbation, that her scholars, at this
+solemn place, showed no sort of childishness, notwithstanding their
+tender age; but behaved with decency and devotion suitable to the
+occasion.
+
+They went again in the same order, and behaved again in the same manner,
+in the afternoon; and when they returned from church, two young ladies,
+Lady Caroline and Lady Fanny Delun, who had formerly known Miss Jenny
+Peace, and who were at present in that neighbourhood with their uncle,
+came to make her a visit.
+
+Lady Caroline was fourteen years of age, tall and genteel in her person,
+of a fair complexion, and a regular set of features so that, upon the
+whole, she was generally complimented with being very handsome.
+
+Lady Fanny, who was one year younger than her sister, was rather little
+of her age, of a brown complexion, her features irregular; and, in
+short, she had not the least real pretensions to beauty.
+
+It was but lately that their father was, by the death of his eldest
+brother, become Earl of Delun; so that their titles were new, and they
+had not been long used to your ladyship.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace received them as her old acquaintance: however, she
+paid them the deference due to their quality, and, at the same time,
+took care not to behave as if she imagined they thought of anything
+else.
+
+As it was her chief delight to communicate her pleasures to others, she
+introduced her new-made friends to her old acquaintance, and expected to
+have spent a very agreeable afternoon. But to describe the behaviour of
+these two young ladies is very difficult. Lady Caroline, who was dressed
+in a pink robe, embroidered thick with gold, and adorned with very fine
+jewels, and the finest Mechlin lace, addressed most of her discourse to
+her sister, that she might have the pleasure every minute of uttering
+‘Your ladyship,’ in order to show what she herself expected. And as
+she spoke, her fingers were in perpetual motion, either adjusting her
+tucker, placing her plaits of her robe, or fiddling with a diamond
+cross, that hung down on her bosom, her eyes accompanying her fingers as
+they moved, and then suddenly being snatched off, that she might not be
+observed to think of her own dress; yet was it plain, that her thoughts
+were employed on only that and her titles. Miss Jenny Peace, although
+she would have made it her choice always to have been in company who did
+not deserve ridicule, yet had she humour enough to treat affectation
+as it deserved. And she addressed herself to Lady Caroline with so many
+ladyships, and such praises of her fine clothes, as she hoped would have
+made her ashamed; but Lady Caroline was too full of her own vanity, to
+see her design, and only exposed herself ten times the more, till she
+really got the better of Miss Jenny, who blushed for her, since she was
+incapable of blushing for herself.
+
+Lady Fanny’s dress was plain and neat only, nor did she mention anything
+about it; and it was very visible her thoughts were otherwise employed,
+neither did she seem to take any delight in the words ‘Your ladyship’:
+but she tossed and threw her person about into so many ridiculous
+postures, and as there happened unfortunately to be no looking-glass
+in the room where they sat, she turned and rolled her eyes so many
+different ways, in endeavouring to view as much of herself as possible,
+that it was very plain to the whole company she thought herself a
+beauty, and admired herself for being so.
+
+Our little society, whose hearts were so open to each other, that they
+had not a thought they endeavoured to conceal, were so filled with
+contempt at Lady Caroline and Lady Fanny’s behaviour, and yet so
+strictly obliged, by good manners, not to show that contempt, that
+the reserve they were forced to put on, laid them under so great a
+restraint, that they knew not which way to turn themselves, or how
+to utter one word; and great was their joy when Lady Caroline, as the
+eldest, led the way, and with a swimming curtsey, her head turned half
+round on one shoulder, and a disdainful eye, took her leave, repeating
+two or three times the word ‘misses,’ to put them in mind, that she
+was a lady. She was followed by her sister Lady Fanny, who made a slow
+distinct curtsey to every one in the room, that she might be the
+longer under observation. And then taking Miss Jenny by the hand, said,
+‘Indeed, Miss, you are very pretty,’ in order to put them in mind of her
+own beauty.
+
+Our little society, as soon as they were released, retired to their
+arbour, where, for some time, they could talk of nothing but this visit.
+Miss Jenny Peace remarked how many shapes vanity would turn itself into,
+and desired them to observe, how ridiculously Lady Caroline Delun turned
+her whole thoughts on her dress, and condition of life; and how absurd
+it was in Lady Fanny, who was a very plain girl, to set up for a beauty,
+and to behave in a manner which would render her contemptible, even if
+she had that beauty her own vanity made her imagine herself possessed
+of.
+
+Miss Nanny Spruce said, ‘She was greatly rejoiced that she had seen her
+folly; for she could very well remember when she had the same vanity of
+dress and superiority of station with Lady Caroline, though she had not,
+indeed, a title to support it; and in what manner, she said, she would
+tell them in the story of her life.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS NANNY SPRUCE.
+
+Miss Nanny Spruce was just nine years old, and was the very reverse of
+Patty Lockit, in all things; for she had little limbs, little features,
+and such a compactness in her form, that she was often called the little
+fairy. She had the misfortune to be lame in one of her hips; but by good
+management, and a briskness and alacrity in carrying herself, it was a
+very small blemish to her, and looked more like an idle childish gait,
+than any real defect.
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS NANNY SPRUCE.
+
+‘My delight,’ said Miss Nanny Spruce, ‘ever since I can remember,
+has been in dress and finery; for whenever I did as I was bid, I was
+promised fine coats, ribbons, and laced caps; and when I was stubborn
+and naughty, then my fine things were all to be locked up, and I was to
+wear only an old stuff coat; so that I thought the only reward I could
+have was to be dressed fine and the only punishment was to be plainly
+dressed. By this means I delighted so much in fine clothes, that I never
+thought of anything but when I should have something new to adorn myself
+in; and I have sat whole days considering what should be my next new
+coat; for I had always my choice given me of the colour.
+
+‘We lived in a country parish, my papa being the only gentleman, so that
+all the little girls in the parish used to take it as a great honour to
+play with me. And I used to delight to show them my fine things, and to
+see that they could not come at any but very plain coats. However, as
+they did not pretend to have anything equal with me, I was kind enough
+to them. As to those girls whose parents were so very poor that they
+went in rags, I did not suffer them to come near me.
+
+‘Whilst I was at home, I spent my time very pleasantly, as no one
+pretended to be my equal; but as soon as I came to school, where other
+misses were as fine as myself, and some finer, I grew very miserable.
+Every new coat, every silver ribbon, that any of my schoolfellows wore,
+made me unhappy. Your scarlet damask, Miss Betty Ford, cost me a week’s
+pain; and I lay awake, and sighed and wept all night, because I did not
+dare to spoil it. I had several plots in my head, to have dirtied it, or
+cut it, so as to have made it unfit to wear; by some accident my plots
+were prevented; and then I was so uneasy, I could not tell what to do
+with myself; and so afraid, lest any body should suspect me of such a
+thing, that I could not sleep in peace, for fear I should dream of it,
+and in my sleep discover it to my bedfellow. I would not go through the
+same dreads and terrors again for the world. But I am very happy now,
+in having no thoughts but what my companions may know; for since that
+quarrel, and Miss Jenny Peace was so good as to show me what I’m sure
+I never thought of before, that is, that the road to happiness is by
+conquering such foolish vanities, and the only way to be pleased is
+to endeavour to please others, I have never known what it was to be
+uneasy.’
+
+
+As soon as Miss Nanny had finished speaking, Miss Betty Ford said, that
+she heartily forgave her all her former designs upon her scarlet coat;
+but, added she, Lady Fanny Delun put me no less in mind of my former
+life, than Lady Caroline did you of yours; and if Miss Jenny pleases, I
+will now relate it.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS BETTY FORD.
+
+Miss Betty Ford was of the same age with Miss Nanny Spruce, and much of
+the same height, and might be called the plainest girl in the school;
+for she had nothing pleasing either in her person or face, except an
+exceeding fair skin, and tolerable good black eyes; but her face was
+ill-shaped and broad, her hair very red, and all the summer she was
+generally very full of freckles; and she had also a small hesitation in
+her speech. But without preamble, she began her life as follows.
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS BETTY FORD.
+
+‘My life,’ said Miss Betty Ford, ‘has hitherto passed very like that of
+Miss Nanny Spruce, only with this difference, that as all her thoughts
+were fixed on finery, my head ran on nothing but beauty. I had an elder
+sister, who was, I must own, a great deal handsomer than me; and yet, in
+my own mind, at that time, I did not think so, though I was always told
+it was not for me to pretend to the same things with pretty Miss Kitty
+(which was the name of my sister); and in all respects she was taken so
+much more notice of than I was, that I perfectly hated her, and could
+not help wishing that, by some accident, her beauty might be spoiled:
+whenever any visitors came to the house, their praises of her gave me
+the greatest vexation; and as I had made myself believe I was a very
+great beauty, I thought that it was prejudice and ill-nature in all
+around me, not to view me in that light. My sister Kitty was very good
+natured; and though she was thus cried up for her beauty, and indulged
+most on that account, yet she never insulted me, but did all in her
+power to oblige me. But I could not love her, and sometimes would raise
+lies against her, which did not signify, for she could always justify
+herself. I could not give any reason for hating her, but her beauty,
+for she was very good; but the better she was, I thought the worse
+I appeared. I could not bear her praises without teasing and vexing
+myself. At last, little Kitty died of a fever, to my great joy, though,
+as everybody cried for her, I cried too for company, and because I would
+not be thought ill-natured.
+
+‘After Kitty’s death, I lived tolerably easy, till I came to school.
+Then the same desire of beauty returned, and I hated all the misses who
+were handsomer than myself, as much as I had before hated my sister, and
+always took every opportunity of quarrelling with them, till I found my
+own peace was concerned, in getting the better of this disposition; and
+that, if I would have any content, I must not repine at my not being so
+handsome as others.’
+
+
+When Miss Betty Ford ceased, Miss Jenny said, ‘Indeed, my dear, it is
+well you had not at that time the power of the eagle in the fable;
+for your poor sister might then, like the peacock, have said in a soft
+voice, “You are, indeed, a great beauty; but it lies in your beak and
+your talons, which make it death to me to dispute it.”’
+
+Miss Betty Ford rejoiced, that her power did not extend to enable her to
+do mischief, before she had seen her folly. And now this little society,
+in good humour and cheerfulness, attended their kind governess’s summons
+to supper; and then, after the evening prayers, they retired to their
+peaceful slumbers.
+
+
+
+
+MONDAY. THE EIGHTH DAY.
+
+Early in the morning, after the public prayers which Mrs. Teachum read
+every day, our little company took a walk in the garden whilst the
+breakfast was preparing.
+
+The fine weather, the prospects round them, all conspired to increase
+their pleasure. They looked at one another with delight; their minds
+were innocent and satisfied; and therefore every outward object was
+pleasing in their sight.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace said, she was sure they were happier than any other
+society of children whatever, except where the same harmony and love
+were preserved, as were kept up in their minds: ‘For (continued she)
+I think now, my dear companions, I can answer for you all, that
+no mischievous, no malicious plots disturb the tranquility of your
+thoughts; plots, which in the end, constantly fall on the head of
+those who invent them, after all the pains they cost in forming, and
+endeavouring to execute.’
+
+Whilst Miss Jenny Peace was talking, Miss Dolly Friendly looked at her
+very earnestly. She would not interrupt her; but the moment she was
+silent, Miss Dolly said, ‘My dear Miss Jenny, what is the matter with
+you? your eyes are swelled, and you look as if you had been crying. If
+you have any grief that you keep to yourself, you rob us of the share we
+have a right to demand in all that belongs to you.’
+
+‘No, indeed (answered Miss Jenny), I have nothing that grieves me;
+though, if I had, I should think it increased, rather than lessened, by
+your being grieved too; but last night, after I went upstairs, I found
+amongst my books the play of the Funeral, or, Grief-a-la-mode; where the
+faithful and tender behaviour of a good old servant, who had long lived
+in his lord’s family, with many other passages in the play (which I
+cannot explain, unless you knew the whole story) made me cry, so that I
+could hardly stop my tears.’
+
+‘Pray, Miss Jenny, let us hear this play, that had such an effect on
+you,’ was the general request; and Miss Jenny readily promised, when
+they met in their arbour, to read it to them.
+
+They eagerly ran to their arbour as soon as school was over, and Miss
+Jenny performed her promise, and was greatly pleased to find such a
+sympathy between her companions and herself; for they were most of them
+affected just in the same manner, and with the same parts of the play,
+as had before affected her.
+
+By the time they had wiped their eyes, and were rejoicing at the turn
+at the end of the play, in favour of the characters with which they were
+most pleased, Mrs. Teachum entered the arbour, and inquired what they
+had been reading. Miss Jenny immediately told her, adding, ‘I hope,
+Madam, you will not think reading a play an improper amusement for us;
+for I should be very sorry to be guilty myself, or cause my companions
+to be guilty, of any thing that would meet with your disapprobation.’
+Mrs. Teachum answered, that she was not at all displeased with her
+having read a play, as she saw by her fear of offending, that her
+discretion was to be trusted to. ‘Nay (continued this good woman), I
+like that you should know something of all kinds of writings, where
+neither morals nor manners are offended; for if you read plays, and
+consider them as you ought, you will neglect and despise what is light
+and useless, whilst you will imprint on your mind’s every useful lesson
+that is to be drawn from them. I am very well acquainted with the play
+you have been reading; but that I may see whether you give the proper
+attention to what you have heard, I desire, my little girls, that one of
+you will give me an account of the chief incidents in the play, and tell
+me the story, just as you would do to one of your companions that had
+happened to have been absent.’
+
+Here they all looked upon Miss Jenny Peace, as thinking her the most
+capable of doing what their governess required. But Mrs. Teachum,
+reading their thoughts in their looks, said, ‘I exclude Miss Jenny in
+this case; for as the play was of her choosing to read to you, I doubt
+not but she is thoroughly enough acquainted with every part of it; and
+my design was to try the memory and attention of some of the others.’
+
+They all remained silent, and seemed to wait for a more particular
+command, before any one would offer at the undertaking; not through
+any backwardness to comply with Mrs. Teachum’s request, but each from a
+diffidence of herself to perform it.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace then said, that she had observed a great attention in
+them all; and she did not doubt but every one was able to give a very
+good account of what they had heard. ‘But, as Miss Sukey Jennet is the
+eldest, I believe, madam, (continued she), if you approve it, they will
+all be very ready to depute her as their speaker.’
+
+Each smiled at being so relieved by Miss Jenny; and Mrs. Teachum, taking
+Miss Sukey Jennet by the hand, said, ‘Come, my dear, throw off all fear
+and reserve; imagine me one of your companions, and tell me the story of
+the play you have been reading.’
+
+Miss Sukey, thus encouraged by her kind governess, without any
+hesitation, spoke in the following manner:
+
+‘If I understand your commands, madam, by telling the story of the play,
+you would not have me tell you the acts and scenes as they followed one
+another for that I am afraid I can hardly remember, as I have heard
+it only once but I must describe the chief people in the play, and the
+plots and contrivances that are carried on amongst them.’
+
+Mrs. Teachum nodded her head, and Miss Sukey thus proceeded:
+
+
+‘There is an old Lord Brumpton, who had married a young wife, that had
+lived with him some years, and by her deceitful and cunning ways had
+prevailed with him to disinherit his only son Lord Hardy (who was a very
+sensible good young man) and to leave him but a shilling. And this Lord
+Brumpton was taken in a fit, so that all the house thought he was dead,
+and his lady sent for an undertaker, one Mr. Sable, to bury him. But
+coming out of his fit, when nobody but this Mr. Sable, and an old
+servant, called Trusty, were by, he was prevailed upon by the good old
+Trusty to feign himself still dead (and the undertaker promises secrecy)
+in order to detect the wickedness of his wife, which old Trusty assures
+him is very great; and then he carries his lord where he overhears
+a discourse between the widow (as she thinks herself) and her maid
+Tattleaid; and he bears his once beloved wife rejoicing in his supposed
+death, and in the success of her own arts to deceive him. Then there are
+two young ladies, Lady Charlotte and Lady Harriet Lovely, to whom this
+Lord Brumpton was guardian; and he had also left them in the care of
+this wicked woman. And this young Lord Hardy was in love with Lady
+Charlotte; and Mr. Camply, a very lively young gentleman, his friend,
+was in love with Lady Harriet and Lady Brumpton locked the two young
+ladies up, and would not let them be seen by their lovers. But there
+at last they contrived, by the help of old Trusty, who had their real
+guardian’s consent for it, both to get away; and Lady Harriet married
+Mr. Camply directly; but Lady Charlotte did not get away so soon, and
+so was not married till the end of the play. This Mr. Camply was a
+very generous man, and was newly come to a large fortune; and in the
+beginning of the play he contrives, in a very genteel manner, to give
+his friend Lord Hardy, who very much wanted it, three hundred pounds;
+but he takes care to let us know, that my lord had formerly, when he
+waited his assistance, been very kind to him. And there at last, when
+Lady Brumpton finds out that the two young ladies are gone, she goes
+away in a rage to Lord Hardy’s lodgings, and in an insulting manner she
+pays all due legacies, as she calls it, that is, she gives Lord Hardy
+the shilling, which, by her wicked arts, was all his father had left
+him; and she was insulting the young ladies, and glorying in her
+wickedness, when honest old Trusty came in, and brought in old Lord
+Brumpton, whom they imagined to be dead, and all but Lady Brumpton
+were greatly overjoyed to see him alive; but when he taxed her with
+her falsehood, she defied him, and said that she had got a deed of
+gift under his hand, which he could not revoke, and she WOULD enjoy his
+fortune in spite of him. Upon which they all looked sadly vexed, till
+the good old Trusty went out and came in again, and brought in a man
+called Cabinet, who confessed himself the husband to the pretended Lady
+Brumpton, and that he was married to her half a year before she was
+married to my Lord Brumpton; but as my lord happened to fall in love
+with her, they agreed to keep their marriage concealed, in order that
+she should marry my lord, and cheat him in the manner she had done; and
+the reason that Cabinet came to confess all this was, that he looked
+into a closet and saw my lord writing, after he thought he was dead,
+and, taking it for his ghost, was by that means frightened into this
+confession, which he first made in writing to old Trusty, and therefore
+could not now deny it. They were all rejoiced at this discovery, except
+the late pretended Lady Brumpton, who sneaked away with Cabinet her
+husband; and my Lord Brumpton embraced his son, and gave his consent,
+that he should marry Lady Charlotte; and they were all pleased and
+happy.’
+
+Here Miss Sukey ceased, and Mrs. Teachum told her she was a very good
+girl, and had remembered a great deal of the play. ‘But (said she) in
+time, with using yourself to this way of repeating what you have read,
+you will come to a better manner, and a more regular method of telling
+your story, which you was now so intent upon finishing, that you forgot
+to describe what sort of women those two young ladies were, though, as
+to all the rest, you have been particular enough.’
+
+‘Indeed, madam, (said Miss Sukey), I had forgot that, but Lady Charlotte
+was a very sensible, grave young lady, and lady Harriet was extremely
+gay and coquettish; but Mr. Camply tells her how much it misbecomes her
+to be so and she having good sense, as well as good nature, is convinced
+of her folly, and likes him so well for his reproof, that she consents
+to marry him.’
+
+Mrs. Teachum, addressing herself to them all, told them, that this was
+a method she wished they would take with whatever they read; for nothing
+so strongly imprinted anything on the memory as such a repetition; and
+then turning to Miss Jenny Peace, she said, ‘And now, Miss Jenny, I
+desire you will speak freely what you think is the chief moral to be
+drawn from the play you have just read.’
+
+Miss Jenny being thus suddenly asked a question of this nature,
+considered some time before she gave an answer; for she was naturally
+very diffident of her own opinion in anything where she had not been
+before instructed by some one she thought wiser than herself. At last,
+with a modest look, and an humble voice, she said, ‘Since, madam,
+you have commanded me to speak my sentiments freely, I think by what
+happened to each character in this play, the author intended to prove
+what my good mamma first taught me, and what you, madam, since have so
+strongly confirmed me in; namely, that folly, wickedness, and misery,
+all three, as constantly dwell together, as wisdom, virtue, and
+happiness do.’
+
+‘’Tis very true (answered Mrs. Teachum); but this moral does not arise
+only from the happy turn in favour of the virtuous characters in the
+conclusion of the play, but is strongly inculcated, as you see all
+along, in the peace of mind that attends the virtuous, even in the
+midst of oppression and distress, while the event is yet doubtful, and
+apparently against them; and, on the contrary, in the confusion of mind
+which the vicious are tormented with, even whilst they falsely imagine
+themselves triumphant.’
+
+Mrs. Teachum then taking the book out of Miss Jenny’s hands, and turning
+to the passage, said, ‘How does Lady Brumpton show us the wretched
+condition of her own mind, when she says,
+
+‘“How miserable ‘tis to have one one hates always about one! And when
+one can’t endure one’s own reflections upon some actions, who can bear
+the thoughts of another upon them?”
+
+‘Then with what perturbation of mind does she proceed, to wish it was in
+her power to increase her wickedness, without making use enough of her
+understanding, to see that by that means she would but increase her own
+misery.
+
+‘On the other hand, what a noble figure does Lord Hardy make, when, by
+this wicked woman’s contrivances, he thinks himself disinherited of his
+whole fortune, ill-treated, and neglected by a father, he never had in
+thought offended! He could give an opportunity to a sincere friend, who
+would not flatter him, to say,
+
+‘“No; you are, my lord, the extraordinary man, who, on the loss of an
+almost princely fortune, can be master of a temper that makes you the
+envy rather than pity, of your more fortunate, not more happy friends.”
+
+‘This is a fine distinction between fortunate and happy; and intimates
+this happiness must dwell in the mind, and depends upon no outward
+accidents.
+
+‘Fortune, indeed, is a blessing, if properly used; which Camply shows,
+when by that means he can assist and relieve his worthy friend.
+
+‘With what advantage does Lady Charlotte appear over her sister, when
+the latter is trifling and dancing before the glass, and the former
+says,
+
+‘“If I am at first so silly as to be a little taken with myself, I know
+it is a fault, and take pains to correct it.”
+
+‘And on Lady Harriet’s saying, very giddily, that it was too soon for
+her to think at that rate, Lady Charlotte properly adds,
+
+‘“They that think it too soon to understand themselves, will very soon
+find it too late.”
+
+‘In how ridiculous a light does Lady Harriet appear, while she is
+displaying all that foolish coquetry! And how different a figure does
+she make, when she has got the better of it?
+
+‘My Lady Brumpton, when alarmed with the least noise, breaks out into
+all the convulsive starts natural to conscious guilt.
+
+‘“Ha! what noise is that--that noise of fighting?--Run, I say.--Whither
+are you going?--What, are you mad?--Will you leave me alone?--Can’t you
+stir?--What, you can’t take your message with you!--Whatever ‘tis, I
+suppose you are not in the plot, not you--nor that now they’re breaking
+open my house for Charlotte--Not you.--Go see what’s the matter, I say;
+I have nobody I can trust.--One minute I think this wench honest, and
+the next false.--Whither shall I turn me?”
+
+‘This is a picture of the confused, the miserable mind of a close,
+malicious, cruel, designing woman, as Lady Brumpton was, and as Lady
+Harriet very properly calls her.
+
+‘Honesty and faithfulness shine forth in all their lustre, in the
+good old Trusty. We follow him throughout with anxious wishes for his
+success, and tears of joy for his tenderness. And when he finds that he
+is likely to come at the whole truth, and to save his lord from being
+deceived and betrayed into unjustly ruining his noble son, you may
+remember that he makes this pious reflection:
+
+All that is ours, is to be justly bent; And Heaven in its own time will
+bless th’ event.
+
+‘This is the natural thought that proceeds from innocence and goodness;
+and surely this state of mind is happiness.
+
+‘I have only pointed out a few passages, to show you, that though it is
+the nature of comedy to end happily, and therefore the good characters
+must be successful in the last act; yet the moral lies deeper, and is
+to be deduced from a proof throughout this play, that the natural
+consequence of vice is misery within, even in the midst of an apparent
+triumph; and the natural consequence of goodness is a calm peace of
+mind, even in the midst of oppression and distress.
+
+‘I have endeavoured, my little dears, to show you, as clearly as I can,
+not only what moral is to be drawn from this play, but what is to be
+sought for in all others; and where that moral is not to be found, the
+writer will have it to answer for, that he has been guilty of one of
+the worst of evils; namely, that he has clothed vice in so beautiful
+a dress, that, instead of deterring, it will allure and draw into its
+snares the young and tender mind. And I am sorry to say, that too many
+of our dramatic performances are of this latter cast; which is
+the reason, that wise and prudent parents and governors in general
+discourage in very young people the reading of plays. And though by what
+I have said (if it makes a proper impression) I doubt not but you will
+all have a just abhorrence of such immoral plays, instead of being
+pleased with them, should they fall in your way; yet I would advise you
+rather to avoid them, and never to read any but such as are approved of;
+and recommended to you by those who have the care of your education.’
+
+Here good Mrs. Teachum ceased, and left her little scholars to reflect
+on what she had been saying; when Miss Jenny Peace declared, for her
+part, that she could feel the truth of her governess’s observations; for
+she had rather be the innocent Lord Hardy, though she was to have but
+that one shilling in the world which was so insolently offered him as
+his father’s last legacy, than be the Lady Brumpton, even though she had
+possessed the fortune she so treacherously endeavoured to obtain.
+
+‘Nay (said Miss Dolly Friendly) I had rather have been old Trusty, with
+all the infirmities of age, following my Lord Hardy through the world,
+had his poverty and distress been ever so great, than have been the
+malicious Lady Brumpton, in the height of her beauty, surrounded by a
+crowd of lovers and flatterers.’
+
+Miss Henny Fret then declared how glad she was that she had now no
+malice in her mind; though she could not always have said so, as she
+would inform them in the history of her past life.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS HENNY FRET.
+
+Miss Henny Fret was turned of nine years old. She was very prettily
+made, and remarkably genteel. All her features were regular. She was not
+very fair, and looked pale. Her upper lip seemed rather shorter than it
+should be; for it was drawn up in such a manner, as to show her upper
+teeth; and though this was in some degree natural, yet it had been very
+much increased by her being continually on the fret for every trifling
+accident that offended her, or on every contradiction that was offered
+to her. When you came to examine her face, she had not one feature but
+what was pretty; yet, from that constant uneasiness which appeared in
+her countenance, it gave you so little pleasure to look at her, that she
+seldom had common justice done her, but had generally hitherto passed
+for a little insignificant plain girl, though her very face was so
+altered since she was grown good natured, and had got the better of that
+foolish fretfulness she used to be possessed of, that she appeared from
+her good-humoured smiles quite a different person; and, with a mild
+aspect, thus began her story:
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS HENNY FRET.
+
+‘I had one brother,’ said Miss Henny, ‘as well as Miss Jenny Peace; but
+my manner of living with him was quite the reverse to that in which
+she lived with her brother. All my praise or blame was to arise from my
+being better or worse than my brother. If I was guilty of any fault,
+it was immediately said, “Oh! fie, miss! Master George (that was my
+brother’s name) would not be guilty of such a thing for the world.” If
+he was carried abroad, and I stayed at home, then I was bemoaned over,
+that poor Miss Henny was left at home, and her brother carried abroad.
+And then I was told, that I should go abroad one of these days, and my
+brother be left at home so that whenever I went abroad, my greatest joy
+was, that he was left at home; and I was pleased to see him come out
+to the coach-door with a melancholy air that he could not go too. If
+my brother happened to have any fruit given him, and was in a peevish
+humour, and would not give me as much as I desired, the servant that
+attended me was sure to bid me take care, when I had anything he waited,
+not to give him any. So that I thought, if I did not endeavour to be
+revenged of him, I should show a want of spirit, which was of all things
+what I dreaded most. I had a better memory than my brother, and whenever
+I learnt anything, my comfort was to laugh at him because he could not
+learn so fast; by which means I got a good deal of learning, but never
+minded what I learnt, nor took any pains to keep it; so that what I was
+eager to learn one day, to show George how much I knew more than he, I
+forgot the next. And so I went on learning, and forgetting as fast as I
+learnt; and all the pains I took served only to show that I COULD learn.
+
+‘I was so great a favourite, that I was never denied any thing I
+asked for; but I was very unhappy for the same reason that Miss Dolly
+Friendly’s sister was so; and I have often sat down and cried, because I
+did not know what I would have, till at last I own I grew so peevish and
+humoursome, that I was always on the fret, and harboured in my mind a
+kind of malice that made me fancy whatever my brother got, I lost; and
+in this unhappy condition I lived, till I came to school, and here I
+found that other misses wanted to have their humours as well as myself.
+This I could not bear, because I had been used to have my own will, and
+never to trouble myself about what others felt. For whenever I beat or
+abused my brother, his pain did not make me cry; but I believe it was
+thinking wrong made me guilty of these faults; for I don’t find I am
+ill-natured; for now I have been taught to consider that my companions
+can feel as well as myself, I am sorry for their pain, and glad when
+they are pleased, and would be glad to do anything to oblige them.’
+
+
+Here Miss Henny ceased, and Miss Jenny Peace then told her how glad she
+was to hear that she had subdued all malice in her mind, adding, ‘These
+weeds, my dear, unless early plucked up, are (as I have heard our good
+governess observe upon a like occasion) very apt to take such deep root,
+as to choke every good seed around them; and then who can tell whether,
+with the same opportunities, they might not become Lady Brumptons before
+the end of their lives?’
+
+Little Polly Suckling remembered that all the company had told the story
+of their past lives, except herself; and she thought she would not be
+left out; but yet she had a mind to be asked to tell it, hoping that her
+companions thought her of consequence enough not to leave her out of
+any scheme; therefore, addressing herself to Miss Jenny, she said she
+thought it was very pleasant to hear anybody tell the history of their
+own lives. Miss Jenny saw her meaning, and answered, ‘So it is, my
+little dear; and now, if you please, you shall oblige us with relating
+the history of yours.’ Polly smiled at this request, and said she was
+ready to comply.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS POLLY SUCKLING.
+
+Miss Polly Suckling was just turned of eight years old, but so short
+of her age, that few people took her to be above five. It was not a
+dwarfish shortness; for she had the most exact proportioned limbs in
+the world, very small bones, and was as fat as a little cherub. She was
+extremely fair, and her hair quite flaxen. Her eyes a perfect blue, her
+mouth small, and her lips quite plump and red. She had the freshness
+of a milkmaid; and when she smiled and laughed, she seemed to show an
+hundred agreeable dimples. She was, in short, the very picture of health
+and good-humour, and was the plaything and general favorite of the whole
+school.
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS POLLY SUCKLING.
+
+‘Now,’ said little Polly, ‘I will tell you all my whole history. I
+hardly remember anything before I came to school, for I was but five
+years old when I was brought hither.
+
+‘All I know is, that I don’t love quarrelling, for I like better to
+live in peace and quietness. But I have been always less than any of
+my companions, ever since I have been here; and so I only followed the
+example of the rest; and as I found they contended about everything, I
+did so too. Besides, I have been always in fear that my schoolfellows
+wanted to impose on me, because I was little; and so I used to engage in
+every quarrel, rather than be left out, as if I was too little to give
+any assistance; but, indeed, I am very glad now we all agree, because I
+always came by the worst of it. And, besides, it is a great pleasure
+to me to be loved, and every Miss is kind and good to me, and ready to
+assist me whenever I ask them. And this is all I know of my whole life.’
+
+
+When little Polly ceased, she was kissed and applauded by the whole
+company, for the agreeable simplicity of her little history.
+
+And thus ended the eighth day’s amusement.
+
+
+
+
+TUESDAY. THE NINTH DAY.
+
+Miss Jenny rose early in the morning, and, having collected the lives of
+her companions (which she had wrote down each day, as they related them)
+she carried them, after morning school, according to her promise, to her
+governess.
+
+Mrs. Teachum, when she had perused them, was much pleased; and said that
+she perceived, by the manner in which her scholars had related their
+lives, how much they were in earnest in their design of amendment. ‘For
+(continued she) they have all confessed their faults without reserve;
+and the untowardly bent of their minds, which so strongly appeared
+before the quarrel, has not broke out in these their little histories;
+but, on the contrary, they all seem, according to their capacities, to
+have endeavoured at imitating your style, in the account you gave of
+your own life. I would have you continue to employ your leisure hours
+in the manner you have lately done, only setting apart a proper time
+for exercise; and today I will dispense with your attendance in the
+school-room and indulge you this afternoon in another walk, either to
+the dairy house, or to the cherry-garden, whichever you all agree on.
+But as I shall not go with you myself, and shall only find a servant
+to take care of you, I hope to hear from you, Miss Jenny, so good an
+account of the behaviour of your little friends and companions, that I
+shall have no cause to repent my indulgence.’
+
+Miss Jenny Peace respectfully took leave of her governess, and hastened
+to the arbour, where her little friends were met, in expectation of her
+coming. She told them how well pleased their governess was with them
+all, for the ingenuous confession of their faults in their past lives;
+and she then declared Mrs. Teachum’s kind permission to them to take
+another walk that afternoon.
+
+As no one had at present any story to read or relate, they employed
+their time till dinner, some in walking and running about the garden;
+others in looking after and tending some plant or flower, that they had
+taken particularly under their care, which Mrs. Teachum both permitted
+and encouraged them in, whilst Miss Jenny Peace, Miss Sukey Jennett,
+and Miss Dolly Friendly, remained in the arbour, the two latter asking
+a thousand questions of the former, both concerning all the instructions
+she had ever learned from her mamma, and by what means they should best
+be able to preserve that friendship and happiness, which had of late
+subsisted amongst them; saying, how pleased their friends and relations
+would be, to see such a change in their temper and behaviour, and how
+much they should be beloved by every one.
+
+When they met at dinner, Mrs. Teachum asked them, whether they had
+determined upon the choice she had given them in their afternoon’s walk;
+and they were all desirous of going to the dairy house; for little Polly
+said, she longed to see the good-humoured old woman again, and, indeed,
+she would not now say anything to her of her shaking head, or her
+grey hair. Mrs. Teachum was pleased, that little Polly so gratefully
+remembered the old woman, who had been so kind to her; and readily
+consented to their choice, and approved of their determination.
+
+Being soon equipped for their walk, they set out, attended by two
+maidservants; and as soon as they arrived, the good old woman expressed
+the highest joy on seeing them, and told little Polly, that she should
+have plenty of cream and strawberries, for her daughter had been that
+day in the wood, and had brought home three baskets of very fine ones.
+Mrs. Nelly, her daughter, said very crossly, that she supposed there
+would be fine work amongst them, now their governess was not with them;
+but ‘twas her mother’s way, to let all children be as rude as they
+pleased. Miss Sukey Jennett, with some indignation in her look, was
+going to answer her; but Miss Jenny Peace, fearing she would say
+something less mild than she wished, gave her a nod; and, turning to the
+young woman, with great modesty and temper, thus said: ‘You shall see,
+Mrs. Nelly, that our good governess’s instructions are of more force
+with us, than to lose all their effect when we are out of her presence;
+and I hope you will have no cause, when we go away, to complain of the
+ill behaviour of any of us.’
+
+The good old woman declared she never saw such sweet-tempered children
+in all her life; and after they had eat their strawberries and cream,
+and were loaded with pinks and roses by the good woman’s bounty (for
+they did not gather one without her permission), they took their leave
+with the utmost civility, and Miss Jenny handsomely rewarded the old
+woman for her good cheer. Mrs. Nelly herself was so pleased with their
+regular and inoffensive behaviour, that she could not help telling Miss
+Jenny, that she, and all her companions, had, indeed, behaved as well as
+if their governess had been with them: on which Miss Jenny (as they were
+walking home) observed to Miss Sukey Jennett (whom she had prevented
+from making any reply to Mrs. Nelly’s speech) how much better it was to
+gain another’s good will by our own endeavours to be obliging, than to
+provoke them to be more cross, by our angry answers and reproaches.
+
+When this little company, employed in pleasing talk and lively
+observations, were come within about a mile of Mrs. Teachum’s house, and
+within view of a nobleman’s fine seat, Miss Jenny said, that the next
+time their governess permitted them to walk out, she would ask her
+leave, that they might go and see that fine house; for some time ago she
+had told them, that they should go thither when the family were absent.
+Mrs. Wilson, the housekeeper, who by chance was walking that way, and
+heard what Miss Jenny said, came up to them, and told Miss Jenny that
+her lord and lady were now both absent, having set out, one for London,
+and the other for another fine seat, forty miles off, that very morning;
+and as she knew them to be Mrs. Teachum’s well-regulated family, they
+should be welcome to see the house and gardens now, if they liked it.
+Miss Jenny thanked her, and said, as it was near two hours sooner than
+their governess expected them home, she would accept of her kind offer.
+The housekeeper led them through an avenue of tall elm-trees into this
+magnificent house, in which were many spacious apartments, furnished
+with the utmost grandeur and elegance. Some of the rooms were adorned
+with fine pictures, others were hung with tapestry almost as lively as
+those paintings, and most of the apartments above stairs were furnished
+with the finest sorts of needle-work. Our little company were struck
+into a sort of silent wonder and admiration at the splendid appearance
+of everything around them; nor could they find words to express the
+various reflections that passed in their minds, on seeing such a variety
+of dazzling gaudy things: but when they came to the needlework, Miss
+Jenny could not help smiling, to see how every one seemed most fixed in
+attention upon that sort of work, which she herself was employed in, and
+she saw in every face a secret wish, that their own piece of work might
+be finished with equal neatness and perfection. The housekeeper was
+greatly pleased to see them so much delighted, and answered all their
+questions concerning the stories that were represented in the pictures
+and tapestry as fully as the time would permit; but Miss Jenny, being
+fearful of exceeding the hour in which they would be expected home, told
+them they must not now stay any longer, but if their governess would
+give them leave, and it would not be troublesome to Mrs. Wilson, they
+would come another time. She answered, that it was so far from being
+troublesome, that she never had more pleasure in her life, than to see
+so many well-behaved young ladies, who all seemed not only pleased with
+what they saw, but doubly delighted, and happy, in seeing each other so;
+and for her part, she could wish they were to stay with her all their
+lives; and, in short, they should not go till they had been in her room,
+and eat some sweetmeats of her own making. The good woman seemed to take
+so much delight in giving them any pleasure, that Miss Jenny could not
+refuse accepting her offer; and, when they were all in her room, Polly
+Suckling said, ‘Well, this is a most charming house; I wish we could all
+live here for ever. How happy must the lord and lady of this fine place
+be!’
+
+‘Indeed, my little Polly,’ said Miss Jenny, ‘you may be very much
+mistaken; for you know our good governess has taught us, that there is
+no happiness but in the content of our own minds; and perhaps we may
+have more pleasure in viewing these fine things, than the owners have in
+the possession of them.’
+
+‘It is very true,’ said the housekeeper, ‘for my lord and lady have no
+delight in all this magnificence; for, by being so accustomed to it,
+they walk through all these apartments, and never so much as observe or
+amuse themselves with the work, the pictures, or anything else, or if
+they observe them at all, it is rather with a look that denotes a sort
+of weariness, at seeing the same things continually before them, than
+with any kind of pleasure.’ And then, with a deep sigh, she added, ‘You
+are, indeed, young lady, perfectly in the right, when you say grandeur
+and happiness do not always go together.’ But turning off the discourse,
+Mrs. Wilson forced them to take as many dried sweetmeats as they
+could carry away with them, and insisted upon their promise (with
+Mrs. Teachum’s consent) that they should come another time to see the
+gardens. They then took their leave with many thanks, and the greatest
+civility; and discoursed all the way home, on the fine things they
+had seen. Miss Betty Ford said, that the fine gilding, and so many
+glittering looking-glasses, made her think herself in Barbarico’s great
+hall, where he kept all his treasure.
+
+‘No,’ says Miss Nancy Spruce, ‘it was not half so much like that, as it
+was like Brunetta’s fine castle; and I could not help thinking myself
+the Princess Hebe, and how much I should have been pleased with such a
+fine place at first, just as she was.’
+
+‘Indeed,’ says Miss Betty Ford, ‘you are in the right of it, Miss Nanny;
+for ‘twas much more like the description of Brunetta’s castle, than what
+I said myself.’
+
+Miss Jenny was pleased to hear Miss Betty so ready to own herself
+mistaken; and said to Miss Nanny Spruce, ‘I am glad, my dear, to
+find that you so well remember what you read; for it is by recalling
+frequently into our memories the things we have read, that they are
+likely to be of any service to us.’
+
+Being now come home, they entered into the presence of their governess
+with that pleasure, and proper confidence, which ever attends innocence
+and goodness; and Mrs. Teachum received them with a pleasing smile.
+
+Miss Jenny gave her governess a faithful account of all that had passed,
+with the agreeable entertainment they had accidentally met with, of
+seeing Lord X----‘s fine house, and the great civility of Mrs. Wilson,
+‘Which I hope, madam,’ said Miss Jenny, ‘I did not do wrong in
+accepting.’ ‘You did very properly, my dear,’ said Mrs. Teachum, ‘for
+when any person is willing to oblige you, without any inconvenience to
+themselves, it is always right to accept their offer, as you thereby
+gratify them, by putting it in their power to give you pleasure.’
+
+Miss Jenny then with great cheerfulness and freedom, told her governess
+all that had paled in conversation, both in their walk to the
+dairy house, and at Lord X--‘s, what little Polly had said in the
+housekeeper’s room, as also Mrs. Wilson’s answer; and said, by Mrs.
+Wilson’s downcast look, she was afraid that poor Lord X---- and his lady
+were not so happy as might be wished. ‘But,’ continued she, ‘I did
+not ask Mrs. Wilson any questions, because you have taught me, madam,
+carefully to avoid the least appearance of impertinent curiosity.’
+
+‘You was very right, my dear,’ said Mrs. Teachum, ‘in asking no farther
+questions; nor would she, I dare say, as she is a prudent woman, have
+gratified you if you had; for though the unhappy story is too well known
+all over the country, yet it would have been very unbecoming in one
+of the family to have published it.’ Mrs. Teachum saw in her little
+scholars’ eyes, a secret wish of knowing what this story was; and, after
+a short pause, she said, ‘Since I find you disposed, my good girls, to
+make the proper use of what you hear, I will indulge your curiosity.
+
+‘Lord X---- and his lady have been married seven years; Lord X---- is
+the wretchedest creature breathing, because he has no children, and
+therefore no heir to his title and large estate. He was naturally of a
+haughty impetuous temper, and impatient of any the least disappointment;
+and this disposition not being subdued in his youth, has led him into
+all sort of excesses. His lady is not much better tempered than himself,
+and valuing herself highly upon her beauty, and the large fortune
+she brought him, greatly resents his sometimes insolent, and always
+neglectful usage of her. They have hitherto lived on in the most
+jarring, disputing manner, and took no care to conceal their quarrels
+from the world; but at last they have agreed to part by consent, and the
+different journeys they this morning took, I suppose, was with an intent
+of final separation.
+
+‘That grandeur and happiness do not always go together (as Mrs. Wilson
+observed to you) is seen by this story, which I was the more willing
+to tell you, as it was a proper introduction to a fable I have been
+collecting together from others, for your use. You know that all my
+endeavours to make you good, are only intended to make you happy; and
+if you thoroughly reflect upon the truth of this maxim, which I so often
+endeavour to inculcate, you will doubtless reap no small advantage from
+it.’
+
+Here Mrs. Teachum ceased speaking, and, giving Miss Jenny Peace a paper,
+she bid her read it aloud; which she did, and it contained the following
+fable:
+
+
+
+
+THE ASSEMBLY OF THE BIRDS. A FABLE.
+
+In ancient days, there was a great contention amongst the birds, which,
+from his own perfections, and peculiar advantages, had the strongest
+title to happiness; and at last they agreed to refer the decision of the
+debate to the eagle.
+
+A day was appointed for their meeting; the eagle took his seat, and the
+birds all attended to give in their several pleas.
+
+First spoke the parrot. Her voice so dearly resembling human speech, and
+which enabled her to converse with such a superior race, she doubted not
+(she said) would have its just weight with the eagle, and engage him to
+grant a decree in her favour; and to this plea she also added, that she
+dwelt in a fine cage adorned with gold, and was fed every day by the
+hands a fair lady.
+
+‘And pray, Mrs. Poll,’ said the eagle, ‘how comes it, since you fare so
+sumptuously, that you are so lean and meagre, and seem scarcely able
+to exert that voice you thus make your boast of?’ ‘Alas!’ replied
+the parrot, ‘poor Poll’s lady has kept her bed almost this week; the
+servants have all forgot to feed me; and I am almost starved.’ ‘Pray
+observe,’ said the eagle, ‘the folly of such pride! Had you been able to
+have conversed only with your own kind, you would have fared in common
+with them; but it is to this vaunted imitation of the human voice, that
+you owe your confinement, and consequently (though living in a golden
+cage) your dependence upon the will and memory of others, even for
+common necessary food.’
+
+Thus reproved, the parrot, with shame, hastily retired from the
+assembly.
+
+Next stood forth the daw, and, having tricked himself in all the gay
+feathers he could muster together, on the credit of these borrowed
+ornaments, pleaded his beauty, as a title to the preference in dispute.
+Immediately the birds agreed to divest the silly counterfeit of all his
+borrowed plumes; and, more abashed than the parrot, he secretly slunk
+away.
+
+The peacock, proud of native beauty, now flew into the midst of the
+assembly. He displayed before the sun his gorgeous tail. ‘Observe (said
+he) how the vivid blue of the sapphire glitters in my neck; and when
+thus I spread my tail, a gemmy brightness strikes the eye from a plumage
+varied with a thousand glowing colours.’ At this moment, a nightingale
+began to chant forth his melodious lay; at which the peacock, dropping
+his expanded tail, cried out, ‘Ah what avails my silent unmeaning
+beauty, when I am so far excelled in voice by such a little
+russet-feathered wretch as that!’ And, by retiring, he gave up all claim
+to the contended-for preference.
+
+The nightingale was so delighted with having got the better of the
+peacock, that he exerted his little voice, and was so lost in the
+conceit of his own melody, that he did not observe a hawk, who flew upon
+him, and carried him off in his claws.
+
+The eagle then declared, ‘That as the peacock’s envy had taken away all
+his claim, so no less had the nightingale’s self-conceit frustrated
+all his pretensions; for those who are so wrapped up in their own
+perfections, as to mind nothing but themselves, are forever liable to
+all sorts of accidents.’ And, besides, it was plain, by the exultation
+the nightingale expressed on his imagined glory over the peacock, that
+he would have been equally dejected on any preference given to another.
+
+And now the owl, with an affected gravity, and whooting voice, pleaded
+his well-known wisdom; and said, ‘He doubted not but the preference
+would be granted to him without contest, by all the whole assembly for
+what was so likely to produce happiness as wisdom?’
+
+The eagle declared, ‘That, if his title to wisdom could be proved, the
+justice of his claim should be allowed; and then asked him, how he could
+convince them of the truth of what he had advanced?’ The owl answered,
+‘That he would willingly appeal to the whole assembly for their
+decision in this point; for he was positive nobody could deny his great
+superiority as to wisdom.’ Being separately asked, they most of them
+declared, that they knew no one reason, either from his words or
+actions, to pronounce him a wise bird; though it was true, that by an
+affected solemnity in his looks, and by frequent declarations of his
+own, that he was very wife, he had made some very silly birds give
+him that character; but, since they were called upon to declare their
+opinions, they must say, that he was ever the object of contempt to all
+those birds who had any title to common understanding. The eagle then
+said, ‘He could by no means admit a plea, which as plainly appeared
+to be counterfeit, as were the jay’s borrowed feathers.’ The owl, thus
+disappointed, flew away, and has ever since shunned the light of the
+sun, and has never appeared in the daytime, but to be scorned and
+wondered at.
+
+
+It would be endless to repeat all the several pleas brought by the
+birds, each desiring to prove, that happiness ought to be his own
+peculiar lot. But the eagle observing that the arguments made use of to
+prove their point were chiefly drawn from the disadvantages of others,
+rather than from any advantage of their own, told them, ‘There was too
+much envy and malice amongst them, for him to pronounce any of them
+deserving or capable of being happy; but I wonder,’ says he, ‘why the
+dove alone is absent from this meeting?’ ‘I know of one in her nest hard
+by,’ answered the redbreast, ‘shall I go and call her?’ ‘No,’ says the
+eagle, ‘since she did not obey our general summons, ‘tis plain she had
+no ambition for a public preference; but I will take two or three chosen
+friends, and we will go softly to her nest, and see in what manner she
+is employing herself; for from our own observations upon the actions
+of any one, we are more likely to form a judgment of them, than by any
+boasts they can make.’
+
+The eagle was obeyed, and, accompanied only by the linnet, the lark, the
+lapwing, and the redbreast for his guide, he stole gently to the place
+where the dove was found hovering over her nest, waiting the return of
+her absent mate; and, thinking herself quite unobserved,
+
+
+     [*] While o’er her callow brood she hung,
+     She fondly thus address’d her young:
+         ‘Ye tender objects of my care,
+     Peace! peace! ye little helpless pair.
+     Anon! he comes, your gentle sire,
+     And brings you all your hearts require;
+     For us, his infants and his bride,
+     For us, with only love to guide,
+     Our lord assumes an eagle’s speed,
+     And, like a lion, dares to bleed:
+     Nor yet by wintry skies confin’d,
+     He mounts upon the rudest wind,
+     From danger tears the vital spoil,
+     And with affection sweetens toil.
+     Ah! cease, too vent’rous, cease to dare;
+     In thine, our dearer safety spare.
+     From him, ye cruel falcons stray;
+     And turn, ye fowlers, far away,
+     --All-giving Pow’r, great source of life,
+     Oh! hear the parent, hear the wife:
+     That life thou lendest from above,
+     Though little, make it large in love.
+     Oh! bid my feeling heart expand
+     To ev’ry claim on ev’ry hand,
+     To those, from whom my days I drew,
+     To these in whom those days renew,
+     To all my kin, however wide,
+     In cordial warmth as blood allied.
+     To friends in steely fetters twin’d
+     And to the cruel not unkind;
+     But chief the lord of my desire,
+     My life, myself, my soul, my sire,
+     Friends, children, all that wish can claim,
+     Chaste passion clasp, and rapture name.
+     Oh! spare him, spare him, gracious Pow’r:
+     Oh! give him to my latest hour,
+     Let me my length of life employ,
+     To give my sole enjoyment joy.
+     His love let mutual love excite;
+     Turn all my cares to his delight,
+     And ev’ry needless blessing spare,
+     Wherein my darling wants a share.
+     --Let one unruffled calm delight
+     The loving and belov’d unite;
+     One pure desire our bosoms warm;
+     One will direct, one wish inform;
+     Through life one mutual aid sustain;
+     In death one peaceful grave contain.’
+     While, swelling with the darling theme,
+     Her accents pour’d an endless stream.
+     The well-known wings a sound impart
+     That reach’d her ear, and touch’d her heart.
+     Quick dropp’d the music of her tongue,
+     And forth, with eager joy, she sprung.
+     As swift her ent’ring consort flew,
+     And plum’d, and kindled at the view.
+     Their wings, their souls, embracing, meet,
+     Their hearts with answ’ring measure beat,
+     Half lost in sacred sweets, and bless’d
+     With raptures felt, but ne’er express’d.
+         Strait to her humble roof she led
+     The partner of her spotless bed;
+     Her young, a flutt’ring pair, arise,
+     Their welcome sparkling in their eyes,
+     Transported, to their sire they bound,
+     And hang, with speechless action, round.
+     In pleasure wrapt, the parents stand,
+     And see their little wings expand;
+     The sire his life sustaining prize
+     To each expecting bill applies;
+     There fondly pours the wheaten spoil,
+     With transport giv’n, though won with toil;
+     While, all collected at the sight,
+     And silent through supreme delight,
+     The fair high heav’n of bliss beguiles,
+     And on her lord and infants smiles.
+
+
+     [*] These verses are a quotation from that tender fable of
+     the Sparrow and the Dove, in the ‘Fables for the Female
+     Sex.’
+
+
+The eagle now, without any hesitation, pronounced the dove to be
+deservedly the happiest of the feathered kind; and however unwilling the
+rest of the birds were to assent to the judgment given, yet could they
+not dispute the justice of the decree.
+
+
+Here Miss Jenny ceased reading, and all the little company expressed by
+their looks, that they were overjoyed at the eagle’s determination; for
+they had all in their own minds forestalled the eagle’s judgment, of
+giving the preference to the dove. ‘Now, my good children,’ said Mrs.
+Teachum, ‘if you will pass through this life with real pleasure, imitate
+the dove; and remember, that innocence of mind, and integrity of heart,
+adorn the female character, and can alone produce your own happiness,
+and diffuse it to all around you.’
+
+Our little company thanked their governess for her fable; and, just
+at that instant, they heard a chariot drive into the court, and Mrs.
+Teachum went out to see what visitor could be arrived so late in the
+evening; for it was near eight o’clock.
+
+They all remained in the room where their governess left them; for they
+had been taught never to run out to the door, or to the windows, to look
+at any strangers that came, till they knew whether it was proper for
+them to see them or not.
+
+Mrs. Teachum soon returned with a letter open in her hand, and remained
+some little time silent; but cast on every one round such a tender
+and affectionate look, a tear almost starting from her eye, that the
+sympathising sorrow seemed to spread through the whole company, and they
+were all silent, and ready to cry, though they knew not for what reason.
+‘I am sorry, my little dears,’ said Mrs. Teachum, ‘to give your tender
+bosoms the uneasiness I fear the contents of this letter will do, as it
+will deprive you of that your hearts so justly hold most dear.’ And, so
+saying, she delivered to Miss Jenny Peace, the following letter:--
+
+
+‘To Miss Jenny Peace.
+
+‘Monday night, June 24.
+
+‘My dear niece,--I arrived safe at my own house, with your cousin
+Harriet, last Saturday night, after a very tedious voyage by sea, and
+a fatiguing journey by land. I long to see my dear Jenny as soon as
+possible, and Harriet is quite impatient for that pleasure.
+
+‘I have ordered my chariot to be with you tomorrow night; and I desire
+you would set out on Wednesday morning, as early as your inclination
+shall prompt you to come to
+
+‘Your truly affectionate aunt,
+
+‘M. NEWMAN.
+
+‘I have writ a letter of thanks to your kind governess, for her care of
+you.’
+
+
+It is impossible to describe the various sensations of Miss Jenny’s
+mind, on the reading this letter. Her rising joy at the thoughts of
+seeing her kind aunt safely returned from a long and tedious voyage,
+was suppressed by a sorrow, which could not be resisted, on parting with
+such dear friends, and so good a governess; and the lustre which such a
+joy would have given to her eye, was damped by rising tears. Her heart
+for some time was too full for utterance. At last, turning to her
+governess, she said, ‘And is the chariot really come, to carry me to my
+dear aunt?’ Then, after a pause, the tears trickling down her cheeks,
+‘And must I so soon leave you, madam, and all my kind companions?’ Mrs.
+Teachum, on seeing Miss Jenny’s tender struggles of mind, and all her
+companions at once bursting into tears, stood up, and left the room,
+saying, ‘She would come to them again after supper.’ For this prudent
+woman well knew, that it was in vain to contend with the very first
+emotions of grief on such an occasion, but intended, at her return, to
+show them how much it was their duty and interest to conquer all sorts
+of extravagant sorrow.
+
+They remained some time silent, as quite struck dumb with concern, till
+at last Miss Dolly Friendly, in broken accents, cried out, ‘And must we
+lose you, my dear Miss Jenny, now we are just settled in that love and
+esteem for you, which your goodness so well deserves?’
+
+Miss Jenny endeavoured to dry up her tears, and then said, ‘Although
+I cannot but be pleased, my dear companions, at every mark of your
+affection for me; yet I beg that you would not give me the pain to see
+that I make so many dear friends unhappy. Let us submit cheerfully to
+this separation (which, believe me, is as deeply felt by me as any
+of you) because it is our duty so to do; and let me entreat you to be
+comforted, by reflecting, how much my good aunt’s safe return must
+be conducive to my future welfare; nor can you be unhappy, while you
+continue with so good a governess, and persist in that readiness to obey
+her, which you have lately shown. She will direct who shall preside over
+your innocent amusements in my place. I will certainly write to you, and
+shall always take the greatest delight in hearing from each of you, both
+while you continue here, and when your duty and different connections
+shall call you elsewhere. We may some, and perhaps all, of us, happen
+often to meet again; and I hope a friendship, founded on so innocent and
+so good a foundation as ours is, will always subsist, as far as shall be
+consistent with our future situations in life.’
+
+Miss Jenny’s friends could not answer her but by sobs and tears; only
+little Polly Suckling, running to her, clung about her neck, and cried,
+‘Indeed, indeed, Miss Jenny, you must not go; I shall break my heart, if
+I lose you: sure we shan’t, nor we can’t, be half so happy, when you are
+gone, though our governess was ten times better to us than she is.’
+
+Miss Jenny again entreated them to dry up their tears, and to be more
+contented with the present necessity; and begged, that they would not
+let their governess see them so overwhelmed in sorrow on her return; for
+she might take it unkindly, that they should be so afflicted at the loss
+of one person, while they still remained under her indulgent care and
+protection.
+
+It was with the utmost difficulty, that Miss Jenny refrained from
+shedding tear for tear with her kind companions; but as it was her
+constant maxim to partake with her friends all her pleasure, and to
+confine her sorrows as much as possible within her own bosom, she chose
+rather to endeavour, by her own cheerfulness and innocent talk, to steal
+insensibly from the bosoms of her little companions half their sorrow;
+and they begin to appear tolerably easy.
+
+After supper, Mrs. Teachum returned; and, seeing them all striving who
+should most conceal their grief, for fear of giving uneasiness to the
+rest, yet with a deep dejection fixed in every countenance, and little
+Polly still sobbing behind Miss Jenny’s chair, she was so moved herself
+with the affecting scene, that the tears stole from her eyes; and the
+sympathising company once more eased their almost bursting hearts, by
+another general flow of melting sorrow.
+
+‘My dear children,’ said Mrs. Teachum, ‘I am not at all surprised at
+your being so much concerned to part with Miss Jenny. I love her myself
+with a motherly affection (as I do all of you, and shall ever continue
+to do so while you so well deserve it); and I could wish, for my own
+sake, never to part with her as long as I live; but I consider, that it
+is for her advantage, and I would have you all remember, in her absence,
+to let her example and friendship fill your hearts with joy, instead of
+grief. It is now pretty late in the evening, and as Miss Jenny is to set
+out very early in the morning, I must insist upon shortening your pain
+(for such is your present situation), and desire you would take your
+leave of this your engaging friend.’
+
+They none of them attempted to speak another word, for their hearts were
+still too full for utterance; and Miss Jenny took every one by the hand
+as they went out of the room, saluted them with the tenderest affection,
+mingling tears with those which flowed from every streaming eye; and,
+wishing them all happiness and joy till their next meeting, they all,
+with heavy hearts, retired to rest.
+
+Miss Jenny returned the warmest and most grateful acknowledgments to her
+good governess, for all her care of her; and said, ‘I shall attribute
+every happy hour, madam, that I may hereafter be blessed with, to
+your wise and kind instruction, which I shall always remember with the
+highest veneration, and shall ever consider you as having been to me no
+less than a fond and indulgent mother.’
+
+Mrs. Teachum kept Miss Jenny in the room with her no longer than to
+assure her how sincerely she should regret her absence, and confessed
+how much of the regularity and harmony of her school she owed to her
+good example, for sweetness of temper, and conformity to rules.
+
+
+
+
+THE END OF THE NINTH DAY.
+
+THE CONCLUSION OF THE HISTORY OF MRS. TEACHUM, &C.
+
+
+Although Miss Jenny Peace did not return any more to school; yet she
+ever gratefully remembered the kindness of her governess, and frequently
+corresponded with all her companions. And as they continued their
+innocent amusements and meetings in the arbour, whenever the weather
+would permit, there was no day thought to be better employed than that
+in which they received a letter from their absent instructive friend,
+whose name was always mentioned with gratitude and honour.
+
+Mrs. Teachum continued the same watchful care over any young persons who
+were entrusted to her management; and she never increased the number
+of her scholars, though often entreated so to do. All quarrels and
+contentions were banished her house; and if ever any such thing was
+likely to arise, the story of Miss Jenny Peace’s reconciling all her
+little companions was told to them; so that Miss Jenny, though absent,
+still seemed (by the bright example which she left behind her) to be the
+cement of union and harmony in this well-regulated society. And if any
+girl was found to harbour in her breast a rising passion, which it was
+difficult to conquer, the name and story of Miss Jenny Peace soon gained
+her attention, and left her without any other desire than to emulate
+Miss Jenny’s virtues.
+
+In short, Mrs. Teachum’s school was always mentioned throughout the
+country, as an example of peace and harmony; and also by the daily
+improvement of all her girls, it plainly appeared how early young people
+might attain great knowledge, if their minds were free from foolish
+anxieties about trifles, and properly employed on their own improvement;
+for never did any young lady leave Mrs. Teachum, but that her parents
+and friends were greatly delighted with her behaviour, as she had made
+it her chief study to learn always to pay to her governors the most
+exact obedience, and to exert towards her companions all the good
+effects of a mind filled with benevolence and love.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Governess, by Sarah Fielding
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diff --git a/1905-0.zip b/1905-0.zip
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+<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
+
+<!DOCTYPE html
+   PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN"
+   "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" >
+
+<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en">
+  <head>
+    <title>
+      The Governess;, by Sarah Fielding
+    </title>
+    <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve">
+
+    body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify}
+    P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; }
+    H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; }
+    hr  { width: 50%; text-align: center;}
+    .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; }
+    blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;}
+    .mynote    {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;}
+    .toc       { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;}
+    .toc2      { margin-left: 20%;}
+    div.fig    { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; }
+    div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; }
+    .figleft   {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;}
+    .figright  {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;}
+    .pagenum   {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal;
+               margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%;
+               text-align: right;}
+    pre        { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;}
+
+</style>
+  </head>
+  <body>
+<pre xml:space="preserve">
+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Governess, by Sarah Fielding
+
+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 Governess
+       The Little Female Academy
+
+Author: Sarah Fielding
+
+Release Date: October 10, 2008 [EBook #1905]
+Last Updated: November 6, 2016
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: UTF-8
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE GOVERNESS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Pat Pflieger, and David Widger
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h1>
+      THE GOVERNESS;
+    </h1>
+    <h2>
+      OR, THE LITTLE FEMALE ACADEMY (1749)
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      by Sarah Fielding
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> <br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <br /> <br />
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      There lived in the northern parts of England, a gentlewoman who undertook
+      the education of young ladies; and this trust she endeavoured faithfully
+      to discharge, by instructing those committed to her care in reading,
+      writing, working, and in all proper forms of behaviour. And though her
+      principal aim was to improve their minds in all useful knowledge; to
+      render them obedient to their superiors, and gentle, kind, and
+      affectionate to each other; yet did she not omit teaching them an exact
+      neatness in their persons and dress, and a perfect gentility in their
+      whole carriage.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      This gentlewoman, whose name was Teachum, was the widow of a clergyman,
+      with whom she had lived nine years in all the harmony and concord which
+      forms the only satisfactory happiness in the married state. Two little
+      girls (the youngest of which was born before the second year of their
+      marriage was expired) took up a great part of their thoughts; and it was
+      their mutual design to spare no pains or trouble in their education.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mr. Teachum was a very sensible man, and took great delight in improving
+      his wife; as she also placed her chief pleasure in receiving his
+      instructions. One of his constant subjects of discourse to her was
+      concerning the education of children: so that, when in his last illness
+      his physicians pronounced him beyond the power of their art to relieve
+      him, he expressed great satisfaction in the thought of leaving his
+      children to the care of so prudent a mother.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum, though exceedingly afflicted by such a loss, yet thought it
+      her duty to call forth all her resolutions to conquer her grief, in order
+      to apply herself to the care of these her dear husband&rsquo;s children. But her
+      misfortunes were not here to end: for within a twelvemonth after the death
+      of her husband, she was deprived of both her children by a violent fever
+      that then raged in the country; and, about the same time, by the
+      unforeseen breaking of a banker, in whose hands almost all her fortune was
+      just then placed, she was bereft of the means of her future support.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The Christian fortitude with which (through her husband&rsquo;s instructions)
+      she had armed her mind, had not left it in the power of any outward
+      accident to bereave her of her understanding, or to make her incapable of
+      doing what was proper on all occasions. Therefore, by the advice of all
+      her friends, she undertook what she was so well qualified for; namely, the
+      education of children. But as she was moderate in her desires, and did not
+      seek to raise a great fortune, she was resolved to take no more scholars
+      than she could have an eye to herself without the help of other teachers;
+      and instead of making interest to fill her school, it was looked upon as a
+      great favour when she would take any girl. And as her number was fixed to
+      nine, which she on no account would be prevailed on to increase, great
+      application was made, when any scholar went away, to have her place
+      supplied; and happy were they who could get a promise for the next
+      vacancy.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum was about forty years old, tall and genteel in her person,
+      though somewhat inclined to fat. She had a lively and commanding eye,
+      insomuch that she naturally created an awe in all her little scholars;
+      except when she condescended to smile, and talk familiarly to them; and
+      then she had something perfectly kind and tender in her manner. Her temper
+      was so extremely calm and good, that though she never omitted
+      reprehending, and that pretty severely, any girl that was guilty of the
+      smallest fault proceeding from an evil disposition; yet for no cause
+      whatsoever was she provoked to be in a passion; but she kept up such a
+      dignity and authority, by her steady behavior, that the girls greatly
+      feared to incur her displeasure by disobeying her commands; and were
+      equally pleased with her approbation, when they had done anything worthy
+      her commendation.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      At the time of the ensuing history, the school (being full) consisted of
+      the nine following young ladies:
+    </p>
+<pre xml:space="preserve">
+     Miss JENNY PEACE.
+     Miss NANNY SPRUCE.
+     Miss SUKEY JENNETT.
+     Miss BETTY FORD.
+     Miss DOLLY FRIENDLY.
+     Miss HENNY FRET.
+     Miss LUCY SLY.
+     Miss POLLY SUCKLING.
+     Miss PATTY LOCKIT.
+</pre>
+    <p>
+      The eldest of these was but fourteen years old, and none of the rest had
+      yet attained their twelfth year.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /> <br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <br /> <br />
+    </p>
+    <blockquote>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big>
+      </p>
+      <p>
+        <br />
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> AN ACCOUNT OF A FRAY, </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> A DIALOGUE BETWEEN MISS JENNY PEACE AND MISS
+        SUKEY JENNETT; </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> A SCENE OF LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP, QUITE THE
+        REVERSE OF THE BATTLE, </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0004"> THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS JENNY PEACE. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0005"> THE LIFE OF MISS JENNY PEACE. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p>
+        <br />
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0006"> <b>MONDAY. THE FIRST DAY</b> </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0007"> THE STORY OF THE CRUEL GIANT BARBARICO, THE
+        GOOD GIANT BENEFICO, </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0008"> A CONTINUATION OF THE STORY OF THE GIANTS.
+        </a>
+      </p>
+      <p>
+        <br />
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0009"> <b>TUESDAY. THE SECOND DAY.</b> </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0010"> THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS SUKEY JENNETT. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0011"> THE LIFE OF MISS SUKEY JENNETT. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0012"> THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS DOLLY FRIENDLY. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0013"> THE LIFE OF MISS DOLLY FRIENDLY. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p>
+        <br />
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0014"> <b>WEDNESDAY. THE THIRD DAY.</b> </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0015"> THE STORY OF CAELIA AND CHLOE. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0016"> THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS LUCY SLY. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0017"> THE LIFE OF MISS LUCY SLY. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p>
+        <br />
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0018"> <b>THURSDAY. THE FOURTH DAY.</b> </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0019"> THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS PATTY LOCKIT. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0020"> THE LIFE OF MISS PATTY LOCKIT. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p>
+        <br />
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0021"> <b>FRIDAY. THE FIFTH DAY.</b> </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0022"> THE PRINCESS HEBE. A FAIRY TALE. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0023"> THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p>
+        <br />
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0024"> <b>SATURDAY. THE SIXTH DAY.</b> </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0025"> THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0026"> THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p>
+        <br />
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0027"> <b>SUNDAY. THE SEVENTH DAY.</b> </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0028"> THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS NANNY SPRUCE. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0029"> THE LIFE OF MISS NANNY SPRUCE. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0030"> THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS BETTY FORD. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0031"> THE LIFE OF MISS BETTY FORD. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p>
+        <br />
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0032"> <b>MONDAY. THE EIGHTH DAY.</b> </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0033"> THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS HENNY FRET. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0034"> THE LIFE OF MISS HENNY FRET. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0035"> THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS POLLY SUCKLING. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0036"> THE LIFE OF MISS POLLY SUCKLING. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p>
+        <br />
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0037"> <b>TUESDAY. THE NINTH DAY.</b> </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0038"> THE ASSEMBLY OF THE BIRDS. A FABLE. </a>
+      </p>
+      <p class="toc">
+        <a href="#link2H_4_0039"> THE END OF THE NINTH DAY. </a>
+      </p>
+    </blockquote>
+    <p>
+      <br /> <br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      AN ACCOUNT OF A FRAY,
+    </h2>
+    <h3>
+      BEGUN AND CARRIED ON FOR THE SAKE OF AN APPLE: IN WHICH ARE SHOWN THE SAD
+      EFFECTS OF RAGE AND ANGER.
+    </h3>
+    <p>
+      It was on a fine summer&rsquo;s evening when the school-hours were at an end,
+      and the young ladies were admitted to divert themselves for some time, as
+      they thought proper, in a pleasant garden adjoining to the house, that
+      their governess, who delighted in pleasing them, brought out a little
+      basket of apples, which were intended to be divided equally amongst them;
+      but Mrs. Teachum being hastily called away (one of her poor neighhours
+      having had an accident which wanted her assistance), she left the fruit in
+      the hands of Miss Jenny Peace, the eldest of her scholars, with a strict
+      charge to see that every one had an equal share of her gift.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But here a perverse accident turned good Mrs. Teachum&rsquo;s design of giving
+      them pleasure into their sorrow, and raised in their little hearts nothing
+      but strife and anger: for, alas! there happened to be one apple something
+      larger than the rest, on which the whole company immediately placed their
+      desiring eyes, and all at once cried out, &lsquo;Pray, Miss Jenny, give me that
+      apple.&rsquo; Each gave her reasons why she had the best title to it: the
+      youngest pleaded her youth, and the eldest her age; one insisted on her
+      goodness, another from her meekness claimed a title to preference; and
+      one, in confidence of her strength, said positively, she would have it;
+      but all speaking together, it was difficult to distinguish who said this,
+      or who said that.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny begged them all to be quiet, but in vain; for she could not be
+      heard: they had all set their hearts on that fine apple, looking upon
+      those she had given them as nothing. She told them they had better be
+      contented with what they had, than be thus seeking what it was impossible
+      for her to give to them all. She offered to divide it into eight parts, or
+      to do anything to satisfy them; but she might as well have been silent;
+      for they were all talking and had no time to hear. At last as a means to
+      quiet the disturbance, she threw this apple, the cause of their
+      contention, with her utmost force over a hedge into another garden, where
+      they could not come at it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      At first they were all silent, as if they were struck dumb with
+      astonishment with the loss of this one poor apple, though at the same time
+      they had plenty before them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But this did not bring to pass Miss Jenny&rsquo;s design: for now they all began
+      again to quarrel which had the most right to it, and which ought to have
+      had it, with as much vehemence as they had before contended for the
+      possession of it; and their anger by degrees became so high, that words
+      could not vent half their rage; and they fell to pulling of caps, tearing
+      of hair, and dragging the clothes off one another&rsquo;s backs: though they did
+      not so much strike, as endeavour to scratch and pinch their enemies.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Dolly Friendly as yet was not engaged in the battle; but on hearing
+      her friend Miss Nanny Spruce scream out, that she was hurt by a sly pinch
+      from one of the girls, she flew on this sly pincher, as she called her,
+      like an enraged lion on its prey; and not content only to return the harm
+      her friend had received, she struck with such force, as felled her enemy
+      to the ground. And now they could not distinguish between friend and
+      enemy; but fought, scratched, and tore, like so many cats, when they
+      extend their claws to fix them in their rival&rsquo;s heart.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny was employed in endeavouring to part them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In the midst of this confusion appeared Mrs. Teachum, who was returning in
+      hopes to see them happy with the fruit she had given them; but she was
+      some time there before either her voice or presence could awaken them from
+      their attention to the fight; when on a sudden they all faced her, and
+      fear of punishment began now a little to abate their rage. Each of the
+      misses held in her right hand, fast clenched, some marks of victory; for
+      they beat and were beaten by turns. One of them held a little lock of hair
+      torn from the head of her enemy; another grasped a piece of a cap, which,
+      in aiming at her rival&rsquo;s hair, had deceived her hand, and was all the
+      spoils she could gain; a third clenched a piece of an apron; a fourth, of
+      a frock. In short, everyone unfortunately held in her hand a proof of
+      having been engaged in the battle. And the ground was spread with rags and
+      tatters, torn from the backs of the little inveterate combatants.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum stood for some time astonished at the sight; but at last she
+      enquired of Miss Jenny Peace, who was the only person disengaged, to tell
+      her the whole truth, and to inform her of the cause of all this confusion.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny was obliged to obey the commands of her governess; though she
+      was so good natured that she did it in the mildest terms; and endeavoured
+      all she could to lessen, rather than increase, Mrs. Teachum&rsquo;s anger. The
+      guilty persons now began all to excuse themselves as fast as tears and
+      sobs would permit them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      One said, &lsquo;Indeed, madam, it was none of my fault; for I did not begin;
+      for Miss Sukey Jennett, without any cause in the world (for I did nothing
+      to provoke her), hit me a great slap in the face, and made my tooth ache;
+      the pain DID make me angry; and then, indeed, I hit her a little tap; but
+      it was on her back; and I am sure it was the smallest tap in the world and
+      could not possibly hurt her half so much as her great blow did me.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Law, miss!&rsquo; replied Miss Jennett, &lsquo;how can you say so? when you know that
+      you struck me first, and that yours was the great blow, and mine the
+      little tap; for I only went to defend myself from your monstrous blows.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Such like defences they would all have made for themselves, each insisting
+      on not being in fault, and throwing the blame on her companion; but Mrs.
+      Teachum silenced them by a positive command; and told them, that she saw
+      they were all equally guilty, and as such would treat them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum&rsquo;s method of punishing I never could find out. But this is
+      certain, the most severe punishment she had ever inflicted on any misses,
+      since she had kept a school, was now laid on these wicked girls, who had
+      been thus fighting, and pulling one another to pieces, for a sorry apple.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The first thing she did was to take away all the apples; telling them,
+      that before they had any more instances of such kindness from her, they
+      should give her proofs of their deserving them better. And when she had
+      punished them as much as she thought proper, she made them all embrace one
+      another, and promise to be friends for the future; which, in obedience to
+      her commands, they were forced to comply with, though there remained a
+      grudge and ill-will in their bosoms; every one thinking she was punished
+      most, although she would have it, that she deserved to be punished least;
+      and they continued all the sly tricks they could think on to vex and tease
+      each other.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      A DIALOGUE BETWEEN MISS JENNY PEACE AND MISS SUKEY JENNETT;
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      WHEREIN THE LATTER IS AT LAST CONVINCED OF HER OWN FOLLY IN BEING SO
+      QUARRELSOME; AND, BY HER EXAMPLE, ALL HER COMPANIONS ARE BROUGHT TO SEE
+      AND CONFESS THEIR FAULT.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The next morning Miss Jenny Peace used her utmost endeavours to bring her
+      schoolfellows to be heartily reconciled, but in vain: for each insisted on
+      it, that she was not to blame; but that the whole quarrel arose from the
+      faults of others. At last ensued the following dialogue between Miss Jenny
+      Peace and Miss Sukey Jennett, which brought about Miss Jenny&rsquo;s designs;
+      and which we recommend to the consideration of all our young readers.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      MISS JENNY. Now pray, Miss Sukey, tell me, what did you get by your
+      contention and quarrel about that foolish apple?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      MISS SUKEY. Indeed, ma&rsquo;am, I shall not answer you; I know that you only
+      want to prove, that you are wiser than I, because you are older. But I
+      don&rsquo;t know but some people may understand as much at eleven years old as
+      others at thirteen: but, because you are the oldest in the school, you
+      always want to be tutoring and governing. I don&rsquo;t like to have more than
+      one governess; and if I obey my mistress, I think that is enough.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      MISS JENNY. Indeed, my dear, I don&rsquo;t want to govern you, nor to prove
+      myself wiser than you; I only want that instead of quarrelling, and making
+      yourself miserable, you should live at peace and be happy. Therefore, pray
+      do answer my question, whether you get anything by your quarrel?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      MISS SUKEY. No I cannot say I got anything by it: for my mistress was
+      angry, and punished me; and my hair was pulled off, and my clothes torn in
+      the scuffle; neither did I value the apple; but yet I have too much spirit
+      to be imposed on. I am sure I had as good a right to it as any of the
+      others; and I would not give up my right to anyone.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      MISS JENNY. But don&rsquo;t you know, Miss Sukey, it would have shown much more
+      spirit to have yielded the apple to another, than to have fought about it?
+      Then indeed you would have proved your sense; for you would have shown,
+      that you had too much understanding to fight about a trifle. Then your
+      clothes had been whole, your hair not torn from your head, your mistress
+      had not been angry, nor had your fruit been taken away from you.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      MISS SUKEY. And so, miss, you would fain prove, that it is wisest to
+      submit to everybody that would impose upon one? But I will not believe ii,
+      say what you will.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      MISS JENNY. But is not what I say true? If you had not been in the battle,
+      would not your clothes have been whole, your hair not torn, your mistress
+      pleased with you, and the apples your own?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Miss Sukey paused for some time: for as Miss Jenny was in the right
+      and had truth on her side, it was difficult for Miss Sukey to know what to
+      answer. For it is impossible, without being very silly, to contradict
+      truth; and yet Miss Sukey was so foolish, that she did not care to own
+      herself in the wrong; though nothing could have been so great a sign of
+      her understanding.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When Miss Jenny saw her thus at a loss for an answer, she was in hopes of
+      making her companion happy; for, as she had as much good nature as
+      understanding, that was her design. She therefore pursued her discourse in
+      the following manner:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      MISS JENNY. Pray, Miss Sukey, do answer me one question more. Don&rsquo;t you
+      lie awake at nights, and fret and vex yourself, because you are angry with
+      your school-fellows? Are not you restless and uneasy, because you cannot
+      find a safe method to be revenged on them, without being punished
+      yourself? Do tell me truly, is not this your case?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      MISS SUKEY. Yes it is. For if I could but hurt my enemies, without being
+      hurt myself, it would be the greatest pleasure I could have in the world.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      MISS JENNY. Oh fie, Miss Sukey! What you have now said is wicked. Don&rsquo;t
+      you consider what you say every day in your prayers&rsquo;? And this way of
+      thinking will make you lead a very uneasy life. If you would hearken to
+      me, I could put you into a method of being very happy, and making all
+      those misses you call your enemies, become your friends.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      MISS SUKEY. You could tell me a method, miss? Do you think I don&rsquo;t know as
+      well as you what is fit to be done? I believe I am as capable of finding
+      the way to be happy, as you are of teaching me.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Miss Sukey burst into tears, that anybody should presume to tell her
+      the way to be happy.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      MISS JENNY. Upon my word, my dear, I don&rsquo;t mean to vex you; but only,
+      instead of tormenting yourself all night in laying plots to revenge
+      yourself, I would have you employ this one night in thinking of what I
+      have said. Nothing will show your sense so much, as to own that you have
+      been in the wrong. Nor will anything prove a right spirit so much as to
+      confess your fault. All the misses will be your friends, and perhaps
+      follow your example. Then you will have the pleasure of having caused the
+      quiet of the whole school; your governess will love you; and you will be
+      at peace in your mind, and never have any more foolish quarrels, in which
+      you all get nothing but blows and uneasiness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Sukey began now to find, that Miss Jenny was in the right, and she
+      herself in the wrong; but yet she was so proud she would not own it.
+      Nothing could be so foolish as this pride; because it would have been both
+      good and wise in her to confess the truth the moment she saw it. However,
+      Miss Jenny was so discreet as not to press her any farther that night; but
+      begged her to consider seriously on what she had said, and to let her know
+      her thoughts the next morning and then left her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When Miss Sukey was alone she stood some time in great confusion. She
+      could not help seeing how much hitherto she had been in the wrong; and
+      that thought stung her to the heart. She cried, stamped, and was in as
+      great an agony as if some sad misfortune had befallen her. At last, when
+      she had somewhat vented her passion by tears, she burst forth into the
+      following speech:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;It is very true what Miss Jenny Peace says; for I am always uneasy. I
+      don&rsquo;t sleep in quiet because I am always thinking, either that I have not
+      my share of what is given us, or that I cannot be revenged on any of the
+      girls that offend me. And when I quarrel with them, I am scratched and
+      bruised; or reproached. And what do I get by all this? Why, I scratch,
+      bruise, and reproach them in my turn. Is not that gain enough? I warrant I
+      hurt them as much as they hurt me. But then indeed, as Miss Jenny says, if
+      I could make these girls my friends, and did not wish to hurt them, I
+      certainly might live a quieter, and perhaps a happier, life. But what
+      then, have I been always in the wrong all my lifetime? for I always
+      quarrelled and hated everyone who had offended me. Oh! I cannot bear that
+      thought! It is enough to make me mad! when I imagined myself so wise and
+      so sensible, to find out that I have been always a fool. If I think a
+      moment longer about it, I shall die with grief and shame. I must think
+      myself in the right; and I will too. But, as Miss Jenny says, I really am
+      unhappy; for I hate all my schoolfellows; and yet I dare not do them any
+      mischief; for my mistress will punish me severely if I do. I should not so
+      much mind that neither; but then those I intend to hurt will triumph over
+      me, to see me punished for their sakes. In short, the more I reflect, the
+      more I am afraid Miss Jenny is in the right; and yet it breaks my heart to
+      think so.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here the poor girl wept so bitterly, and was so heartily grieved, that she
+      could not utter one word more; but sat herself down, reclining her head
+      upon her hand, in the most melancholy posture that could be; nor could she
+      close her eyes all night, but lay tossing and raving with the thought how
+      she should act, and what she should say to Miss Jenny the next day.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When the morning came, Miss Sukey dreaded every moment, as the time drew
+      nearer when she must meet Miss Jenny. She knew it would not be possible to
+      resist her arguments; and yet shame for having been in fault overcame her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As soon as Miss Jenny saw Miss Sukey with her eyes cast down, and
+      confessing, by a look of sorrow, that she would take her advice, she
+      embraced her kindly; and, without giving her the trouble to speak, took it
+      for granted, that she would leave off quarreling, be reconciled to her
+      schoolfellows, and make herself happy.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Sukey did indeed stammer out some words, which implied a confession
+      of her fault; but they were spoke so low they could hardly be heard; only
+      Miss Jenny, who always chose to look at the fairest side of her
+      companions&rsquo; actions, by Miss Sukey&rsquo;s look and manner guessed her meaning.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In the same manner did this good girl, Jenny, persuade, one by one, all
+      her schoolfellows to be reconciled to each with sincerity and love.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Dolly Friendly, who had too much sense to engage the battle for the
+      sake of an apple, and who was provoked to strike a blow only for
+      friendship&rsquo;s sake, easily saw the truth of what Miss Jenny said; and was
+      therefore presently convinced, that the best part she could have acted for
+      her friend, would have been to have withdrawn her from the scuffle.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      A SCENE OF LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP, QUITE THE REVERSE OF THE BATTLE,
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      WHEREIN ARE SHOWN THE DIFFERENT EFFECTS OF LOVE AND GOODNESS FROM THOSE
+      ATTENDING ANGER, STRIFE, AND WICKEDNESS: WITH THE LIFE OF MISS JENNY
+      PEACE.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      After Miss Jenny had completed the good work of making all her companions
+      friends, she drew them round her in a little arbour, in that very garden
+      which had been the scene of their strife, and consequently of their
+      misery; and then spoke to them the following speech; which she delivered
+      in so mild a voice, that it was sufficient to charm her hearers into
+      attention, and to persuade them to be led by her advice, and to follow her
+      example in the paths of goodness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My dear friends and schoolfellows, you cannot imagine the happiness it
+      gives me to see you thus all so heartily reconciled. You will find the
+      joyful fruits of it. Nothing can show so much sense as thus to own
+      yourselves in fault; for could anything have been so foolish as to spend
+      all your time in misery, rather than at once to make use of the power you
+      have of making yourselves happy? Now if you will use as many endeavours to
+      love as you have hitherto done to hate each other, you will find that
+      every one amongst you, whenever you have anything given you, will have
+      double, nay, I may say eight times (as there are eight of you) the
+      pleasure, in considering that your companions are happy. What is the end
+      of quarrels, but that everyone is fretted and vexed, and no one gains
+      anything! Whereas by endeavouring to please and love each other, the end
+      is happiness to ourselves, and joy to everyone around us. I am sure, if
+      you will speak the truth, none of you have been so easy since you
+      quarrelled, as you are now you are reconciled. Answer me honestly, if this
+      is not truth.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Miss Jenny was silent, and waited for an answer. But the poor girls,
+      who had in them the seeds of goodwill to each other, although those seeds
+      were choked and overrun with the weeds of envy and pride; as in a garden
+      the finest strawberries will be spoiled by rank weeds, if care is not
+      taken to root them out; these poor girls, I say, now struck with the force
+      of truth, and sorry for what they had done, let drop some tears, which
+      trickled down their cheeks, and were signs of meekness, and sorrow for
+      their fault. Not like those tears which burst from their swollen eyes,
+      when anger and hatred choked their words, and their proud hearts laboured
+      with stubbornness and folly; when their skins reddened, and all their
+      features were changed and distorted by the violence of passion, which made
+      them frightful to the beholders, and miserable to themselves;&mdash; No!
+      Far other cause had they now for tears, and far different were the tears
+      they shed; their eyes, melted with sorrow for their faults, let fall some
+      drops, as tokens of their repentance; but, as soon as they could recover
+      themselves to speak, they all with one voice cried out, &lsquo;Indeed, Miss
+      Jenny, we are sorry for our fault, and will follow your advice; which we
+      now see is owing to your goodness.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny now produced a basket of apples, which she had purchased out of
+      the little pocket-money she was allowed, in order to prove, that the same
+      things may be a pleasure or a pain, according as the persons to whom they
+      are given are good or bad.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      These she placed in the midst of her companions, and desired them to eat,
+      and enjoy themselves; and now they were so changed, that each helped her
+      next neighbour before she would touch any for herself; and the moment they
+      were grown thus good natured and friendly, they were as well-bred, and as
+      polite, as it is possible to describe.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny&rsquo;s joy was inexpressible, that she had caused this happy change;
+      nor less was the joy of her companions, who now began to taste pleasures,
+      from which their animosity to each other had hitherto debarred them. They
+      all sat looking pleased on their companions; their faces borrowed beauty
+      from the calmness and goodness of their minds; and all those ugly frowns,
+      and all that ill-natured sourness, which when they were angry and cross
+      were but too plain in their faces, were now entirely fled; jessamine and
+      honeysuckles surrounded their seats, and played round their heads, of
+      which they gathered nosegays to present each other with. They now enjoyed
+      all the pleasure and happiness that attend those who are innocent and
+      good.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny, with her heart overflowing with joy at this happy change,
+      said, &lsquo;Now, my dear companions, that you may be convinced what I have said
+      and done was not occasioned by any desire of proving myself wiser than
+      you, as Miss Sukey hinted while she was yet in her anger, I will, if you
+      please, relate to you the history of my past life; by which you will see
+      in what manner I came by this way of thinking; and as you will perceive it
+      was chiefly owing to the instructions of a kind mamma, you may all
+      likewise reap the same advantage under good Mrs. Teachum, if you will obey
+      her commands, and attend to her precepts. And after I have given you the
+      particulars of my life, I must beg that every one of you will, some day or
+      other, when you have reflected upon it, declare all that you can remember
+      of your own; for, should you not be able to relate anything worth
+      remembering as an example, yet there is nothing more likely to amend the
+      future part of anyone&rsquo;s life, than the recollecting and confessing the
+      faults of the past.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      All our little company highly approved of Miss Jenny&rsquo;s proposal, and
+      promised, in their turns, to relate their own lives; and Miss Polly
+      Suckling cried out, &lsquo;Yes indeed, Miss Jenny, I&rsquo;ll tell all when it comes
+      to my turn; so pray begin, for I long to hear what you did, when you was
+      no bigger than I am now.&rsquo; Miss Jenny then kissed little Polly, and said
+      she would instantly begin.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But as in the reading of any one&rsquo;s story, it is an additional pleasure to
+      have some acquaintance with their persons; and as I delight in giving my
+      little readers every pleasure that is in my power; I shall endeavour, as
+      justly as I can, by description, to set before their eyes the picture of
+      this good young creature: and in the same of every one of our young
+      company, as they begin their lives.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0004" id="link2H_4_0004">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS JENNY PEACE.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny Peace was just turned of fourteen, and could be called neither
+      tall nor short of her age; but her whole person was the most agreeable
+      that can be imagined. She had an exceeding fine complexion, with as much
+      colour in her cheeks as is the natural effect of perfect health. Her hair
+      was light brown, and curled in so regular and yet easy a manner, as never
+      to want any assistance from art. Her eyebrows (which were not of that
+      correct turn as to look as if they were drawn with a pencil) and her
+      eyelashes were both darker than her hair; and the latter being very long,
+      gave such a shade to her eyes as made them often mistaken for black,
+      though they were only a dark hazel. To give any description of her eyes
+      beyond the colour and size, which was perfectly the medium, would be
+      impossible; except by saying they were expressive of everything that is
+      amiable and good; for through them might be read every single thought of
+      the mind; from whence they had such a brightness and cheerfulness, as
+      seemed to cast a lustre over her whole face. She had fine teeth, and a
+      mouth answering to the most correct rules of beauty; and when she spoke
+      (though you were at too great a distance to hear what she said) there
+      appeared so much sweetness, mildness, modesty and good nature, that you
+      found yourself filled more with pleasure than admiration in beholding her.
+      The delight which everyone took in looking on Miss Jenny was evident in
+      this, that though Miss Sukey Jennett and Miss Patty Lockit were both what
+      may be called handsomer girls (and if you asked any persons in company
+      their opinion, they would tell you so) yet their eyes were a direct
+      contradiction to their tongues, by being continually fixed on Miss Jenny;
+      for, while she was in the room, it was impossible to fix them anywhere
+      else. She had a natural ease and gentility in her shape; and all her
+      motions were more pleasing, though less striking than what is commonly
+      acquired by the instruction of dancing masters.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Such was the agreeable person of Miss Jenny Peace, who, in her usual
+      obliging manner, and with an air pleasing beyond my power to express, at
+      the request of her companions began to relate the history of her life, as
+      follows:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0005" id="link2H_4_0005">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE LIFE OF MISS JENNY PEACE.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My father dying when I was but half a year old, I was left to the care of
+      my mamma, who was the best woman in the world, and to whose memory I shall
+      ever pay the most grateful honour. From the time she had any children, she
+      made it the whole study of her life to promote their welfare, and form
+      their minds in the manner she thought would best answer her purpose of
+      making them both good and happy; for it was her constant maxim, that
+      goodness and happiness dwelt in the same bosoms, and were generally found
+      to life so much together, that they could not easily be separated.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My mother had six children born alive; but could preserve none beyond the
+      first year, except my brother, Harry Peace, and myself. She made it one of
+      her chief cares to cultivate and preserve the most perfect love and
+      harmony between us. My brother is but a twelvemonth older than I; so that,
+      till I was six years old (for seven was the age in which he was sent to
+      school) he remained at home with me; in which time we often had little
+      childish quarrels; but my mother always took care to convince us of our
+      error in wrangling and fighting about nothing, and to teach us how much
+      more pleasure we enjoyed whilst we agreed. She showed no partiality to
+      either, but endeavoured to make us equal in all things, any otherwise than
+      that she taught me I owed a respect to my brother as the eldest.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Before my brother went to school, we had set hours appointed us, in which
+      we regularly attended to learn whatever was thought necessary for our
+      improvement; my mamma herself daily watching the opening of our minds, and
+      taking great care to instruct us in what manner to make the best use of
+      the knowledge we attained. Whatever we read she explained to us, and made
+      us understand, that we might be the better for our lessons. When we were
+      capable of thinking, we made it so much a rule to obey our parent, the
+      moment she signified her pleasure, that by that means we avoided many
+      accidents and misfortunes; for example: my brother was running one day
+      giddily round the brink of a well; and if he had made the least false
+      step, he must have fallen to the bottom, and been drowned; my mamma, by a
+      sign with her finger that called him to her, preserved him from the
+      imminent danger he was in of losing his life; and then she took care that
+      we should both be the better for this little incident, by laying before us
+      how much our safety and happiness, as well as our duty, were concerned in
+      being obedient.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My brother and I once had a quarrel about something as trifling as your
+      apple of contention; and, though we both heartily wished to be reconciled
+      to each other, yet did our little hearts swell so much with stubbornness
+      and pride, that neither of us would speak first; by which means we were so
+      silly as to be both uneasy, and yet would not use the remedy that was in
+      our own power to remove that uneasiness. My mamma found it out, and sent
+      for me into her closet, and said, &ldquo;She was sorry to see her instructions
+      had no better effect on me; for,&rdquo; continued she, &ldquo;indeed, Jenny, I am
+      ashamed of your folly, as well as wickedness, in thus contending with your
+      brother.&rdquo; A tear, which I believe flowed from shame, started from my eyes
+      at this reproof; and I fixed them on the ground, being too much
+      overwhelmed with confusion to dare to lift them up on mamma. On which she
+      kindly said, &ldquo;She hoped my confusion was a sign of my amendment. That she
+      might indeed have used another method, by commanding me to seek a
+      reconciliation with my brother; for she did not imagine I was already so
+      far gone in perverseness, as not to hold her commands as inviolable; but
+      she was willing, for my good, first to convince me of my folly.&rdquo; As soon
+      as my confusion would give me leave to speak, on my knees I gave her a
+      thousand thanks for her goodness, and went immediately to seek my brother.
+      He joyfully embraced the first opportunity of being reconciled to me; and
+      this was one of the pleasantest hours of my life. This quarrel happened
+      when my brother came home at a breaking-up, and I was nine years old.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My mamma&rsquo;s principal care was to keep up a perfect amity between me and
+      my brother. I remember once, when Harry and I were playing in the fields,
+      there was a small rivulet stopped me in my way. My brother, being nimbler
+      and better able to jump than myself, with one spring leaped over, and left
+      me on the other side of it; but seeing me uneasy that I could not get over
+      to him, his good nature prompted him to come back and to assist me; and,
+      by the help of his hand, I easily passed over. On this my good mamma bid
+      me remember how much my brother&rsquo;s superior strength might assist me in his
+      being my protector; and that I ought to return to use my utmost endeavours
+      to oblige him; and that then we should be mutual assistants to each other
+      throughout life. Thus everything that passed was made use of to improve my
+      understanding and amend my heart.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I believe no child ever spent her time more agreeably than I did; for I
+      not only enjoyed my own pleasures, but also those of others. And when my
+      brother was carried abroad, and I was left at home, that HE was pleased,
+      made me full amends for the loss of any diversion, the contentions between
+      us (where our parent&rsquo;s commands did not interfere) were always exerted in
+      endeavours each to prefer the other&rsquo;s pleasures to our own. My mind was
+      easy and free from anxiety; for as I always took care to speak truth, I
+      had nothing to conceal from my mamma, and consequently had never any fears
+      of being found in a lie. For one lie obliges us to tell a thousand others
+      to conceal it; and I have no notion of any conditions being so miserable,
+      as to live in a continual fear of detection. Most particularly, my mamma
+      instructed me to beware of all sorts of deceit; so that I was accustomed,
+      not only in words to speak truth, but also not to endeavour by any means
+      to deceive.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;But though the friendship between my brother and me was so strongly
+      cultivated, yet we were taught, that lying for each other, or praising
+      each other when it was not deserved, was not only a fault, but a very
+      great crime; for this, my mamma used to tell us, was not love, but hatred;
+      as it was encouraging one another in folly and wickedness. And though my
+      natural disposition inclined me to be very tender of everything in my
+      power, yet was I not suffered to give way even to THIS in an unreasonable
+      degree. One instance of which I remember.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;When I was about eleven years old, I had a cat that I had bred up from a
+      little kitten, that used to play round me, till I had indulged for the
+      poor animal a fondness that made me delight to have it continually with me
+      wherever I went; and, in return for my indulgence, the cat seemed to have
+      changed its nature, and assumed the manner that more properly belongs to
+      dogs than cats; for it would follow me about the house and gardens, mourn
+      for my absence, and rejoice at my presence. And, what was very remarkable,
+      the poor animal would, when fed by my hand, lose that caution which cats
+      are known to be possessed of, and eat whatever I gave it, as if it could
+      reflect that I meant only its good, and no harm could come from me.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I was at last so accustomed to see this little Frisk (for so I called it)
+      playing round me, that I seemed to miss part of myself in its absence. But
+      one day the poor little creature followed me to the door; when a parcel of
+      schoolboys coming by, one of them catched her up in his arms, and ran away
+      with her. All my cries were to no purpose; for he was out of sight with
+      her in a moment, and there was no method to trace his steps. The cruel
+      wretches, for sport, as they called it, hunted it the next day from one to
+      the other, in the most barbarous manner; till at last it took shelter in
+      that house that used to be its protection, and came and expired at my
+      feet.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I was so struck with the sight of the little animal dying in that manner,
+      that the great grief of my heart overflowed at my eyes, and I was for some
+      time inconsolable.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My indulgent mamma comforted without blaming me, till she thought I had
+      sufficient time to vent my grief; and then, sending for me into her
+      chamber, spoke as follows:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;&ldquo;Jenny, I have watched you ever since the death of your little favourite
+      cat; and have been in hopes daily, that your lamenting and melancholy on
+      that account would be at an end. But I find you still persist in grieving,
+      as if such a loss was irreparable. Now, though I have always encouraged
+      you in all sentiments of good nature and compassion; and am sensible, that
+      where those sentiments are strongly implanted, they will extend their
+      influence even to the least animal; yet you are to consider, my child,
+      that you are not to give way to any passions that interfere with your
+      duty; for whenever there is any contention between your duty and your
+      inclinations, you must conquer the latter, or become wicked and
+      contemptible. If, therefore, you give way to this melancholy, how will you
+      be able to perform your duty towards me, in cheerfully obeying my
+      commands, and endeavouring, by your lively prattle and innocent gaiety of
+      heart, to be my companion and delight? Nor will you be fit to converse
+      with your brother, whom (as you lost your good papa when you were too
+      young to know that loss) I have endeavoured to educate in such a manner,
+      that I hope he will be a father to you, if you deserve his love and
+      protection. In short, if you do not keep command enough of yourself to
+      prevent being ruffled by every accident, you will be unfit for all the
+      social offices of life, and be despised by all those whose regard and love
+      are worth your seeking. I treat you, my girl, as capable of considering
+      what is for your own good; for though you are but eleven years of age, yet
+      I hope the pains I have taken in explaining all you read, and in answering
+      all your questions in search of knowledge, has not been so much thrown
+      away, but that you are more capable of judging, than those unhappy
+      children are, whose parents have neglected to instruct them. And
+      therefore, farther to enforce what I say, remember, that repining at any
+      accident that happens to you, is an offence to that God to whom I have
+      taught you daily to pray for all the blessings you can receive, and to
+      whom you are to return humble thanks for every blessing.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;&ldquo;I expect therefore, Jenny, that you now dry up your tears, and resume
+      your usual cheerfulness. I do not doubt but your obedience to me will make
+      you at least put on the appearance of cheerfulness in my sight. But you
+      will deceive yourself, if you think that is performing your duty; for if
+      you would obey me as you ought, you must try heartily to root from your
+      mind all sorrow and gloominess. You may depend upon it, this command is in
+      your power to obey; for you know I never require anything of you that is
+      impossible.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;After my mamma had made this speech, she went out to take a walk in the
+      garden, and left me to consider of what she had said.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;The moment I came to reflect seriously, I found it was indeed in my power
+      to root all melancholy from my heart, when I considered it was necessary,
+      in order to perform my duty to God, to obey the best of mothers, and to
+      make myself a blessing and a cheerful companion to her, rather than a
+      burden, and the cause of her uneasiness, by my foolish melancholy.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;This little accident, as managed by my mamma, has been a lesson to me in
+      governing my passions ever since.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;It would be endless to repeat all the methods this good mother invented
+      for my instruction, amendment, and improvement. It is sufficient to
+      acquaint you, that she contrived that every new day should open to me some
+      new scene of knowledge; and no girl could be happier than I was during her
+      life. But, alas! when I was thirteen years of age, the scene changed. My
+      dear mamma was taken ill of a scarlet fever. I attended her day and night
+      whilst she lay ill, my eyes starting with tears to see her in that
+      condition; and yet I did not dare to give my sorrows vent, for fear of
+      increasing her pain.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here a trickling tear stole from Miss Jenny&rsquo;s eyes. She suppressed some
+      rising sobs that interrupted her speech, and was about to proceed in her
+      story, when, casting her eyes on her companions, she saw her sorrow had
+      such an effect upon them all, that there was not one of her hearers who
+      could refrain from shedding a sympathising tear. She therefore thought it
+      was more strictly following her mamma&rsquo;s precepts to pass this part of her
+      story in silence, rather than to grieve her friends; and having wiped away
+      her tears, she hastened to conclude her story; which she did as follows:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;After my mamma&rsquo;s death, my Aunt Newman, my father&rsquo;s sister, took the care
+      of me; but being obliged to go to Jamaica, to settle some affairs relating
+      to an estate she is possessed of there, she took with her my Cousin
+      Harriet, her only daughter, and left me under the care of the good Mrs.
+      Teachum till her return. And since I have been here, you all know as much
+      of my history as I do myself.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As Miss Jenny spoke these words, the bell summoned them to supper into the
+      presence of their governess, who having narrowly watched their looks ever
+      since the fray, had hitherto plainly perceived, that though they did not
+      dare to break out again into an open quarrel, yet their hearts had still
+      harboured unkind thoughts of one another. She was surprised NOW, as she
+      stood at a window in the hall that overlooked the garden, to see all her
+      scholars walk towards her hand in hand, with such cheerful countenances,
+      as plainly showed their inward good humour. And as she thought proper to
+      mention to them her pleasure in seeing them thus altered, Miss Jenny Peace
+      related to her governess all that had passed in the arbour, with their
+      general reconciliation. Mrs. Teachum gave Miss Jenny all the applause due
+      to her goodness, saying, she herself had only waited a little while, to
+      see if their anger would subside, and love take its place in their bosoms,
+      without her interfering again; for THAT she certainly should otherwise
+      have done, to have brought about what Miss Jenny had so happily effected.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny thanked her governess for her kind approbation, and said, that
+      if she would give them leave, she would spend what time she was pleased to
+      allow them from school in this little arbour, in reading stories, and such
+      things as she should think a proper and innocent amusement.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum not only gave leave, but very much approved of this proposal;
+      and desired Miss Jenny, as a reward for what she had already done, to
+      preside over these diversions, and to give her an account in what manner
+      they proceeded. Miss Jenny promised in all things to be guided by good
+      Mrs. Teachum. And now, soon after supper, they retired to rest, free from
+      those uneasy passions which used to prevent their quiet; and as they had
+      passed the day in pleasure, at night they sunk in soft and sweet repose.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0006" id="link2H_4_0006">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      MONDAY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      THE FIRST DAY AFTER THEIR REPENTANCE; AND, CONSEQUENTLY, THE FIRST DAY OF
+      THE HAPPINESS OF MISS JENNY PEACE AND HER COMPANIONS.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Early in the morning, as soon as Miss Jenny arose, all her companions
+      flocked round her; for they now looked on her as the best friend they had
+      in the world; and they agreed, when they came out of school, to adjourn
+      into their arbour, and divert themselves till dinner-time; which they
+      accordingly did. When Miss Jenny proposed, if it was agreeable to them to
+      hear it, to read them a story which she had put in her pocket for that
+      purpose; and as they now began to look upon her as the most proper person
+      to direct them in their amusements, they all replied, What was most
+      agreeable to her would please them best. She then began to read the
+      following story, with which we shall open their first day&rsquo;s amusement.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0007" id="link2H_4_0007">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE STORY OF THE CRUEL GIANT BARBARICO, THE GOOD GIANT BENEFICO,
+    </h2>
+    <h3>
+      AND THE LITTLE PRETTY DWARF MIGNON.
+    </h3>
+    <p>
+      A great many hundred years ago, the mountains of Wales were inhabited by
+      two giants; one of whom was the terror of all his neighbours and the
+      plague of the whole country. He greatly exceeded the size of any giant
+      recorded in history; and his eyes looked so fierce and terrible, that they
+      frightened all who were so unhappy as to behold them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The name of this enormous wretch was Barbarico. A name which filled all
+      who heard it with fear and astonishment. The whole delight of this
+      monster&rsquo;s life was in acts of inhumanity and mischief; and he was the most
+      miserable as well as the most wicked creature that ever yet was born. He
+      had no sooner committed one outrage, but he was in agonies till he could
+      commit another; never satisfied, unless he could find an opportunity of
+      either torturing or devouring some innocent creature. And whenever he
+      happened to be disappointed in any of his malicious purposes, he would
+      stretch his immense bulk on the top of some high mountain, and groan, and
+      beat the earth, and bellow with such a hollow voice, that the whole
+      country heard and trembled at the sound.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The other giant, whose name was Benefico, was not so tall and bulky as the
+      hideous Barbarico. He was handsome, well proportioned, and of a very
+      good-natured turn of mind. His delight was no less in acts of goodness and
+      benevolence than the other&rsquo;s was in cruelty and mischief. His constant
+      care was to endeavour if possible to repair the injuries committed by this
+      horrid tyrant, which he had sometimes an opportunity of doing; for though
+      Barbarico was much larger and stronger than Benefico, yet his coward mind
+      was afraid to engage with him, and always shunned a meeting; leaving the
+      pursuit of any prey, if he himself was pursued by Benefico: nor could the
+      good Benefico trust farther to this coward spirit of his base adversary,
+      than only to make the horrid creature fly; for he well knew that a close
+      engagement might make him desperate; and fatal to himself might be the
+      consequence of such a brutal desperation; therefore he prudently declined
+      any attempt to destroy this cruel monster, till he should gain some sure
+      advantage over him.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It happened on a certain day, that as the inhuman Barbarico was prowling
+      along the side of a craggy mountain overgrown with brambles and briery
+      thickets, taking most horrid strides, rolling his ghastly eyes around in
+      quest of human blood, and having his breast tortured with inward rage and
+      grief, that he had been so unhappy as to live one whole day without some
+      act of violence, he beheld, in a pleasant valley at a distance, a little
+      rivulet winding its gentle course through rows of willows mixed with
+      flowery shrubs. Hither the giant hasted; and being arrived, he gazed about
+      to see if in this sweet retirement any were so unhappy as to fall within
+      his power; but finding none, the disappointment set him in a flame of
+      rage, which, burning like an inward furnace, parched his throat. And now
+      he laid him down on the bank, to try if in the cool stream, that murmured
+      as it flowed, he could assuage or slack the fiery thirst that burnt within
+      him.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      He bent him down to drink; and at the same time casting his baleful eyes
+      towards the opposite side, he discovered within a little natural arbour
+      formed by the branches of a spreading tree, within the meadow&rsquo;s flowery
+      lawn, the shepherd Fidus and his loved Amata.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The gloomy tyrant no sooner perceived this happy pair, than his heart
+      exulted with joy; and, suddenly leaping up on the ground, he forgot his
+      thirst, and left the stream untasted. He stood for a short space to view
+      them in their sweet retirement; and was soon convinced that, in the
+      innocent enjoyment of reciprocal affection, their happiness was complete.
+      His eyes, inflamed with envy to behold such bliss, darted a fearful glare;
+      and his breast swelling with malice and envenomed rage, he with gigantic
+      pace approached their peaceful seat.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The happy Fidus was at that time busy in entertaining his loved Amata with
+      a song which he had that very morning composed in praise of constancy; and
+      the giant was now within one stride of them, when Amata, perceiving him,
+      cried out in a trembling voice, &lsquo;Fly, Fidus, fly, or we are lost for ever;
+      we are pursued by the hateful Barbarico!&rsquo; She had scarce uttered these
+      words, when the savage tyrant seized them by the waist in either hand, and
+      holding up to his nearer view, thus said: &lsquo;Speak, miscreants; and, if you
+      would avoid immediate death, tell me who you are, and whence arises that
+      tranquility of mind, which even at a distance was visible in your
+      behaviour.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Poor Fidus, with looks that would have melted the hardest heart,
+      innocently replied, that they were wandering that way without designing
+      offence to any creature on earth. That they were faithful lovers; and,
+      with the consent of all their friends and relations, were soon to be
+      married; therefore he entreated him not to part them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The giant now no sooner perceived, from the last words of the affrighted
+      youth, what was most likely to give them the greatest torment, than with a
+      spiteful grin which made his horrible face yet more horrible, and in a
+      hollow voice, as loud as thunder, he tauntingly cried out, &lsquo;Ho-hoh! You&rsquo;d
+      not be parted, would you? For once I&rsquo;ll gratify thy will, and thou shalt
+      follow this thy whimpering fondling down my capatious maw.&rsquo; So saying, he
+      turned his ghastly visage on the trembling Amata who, being now no longer
+      able to support herself under his cruel threats, fainted away, and
+      remained in his hand but as a lifeless corpse. When lifting up his eyes
+      towards the hill on the opposite side, he beheld Benefico coming hastily
+      towards him. This good giant having been that morning informed that
+      Barbarico was roaming in the mountains after prey, left his peaceful
+      castle, in hopes of giving protection to whatever unfortunate creature
+      should fall into the clutches of this so cruel a monster.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Barbarico, at the sight of the friendly Benefico, started with fear; for
+      although in bulk and stature he was, as we have said, the superior: yet
+      that cowardice, which ever accompanies wickedness, now wrought in him in
+      such a manner that he could not bear to confront him, well knowing the
+      courage and fortitude that always attend the good and virtuous; and
+      therefore instantly putting Fidus into the wallet that hung over his
+      shoulder, he flung the fainting Amata, whom he took to be quite expired,
+      into the stream that ran hard by, and fled to his cave, not daring once to
+      cast his eyes behind him.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The good Benefico perceiving the monster&rsquo;s flight, and not doubting but he
+      had been perpetrating some horrid mischief, immediately hastened to the
+      brook; where he found the half-expiring Amata floating down the stream,
+      for her clothes had yet borne her up on the surface of the water. He
+      speedily stepped in and drew her out, and taking her in his arms, pressed
+      her to his warm bosom; and in a short space perceiving in her face the
+      visible marks of returning life, his heart swelled with kind compassion,
+      and he thus bespoke the tender maid: &lsquo;Unhappy damsel, lift up thy gentle
+      eyes, and tell me by what hard fate thou hast fallen into the power of
+      that barbarous monster, whose savage nature delights in nothing but ruin
+      and desolation. Tremble not thus, but without fear or terror behold one
+      who joys in the thought of having saved thee from destruction, and will
+      bring thee every comfort his utmost power can procure.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The gentle Amata was now just enough recovered to open her eyes: but
+      finding herself in a giant&rsquo;s arms, and still retaining in her mind the
+      frightful image of the horrid Barbarico, she fetched a deep sigh, crying
+      out in broken accents, &lsquo;Fly, Fidus, fly;&rsquo; and again sunk down upon the
+      friendly giant&rsquo;s breast. On hearing these words, and plainly seeing by the
+      anguish of her mind that some settled grief was deeply rooted at her
+      heart, and therefore despairing to bring her to herself immediately, the
+      kind Benefico hastened with her to his hospitable castle; where every
+      imaginable assistance was administered to her relief, in order to recover
+      her lost sense, and to reconcile her to her wretched fate.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The cruel Barbarico was no sooner arrived at his gloomy cave, than he
+      called to him his little page; who, trembling to hear the tyrant now again
+      returned, quickly drew near to attend his stern commands: when drawing out
+      of the wallet the poor Fidus, more dead than alive, the monster cried out,
+      &lsquo;Here, caitiff, take in charge this smoothed-faced miscreant; and, d&rsquo;ye
+      hear me? see that his allowance be no more than one small ounce of mouldy
+      bread and half a pint of standing water, for each day&rsquo;s support, till his
+      now blooming skin be withered, his flesh be wasted from his bones, and he
+      dwindle to a meagre skeleton.&rsquo; So saying he left them, as he hoped, to
+      bewail each other&rsquo;s sad condition. But the unhappy Fidus, bereft of his
+      Amata, was not to be appalled by any of the most horrid threats; for now
+      his only comfort was the hopes of a speedy end to his miserable life, and
+      to find a refuge from his misfortunes in the peaceful grave. With this
+      reflection the faithful Fidus was endeavouring to calm the inward troubles
+      of his mind, when the little page, with looks of the most tender
+      compassion, and in gentle words, bid him be comforted, and with patience
+      endure his present affliction; adding that he himself had long suffered
+      the most rigorous fate, yet despaired not but that one day would give them
+      an opportunity to free themselves from the wicked wretch, whose sole
+      delight was in others&rsquo; torments. &lsquo;As to his inhuman commands,&rsquo; continued
+      he, &lsquo;I will sooner die than obey them; and in a mutual friendship perhaps
+      we may find some consolation, even in this dismal cave.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      This little page the cruel Barbarico had stolen from his parents at five
+      years old; ever since which time he had tortured and abused him, till he
+      had now attained the age of one-and-twenty. His mother had given him the
+      name of Mignon; by which name the monster always called him, as it
+      gratified his insolence to make use of that fond appellation whilst he was
+      abusing him, only when he said Mignon he would in derision add the word
+      Dwarf; for, to say the truth, Mignon was one of the least men that was
+      ever seen, though at the same time one of the prettiest: his limbs, though
+      small, were exactly proportioned; his countenance was at once sprightly
+      and soft; and whatever his head thought, or his heart felt, his eyes by
+      their looks expressed; and his temper was as sweet as his person was
+      amiable. Such was the gentle creature Barbarico chose to torment. For
+      wicked giants, no less than wicked men and women, are constantly tormented
+      at the appearance of those perfections in another, to which they
+      themselves have no pretensions.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The friendship and affection of Fidus and Mignon now every day increased;
+      and the longer they were acquainted, the mere delight they took in each
+      other&rsquo;s company. The faithful Fidus related to his companion the story of
+      his loved Amata, whilst the tender Mignon consoled his friend&rsquo;s inward
+      sorrows, and supplied him with necessaries, notwithstanding the venture he
+      run of the cruel tyrant&rsquo;s heavy displeasure. The giant ceased not every
+      day to view the hapless Fidus, to see if the cruelty of his intentions had
+      in any degree wrought its desired effect; but perceiving in him no
+      alteration, he now began to be suspicious that the little Mignon had not
+      punctually obeyed his savage command. In order therefore to satisfy his
+      wicked curiosity, he resolved within himself narrowly to watch every
+      occasion these poor unhappy captives had of conversing with each other.
+      Mignon, well knowing the implacable and revengeful disposition of this
+      barbarous tyrant, had taken all the precautions imaginable to avoid
+      discovery; and therefore generally sought every opportunity of being alone
+      with Fidus, and carrying him his daily provisions at those hours he knew
+      the giant was most likely to be asleep.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It so befell that, on a certain day, the wicked giant had, as was his
+      usual custom, been abroad for many hours in search of some unhappy
+      creature on whom to glut his hateful inhumanity; when, tired with
+      fruitless roaming, he returned to his gloomy cave, beguiled of all his
+      horrid purposes; for he had not once that day espied so much as the track
+      of man, or other harmless animal, to give him hopes even to gratify his
+      rage or cruelty; but now raving with inward torment and despair, he laid
+      him down upon his iron couch, to try if he could close his eyes and quiet
+      the tumultuous passions of his breast. He tossed and tumbled and could get
+      no rest, starting with fearful dreams, and horrid visions of tormenting
+      furies.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Meanwhile the gentle Mignon had prepared a little delicate repast, and
+      having seen the monster lay himself at length, and thinking now that a fit
+      occasion offered in which to comfort and refresh his long-expecting
+      friend, was hastening with it to the cell where the faithful Fidus was
+      confined. At the fatal moment the giant, rearing himself up on his couch,
+      perceived the little Mignon just at the entrance of the cell; when calling
+      to him in a hollow voice, that dismally resounded through the cave, he so
+      startled the poor unhappy page, that he dropped the cover from his
+      trembling hand and stood fixed and motionless as a statue.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Come hither, Mignon, caitiff, dwarf,&rsquo; said then the taunting homicide:
+      but the poor little creature was so thunderstruck he was quite unable to
+      stir one foot. Whereat the giant, rousing himself from off his couch, with
+      one huge stride reached out his brawny arm, and seized him by the waist;
+      and, pointing to the scattered delicates, cried out, &lsquo;Vile miscreant! is
+      it thus thou hast obeyed my orders? Is this the mouldy bread and muddy
+      water, with which alone it was my command thou shouldst sustain that puny
+      mortal? But I&rsquo;ll&mdash;&rsquo; Here raising him aloft, he was about to dash him
+      to the ground, when suddenly revolving in his wicked thoughts, that if at
+      once he should destroy his patient slave, his cruelty to him must also
+      have an end, he paused&mdash;and then recovering, he stretched out his
+      arm, and bringing the little trembler near his glaring eyes, he thus
+      subjoins: &lsquo;No; I&rsquo;ll not destroy thy wretched life; but thou shalt waste
+      thy weary days in a dark dungeon, as far remote from the least dawn of
+      light as from thy loved companion. And I myself will carefully supply you
+      both so equally with mouldy bread and water, that each by his own
+      sufferings shall daily know what his dear friend endures.&rsquo; So saying, he
+      hastened with him to his deepest dungeon; and having thrust him in, he
+      doubly barred the iron door. And now again retiring to his couch, this
+      new-wrought mischief, which greatly gratified his raging mind, soon sunk
+      him down into a sound and heavy sleep. The reason this horrid monster had
+      not long ago devoured his little captive (for he thought him a delicious
+      morsel) was, that he might never want an object at hand to gratify his
+      cruelty. For though extremely great was his voracious hunger, yet greater
+      still was his desire of tormenting; and oftentimes when he had teased,
+      beat, and tortured the poor gentle Mignon, so as to force from him tears,
+      and sometimes a soft complaint, he would, with a malicious sneer,
+      scornfully reproach him in the following words: &lsquo;Little does it avail to
+      whine, to blubber, or complain; for, remember, abject wretch,
+    </p>
+<pre xml:space="preserve">
+     I am a giant, and I can eat thee:
+     Thou art a dwarf, and thou canst not eat me.&rsquo; 
+</pre>
+    <p>
+      When Mignon was thus alone, he threw himself on the cold ground, bemoaning
+      his unhappy fate. However, he soon recollected that patience and
+      resignation were his only succour in this distressful condition; not
+      doubting but that, as goodness cannot always suffer, he should in time
+      meet with some unforeseen deliverance from the savage power of the inhuman
+      Barbarico.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Whilst the gentle Mignon was endeavouring to comfort himself in his
+      dungeon with these good reflections, he suddenly perceived, at a little
+      distance from him, a small glimmering light. Immediately he rose from the
+      ground, and going towards it, found that it shone through a little door
+      that had been left at jar, which led him to a spacious hall, wherein the
+      giant hoarded his immense treasures. Mignon was at first dazzled with the
+      lustre of so much gold and silver, and sparkling jewels as were there
+      heaped together. But casting his eyes on a statue that was placed in the
+      middle of the room, he read on the pedestal, written in very small
+      letters, the following verses:
+    </p>
+<pre xml:space="preserve">
+     Wouldst thou from the rage be free
+     Of the tyrant&rsquo;s tyranny,
+     Loose the fillet which is bound
+     Twice three times my brows around;
+     Bolts and bars shall open fly,
+     By a magic sympathy.
+     Take him in his sleeping hour;
+     Bind his neck and break his pow&rsquo;r.
+     Patience bids, make no delay:
+     Haste to bind him, haste away.
+</pre>
+    <p>
+      Mignon&rsquo;s little heart now leapt for joy, that he had found the means of
+      such a speedy deliverance; and eagerly climbing up the statue, he quickly
+      unbound the magic fillet; which was no sooner done, but suddenly the bolts
+      and bars of the brazen gates through which the giant used to pass to this
+      his treasury, were all unloosed, and the folding-doors of their own accord
+      flew open, grating harsh thunder on their massy hinges. At the same
+      instant, stretched on his iron couch in the room adjoining to the hall,
+      the giant gave a deadly groan. Here again the little Mignon&rsquo;s trembling
+      heart began to fail; for he feared the monster was awakened by the noise,
+      and that he should now suffer the cruellest torments his wicked malice
+      could invent. Wherefore for a short space he remained clinging round the
+      statue, till he perceived that all again was hushed and silent; when,
+      getting down, he gently stole into the giant&rsquo;s chamber, where he found him
+      still in a profound sleep.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But here, to the great mortification of Miss Jenny&rsquo;s attentive hearers,
+      the hour of entertaining themselves being at an end, they were obliged to
+      leave the poor little Mignon in the greatest distress and fright lest the
+      giant should awake before he could fulfil the commands of the oracle, and
+      to wait for the remainder of the story till another opportunity.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In the evening, as soon as school was over, the little company again met
+      in their arbour, and nothing could be greater than their impatience to
+      hear the event of Mignon&rsquo;s hazardous undertaking. Miss Dolly Friendly said
+      that if the poor little creature was destroyed, she should not sleep that
+      night. But they all joined in entreating Miss Jenny to proceed; which she
+      did in the following manner:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0008" id="link2H_4_0008">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      A CONTINUATION OF THE STORY OF THE GIANTS.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Now, thought Mignon, is the lucky moment to fulfil the instructions of the
+      oracle. And then cautiously getting up the side of the couch, with
+      trembling hands he put the fillet round the monster&rsquo;s neck, and tied it
+      firmly in a threefold knot; and again softly creeping down, he retired
+      into a corner of the room to wait the wished event. In a few minutes the
+      giant waked; and opening his enormous eyes, he glared their horrid orbs
+      around (but without the least motion of his head or body) and spied the
+      little Mignon where he lay, close shrinking to avoid his baleful sight.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The giant no sooner perceived his little page at liberty, but his heart
+      sorely smote him, and he began to suspect the worst that could befall;
+      for, recollecting that he had carelessly left open the little door leading
+      from the dungeon to the great hall wherein was placed the fatal magic
+      statue, he was now entirely convinced that Mignon had discovered the
+      secret charm on which his power depended; for he already found the magic
+      of the fillet round his neck fully to operate, his sinews all relax, his
+      joints all tremble; and when he would by his own hand have tried to free
+      himself, his shivering limbs he found refused obedience to their office.
+      Thus bereft of all his strength, and well nigh motionless, in this
+      extremity of impotence he cast about within himself by what sly fraud (for
+      fraud and subtlety were now his only refuge) he best might work upon the
+      gentle Mignon to lend his kind assistance to unloose him. Wherefore with
+      guileful words and seeming courtesy, still striving to conceal his cursed
+      condition, he thus bespake his little captive:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Come hither Mignon; my pretty gentle boy, come near me. This fillet thou
+      has bound around my neck, to keep me from the cold, gives me some pain. I
+      know thy gentle nature will not let thee see thy tender master in the
+      least uneasiness, without affording him thy cheerful aid and kind relief.
+      Come hither, my dear child, I say, and loose the knot which in thy kind
+      concern (I thank thee for thy care) thou hast tied so hard, it somewhat
+      frets my neck.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      These words the insidious wretch uttered in such a low trembling tone of
+      voice, and with such an affectation of tenderness, that the little page,
+      who had never before experience from him any such kind of dialect, and but
+      too well knew his savage nature to believe that anything but guile or want
+      of power could move him to the least friendly speech, or kind affection,
+      began now strongly to be persuaded that all was as he wished, and that the
+      power of the inhuman tyrant was at an end. He knew full well, that if the
+      giant had not lost the ability of rising from the couch, he should ere now
+      too sensibly have felt the sad effects of his malicious resentment, and
+      therefore boldly adventured to approach him, and coming near the couch,
+      and finding not the least effort in the monster to reach him, and from
+      thence quite satisfied of the giant&rsquo;s total incapacity of doing farther
+      mischief, he flew with raptures to the cell where Fidus lay confined.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Poor Fidus all this time was quite disconsolate; nor could he guess the
+      cause why his little friend so long had kept away; one while he thought
+      the giant&rsquo;s stern commands had streightened him of all subsistence;
+      another while his heart misgave him for his gentle friend, lest unawares
+      his kind beneficence towards him had caused him to fall a sacrifice to the
+      tyrant&rsquo;s cruel resentment. With these and many other like reflections the
+      unhappy youth was busied, when Mignon, suddenly unbarred the cell, flew to
+      his friend, and eagerly embraced him, cried out, &lsquo;Come Fidus, haste, my
+      dearest friend; for thou and all of us are from this moment free. Come and
+      behold the cruel monster, where he lies, bereft of all his strength. I
+      cannot stay to tell thee now the cause; but haste, and thou shall see the
+      dreadful tyrant stretched on his iron couch, deprived of all his wicked
+      power. But first let us unbar each cell, wherein is pent some wretched
+      captive, that we may share a general transport for this our glad
+      deliverance.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The faithful Fidus, whose heart had known but little joy since he had lost
+      his loved Amata, now felt a dawning hope that he might once more chance to
+      find her, if she had survived their fatal separation; and, without one
+      word of answer, he followed Mignon to the several cells, and soon released
+      all the astonished captives.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mignon first carried them to behold their former terror, now, to
+      appearance, almost a lifeless corpse; who on seeing them all surround his
+      couch, gave a most hideous roar, which made them tremble, all but the
+      gentle Mignon, who was convinced of the impotence of his rage, and begged
+      them to give him their attendance in the hall; where they were no sooner
+      assembled than he showed them the statue, read them the oracle, and told
+      them every circumstance before related.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They now began to bethink themselves of what method was to be taken to
+      procure their entire liberty; for the influence of the magic fillet
+      extended only to the gates of the hall; and still they remained imprisoned
+      within the dismal cave; and though they knew from the oracle, as well as
+      from what appeared, that the monster&rsquo;s power was at an end, yet still were
+      they to seek the means of their escape from this his horrid abode. At
+      length Mignon again ascended the couch to find the massy key, and spying
+      one end of it peep out from under the pillow, he called to Fidus, who
+      first stepped up to his friend&rsquo;s assistance; the rest by his example
+      quickly followed; and now, by their united force, they dragged the
+      ponderous key from under the monster&rsquo;s head; and then descending they all
+      went to the outer door of the cave, where, with some difficulty, they set
+      wide open the folding iron gates.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They now determined to dispatch a messenger to the good Benefico with the
+      news, which they knew would be so welcome to him and all his guests, and
+      with one voice agreed that Fidus should bear the joyful tidings; and then
+      returned to observe the monster, and to wait the coming of Benefico. The
+      nimble Fidus soon reached the giant&rsquo;s dwelling, where, at a little
+      distance from the castle, he met the good Benefico with a train of happy
+      friends, enjoying the pleasures of the evening, and the instructive and
+      cheerful conversation of their kind protector. Fidus briefly told his
+      errand; and instantly Benefico, with all his train, joyfully hastened to
+      behold the wonders he had related; for now many hearts leapt for joy, in
+      hopes of meeting some friend of whom they had been bereft by the cruelty
+      of the savage Barbarico.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They were not long before they arrived at the horrid cave, where Benefico,
+      proceeding directly to the monster&rsquo;s chamber, suddenly appeared to him at
+      the side of his couch. Barbarico, on seeing him, gave a hideous yell, and
+      rolled his glaring eyes in such a manner as expressed the height of rage
+      and envious bitterness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Benefico, turning to all the company present, thus spoke, &lsquo;How shall I
+      enough praise and admire the gentle Mignon for having put in my power to
+      justice on this execrable wretch, and freeing you all from an insufferable
+      slavery, and the whole country from their terror?&rsquo; Then reaching the
+      monster&rsquo;s own sword, which hung over his couch, his hand yet suspended
+      over the impious tyrant, he thus said, &lsquo;Speak, wretch, if yet the power of
+      speech is left thee; and with thy latest breath declare, what advantage
+      hast thou found of all thy wicked life?&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Barbarico well knew that too bad had been that life, to leave the least
+      room for hope of mercy; and therefore, instead of an answer, he gave
+      another hideous yell, gnashing his horrid teeth, and again rolling his
+      ghastly eyes on all around.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Benefico seeing him thus impenitent and sullen, lifted on high the mighty
+      sword, and with one blow severed his odious head from his enormous body.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The whole assembly gave a shout for joy; and Benefico holding in his hand
+      the monster&rsquo;s yet grinning head, thus addressed his half-astonished
+      companions: &lsquo;See here, my friends, the proper conclusion of a rapacious
+      cruel life. But let us hasten from this monster&rsquo;s gloomy cave; and on the
+      top of one of our highest mountains, fixed on a pole, will I set up this
+      joyful spectacle, that all the country round may know themselves at
+      liberty to pursue their rural business or amusements, without the dread of
+      any annoyance from a devouring vile tormentor. And when his treasures,
+      which justly all belong to the good patient Mignon, are removed, we will
+      shut up the mouth of this abominable dwelling; and, casting on the door a
+      heap of earth, we&rsquo;ll hope, in time, that both place and remembrance of
+      this cruel savage may in time be lost.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Every one readily cried out, that to Benefico, the good Benefico, alone
+      belonged the tyrant&rsquo;s treasures; that Benefico should ever be, as
+      heretofore, their governor, their father, and their kind protector.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The beneficent heart of the good giant was quite melted with this their
+      kind confidence and dependence upon him, and assured them, he should ever
+      regard them as his children: and now, exulting in the general joy that
+      must attend the destruction of this savage monster, when the whole country
+      should find themselves freed from the terror his rapine and desolation, he
+      sent before to his castle, to give intelligence to all within that happy
+      place of the grim monster&rsquo;s fall, and little Mignon&rsquo;s triumph; giving in
+      charge to the harbinger of these tidings, that it should be his first and
+      chiefest care to glad the gentle bosom of a fair disconsolate (who kept
+      herself retired and pent up within her own apartment) with the knowledge
+      that the inhuman monster was no more; and that henceforth sweet peace and
+      rural innocence might reign in all their woods and groves. The hearts of
+      all within the castle bounded with joy, on hearing the report of the
+      inhuman monster&rsquo;s death, and the deliverance of all his captives, and with
+      speedy steps they hastened to meet their kind protector; nor did the
+      melancholy fair one, lest she should seem unthankful for the general
+      blessing, refuse to join the train.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It was not long after the messenger that Benefico, and those his joyful
+      friends, arrived: but the faithful Fidus alone, of all this happy company,
+      was tortured with the inward pangs of a sad grief he could not conquer,
+      and his fond heart remained still captivated to a melting sorrow: nor
+      could even the tender friendship of the gentle Mignon quite remove, though
+      it alleviated, his sadness; but the thoughts of his loved lost amata
+      embittered every joy, and overwhelmed his generous soul with sorrow.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When the company from the castle joined Benefico, he declared to them in
+      what manner their deliverance was effected; and, as a general shout of joy
+      resounded through the neighbouring mountains, Fidus, lifting up his eyes,
+      beheld in the midst of the multitude, standing in a pensive posture, the
+      fair disconsolate. Her tender heart was at the instant overflowing in soft
+      tears, caused by a kind participation of their present transport, yet
+      mixed with the deep sad impression of a grief her bosom was full fraught
+      with. Her face, at first, was almost hid by her white handkerchief, with
+      which she wiped away the trickling drops, which falling, had bedewed her
+      beauteous cheeks: but as she turned her lovely face to view the joyful
+      conquerors, and to speak a welcome to her kind protector, what words can
+      speak the raptures, the astonishment, that swelled the bosom of the
+      faithful youth, when in this fair disconsolate he saw his loved, his
+      constant, his long-lost Amata! Their delighted eyes in the same instant
+      beheld each other, and, breaking on each side from their astonished
+      friends, they flew like lightning into each other&rsquo;s arms.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      After they had given a short account of what had passed in their
+      separation, Fidus presented to his loved Amata the kind, the gentle
+      Mignon, with lavish praises of his generous friendship, and steady
+      resolution, in hazarding his life by disobeying the injunctions of the
+      cruel tyrant. No sooner had Amata heard the name of Mignon, but she cried
+      out, &lsquo;Surely my happiness is now complete, and all my sorrows, by this
+      joyful moment, are more than fully recompensed; for, in the kind preserver
+      of my Fidus, I have found my brother. My mother lost her little Mignon
+      when he was five years old; and pining grief, after some years vain
+      search, ended her wretched life.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The generous hearts of all who were present shared the raptures of the
+      faithful Fidus, the lovely Amata, and gentle Mignon, on this happy
+      discovery; and in the warmest congratulations they expressed their joy.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Benefico now led all the delighted company into his castle, where freedom
+      was publicly proclaimed; and every one was left a liberty either to remain
+      there with Benefico, or, loaded with wealth sufficient for their use, to
+      go where their attachments or inclinations might invite them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Fidus, Amata, and the little Mignon, hesitated not one moment to declare
+      their choice of staying with the generous Benefico.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The nuptials of the faithful Fidus, and his loved Amata, were solemnized
+      in the presence of all their friends.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Benefico passed the remainder of his days in pleasing reflections on his
+      well-spent life.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The treasures of the dead tyrant were turned into blessings by the use
+      they were now made of: little Mignon was loved and cherished by all his
+      companions. Peace, harmony and love reigned in every bosom; dissension,
+      discord, and hatred were banished from this friendly dwelling; and that
+      happiness, which is the natural consequence of goodness, appeared in every
+      cheerful countenance throughout the castle of the good Benefico; and as
+      heretofore affright and terror spread itself from the monster&rsquo;s hateful
+      cave, so now from this peaceful castle was diffused tranquility and joy
+      through all the happy country round.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Thus ended the story of the two giants: and Miss Jenny being tired with
+      reading, they left the arbour for that night, and agreed to meet there
+      again the next day.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As soon as they had supped, Mrs. Teachum sent for Miss Jenny Peace into
+      her closet, and desired an exact account from her of this their first
+      day&rsquo;s amusement, that she might judge from thence how far they might be
+      trusted with the liberty she had given them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny showed her governess the story she had read; and said, &lsquo;I hope,
+      madam, you will not think it an improper one; for it was given me by my
+      mamma; and she told me, that she thought it contained a very excellent
+      moral.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum, having looked it over, thus spoke: &lsquo;I have no objection,
+      Miss Jenny, to your reading any stories to amuse you, provided you read
+      them with the proper disposition of mind not to be hurt by them. A very
+      good moral may indeed be drawn from the whole, and likewise from almost
+      every part of it; and as you had this story from your mamma, I doubt not
+      but you are very well qualified to make the proper remarks yourself upon
+      the moral of it to your companions. But here let me observe to you (which
+      I would have you communicate to your little friends) that giants, magic,
+      fairies, and all sorts of supernatural assistances in a story, are only
+      introduced to amuse and divert: for a giant is called so only to express a
+      man of great power; and the magic fillet round the statue was intended
+      only to show you, that by patience you will overcome all difficulties.
+      Therefore, by no means let the notion of giants or magic dwell upon your
+      minds. And you may farther observe, that there is a different style
+      adapted to every sort of writing; and the various sounding epithets given
+      to Barbarico are proper to express the raging cruelty of his wicked mind.
+      But neither this high-sounding language, nor the supernatural contrivances
+      in this story, do I so thoroughly approve, as to recommend them much to
+      your reading; except, as I said before, great care is taken to prevent
+      your being carried away, by these high-flown things, from that simplicity
+      of taste and manners which it is my chief study to inculcate.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Miss Jenny looked a little confounded; and, by her down-cast eye,
+      showed a fear that she had incurred the disapprobation, if not the
+      displeasure, of her governess: upon which Mrs. Teachum thus proceeded:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I do not intend by this, my dear, to blame you for what you have done;
+      but only to instruct you how to make the best use of even the most
+      trifling things: and if you have any more stories of this kind, with an
+      equal good moral, when you are not better employed, I shall not be against
+      your reading them; always remembering the cautions I have this evening
+      been giving you.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny thanked her governess for her instructions, and kind indulgence
+      to her, and promised to give her an exact account of their daily
+      amusements; and, taking leave, retired to her rest.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0009" id="link2H_4_0009">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      TUESDAY. THE SECOND DAY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      That Miss Jenny&rsquo;s meeting with her companions in the morning, after
+      school, she asked them how they liked the history of the giants? They all
+      declared they thought it a very pretty diverting story. Miss Jenny
+      replied, though she was glad they were pleased, yet she would have them
+      look farther than the present amusement: &lsquo;for,&rsquo; continued she, &lsquo;my mamma
+      always taught me to understand what I read; otherwise, she said, it was to
+      no manner of purpose to read ever so many books, which would only stuff my
+      brain, without being any improvement to my mind.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The misses all agreed, that certainly it was of no use to read, without
+      understanding what they read; and began to talk of the story of the
+      giants, to prove they could make just remarks on it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Sukey Jennett said, &lsquo;I am most pleased with that part of the story
+      where the good Benefico cuts off the monster&rsquo;s head, and puts an end to
+      his cruelty, especially as he was so sullen he would not confess his
+      wickedness; because, you know, Miss Jenny, if he had had sense enough to
+      have owned his error, and have followed the example of the good giant, he
+      might have been happy.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Lucy Sly delivered the following opinion: &lsquo;My greatest joy was whilst
+      Mignon was tying the magic fillet round the monster&rsquo;s neck, and conquering
+      him.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Now I (said Miss Dolly Friendly) am most pleased with that part of the
+      story, were Fidus and Amata meet the reward of their constancy and love,
+      when they find each other after all their sufferings.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Polly Suckling said, with some eagerness, &lsquo;My greatest joy was in the
+      description of Mignon; and to think that it should be in the power of that
+      little creature to conquer such a great monster.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Patty Lockit, Miss Nanny Spruce, Miss Betty Ford, and Miss Henny
+      Fret, advanced no new opinions; but agreed some to one, and some to
+      another, of those that were already advanced. And as every one was eager
+      to maintain her own opinion, an argument followed, the particulars of
+      which I could never learn: only thus much I know, that it was concluded by
+      Miss Lucy Sly, saying, with an air and tone of voice that implied more
+      anger than had been heard since the reconciliation, that she was sure Miss
+      Polly Suckling only liked that part about Mignon, because she was the
+      least in the school; and Mignon being such a little creature, put her in
+      mind of herself.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny Peace now began to be frighted, lest this contention should
+      raise another quarrel; and therefore begged to be heard before they went
+      any farther. They were not yet angry enough to refuse hearing what she had
+      to say: and then Miss Jenny desired them to consider the moral of the
+      story, and what use they might make of it, instead of contending which was
+      the prettiest part: &lsquo;For otherwise,&rsquo; continued she, &lsquo;I have lost my breath
+      in reading to you; and you will be worse, rather than better, for what you
+      have heard. Pray observe, that Benefico&rsquo;s happiness arose entirely from
+      his goodness: he had less strength, and less riches, than the cruel
+      monster; and yet, by the good use he made of what he possessed, you see
+      how he turned all things to his advantage. But particularly remember, that
+      the good little Mignon, in the moment that he was patiently submitting to
+      his sufferings, found a method of relieving himself from them, and of
+      overcoming a barbarous monster, who had so cruelly abused him.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Our good governess last night not only instructed me in this moral I am
+      now communicating to you, but likewise bid me warn you by no means to let
+      the notion of giants or magic to dwell upon your minds; for by a giant is
+      meant no more than a man of great power; and the magic fillet round the
+      head of the statue was only intended to teach you, that by the assistance
+      of patience you may overcome all difficulties.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;In order therefore to make what you read of any use to you, you must not
+      only think of it thus in general, but make the application to yourselves.
+      For when (as now) instead of improving yourselves by reading, you make
+      what you read a subject to quarrel about, what is this less than being
+      like the monster Barbarico, who turned his very riches to a curse? I am
+      sure it is not following the example of Benefico, who made everything a
+      blessing to him. Remember, if you pinch and abuse a dog or cat, because it
+      is in your power, you are like the cruel Monster, when he abused the
+      little Mignon, and said,
+    </p>
+<pre xml:space="preserve">
+     I am a giant, and I can eat thee;
+     Thou art a dwarf, and thou canst not eat me.
+</pre>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;In short, if you will reap any benefit from this story towards rendering
+      you happy, whenever you have any power, you must follow the example of the
+      giant Benefico, and do good with it: and when you are under any
+      sufferings, like Mignon, you must patiently endure them till you can find
+      a remedy: then, in one case, like Benefico, you will enjoy what you
+      possess; and, in the other, you will in time, like Mignon, overcome your
+      sufferings: for the natural consequence of indulging cruelty and revenge
+      in the mind, even where there is the highest power to gratify it, is
+      misery.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Miss Sukey Jennet interrupted Miss Jenny, saying, that she herself
+      had experienced the truth of that observation in the former part of her
+      life: for she never had known either peace or pleasure, till she had
+      conquered in her mind the desire of hurting and being revenged on those
+      who she thought did not by their behaviour show the same regard for her,
+      that her own good opinion of herself made her think she deserved. Miss
+      Jenny then asked her, if she was willing to lead the way to the rest of
+      her companions, by telling her past life? She answered, she would do it
+      with all her heart; and, by having so many and great faults to confess,
+      she hoped she should, by her true confessions, set them an example of
+      honesty and ingenuity.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0010" id="link2H_4_0010">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS SUKEY JENNETT.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Miss Sukey Jennett, who was next in years to Miss Jenny Peace, was not
+      quite twelve years old; but so very tall of her age, that she was within a
+      trifle as tall as Miss Jenny Peace; and, by growing so fast, was much
+      thinner: and though she was not really so well made, yet, from an assured
+      air in her manner of carrying herself, she was called much the genteelest
+      girl. There was, on first view, a great resemblance in their persons. Her
+      face was very handsome, and her complexion extremely good; but a little
+      more inclined to pale than Miss Jenny&rsquo;s. Her eyes were a degree darker,
+      and had a life and fire in them which was very beautiful: but yet her
+      impatience on the least contradiction often brought a fierceness into her
+      eyes, and gave such a discomposure to her whole countenance, as
+      immediately took off your admiration. But her eyes had now, since her
+      hearty reconciliation with her companions, lost a great part of their
+      fierceness; and with great mildness, and an obliging manner, she told her
+      story as follows:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0011" id="link2H_4_0011">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE LIFE OF MISS SUKEY JENNETT.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My mamma died when I was so young that I cannot remember her; and my papa
+      marrying again within half a year after her death, I was chiefly left to
+      the care of an old servant, that had lived many years in the family. I was
+      a great favourite of hers, and in everything had my own way. When I was
+      but four years old, if ever anything crossed me, I was taught to beat it,
+      and be revenged of it, even though it could not feel. If I fell down and
+      hurt myself, the very ground was to be beat for hurting the sweet child:
+      so that, instead of fearing to fall, I did not dislike it; for I was
+      pleased to find, that I was of such consequence, that everything was to
+      take care that I came by no harm.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I had a little playfellow, in a child of one of my papa&rsquo;s servants, who
+      was to be entirely under my command. This girl I used to abuse and beat,
+      whenever I was out of humour; and when I had abused her, if she dared to
+      grumble, or make the least complaint, I thought it the greatest impudence
+      in the world; and, instead of mending my behaviour to her, I grew very
+      angry that she should dare to dispute my power: for my governess always
+      told her, that she was but a servant&rsquo;s girl, and I was a gentleman&rsquo;s
+      daughter; and that therefore she ought to give way to me; for that I did
+      her great honour in playing with her. Thus I thought the distance between
+      us was so great, that I never considered that she could feel: but whilst I
+      myself suffered nothing, I fancied everything was very right; and it never
+      once came into my head, that I could be in the wrong.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;This life I led till I came to school, when I was eleven years old. Here
+      I had nobody in my power; for all my schoolfellows thought themselves my
+      equals: so that I could only quarrel, fight, and contend for everything:
+      but being liable to be punished, when I was trying to be revenged on any
+      of my enemies, as I thought them, I never had a moment&rsquo;s ease or pleasure,
+      till Miss Jenny was so good to take the pains to convince me of my folly,
+      and made me be reconciled to you, my dear companions.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Miss Sukey ceased; and Miss Jenny smiled with pleasure, at the
+      thoughts that she had been the cause of her happiness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum being now come into the arbour, to see in what manner her
+      little scholars passed their time, they all rose up and do her reverence.
+      Miss Jenny gave her an account how they had been employed; and she was
+      much pleased with their innocent and useful entertainment; but especially
+      with the method they had found out of relating their past lives. She took
+      little Polly Suckling by the hand, and bidding the rest follow, it being
+      now dinner time, she walked towards the house, attended by the whole
+      company.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum had a great inclination to hear the history of the lives of
+      all her little scholars: but she thought, that being present at those
+      relations might be a balk to the narration, as perhaps they might be
+      ashamed freely to confess their past faults before her; and therefore,
+      that she might not be any bar in this case to the freedom of their speech,
+      and yet might be acquainted with their stories (though this was not merely
+      a vain curiosity, but a desire by this means to know their different
+      dispositions), she called Miss Jenny Peace to her parlour after dinner,
+      and told her, she would have her get the lives of her companions in
+      writing, and bring them to her; and Miss Jenny readily promised to obey
+      her commands.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In the evening our little company again met in their charming arbour;
+      where they were no sooner seated, with that calmness and content which now
+      always attended them, than the cries and sobs of a child, at a little
+      distance from their garden, disturbed their tranquility.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny, ever ready to relieve the distressed, ran immediately to the
+      place whence the sound seemed to come, and was followed by all her
+      companions: when, at a small distance from Mrs. Teachum&rsquo;s garden-wall,
+      over which from the terrace our young company looked, they saw, under a
+      large spreading tree, part of the branches of which shaded a seat at the
+      end of that terrace, a middle-aged woman beating a little girl, who looked
+      to be about eight years old, so severely, that it was no wonder her cries
+      had reached their arbour.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny could not forbear calling out to the woman, and begging her to
+      forbear: and little Polly Suckling cried as much as the girl, and desired
+      she might not be beat any more. The woman, in respect to them, let the
+      child go; but said, &lsquo;Indeed, young ladies, you don&rsquo;t know what a naughty
+      girl she is: for though you now see me correct her in this manner, yet am
+      I in all respects very kind to her, and never strike her but for lying. I
+      have tried all means, good and bad, to break her of this vile fault; but
+      hitherto all I have done has been in vain: nor can I ever get one word of
+      truth out of her mouth. But I am resolved to break her of this horrid
+      custom, or I cannot live with her: for though I am but poor, yet I will
+      breed up my child to be honest, both in word and deed.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny could not but approve of what the poor woman said. However,
+      they all joined in begging forgiveness for the girl this time, provided
+      she promised amendment for the future: and then our little society
+      returned to their arbour.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny could not help expressing her great detestation of all lying
+      whatsoever; when Miss Dolly Friendly, colouring, confessed she had often
+      been guilty of this fault, though she never scarcely did it but for her
+      friend.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Miss Jenny, interrupting her, said, that even that was no sort of
+      excuse for lying; besides that the habit of it on any occasion, even with
+      the appearance of a good intention, would but too likely lead to the use
+      of it on many others: and as she did not doubt, by Miss Dolly&rsquo;s blushing,
+      that she was now very sensible of the truth of what she had just been
+      saying, she hoped she would take this opportunity of obliging them with
+      the history of her past life: which request she made no hesitation to
+      grant, saying, the shame of her past faults should by o means induce her
+      to conceal them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0012" id="link2H_4_0012">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS DOLLY FRIENDLY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Miss Dolly Friendly was just turned of eleven years of age. Her person was
+      neither plain nor handsome: and though she had not what is properly called
+      one fine feature in her face, yet the disposition of them were so suitable
+      to each other, that her countenance was rather agreeable than otherwise.
+      She had generally something very quiet, or rather indolent, in her look,
+      except when she was moved by anger; which seldom happened, but in defense
+      of some favourite or friend; and she had then a fierceness and eagerness
+      which altered her whole countenance: for she could not bear the least
+      reflection or insult on those she loved. This disposition made her always
+      eager to comply with her friends&rsquo; requests; and she immediately began, as
+      follows:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0013" id="link2H_4_0013">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE LIFE OF MISS DOLLY FRIENDLY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I was bred up, till I was nine years of age, with a sister, who was one
+      year younger than myself. The chief care of our parents was to make us
+      love each other; and, as I was naturally inclined to have very strong
+      affections, I became so fond of my sister Molly, which was her name, that
+      all my delight was to please her; and this I carried to such a height,
+      that I scrupled no lies to excuse her faults: and whatever she did, I
+      justified, and thought right, only because she did it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I was ready to fight her quarrels, whether right or wrong; and hated
+      everybody that offended her. My parents winked at whatever I did in
+      defence of my sister; and I had no notion that any thing done for her
+      could be unreasonable. In short, I made it my study to oblige and please
+      her, till I found at last it was out of my power; for she grew so very
+      humoursome, that she could not find out what she had most mind to have;
+      and I found her always miserable; for she would cry only because she did
+      not know her own mind.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;She never minded what faults she committed, because she knew I would
+      excuse her; and she was forgiven in consideration of our friendship, which
+      gave our parents great pleasure.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My poor little sister grew very sickly, and she died just before I came
+      to school: but the same disposition still continued; and it was my
+      friend&rsquo;s outcries of being hurt, that drew me into that odious quarrel,
+      that we have all now repented.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Miss Dolly Friendly ceased; and Miss Jenny said, she hoped Miss Dolly
+      would remember, for the rest of her life, what HER good mamma had always
+      taught her; namely, that it was not the office of friendship, to justify
+      or excuse our friend when in the wrong; for that was the way to prevent
+      their ever being in the right: that it was rather hatred, or contempt,
+      than love, when the fear of another&rsquo;s anger made us forego their good, for
+      the sake of our own present pleasure; and that the friends who expected
+      such flattery were not worth keeping.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The bell again summoned our little company to supper: but, before they
+      went in, Miss Dolly Friendly said, if Miss Jenny approved of it, she would
+      the next morning read them a story given her by an uncle of hers, that,
+      she said, she was sure would please her, as its subject was friendship.
+      Miss Jenny replied, that she was certain it would be a great pleasure to
+      them all, to hear any story Miss Dolly thought proper to read them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0014" id="link2H_4_0014">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      WEDNESDAY. THE THIRD DAY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      As soon as school was over in the morning, our little company were
+      impatient to go into the arbour, to hear Miss Dolly&rsquo;s story: but Mrs.
+      Teachum told them they must be otherwise employed; for their
+      writing-master, who lived some miles off; and who was expected in the
+      afternoon, was just then come in, and begged that they would give him
+      their attendance, though out of school-time; because he was obliged to be
+      at home again before the afternoon, to meet a person who would confer some
+      favour on him, and would be highly disobliged should he not keep his
+      appointment: &lsquo;And I know (said Mrs. Teachum) my little dears, you would
+      rather lose your own amusement, than let any one suffer a real
+      inconvenience on your accounts.&rsquo; They all readily complied, and cheerfully
+      set to their writing; and in the afternoon Mrs. Teachum permitted them to
+      leave off work an hour sooner than usual, as a reward for their readiness
+      to lose their amusement in the morning: and being met in their arbour,
+      Miss Dolly read as follows:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0015" id="link2H_4_0015">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE STORY OF CAELIA AND CHLOE.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Caelia and Chloe were both left orphans, at the tender age of six years.
+      Amanda their aunt, who was very rich, and a maiden, took them directly
+      under her care, and bred them up as her own children. Caelia&rsquo;s mother was
+      Amanda&rsquo;s sister; and Chloe&rsquo;s father was her brother; so that she was
+      equally related to both.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They were left entirely unprovided for; were both born on the same day;
+      and both lost their mothers on the day of their birth: their fathers were
+      soldiers of fortune; and both killed in one day, in the fame engagement.
+      But their fortunes were not more similar than their persons and
+      dispositions. They were both extremely handsome; and in their Childhood
+      were so remarkable for liveliness of parts, and sweetness of temper, that
+      they were the admiration of the whole country where they lived.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Their aunt loved them with a sincere and equal affection, and took the
+      greatest pleasure imaginable in their education, and particularly to
+      encourage that love and friendship which she with pleasure perceived
+      between them. Amanda being (as was said) very rich, and having no other
+      relations, it was supposed that these her nieces would be very great
+      fortunes; and as soon as they became women, they were addressed by all the
+      men of fortune and no fortune round the neighbourhood. But as the love of
+      admiration, and a desire of a large train of admirers, had no place in
+      their minds, they soon dismissed, in the most civil and obliging manner,
+      one after another, all these lovers.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The refusing such numbers of men, and some such as by the world were
+      called good offers, soon got them the name of jilts; and by that means
+      they were freed from any farther importunity, and for some years enjoyed
+      that peace and quiet they had long wished. Their aunt, from being their
+      mother and their guardian, was now become their friend. For, as she
+      endeavoured not in the least to force their inclinations, they never kept
+      anything concealed from her; and every action of their lives was still
+      guided by her advice and approbation.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They lived on in this way, perfectly happy in their own little community,
+      till they were about two-and-twenty years old when there happened to be a
+      regiment quartered in the neighbouring town, to which their house was
+      nearly situated; and the lieutenant-colonel, a man about four-and-thirty
+      years old, hearing their names, had a great desire to see them. For when
+      he was a boy of sixteen, he was put into the Army under the care of
+      Chloe&rsquo;s father, who treated him with the greatest tenderness; and (in that
+      fatal engagement in which he lost his life) received his death&rsquo;s wound by
+      endeavouring to save him from being taken by the enemy. And gratitude to
+      the memory of so good a friend was as great an inducement to make him
+      desire to see his daughter, as the report he had heard both of hers and
+      her cousin&rsquo;s great beauty.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Sempronius (for so this Colonel was called) was a very sensible,
+      well-bred, agreeable man; and from the circumstances of his former
+      acquaintance, and his present proper and polite behaviour, he soon became
+      very intimate in the family. The old lady was particularly pleased with
+      him; and secretly wished, that before she died she might be so happy as to
+      see one of her nieces married to Sempronius. She could not from his
+      behaviour see the least particular liking to either, though he showed an
+      equal and very great esteem and regard for both.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      He in reality liked them both extremely; and the reason of making no
+      declaration of love was, his being so undetermined in any preference that
+      was due to either. He saw plainly that he was very agreeable to both; and
+      with pleasure he observed, that they made use of none of those arts which
+      women generally do to get away a disputed lover: and this sincere
+      friendship which subsisted between them raised in him the highest degree
+      of love and admiration. However he at last determined to make the
+      following trial:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      He went first to Chloe, and (finding her alone) told her, that he had the
+      greatest liking in the world to her cousin; and had really a mind to
+      propose himself to her: but as he saw a very great friendship between
+      them, he was willing to ask her advice in the matter; and conjured her to
+      tell him sincerely, whether there was anything in Caelia&rsquo;s temper (not
+      discoverable by him) which as a wife would make him unhappy? He told her,
+      that, if she knew any such thing, it would be no treachery, but rather
+      kind in her to declare it, as it would prevent her friend&rsquo;s being unhappy;
+      which must be the consequence, in marriage, of her making him so.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Chloe could not help seeing very plainly, that if Caelia was removed she
+      stood the very next in Sempronius&rsquo;s favour. Her lover was present&mdash;her
+      friend was absent&mdash;and the temptation was too strong and agreeable to
+      be resisted. She then answered, that since he insisted upon the truth, and
+      had convinced her that it was in reality acting justly and kindly by her
+      friend, she must confess, that Caelia was possessed (though in a very
+      small degree) of what she had often heard him declare most against of
+      anything in the world; and that was, an artfulness of temper, and some few
+      sparks of envy.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Chloe&rsquo;s confused manner of speaking, and frequent hesitation, as unwilling
+      to pronounce her friend&rsquo;s condemnation (which, as being unused to
+      falsehood, was really unaffected) he imputed to tenderness and concern for
+      Caelia; but he did not in the least doubt, but on his application to her
+      he should soon be convinced of the truth of what Chloe had said.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      He then went directly to the arbour at the end of the garden, and there to
+      his wish he found Caelia quite alone; and he addressed her exactly in the
+      same manner concerning her cousin, as he had before spoke to Chloe
+      concerning her. Caelia suddenly blushed (from motives I leave those to
+      find out who can put themselves in her circumstances) and then fetched a
+      soft sigh, from the thought that she was hearing a man she loved declare a
+      passion of which she was not the object. But after some little pause, she
+      told him, that if Chloe had any faults, they were to her yet undiscovered,
+      and she really and sincerely believed her cousin would make him extremely
+      happy. Sempronius then said, that of all other things, TREACHERY and ENVY
+      were what he had the greatest dislike to: and he asked her, if she did not
+      think her cousin was a little tainted with these?&mdash;Here Caelia could
+      not help interrupting, and assuring him, that she believed her totally
+      free from both. And, from his casting on her friend an aspersion which her
+      very soul abhorred, forgetting all rivalship, she could not refrain from
+      growing quite lavish in her praise. &lsquo;Suppose then (said Sempronius) I was
+      to say the same to your cousin concerning my intentions towards you as I
+      have to you concerning her, do you think she would say as many fine things
+      in your praise as you have done in hers?&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Caelia answered, that she verily believed her cousin would say as much for
+      her as she really deserved; but whether that would be equal to what with
+      justice she could say of Chloe, her modesty left her in some doubt of.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Sempronius had too much penetration not to see the real and true
+      difference in the behaviour of these two women, and could not help crying
+      out, &lsquo;O Caelia! your honest truth and goodness in every word and look are
+      too visible to leave me one doubt of their reality. But, could you believe
+      it? this friend of yours is false. I have already put her to the trial, by
+      declaring to her my sincere and unalterable passion for you. When, on my
+      insisting, as I did to you, upon her speaking the truth, she accused you
+      of what nothing should now convince me you are guilty of. I own, that
+      hitherto my regard, esteem, and love, have been equal to both; but now I
+      offer to the sincere, artless, and charming Caelia, my whole heart, love,
+      and affection, and the service of every minute of my future life; and from
+      this moment I banish from my mind the false and ungrateful Chloe.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Caelia&rsquo;s friendship for Chloe was so deeply rooted in her breast, that
+      even a declaration of love from Sempronius could not blot it one moment
+      from her heart; and on his speaking the words &lsquo;false Chloe,&rsquo; she burst
+      into tears, and said, &lsquo;Is it possible that Chloe should act such a part
+      towards her Caelia! You must forgive her, Sempronius: it was her violent
+      passion for you, and fear of losing you, which made her do what hitherto
+      her nature has ever appeared averse to.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Sempronius answered, &lsquo;that he could not enough admire her goodness to her
+      friend Chloe; but such proofs of passion, he said, were to him at the same
+      time proofs of its being such a passion as he had no regard for; since it
+      was impossible for any one to gain or increase his love by an action which
+      at the same time lessened his esteem.&rsquo; This was so exactly Caelia&rsquo;s own
+      way of thinking, that she could not but assent to what he said.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But just as they were coming out of the arbour, Chloe, unseen by them,
+      passed by; and from seeing him kiss her hand, and the complacency of
+      Caelia&rsquo;s look, it was easy for her to guess what had been the result of
+      their private conference. She could not however help indulging her
+      curiosity, so far as to walk on the other side of a thick yew hedge, to
+      listen to their discourse; and as they walked on, she heard Sempronius
+      entreat Caelia to be cheerful, and think no more of her treacherous
+      friend, whose wickedness he doubted not would sufficiently punish itself.
+      She then heard Caelia say, &lsquo;I cannot bear, Sempronius, to hear you speak
+      so hardly of my Chloe. Say that you forgive her, and I will indeed be
+      cheerful.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Nothing upon earth can be conceived so wretched as poor Chloe, for on the
+      first moment that she suffered herself to reflect on what she had done,
+      she thoroughly repented, and heartily detested herself for such baseness.
+      She went directly into the garden in hopes of meeting Sempronius, to have
+      thrown herself at his feet, confessed her treachery, and to have begged
+      him never to have mentioned it to Caelia; but now she was conscious her
+      repentance would come too late; and he would despise her, if possible
+      still more, for such a recantation, after her knowledge of what had passed
+      between him and Caelia.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      She could indeed have gone to him, and not have owned what she had seen or
+      heard; but now her abhorrence of even the appearance of treachery or
+      cunning was so great, that she could not bear to add the smallest grain of
+      falsehood or deceit to the weight of her guilt, which was already almost
+      insupportable: and should she tell him of her repentance, with a
+      confession of her knowledge of his engagement with Caelia, it would (as
+      has been before observed) appear both servile and insincere.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Nothing could now appear so altered as the whole face of this once happy
+      family. Sempronius as much as possible shunned the sight of Chloe; for as
+      she was the cause of all the confusion amongst them, he had almost an
+      aversion to her. Though he was not of an implacable temper, yet, as the
+      injury was intended to one he sincerely loved, he found it much harder to
+      forgive it, than if it had even succeeded against himself; and as he still
+      looked upon Chloe as the cause of melancholy in his dear Caelia, he could
+      hardly have any patience with her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      No words can describe the various passions which were expressed in the sad
+      countenance of Chloe, when first she met her friend. They were both afraid
+      of speaking. Shame, and the fear of being (and with too good reason)
+      suspected of insincerity, withheld Chloe; and an unwillingness to accuse
+      or hurt her friend withheld the gentle Caelia. She sometimes indeed
+      thought she saw repentance in Chloe&rsquo;s face, and wished for nothing more
+      than to seal her pardon. But till it was asked, she was in doubt (from
+      what had passed) whether such pardon and proffered reconciliation might
+      not be rejected. She knew that her friend&rsquo;s passions were naturally
+      stronger than hers; and she therefore trembled at the consequences of
+      coming to an explanation.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But there was hardly a greater sufferer in this scene of confusion than
+      the poor old Lady Amanda. She saw a sort of horror and wildness in the
+      face of Chloe; and in Caelia&rsquo;s a settled melancholy, and such an unusual
+      reserve in both towards each other, as well as to herself, as quite
+      astonished her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Sempronius came indeed to the house as often as usual; but in his
+      countenance she could perceive a sort of anger and concern which perfectly
+      frightened her. But as they did not speak to her, she could not bring
+      herself to ask the cause of this woeful change, for fear of hearing
+      something too bad to bear.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Caelia had absolutely refused granting to Sempronius leave to ask her
+      aunt&rsquo;s consent, till she should come to some explanation with Chloe, which
+      seemed every day farther off than ever.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The great perturbation of Chloe&rsquo;s mind threw her into a disorder not many
+      degrees short of madness; and at last she was seized with a violent fever
+      so as to keep her bed. She said she could not bear to look on Amanda; but
+      begged Caelia to be with her as much as possible; which she did, in hopes
+      of bringing herself to ease her mind, by speaking to her of what had given
+      them all this torment.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Caelia watched with her night and day for three days, when the physician
+      who attended her pronounced that there was no hope of her life. Caelia
+      could not any longer bear to stay in the room, and went downstairs,
+      expecting every moment to hear she was expired.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Chloe soon perceived by Caelia&rsquo;s abrupt leaving the room, and the looks of
+      those who were left in it, that her fate was pronounced; which, instead of
+      sinking her spirits, and making her dejected, gave a tranquillity to her
+      mind; for she thought within herself, &lsquo;I shall now make my dear cousin
+      happy, by removing out of her way an object that must embitter all her
+      joy; and now likewise, as she is convinced I am on my death-bed, she will
+      once more believe me capable of speaking truth; and will, in the manner I
+      could wish, receive my sincere repentance.&rsquo; Then sending for Caelia up to
+      her bedside, she in a weak voice, with hardly strength for utterance,
+      spoke in this manner: &lsquo;My dear Caelia, though you know me to be a
+      worthless base wretch, yet do not think so hardly of me, as to imagine I
+      would deceive you with my last breath. Believe me then when I tell you,
+      that I sincerely repent of my treachery towards you; and as sincerely
+      rejoice that it has in reality been the cause of your happiness with
+      Sempronius. Tell him this; and then, perhaps, he will not hate my memory.&rsquo; 
+      Here she fainted away, and they forced Caelia out of the room, thinking
+      her breath was for ever flown. But in some time she came again to herself,
+      and cried out, &lsquo;What! would not my dear Caelia say that she forgave me?
+      Methinks I would not die, till I had obtained her pardon. She is too good
+      to refuse her friend this last request.&rsquo; Her attendants then told her,
+      that seeing her faint away, they had forced Caelia out of the room; and
+      they begged her to try to compose herself, for they were sure that seeing
+      her friend again, at this time, would only disturb her mind, and do her an
+      injury.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Chloe, from the vent she had given her grief in speaking to Caelia, found
+      herself something more easy and composed; and desiring the room to be made
+      perfectly quiet, she fell into a gentle sleep, which lasted two hours; and
+      when she awaked she found herself so much better, that those about her
+      were convinced, from her composed manner of speaking, that she was now
+      able to bear another interview.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They again called for Caelia, and told her of her cousin&rsquo;s amendment. She
+      flew with all speed to her chamber; and the moment she entered, Chloe
+      cried out, &lsquo;Can you forgive me, Caelia?&rsquo; &lsquo;Yes, with the greatest joy and
+      sincerity imaginable, my dearest Chloe,&rsquo; answered Caelia, &lsquo;and never let
+      it be again mentioned or remembered.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The sudden recovery of Chloe was almost incredible; for in less than a
+      week she was able to quit both her bed and room, and go into her aunt&rsquo;s
+      chamber. The good old lady shed tears of joy, to see such a return of
+      Chloe&rsquo;s health, and of cheerfulness in the family; and was perfectly
+      contented, now she saw their melancholy removed, not to inquire into the
+      late cause of it, for fear of renewing their trouble even one moment by
+      the remembrance of it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Sempronius, in the meantime, upon some affairs of his duty in the army,
+      had been called away, and was absent the whole time of Chloe&rsquo;s illness,
+      and was not yet returned. Caelia spent almost her whole time with Chloe;
+      but three weeks passed on, and they were often alone; yet they had never
+      once mentioned the name of Sempronius, which laid Caelia still under the
+      greatest difficulty how to act, so as to avoid giving her friend any
+      uneasiness, and yet not disoblige Sempronius; for she had promised him at
+      his departure, that she would give him leave to ask her aunt&rsquo;s consent
+      immediately upon his return. But the very day he was expected, she was
+      made quite easy by what passed between her and her friend.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Chloe, in this time, by proper reflections, and a due sense of Caelia&rsquo;s
+      great goodness and affection to her, had so entirely got the better of
+      herself in this affair, that she found she could now, without any
+      uneasiness, see them married; and calling Caelia to her, she said with a
+      smile, &lsquo;I have, my dear friend, been so long accustomed to read in that
+      intelligible index, your countenance, all your most inmost thoughts, that
+      I have not been unobserving of those kind fears you have had on my
+      account; and the reason I have so long delayed speaking was, my
+      resolution, if possible, never again to deceive you. I can with pleasure
+      now assure you, that nothing can give me so much joy as to see your
+      wedding with Sempronius. I make no doubt, but if you ask it, you will have
+      my aunt&rsquo;s consent; and, if any intercession should be wanting towards
+      obtaining it, I will (if you can trust me) use all my influence in your
+      behalf. Be assured, my dear Caelia, I have now no farther regard left for
+      Sempronius, than as your husband; and that regard will increase in
+      proportion as he is the cause of your happiness.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They were interrupted in their discourse by news being brought of the
+      arrival of Sempronius, and Chloe received him with that ease and
+      cheerfulness as convinced Caelia her professions were unfeigned.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Caelia related to Sempronius all that had passed between her and Chloe;
+      and by her continued cheerfulness of behaviour, the peace and tranquillity
+      of the family was perfectly restored, and their joy greatly increased by
+      Amanda&rsquo;s ready consent to the marriage of Sempronius and Caelia, having
+      first settled all her fortune to be divided at her death equally between
+      her nieces; and in her lifetime there was no occasion of settlements, or
+      deeds of gift, for they lived all together, and separate property was not
+      so much as mentioned or thought on in this family of harmony and peace.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Miss Dolly ceased reading; and all her hearers sat some little time
+      silent, and then expressed their great joy that Caelia and Chloe were at
+      last happy; for none of them had been able to refrain from tears whilst
+      they were otherwise. On which Miss Jenny Peace begged them to observe from
+      this story, the miserable effects that attend deceit and treachery: &lsquo;For,&rsquo; 
+      continued she, &lsquo;you see you could not refrain from tears, only by
+      imagining what Chloe must feel after her wickedness (by which indeed she
+      lost the very happiness she intended treacherously to gain); nor could she
+      enjoy one moment&rsquo;s peace, till by confessing her fault, and heartily
+      repenting of it, her mind was restored to its former calm and
+      tranquility.&rsquo; Miss Dolly thanked Miss Jenny for her remarks; but Miss Lucy
+      Sly was most sensibly touched with this story, as cunning had formerly
+      entirely possessed HER mind; and said, that if her companions were not
+      weary at present of their arbour, she would now recount to them the
+      history of her life, as this story was a proper introduction to it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0016" id="link2H_4_0016">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS LUCY SLY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Miss Lucy Sly was of the same age as Miss Dolly Friendly; but shorter, at
+      least, by half the head. She was generally called a pretty girl, from
+      having a pair of exceeding fine black eyes, only with the allay of
+      something cunning in their look. She had a high forehead, and very good
+      curling black hair. She had a sharp high nose, and a very small mouth. Her
+      complexion was but indifferent, and the lower part of her face ill-turned,
+      for her chin was too long for due proportion.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0017" id="link2H_4_0017">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE LIFE OF MISS LUCY SLY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      From the time I was two years old, (said Miss Lucy) my mamma was so
+      sickly, that she was unable to take any great care of me herself, and I
+      was left to the care of a governess, who made it her study to bring me to
+      do what she had a mind to have done, without troubling her head what
+      induced me so to do. And whenever I did anything wrong, she used to say it
+      was the foot-boy, and not miss, that was naughty. Nay, she would say, it
+      was the dog, or the cat, or anything she could lay the blame upon, sooner
+      than own it was me. I thought this pure, that I was never in fault; and
+      soon got into a way of telling any lies, and of laying my own faults on
+      others, since I found I should be believed. I remember once, when I had
+      broken a fine china-cup, that I artfully got out of the scrape, and hid
+      the broken cup in the foot-boy&rsquo;s room. He was whipped for breaking it; and
+      the next day whilst I was at play about the room, I heard my governess say
+      to a friend who was with her, &ldquo;Yesterday Miss Lucy broke a china-cup; but
+      the artful little hussy went and hid it in the foot-boy&rsquo;s room, and the
+      poor boy was whipped for it. I don&rsquo;t believe there was ever a girl of her
+      age that had half her cunning and contrivance.&rdquo; I knew by her tone of
+      voice, and her manner of speaking, that she did not blame me in her heart,
+      but rather commended my ingenuity. And I thought myself so wise, that I
+      could thus get off the blame from myself, that I every day improved in new
+      inventions to save myself, and have others punished in my place.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;This life of endeavouring to deceive I led till I came to school. But
+      here I found that I could not so well carry on my little schemes; for I
+      was found out and punished for my own faults; and this created in me a
+      hatred to my companions. For whatever Miss I had a mind to serve as I used
+      to serve our foot-boy, in laying the blame falsely upon her, if she could
+      justify herself, and prove me in the wrong, I was very angry with her, for
+      daring to contradict me, and not submitting as quietly to be punished
+      wrongfully, as the foot-boy was forced to do.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;This is all I know of my life hitherto.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Thus ended Miss Lucy Sly: and Miss Jenny Peace commended Miss Lucy for her
+      free confession of her faults, and said, &lsquo;She doubted not but she would
+      find the advantage of amending, and endeavouring to change a disposition
+      so very pernicious to her own peace and quiet, as well as to that of all
+      her friends;&rsquo; but they now obeyed the summons of the supper-bell, and soon
+      after retired to rest.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0018" id="link2H_4_0018">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THURSDAY. THE FOURTH DAY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Our little company, as soon as the morning school-hours were over,
+      hastened to their arbour, and were attentive to what Miss Jenny Peace
+      should propose to them for their amusement till dinner-time; when Miss
+      Jenny, looking round upon them, said, &lsquo;that she had not at present any
+      story to read; but that she hoped, from Miss Dolly Friendly&rsquo;s example
+      yesterday, some of the rest might endeavour sometimes to furnish out the
+      entertainment of the day.&rsquo; Upon which Miss Sukey Jennett said, &lsquo;that
+      though she could not promise them such an agreeable story as Miss Dolly&rsquo;s;
+      yet she would read them a letter she had received the evening before from
+      her Cousin Peggy Smith, who lived at York; in which there was a story that
+      she thought very strange and remarkable. They were all very desirous of
+      it, when Miss Sukey read as follows:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Dear cousin,&mdash;I promised, you know, to write to you when I had
+      anything to tell you; and as I think the following story very
+      extraordinary, I was willing to keep my word.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Some time ago there came to settle in this city, a lady, whose name was
+      Dison. We all visited her: but she had so deep a melancholy, arising, as
+      it appeared, from a settled state of ill health, that nothing we could do
+      could afford her the least relief, or make her cheerful. In this condition
+      she languished amongst us five years, still continuing to grow worse and
+      worse.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;We all grieved at her fate. Her flesh was withered away; her appetite
+      decayed by degrees, till all food became nauseous to her sight; her
+      strength failed her; her feet could not support her tottering body, lean
+      and worn away as it was; and we hourly expected her death. When, at last,
+      she one day called her most intimate friends to her bedside, and, as well
+      as she could, spoke to the following purpose: &ldquo;I know you all pity me;
+      but, alas! I am not so much the object of your pity, as your contempt; for
+      all my misery is of my own seeking, and owing to the wickedness of my own
+      mind. I had two sisters, with whom I was bred up; and I have all my
+      lifetime been unhappy, for no other cause but for their success in the
+      world. When we were young, I could neither eat nor sleep in peace, when
+      they had either praise or pleasure. When we grew up to be women, they were
+      both soon married much to their advantage and satisfaction. This galled me
+      to the heart; and, though I had several good offers, yet as I did not
+      think them in all respects equal to my sisters, I would not accept them;
+      and yet was inwardly vexed to refuse them, for fear I would get no better.
+      I generally deliberated so long that I lost my lovers, and then I pined
+      for that loss. I never wanted for anything; and was in a situation in
+      which I might have been happy, if I pleased. My sisters loved me very
+      well, for I concealed as much as possible from them my odious envy; and
+      yet never did any poor wretch lead so miserable a life as I have done; for
+      every blessing they enjoyed was as so many daggers to my heart. &lsquo;Tis this
+      envy that has caused all my ill health, has preyed upon my very vitals,
+      and will now bring me to my Grave.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;In a few days after this confession she died; and her words and death
+      made such a strong impression on my mind, that I could not help sending
+      you this relation; and begging you, my dear Sukey, to remember how careful
+      we ought to be to curb in our minds the very first risings of a passion so
+      detestable, and so fatal, as this proved to poor Mrs. Dison. I know I have
+      no particular reason for giving you this caution; for I never saw anything
+      in you, but what deserved the love and esteem of
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Your very affectionate cousin,
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;M. SMITH.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As soon as Miss Sukey had finished her letter, Miss Patty Lockit rose up,
+      and, flying to Miss Jenny Peace, embraced her, and said, &lsquo;What thanks can
+      I give you, my dear friend, for having put me into a way of examining my
+      heart, and reflecting on my own actions; by which you have saved me,
+      perhaps, from a life as miserable as that of the poor woman in Miss
+      Sukey&rsquo;s letter!&rsquo; Miss Jenny did not thoroughly understand her meaning; but
+      imagining it might be something relating to her past life, desired her to
+      explain herself; which she said she would do, telling now, in her turn,
+      all that had hitherto happened to her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0019" id="link2H_4_0019">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS PATTY LOCKIT.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Miss Patty Lockit was but ten years old; tall, inclined to fat. Her neck
+      was short; and she was not in the least genteel. Her face was very
+      handsome; for all her features were extremely good. She had large blue
+      eyes; was exceeding fair; and had a great bloom on her cheeks. Her hair
+      was the very first degree of light brown; was bright and shining; and hung
+      in ringlets half way down her back. Her mouth was rather too large; but
+      she had such fine teeth, and looked so agreeably when she smiled, that you
+      was not sensible of any fault in it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      This was the person of Miss Patty Lockit, who was slow to relate her past
+      life; which she did, in the following manner:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0020" id="link2H_4_0020">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE LIFE OF MISS PATTY LOCKIT.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      I lived, till I was six years old, in a very large family; for I had four
+      sisters, all older than myself, and three brothers. We played together,
+      and passed our time much in the common way: sometimes we quarrelled, and
+      sometimes agreed, just as accident would have it. Our parents had no
+      partiality to any of us; so we had no cause to envy one another on that
+      account; and we lived tolerably well together.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;When I was six years old, my grandmother by my father&rsquo;s side (and who was
+      also my godmother) offering to take me to live with her, and promising to
+      look upon me as her own child, and entirely to provide for me, my father
+      and mother, as they had a large family, very readily accepted her offer,
+      and sent me directly to her house.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;About half a year before this, she had taken another goddaughter, the
+      only child of my Aunt Bradly, who was lately dead, and whose husband was
+      gone to the West Indies. My cousin, Molly Bradly, was four years older
+      than I; and her mother had taken such pains in her education, that the
+      understood more than most girls of her age; and had so much liveliness,
+      good humour, and ingenuity, that everybody was fond of her; and wherever
+      we went together, all the notice was taken of my cousin, and I was very
+      little regarded.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Though I had all my life before lived in a family where every one in it
+      was older, and knew more than myself, yet I was very easy; for we were
+      generally together in the nursery; and nobody took much notice of us,
+      whether we knew anything, or whether we did not. But now, as I lived in
+      the house with only one companion, who was so much more admired than
+      myself, the comparison began to vex me, and I found a strong hatred and
+      aversion for my cousin arising in my mind; and yet, I verily believe I
+      should have got the better of it, and been willing to have learnt of my
+      cousin, and should have loved her for teaching me, if any one had told me
+      it was right; and if it had not been that Betty, the maid who took care of
+      us, used to be for ever teasing me about the preference that was shown to
+      my cousin, and the neglect I always met with. She used to tell me, that
+      she wondered how I could bear to see Miss Molly so caressed; and that it
+      was want of spirit not to think myself as good as she was; and, if she was
+      in my place, she would not submit to be taught by a child; for my Cousin
+      Molly frequently offered to instruct me in anything she knew; but I used
+      to say (as Betty had taught me) that I would not learn of her; for she was
+      but a child, though she was a little older; and that I was not put under
+      her care, but that of my grandmamma. But she, poor woman, was so old and
+      unhealthy, that she never troubled her head much about us, but only to
+      take care that we wanted for nothing. I lived in this manner three years,
+      fretting and vexing myself that I did not know so much, nor was not so
+      much liked, as my Cousin Molly, and yet resolving not to learn anything
+      she could teach me; when my grandmamma was advised to send me to school;
+      but, as soon as I came here, the case was much worse; for, instead of one
+      person to envy, I found many; for all my schoolfellows had learned more
+      than I; and, instead of endeavouring to get knowledge, I began to hate all
+      those who knew more than myself; and this, I am now convinced, was owing
+      to that odious envy, which, if not cured, would always have made me as
+      miserable as Mrs. Dison was and which constantly tormented me, till we
+      came to live in that general peace and good-humour we have lately enjoyed:
+      and as I hope this wicked spirit was not natural to me, but only blown up
+      by that vile Betty&rsquo;s instigations, I don&rsquo;t doubt but I shall now grow very
+      happy, and learn something every day, and be pleased with being
+      instructed, and that I shall always love those who are so good as to
+      instruct me.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Miss Patty Lockit ceased; and the dinner-bell called them from their
+      arbour.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum, as soon as they had dined, told them, that she thought it
+      proper they would use some bodily exercise, that they might not, by
+      sitting constantly still, impair their health. Not but that she was
+      greatly pleased with their innocent and instructive manner of employing
+      their leisure hours; but this wise woman knew that the faculties of the
+      mind grow languid and useless, when the health of the body is lost.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As soon as they understood their governess&rsquo;s pleasure, they readily
+      resolved to obey her commands, and desired that, after school, they might
+      take a walk as far as the dairy house, to eat some curds and cream. Mrs.
+      Teachum not only granted their request, but said she would dispense with
+      their school-attendance that afternoon, in order to give them more time
+      for their walk, which was between two and three miles; and she likewise
+      added, that she herself would go with them. They all flew like lightning
+      to get their hats, and to equip themselves for their walk; and, with
+      cheerful countenances, attended Mrs. Teachum in the schoolroom. This good
+      gentlewoman, so far from laying them under a restraint by her presence,
+      encouraged them to run in the fields, and to gather flowers; which they
+      did, each miss trying to get the best to present to her governess. In this
+      agreeable manner, with laughing, talking, and singing, they arrived at the
+      dairy-house, before they imagined they had walked a mile.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      There lived at this dairy-house an old woman, near seventy years of age.
+      She had a fresh colour in her face; but was troubled with the palsy, that
+      made her head shake a little. She was bent forward with age, and her hair
+      was quite grey: but she retained much good-humour, and received this
+      little party with hearty welcome.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Our little gentry flocked about this good woman, asking her a thousand
+      questions. Miss Polly Suckling asked her, &lsquo;Why she shook her head so?&rsquo; and
+      Miss Patty Lockit said, &lsquo;She hoped her hair would never be of such a
+      colour.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny Peace was afraid they would say something that would offend the
+      old woman, and advised them to turn their discourse. &lsquo;Oh! let the dear
+      rogues alone,&rsquo; says the old woman; &lsquo;I like their prattle;&rsquo; and, taking
+      Miss Polly by the hand, said, &lsquo;Come, my dear, we will go into the dairy,
+      and skim the milk pans.&rsquo; At which words they all run into the dairy, and
+      some of them dipped their fingers in the cream; which when Mrs. Nelly
+      perceived (who was the eldest daughter of the old woman, and who managed
+      all the affairs) she desired they would walk out of the dairy, and she
+      would bring them what was fit for them: upon which Miss Dolly Friendly
+      said, &lsquo;she had rather be as old and good-natured as the mother, than as
+      young and ill-natured as the daughter.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The old woman desired her company to sit down at a long table, which she
+      soon supplied with plenty of cream, strawberries, brown bread, and sugar.
+      Mrs. Teachum took her place at the upper end, and the rest sat down in
+      their usual order, and eat plentifully of these good things. After which,
+      Mrs. Teachum told them they might walk out and see the garden and orchard,
+      and by that time it would be proper to return home.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The good old woman showed them the way into the garden; and gathered the
+      finest roses and pinks she could pick, and gave them to Miss Polly, to
+      whom she had taken a great Fancy.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      At their taking leave, Mrs. Teachum rewarded the good old woman for her
+      trouble; who, on her part, expressed much pleasure in feeing so many
+      well-behaved young ladies; and said, she hoped they would come often.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      These little friends had not walked far in their way home, before they met
+      a miserable ragged fellow, who begged their charity. Our young folks
+      immediately gathered together about this poor creature, and were
+      hearkening very earnestly to his story, which he set forth in a terrible
+      manner, of having been burnt out of his house, and, from one distress to
+      another, reduced to that miserable state they saw him in, when Mrs.
+      Teachum came up to them. She was not a little pleased to see all the
+      misses&rsquo; hands in their pockets, pulling out half-pence, and some
+      sixpences. She told them, she approved of their readiness to assist the
+      poor fellow, as he appeared to them; but oftentimes those fellows made up
+      dismal stories without much foundation, and because they were lazy, and
+      would not work. Miss Dolly said, indeed she believed the poor man spoke
+      truth; for he looked honest; and, besides, he seemed almost starved.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum told them it would be late before they could get home; so,
+      after each of them had given what they thought proper, they pursued their
+      walk, prattling all the way.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They got home about nine o&rsquo;clock; and, as they did not choose any supper,
+      the bell rang for prayers; after which our young travellers retired to
+      their rest, where we doubt not but they had a good repose.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0021" id="link2H_4_0021">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      FRIDAY. THE FIFTH DAY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum, in the morning, inquired how her scholars did after their
+      walk, and was pleased to hear they were all very well. They then performed
+      their several tasks with much cheerfulness; and, after the school-hours,
+      they were hastening, as usual, to their arbour, when Miss Jenny desired
+      them all to go thither without her, and she would soon follow them; which
+      they readily consented to; but begged her not to deprive them long of the
+      pleasure of her sweet company.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny then went directly into her governess&rsquo;s parlour, and told her
+      that she had some thoughts of reading to her companions a fairy tale,
+      which was also given her by her mamma; and though it was not in such a
+      pompous style, nor so full of wonderful images, as the giant-story; yet
+      she would not venture to read anything of that kind without her
+      permission; but, as she had not absolutely condemned all that sort of
+      writing, she hoped she was not guilty of a fault in asking that
+      permission. Mrs. Teachum, with a gracious smile, told her, that she seemed
+      so thoroughly well to understand the whole force of her Monday night&rsquo;s
+      discourse to her, that she might be trusted almost in anything; and
+      desired her to go and follow her own judgment and inclinations in the
+      amusement of her happy friends. Miss Jenny, overjoyed with this kind
+      condescension in her governess, thanked her, with, a low courtesy, and
+      said, she hoped she should never do anything unworthy of the confidence
+      reposed on her; and, hastening to the arbour, she there found all her
+      little companions quite impatient of this short absence.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny told them, that she had by her a fairy-tale, which, if they
+      liked it, she would read; and, as it had pleased her, she did not doubt
+      but it would give them equal pleasure.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It was the custom now so much amongst them to assent to any proposal that
+      came from Miss Jenny, that they all with one voice desired her to read it;
+      till Miss Polly Suckling said, &lsquo;that although she was very unwilling to
+      contradict anything Miss Jenny liked, yet she could not help saying, she
+      thought it would be better if they were to read some true history, from
+      which they might learn something; for she thought fairy-tales were fit
+      only for little children.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny could not help smiling at such an objection&rsquo;s coming from the
+      little dumpling, who was not much above seven years of age; and then said,
+      &lsquo;I will tell you a story, my little Polly, of what happened to me whilst I
+      was at home.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;There came into our village, when I was six years old, a man who carried
+      about a raree-show, which all the children of the parish were fond of
+      seeing; but I had taken it into my head, that it was beneath my wisdom to
+      see raree-shows; and therefore would not be persuaded to join my
+      companions to see this sight; and although I had as great an inclination
+      as any of them to see it, yet I avoided it, in order to boast of my own
+      great sense, in that I was above such trifles.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;When my mamma asked me, why I would not see the show, when she had given
+      me leave? I drew up my head, and said, &ldquo;Indeed I did not like raree-shows.
+      That I had been reading; and I thought that much more worth my while, than
+      to lose my time at such foolish entertainments.&rdquo; My mamma, who saw the
+      cause of my refusing this amusement was only a pretence of being wise,
+      laughed, and said, &ldquo;She herself had seen it, and it was really very
+      comical and diverting.&rdquo; On hearing this, I was heartily vexed to think I
+      had denied myself a pleasure, which I fancied was beneath me, when I found
+      even my mamma was not above seeing it. This in a great measure cured me of
+      the folly of thinking myself above any innocent amusement. And when I grew
+      older, and more capable of hearing reason, my mamma told me, &ldquo;She had
+      taken this method of laughing at me, as laughing is the proper manner of
+      treating affectation; which of all things, she said, she would have me
+      carefully avoid; otherwise, whenever I was found out, I should become
+      contemptible.&rdquo;&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Miss Jenny ceased speaking; and Miss Polly Suckling, blushing that
+      she had made any objection to what Miss Jenny had proposed, begged her to
+      begin the fairy tale; when just at that instant, Mrs. Teachum, who had
+      been taking a walk in the garden, turned into the arbour to delight
+      herself with a view of her little school united in harmony and love, and
+      Miss Jenny, with great good humour, told her mistress the small contest
+      she had just had with Miss Polly about reading a fairy tale, and the
+      occasion of it. Mrs. Teachum kindly chucking the little dumpling under the
+      chin, said, she had so good an opinion of Miss Jenny, as to answer for
+      her, that she would read nothing to them but what was proper; and added,
+      that she herself would stay and hear this fairy tale which Miss Jenny, on
+      her commands, immediately began.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0022" id="link2H_4_0022">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE PRINCESS HEBE. A FAIRY TALE.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Above two thousand years ago, there reigned over the kingdom of Tonga, a
+      king, whose name was Abdallah. He was married to a young princess, the
+      daughter of a king of a neighbouring country, whose name was Rousignon.
+      Her beauty and prudence engaged him so far in affection to her, that every
+      hour he could possibly spare from attending the affairs of his kingdom he
+      spent in her apartment. They had a little daughter, to whom they gave the
+      name of Hebe, who was the darling and mutual care of both.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The king was quiet in his dominion, beloved by his subjects, happy in his
+      family, and all his days rolled on in calm content and joy. The king&rsquo;s
+      brother Abdulham was also married to a young princess, named Tropo, who in
+      seven years had brought him no children; and she conceived so mortal a
+      hatred against the queen (for she envied her the happiness of the little
+      Princess Hebe) that she resolved to do her some mischief. It was
+      impossible for her, during the king&rsquo;s lifetime, to vent her malice without
+      being discovered, and therefore she pretended the greatest respect and
+      friendship imaginable for the unsuspecting queen.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Whilst things were in this situation, the king fell into a violent fever,
+      of which he died; and during the time that the queen was in the height of
+      her affliction for him, and could think of nothing but his loss, the
+      Princess Tropo took the opportunity of putting in execution her malicious
+      intentions. She inflamed her husband&rsquo;s passions, by setting forth the
+      meanness of his spirit, in letting a crown be ravished from his head by a
+      female infant, till ambition seized his mind, and he resolved to wield the
+      Tongian sceptre himself. It was very easy to bring this about, for, by his
+      brother&rsquo;s appointment, he was protector of the realm, and guardian to the
+      young princess his niece; and the queen taking him and the princess his
+      wife for her best friends, suspected nothing of their designs, but in a
+      manner gave herself up to their power.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The protector Abdulham, having the whole treasure of the kingdom at his
+      command, was in possession of the means to make all his schemes
+      successful; and the Princess Tropo, by lavishly rewarding the instruments
+      of her treachery, contrived to make it generally believed, that the queen
+      had poisoned her husband, who was so much beloved by his subjects, that
+      the very horror of the action, without any proof of her guilt, raised
+      against the poor unhappy Queen a universal clamour, and a general aversion
+      throughout the whole kingdom. The princess had so well laid her scheme,
+      that the guards were to seize the queen, and convey her to a place of
+      confinement, till she could prove her innocence; which, that she might
+      never be able to do, proper care was taken by procuring sufficient
+      evidence to accuse her on oath; and the Princess Hebe, her daughter, was
+      to be taken from her, and educated under the care of her uncle. But the
+      night before this cruel design was to have been put in execution, a
+      faithful attendant of the queen&rsquo;s, named Loretta, by the assistance of one
+      of the Princess Tropo&rsquo;s confidants (who had long professed himself her
+      lover) discovered the whole secret, of which she immediately informed her
+      royal mistress.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The horrors which filled the queen&rsquo;s mind at the relation of the Princess
+      Tropo&rsquo;s malicious intentions, were inexpressible, and her perturbation so
+      great, that she could not form any scheme that appeared probable to
+      execute for her own preservation. Loretta told her that the person who had
+      given her this timely notice, had also provided a peasant who knew the
+      country, and would meet her at the western gate of the city, and, carrying
+      the young Princess Hebe in his arms, would conduct her to some place of
+      safety; but she must consent to put on a disguise, and escape that very
+      night from the palace, or she would be lost for ever. Horses or mules, she
+      said, it would be impossible to come at without suspicion; therefore she
+      must endeavour (though unused to such fatigue) to travel afoot till she
+      got herself concealed in some cottage from her pursuers, if her enemies
+      should think of endeavouring to find her out. Loretta offered to attend
+      her mistress, but she absolutely forbad her going any farther than to the
+      western gate; where delivering the little Princess Hebe into the arms of
+      the peasant, who was there waiting for them, she reluctantly withdrew.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The good queen, who saw no remedy to this her terrible disgrace, could
+      have borne this barbarous usage without much repining, had she herself
+      been the only sufferer by it; for the loss of the good king her husband so
+      far exceeded all her other misfortunes, that every everything else was
+      trifling in comparison of so dreadful an affliction. But the young
+      Princess Hebe, whom she was accustomed to look on as her greatest
+      blessing, now became to her an object of pity and concern; for, from being
+      heiress to a throne, the poor infant, not yet five years old, was, with
+      her wretched mother, become a vagabond, and knew not whither to fly for
+      protection.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Loretta had prevailed on her royal mistress to take with her a few little
+      necessaries, besides a small picture of the king, and some of her jewels,
+      which the queen contrived to conceal under her night-clothes, in the midst
+      of that hair they were used to adorn, when her loved husband delighted to
+      see it displayed in flowing ringlets round her snowy neck. This lady,
+      during the life of her fond husband, was by his tender care kept from
+      every inclemency of the air, and preserved from every inconvenience that
+      it was possible for human nature to suffer. What then must be her
+      condition now, when through bypaths and thorny ways, she was obliged to
+      fly with all possible speed, to escape the fury of her cruel pursuers: for
+      she too well knew the merciless temper of her enemies, to hope that they
+      would not pursue her with the utmost diligence, especially as she was
+      accompanied by the young Princess Hebe; whose life was the principal cause
+      of their disquiet, and whose destruction they chiefly aimed at.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The honest peasant, who carried the Princess Hebe in his arms, followed
+      the queen&rsquo;s painful steps; and seeing the day begin to break, he begged
+      her, if possible, to hasten on to a wood which was not far off, where it
+      was likely she might find a place of safety. But the afflicted queen, at
+      the sight of the opening morn (which once used to fill her mind with
+      rising joy) burst into a flood of tears, and, quite overcome with grief
+      and fatigue, cast herself on the ground, crying out in the most affecting
+      manner, &lsquo;The end of my misfortunes is at hand. My weary limbs will no
+      longer support me. My spirits fail me. In the grave alone must I seek for
+      shelter.&rsquo; The poor princess, seeing her mother in tears, cast her little
+      arms about her neck, and wept also, though she knew not why.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Whilst she was in this deplorable condition, turning round her head, she
+      saw behind her a little girl, no older in appearance than the Princess
+      Hebe; who, with an amiable and tranquil countenance, begged her to rise
+      and follow her, and she would lead her where she might refresh and repose
+      herself.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The queen was surprised at the manner of speaking of this little child, as
+      she took her to be; but soon thought it was some kind fairy sent to
+      protect her, and was very ready to submit herself to her guidance and
+      protection.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The little fairy (for such indeed was the seeming child who had thus
+      accosted them) ordered the peasant to return back, and said that she would
+      take care of the queen, and her young daughter; and he, knowing her to be
+      the good fairy Sybella, very readily obeyed.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Sybella then striking the ground three times with a little wand, there
+      suddenly rose up before them a neat plain car, and a pair of milk-white
+      horses; and placing the queen with the Princess Hebe in her lap by her
+      side, she drove with excessive swiftness full westward for eight hours;
+      when (just as the sun began to have power enough to make the queen almost
+      faint with the heat and her former fatigue) they arrived at the side of a
+      shady wood; upon entering of which, the fairy made her horses slacken in
+      their speed, and having travelled about a mile and a half, through rows of
+      elms and beech trees, they came to a thick grove of firs, into which there
+      seemed to be no entrance. For there was not any opening to a path, and the
+      underwood consisting chiefly of rose-bushes, white-thorn, eglantine, and
+      other flowering shrubs, was so thick, that it appeared impossible to
+      attempt forcing through them. But alighting out of the car (which
+      immediately disappeared) the fairy (bidding the queen follow her) pushed
+      her way through a large bush of jessamine, whose tender branches gave way
+      for their passage and then closed again, so as to leave no traces of an
+      entrance into this charming grove.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Having gone a little way through an extreme narrow path, they came into an
+      opening (quite surrounded by these firs and sweet underwood) not very
+      large, but in which was contained everything that is necessary towards
+      making life comfortable. At the end of a green meadow was a plain neat
+      house, built more for convenience than beauty, fronting the rising sun;
+      and behind it was a small garden, stored only with fruits and useful
+      herbs. Sybella conducted her guests into this her simple lodging; and as
+      repose was the chief thing necessary for the poor fatigued queen, she
+      prevailed with her to lie down on a couch. Some hours&rsquo; sound sleep, which
+      her weariness induced, gave her a fresh supply of spirits; the ease and
+      safety from her pursuers, in which she then found herself, made her for a
+      short time tolerably composed; and she begged the favour of knowing to
+      whom she was so greatly obliged for this her happy deliverance; but the
+      fairy seeing her mind too unsettled to give any due attention to what she
+      should say, told her that she would defer the relation of her own life
+      (which was worth her observation) till she had obtained a respite from her
+      own sorrows; and in the meantime, by all manner of obliging ways, she
+      endeavoured to divert and amuse her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The queen, after a short interval of calmness of mind, occasioned only by
+      her so sudden escape from the terrors of pursuit, returned to her former
+      dejection, and for some time incessantly wept at the dismal thought, that
+      the princess seemed now, by this reverse of fate, to be for ever excluded
+      all hopes of being seated on her father&rsquo;s throne; and, by a strange
+      perverse way of adding to her own grief, she afflicted herself the more,
+      because the little princess was ignorant of her misfortune; and whenever
+      she saw her diverting herself with little childish plays, instead of being
+      pleased with such her innocent amusement, it added to her sorrow, and made
+      her tears gush forth in a larger stream than usual. She could not divert
+      her thoughts from the palace from which she had been driven, to fix them
+      on any other object; nor would her grief suffer her to reflect, that it
+      was possible for the princess to be happy without a crown.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      At length time, the great cure of all ills, in some measure abated her
+      Sorrows; her grief began to subside; in spite of herself, the reflection
+      that her misery was only in her own fancy, would sometimes force itself on
+      her mind. She could not avoid seeing, that her little hostess enjoyed as
+      perfect a state of happiness as is possible to attain in this world; that
+      she was free from anxious cares, undisturbed by restless passions, and
+      mistress of all things that could be of any use to make life easy or
+      agreeable. The oftener this reflection presented itself to her thoughts,
+      the more strength it gained; and, at last, she could even bear to think,
+      that her beloved child might be as happy in such a situation, as was her
+      amiable hostess. Her countenance now grew more cheerful; she could take
+      the Princess Hebe in her arms, and thinking the jewels she had preserved
+      would secure her from any fear of want, look on her with delight; and
+      began even to imagine, that her future life might be spent in calm content
+      and pleasure.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As soon as the voice of reason had gained this power over the queen,
+      Sybella told her, that now her bosom was so free from passion, she would
+      relate the history of her life. The queen, overjoyed that her curiosity
+      might now be gratified, begged her not to delay giving her that pleasure
+      one moment; on which our little fairy began in the following manner.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But there Mrs. Teachum told Miss Jenny that the bell rung for dinner; on
+      which she was obliged to break off. But meeting again in the same arbour
+      in the evening, when their good mistress continued to them the favour of
+      her presence, Miss Jenny pursued her story.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0023" id="link2H_4_0023">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My father,&rsquo; said the fairy, &lsquo;was a magician: he married a lady for love,
+      whose beauty far outshone that of all her neighbours; and by means of that
+      beauty, she had so great an influence over her husband, that she could
+      command the utmost power of his art. But better had it been for her, had
+      that beauty been wanting; for her power only served to make her wish for
+      more, and the gratification of every desire begot a new one, which often
+      it was impossible for her to gratify. My father, though he saw his error
+      in thus indulging her, could not attain steadiness of mind enough to mend
+      it, nor acquire resolution enough to suffer his beloved wife once to
+      grieve or shed a tear to no purpose, though in order to cure her of that
+      folly which made her miserable.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My grandfather so plainly saw the temper and disposition of his son
+      towards women, that he did not leave him at liberty to dispose of his
+      magic art to any but his posterity, that it might not be in the power of a
+      wife to tease him out of it. But his caution was to very little purpose;
+      for although my mother could not from herself exert any magic power, yet
+      such was her unbounded influence over her husband, that she was sure of
+      success in every attempt to persuade him to gratify her desires. For if
+      every argument she could invent happened to fail, yet the shedding but one
+      tear was a certain method to prevail with him to give up his reason,
+      whatever might be the consequence.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;When my father and mother had been married about a year, she was brought
+      to bed of a daughter, to whom she gave the name of Brunetta. Her first
+      request to my father was, that he would endow this infant with as much
+      beauty as she herself was possessed of, and bestow on her as much of his
+      art as should enable her to succeed in all her designs. My father foresaw
+      the dreadful tendency of granting this request, but said he would give it
+      with this restriction, that she should succeed in all her designs that
+      were not wicked; for, said he, the success of wicked designs always turns
+      out as a punishment to the person so succeeding. In this resolution he
+      held for three days, till my mother (being weak in body after her
+      lying-in) worked herself with her violent passions to such a degree, that
+      the physicians told my father, they despaired of her life, unless some
+      method could be found to make her mind more calm and easy. His fondness
+      for his wife would not suffer him to bear the thoughts of losing her, and
+      the horror with which that apprehension had but for a moment possessed his
+      mind, prevailed with him to bestow on the little Brunetta (though
+      foreseeing it would make her miserable) the fatal gift in its full extent.
+      But one restriction it was out of his power to take off, namely, that all
+      wicked designs ever could and should be rendered ineffectual by the virtue
+      and perseverance of those against whom they were intended, if they in a
+      proper manner exerted that virtue.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I was born in two years after Brunetta, and was called Sybella: but my
+      mother was so taken up with her darling Brunetta, that she gave herself
+      nut the least concern about me; and I was left wholly to the care of my
+      father. In order to make the gift she had extorted from her fond husband
+      as fatal as possible to her favourite child, she took care in her
+      education (by endeavouring to cultivate in her the spirit of revenge and
+      malice against those who had in the least degree offended her) to turn her
+      mind to all manner of mischief; by which means she lived in a continual
+      passion.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My father, as soon as I was old enough to hearken to reason, told me of
+      the gift he had conferred on my sister; said he could not retract it; and
+      therefore, if she had any mischievous designs against me, they must in
+      some measure succeed; but she would endow me with a power superior to this
+      gift of my sister&rsquo;s, and likewise superior to any thing else that he was
+      able to bestow, which was strength and constancy of mind enough to bear
+      patiently any injuries I might receive; and this was a strength, he said,
+      which would not decay, but rather increase, by every new exercise of it;
+      and, to secure me in the possession of this gift, he likewise gave me a
+      perfect knowledge of the true value of everything around me, by which
+      means I might learn, whatever outward accidents befell me, not to lose the
+      greatest blessing in this world, namely, a calm and contented mind. He
+      taught me so well my duty, that I cheerfully obeyed my mother in all
+      things, though she seldom gave me a kind word, or even a kind look; for my
+      spiteful sister was always telling some lies to make her angry with me.
+      But my heart overflowed with gratitude to my father, that he would give me
+      leave to love him, whilst he instructed me that it was my duty to pay him
+      the most strict obedience.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Brunetta was daily encouraged by her mother to use me ill, and chiefly
+      because my father loved me; and although she succeeded in all her designs
+      of revenge on me, yet was she very uneasy, because she could not take away
+      the cheerfulness of my mind; for I bore with patience whatever happened to
+      me: and she would often say, &ldquo;must I with all my beauty, power, and wisdom
+      (for so she called her low cunning) be suffering perpetual uneasiness? and
+      shall you, who have neither beauty, power, nor wisdom, pretend to be happy
+      and cheerful?&rdquo; Then would she cry and stamp, and rave like a mad creature,
+      and set her invention at work to make my mother beat me, or lock me up, or
+      take from me some of my best clothes to give to her; yet still could not
+      her power extend to vex my mind: and this used to throw her again into
+      such passions, as weakened her health, and greatly impaired her so much
+      boasted beauty.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;In this manner we lived, till on a certain day, after Brunetta had been
+      in one of her rages with me for nothing, my father came in and chid her
+      for it; which, when my mother heard, she threw herself into such a violent
+      passion, that her husband could not pacify her. And, being big with child,
+      the convulsions, caused by her passions, brought her to her grave. Thus my
+      father lost her, by the same uncontrollable excesses, the fatal effects of
+      which he had before ruined his daughter to preserve her from. He did not
+      long survive her; but, before he died, gave me a little wand, which, by
+      striking three times on the ground, he said, would at any time produce me
+      any necessary or convenience of life, which I really wanted, either for
+      myself, or the assistance of others; and this he gave me, because he was
+      very sensible, he said, that as soon as he was dead, my sister would never
+      rest till she had got from me both his castle, and everything that I had
+      belonging to me, in it. &ldquo;But,&rdquo; continued he, &ldquo;whenever you are driven from
+      thence, bend your course directly into the pleasant wood Ardella; there
+      strike with your wand, and everything you want, will be provided for you.
+      But keep this wand a profound secret, or Brunetta will get it from you;
+      and then (though you can never, while you preserve your patience, be
+      unhappy) you will not have it in your power to be of so much use as you
+      would wish to be, to those who shall stand in need of your assistance.&rdquo;
+       Saying these words, he expired, as I kneeled by his bedside, attending his
+      last commands, and bewailing the loss of so good a father.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;In the midst of this our distress, we sent to my Uncle Sochus, my
+      father&rsquo;s brother, to come to us, and to assist us in an equal division of
+      my deceased father&rsquo;s effects; but my sister soon contrived to make him
+      believe, that I was the wickedest girl alive, and had always set my father
+      against her by my art, which she said I pretended to call my wisdom; and
+      by several handsome presents she soon persuaded him (for he did not care a
+      farthing for either of us) to join with her in saying, that, as she was
+      the eldest sister, she had a full right to the castle, and everything in
+      it; but she told me I was very welcome to stay there, and live with her,
+      if I pleased; and while I behaved myself well, she should be very glad of
+      my company.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;As it was natural for me to love every one that would give me leave to
+      love them, I was quite overjoyed at this kind offer of my sister&rsquo;s, and
+      never once thought on the treachery she had so lately been guilty of; and
+      I have since reflected, that happy was it for me, that passion was so much
+      uppermost with her, that she could not execute any plot, that required a
+      dissimulation of any long continuance; for had her good humour lasted but
+      one four-and-twenty hours, it is very probable that I should have opened
+      my whole heart to her; should have endeavoured to have begun a friendship
+      with her, and perhaps have betrayed the secret of my wand; but just as it
+      was sunset, she came into the room where I was, in the most violent
+      passion in the world, accusing me to my uncle of ingratitude to her great
+      generosity, in suffering me to live in her castle. She said, &ldquo;that she had
+      found me out, and that my crimes were of the blackest dye,&rdquo; although she
+      would not tell me either what they were, or who were my accusers. She
+      would not give me leave to speak, either to ask what my offence was, or to
+      justify my innocence; and I plainly perceived, that her pretended kindness
+      was only designed to make my disappointment the greater; and that she was
+      now determined to find me guilty, whether I pleaded, or not. And after she
+      had raved on for some time, she said to me with a sneer, &ldquo;Since you have
+      always boasted of your calm and contented mind, you may now try to be
+      contented this night with the softness of the grass for your bed; for here
+      in my castle you shall not stay one moment longer.&rdquo; And so saying, she and
+      my uncle led me to the outer court, and thrusting me with all their force
+      from them, they shut up the gates, bolting and barring them as close as if
+      to keep out a giant; and left me, at that time of night, friendless, and,
+      as they thought, destitute of any kind of support.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I then remembered my dear father&rsquo;s last words, and made what haste I
+      could to this wood, which is not above a mile distant from the castle; and
+      being, as I thought, about the middle of it, I struck three times with my
+      wand, and immediately up rose this grove of trees, which you see, this
+      house, and all the other conveniences, which I now enjoy; and getting that
+      very night into this my plain and easy bed, I enjoyed as sweet a repose as
+      ever I did in my life, only delayed, indeed, a short time, by a few sighs,
+      for the loss of so good a parent, and the unhappy state of a
+      self-tormented sister, whose slumbers (I fear) on a bed of down, were more
+      restless and interrupted that night than mine would have been, even had
+      not my father&rsquo;s present of the wand prevented me from the necessity of
+      using the bed of grass, which she, in her wrath, allotted me. In this
+      grove, which I call Placid Grove, is contained all that I want; and it is
+      so well secured from any invaders, by the thick briars and thorns which
+      surround it, having no entrance but through that tender jessamine, that I
+      live in no apprehensions of any disturbance, though so near my sister&rsquo;s
+      castle. But once, indeed, she came with a large train, and, whilst I was
+      asleep, set fire to the trees all around me; and waking, I found myself
+      almost suffocated with smoke, and the flames had reached one part of my
+      House. I started from my bed, and striking on the ground three times with
+      my wand, there came such a quantity of water from the heavens, as soon
+      extinguished the fire; and the next morning, by again having recourse to
+      my wand, all things grew up into their convenient and proper order. When
+      my sister Brunetta found that I had such a supernatural power at my
+      command, though she knew not what it was, she desisted from ever
+      attempting any more by force to disturb me; and now only uses all sorts of
+      arts and contrivances to deceive me, or any persons whom I would wish to
+      secure. One of my father&rsquo;s daily lessons to me was, that I should never
+      omit any one day of my life endeavouring to be as serviceable as I
+      possibly could to any person in distress. And I daily wander, as far as my
+      feet will carry me, in search of any such, and hither I invite them to
+      peace and calm contentment. But my father added also this command, that I
+      should never endeavour doing any farther good to those whom adversity had
+      not taught to hearken to the voice of reason, enough to enable them so to
+      conquer their passions as not to think themselves miserable in a safe
+      retreat from noise and confusion. This was the reason I could not gratify
+      you in relating the history of my life, whilst you gave way to raging
+      passions, which only serve to blind your eyes, and shut your ears from
+      truth. But now, great queen (for I know your state, from what you vented
+      in your grief), I am ready to endow this little princess with any gift in
+      my power, that I know will tend really to her good; and I hope your
+      experience of the world has made you too reasonable to require any other.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The queen considered a little while, and then desired Sybella to endow the
+      princess with that only wisdom which would enable her to see and follow
+      what was her own true good, to know the value of everything around her,
+      and to be sensible that following the paths of goodness and performing her
+      duty was the only road to content and happiness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Sybella was overjoyed at the queen&rsquo;s request, and immediately granted it,
+      only telling the Princess Hebe, that it was absolutely necessary towards
+      the attainment of this great blessing, that she should entirely obey the
+      queen her mother, without ever pretending to examine her commands; for
+      &lsquo;true obedience (said she) consists in submission; and when we pretend to
+      choose what commands are proper and fit for us, we don&rsquo;t obey, but set up
+      our own wisdom in opposition to our governors&mdash;this, my dear Hebe,
+      you must be very careful of avoiding, if you would be happy.&rsquo; She then
+      cautioned her against giving way to the persuasions of any of the young
+      shepherdesses thereabouts, who would endeavour to allure her to
+      disobedience, by striving to raise in her mind a desire of thinking
+      herself wise, whilst they were tearing from her what was indeed true
+      wisdom. &lsquo;For (said Sybella) my sister Brunetta, who lives in the castle
+      she drove me from (about a mile from this wood) endows young shepherdesses
+      with great beauty, and everything that is in appearance amiable, and
+      likely to persuade, in order to allure away and make wretched, those
+      persons I would preserve: and all the wisdom with which I have endowed the
+      Princess Hebe will not prevent her falling into my sister&rsquo;s snares, if she
+      gives the least way to temptation; for my father&rsquo;s gift to Brunetta, in
+      her infancy, enables her (as I told you) to succeed in all her designs,
+      except they are resisted by the virtue of the person she is practising
+      against. Many poor wretches has my sister already decoyed away from me,
+      whom she now keeps in her castle; where they live in splendor and seeming
+      joy, but in real misery, from perpetual jars and tumults, railed by envy,
+      malice, and all the train of tumultuous and tormenting passions.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The Princess Hebe said, she doubted not but she should be able to
+      withstand any of Brunetta&rsquo;s temptations. Her mother interrupting her,
+      cried out, &lsquo;Oh, my dear child, though you are endowed with wisdom enough
+      to direct you in the way to virtue, yet if you grow conceited and proud of
+      that wisdom, and fancy yourself above temptation, it will lead you into
+      the worst of all evils.&rsquo; Here the fairy interposed, and told the Princess
+      Hebe, that if she would always carefully observe and obey her mother, who
+      had learned wisdom in that best school, adversity, she would then, indeed,
+      be able to withstand and overcome every temptation, and would likewise be
+      happy herself, and able to dispense happiness to all around her. Nothing
+      was omitted by the fairy to make this retirement agreeable to her royal
+      guests; and they had now passed near seven years in this delightful grove,
+      in perfect peace and tranquillity; when one evening, as they were walking
+      in the pleasant wood which surrounded their habitation, they espied under
+      the shade, and leaning against the bark of a large oak, a poor old man,
+      whose limbs were withered and decayed, and whose eyes were hollow, and
+      sunk with age and misery. They stopped as soon as they saw him, and heard
+      him in the anguish of his heart, with a loud groan, utter these words:
+      &lsquo;When will my sorrows end? Where shall I find the good fairy Sybella?&rsquo; The
+      fairy immediately begged to know his business with her; and said, if his
+      sorrows would end on finding Sybella, he might set his heart at ease; for
+      she stood now before him, and ready to serve him, if his distresses were
+      such as would admit of relief, and he could prove himself worthy of her
+      friendship. The old Man appeared greatly overjoyed at having found the
+      fairy, and began the following story:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I live from hence a thousand leagues. All this tiresome way have I come
+      in search of you. My whole life has been spent in amassing wealth, to
+      enrich one only son, whom I doted on to distraction. It is now five years
+      since I have given him up all the riches I had laboured to get, only to
+      make him happy. But, alas how am I disappointed! His wealth enables him to
+      command whatever this world produces; and yet the poorest wretch that begs
+      his bread cannot be more miserable. He spends his days in riot and luxury;
+      has more slaves and attendants than wait in the palace of a prince; and
+      still he sighs from morning till night, because, he says, there is nothing
+      in this world worth living for. All his dainties only sate his palate, and
+      grow irksome to his sight. He daily changes his opinion of what is
+      pleasure; and, on the trial, finds none that he can call such; and then
+      falls to sighing again, for the emptiness of all that he has enjoyed. So
+      that, instead of being my delight, and the comfort of my old age,
+      sleepless nights, and anxious days, are all the rewards of my past labours
+      for him. But I have had many visions and dreams to admonish me, that if I
+      would venture with my old frame to travel hither a-foot in search of the
+      fairy Sybella, she had a glass, which if she showed him, he would be cured
+      of this dreadful melancholy, and I have borne the labour and fatigue of
+      coming this long tiresome way, that I may not breathe my last with the
+      agonizing reflection, that all the labours of my life have been thrown
+      away. But what shall I say to engage you to go with me? Can riches tempt,
+      or praise allure you?&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;No, (answered the fairy) neither of them has power to move me; but I
+      compassionate your age; and if I thought I could succeed, would not refuse
+      you. The glass which I shall bid him look in, will show him his inward
+      self; but if he will not open both his eyes and heart enough to truth, to
+      let him understand, that the pleasures he pursues not only are not but
+      cannot be satisfactory, I can be of no sort of service to him. And know,
+      old man, that the punishment you now feel is the natural result of your
+      not having taught him this from his infancy; for, instead of heaping up
+      wealth, to allure him to seek for happiness from such deceitful means, you
+      should have taught him, that the only path to it was to be virtuous and
+      good.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The old man said, he heartily repented of his conduct, and on his knees so
+      fervently implored Sybella&rsquo;s assistance, that at last she consented to go
+      with him. Then striking on the ground three times with her wand, the car
+      and horses rose up, and placing the old Man by her, after taking leave of
+      the queen, and begging the Princess Hebe to be careful to guard against
+      all temptations to disobedience, she set out on her journey.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It being now come to the latest hour that Mrs. Teachum thought proper for
+      her little scholars to stay out in the air, she told Miss Jenny that she
+      must defer reading the remaining part of her story till the next day. Miss
+      Jenny always with great cheerfulness obeyed her governess, and immediately
+      left off reading; and said she was ready to attend her; and the whole
+      company rose up to follow her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum had so much judgment, that, perceiving such a ready obedience
+      to all her commands, she now endeavoured, by all means she could think of;
+      to make her scholars throw off that reserve before her, which must ever
+      make it uneasy to them for her ever to be present whilst they were
+      following their innocent diversions; for such was the understanding of
+      this good woman, that she could keep up the authority of the governess in
+      her school, yet at times become the companion of her scholars. And as she
+      now saw, by their good behaviour, they deserved that indulgence, she took
+      the little dumpling by the hand, and, followed by the rest, walked towards
+      the house, and discoursed familiarly with them the rest of the evening,
+      concerning all their past amusements.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0024" id="link2H_4_0024">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      SATURDAY. THE SIXTH DAY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      It was the custom on Saturdays to have no school in the afternoon, and it
+      being also their writing day from morning-school till dinner, Mrs.
+      Teachum, knowing how eager Miss Jenny&rsquo;s hearers were for the rest of the
+      story, accompanied them into the arbour, early in the afternoon, when Miss
+      Jenny went on as follows:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0025" id="link2H_4_0025">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      The queen and the Princess Hebe remained, by the good fairy&rsquo;s desire, in
+      her habitation during her absence. They spent their time in serenity and
+      content; the princess daily improving herself in wisdom and goodness, by
+      hearkening to her mother&rsquo;s instructions, and obeying all her commands, and
+      the queen in studying what would be of most use to her child. She had now
+      forgot her throne and palace, and desired nothing for her, than her
+      present peaceful retreat. One morning, as they were sitting in a little
+      arbour at the corner of a pleasant meadow, on a sudden they heard a voice,
+      much sweeter than they had ever heard, warble through the following song:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      A SONG.
+    </p>
+<pre xml:space="preserve">
+     Virtue, soft balm of every woe,
+       Of ev&rsquo;ry grief the cure,
+     &lsquo;Tis thou alone that canst best bestow
+       Pleasures unmix&rsquo;d and pure.
+
+     The shady wood, the verdant mead,
+       Are Virtue&rsquo;s flow&rsquo;ry road;
+     Nor painful are the steps which lead
+       To her divine abode.
+
+     &lsquo;Tis not in palaces of halls,
+       She or their train appear;
+     Far off she flies from pompous walls;
+       Virtue and Peace dwell here.
+</pre>
+    <p>
+      The queen was all attention, and at the end of the song she gazed around
+      her, in hopes of seeing the person whose enchanting voice she had been so
+      eagerly listening to, when she espied a young shepherdess, not much older
+      than the Princess Hebe, but possessed of such uncommon and dazzling
+      beauty, that it was some time before she could disengage her eyes from so
+      agreeable an object. As soon as the young shepherdess found herself
+      observed, she seemed modestly to offer to withdraw; but the queen begged
+      her not to go till she had informed them who she was, that, with such a
+      commanding aspect, had so much engaged them in her favour.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The shepherdess coming forward, with a bashful blush, and profound
+      obedience, answered, that her name was Rozella, and she was the daughter
+      of a neighbouring shepherd and shepherdess, who lived about a quarter of a
+      mile from thence; and, to confess the truth, she had wandered thither, in
+      hopes of seeing the young stranger, whose fame for beauty and wisdom had
+      filled all that country round.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The Princess Hebe, well knowing of whom she spoke, conceived from that
+      moment such an inclination fur her acquaintance, that she begged her to
+      stay and spend that whole day with them in Placid Grove. Here the queen
+      frowned upon her, for she had, by the fairy&rsquo;s desire, charged her never to
+      bring any one, without her permission, into that peaceful grove.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The young Rozella answered, that nothing could be more agreeable to her
+      inclinations; but she must be at home by noon, for so in the morning had
+      her father commanded her, and never yet in her life had she either
+      disputed or disobeyed her parent&rsquo;s commands. Here the young princess
+      looked on her mother with eyes expressive of her joy at finding a
+      companion, which she, and even the fairy herself, could not disapprove.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When Rozella took her leave, she begged the favour that the little Hebe
+      (for so she called her, not knowing her to be a princess) might come to
+      her father&rsquo;s small cottage, and there partake such homely fare as it
+      afforded; a welcome, she said, she could insure her; and though poor, yet
+      from the honesty of her parents, who would be proud to entertain so rare a
+      beauty, she was certain no sort of harm could happen to the pretty Hebe,
+      from such a friendly visit; and she would be in the same place again
+      tomorrow, to meet her, in hopes, as she said, to conduct her to her humble
+      habitation.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When Rozella was gone, the queen, though highly possessed in her favour,
+      both by her beauty and modest behaviour, yet pondered some time on the
+      thought, whether or no she was a fit companion for her daughter. She
+      remembered what Sybella had told her, concerning Brunetta&rsquo;s adorning young
+      shepherdesses with beauty, and other excellences, only to enable them the
+      better to allure and entice others into wickedness. Rozella&rsquo;s beginning
+      her acquaintance too with the princess, by flattery, had no good aspect;
+      and the sudden effect it had upon her, so as to make her forget, or
+      wilfully disobey, her commands, by inviting Rozella to Placid Grove, were
+      circumstances which greatly alarmed her. But, by the repeated entreaties
+      of the princess, she gave her consent that she should meet Rozella the
+      next day, and walk with her in that meadow, and in the wood, but upon no
+      account should she go home with her, or bring Rozella back with her. The
+      queen then, in gentle terms, chid the princess for her invitation to the
+      young shepherdess, which was contrary to an absolute command; and said,
+      &lsquo;You must, my dear Hebe, be very careful to guard yourself extremely well
+      against those temptations which wear the face of virtue. I know that your
+      sudden affection to this apparent good girl, and your desire of her
+      company, to partake with you the innocent pleasures of this happy place,
+      arise from a good disposition; but where the indulgence of the most
+      laudable passion, even benevolence and compassion itself, interferes with,
+      or runs counter to your duty, you must endeavour to suppress it, or it
+      will fare with you, as it did with that hen, who, thinking that she heard
+      the voice of a little duckling in distress, flew from her young ones, to
+      go and give it assistance, and following the cry, came at last to a hedge,
+      out of which jumped a subtle and wicked fox, who had made that noise to
+      deceive her, and devoured her in an instant. A kite at the same time,
+      taking advantage of her absence, carried away, one by one, all her little
+      innocent brood, robbed of that parent who should have been their
+      protector.&rsquo; The princess promised her mother that she would punctually
+      obey all her commands, and be very watchful and observant of everything
+      Rozella said and did, till she had approved herself worthy of her
+      confidence and friendship.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The queen the next morning renewed her injunctions to her daughter, that
+      she should by no means go farther out of the wood than into the meadow,
+      where she was to meet Rozella, and that she should give her a faithful
+      account of all that should pass between them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They met according to appointment, and the princess brought home so good
+      an account of their conversation, which the queen imagined would help to
+      improve, rather than seduce her child, that she indulged her in the same
+      pleasure as often as she asked it. They passed some hours every day in
+      walking round that delightful wood, in which were many small green
+      meadows, with little rivulets running through them, on the banks of which,
+      covered with primroses and violets, Rozella, by the side of her sweet
+      companion, used to sing the most enchanting songs in the world: the words
+      were chiefly in praise of innocence and a country life.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The princess came home every day more and more charmed with her young
+      shepherdess, and recounted, as near as she could remember, every word that
+      had passed between them. The queen very highly approved of their manner of
+      amusing themselves; but again enjoined her to omit nothing that passed in
+      conversation, especially if it had the least tendency towards alluring her
+      from her duty.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      One day, as the princess Hebe and Rozella were walking alone, and talking,
+      as usual, of their own happy state, and the princess was declaring how
+      much her own happiness was owing to her thorough obedience to her mother,
+      Rozella, with a tone of voice as half in jest, said, &lsquo;But don&rsquo;t you think,
+      my little Hebe, that if I take a very great pleasure in any thing that
+      will do me no hurt, though it is forbidden, I may disobey my parents in
+      enjoying it, provided I don&rsquo;t tell them of it to vex them with the thought
+      that I have disobeyed them? And then, my dear, what harm is done?&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Great harm (answered the princess, looking grave and half angry): I am
+      ashamed to hear you talk so, Rozella. Are you not guilty of treachery, as
+      well as disobedience? Neither ought you to determine that no harm is done,
+      because you do not feel the immediate effects of your transgression; for
+      the consequence may be out of our narrow inexperienced view; and I have
+      been taught whenever my mother lays any commands on me, to take it for
+      granted, she has some reason for so doing; and I obey her, without
+      examining what those reasons are; otherwise, it would not be obeying her,
+      but setting up my own wisdom, and doing what she bid me, only when I
+      thought proper.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They held a long argument on this head, in which Rozella made use of many
+      a fallacy to prove her point; but the princess, as she had not yet
+      departed from Truth, nor failed in her duty, could not be imposed upon.
+      Rozella, seeing every attempt to persuade her was in vain, turned all her
+      past discourse into a jest; said she had only a mind to try her; and was
+      overjoyed to find her so steady in the cause of truth and virtue. The
+      princess resumed her usual cheerfulness and good humour. Rozella sung her
+      a song in praise of constancy of mind; and they passed the rest of the
+      time they stayed together, as they used to do.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But, just before they parted, Rozella begged she would not tell her mother
+      of the first part of the conversation that had passed between them. The
+      princess replied, that it would be breaking through one of her mother&rsquo;s
+      commands, and therefore she dared not grant her request. Then, said
+      Rozella, &lsquo;Here I must for ever part with my dear little Hebe. Your mother,
+      not knowing the manner in which I spoke, will have an ill opinion of me,
+      and will never trust you again in my company. Thus will you be torn from
+      me; and loss will be irreparable.&rsquo; These words she accompanied with a
+      flood of tears, and such little tendernesses, as quite melted the princess
+      into tears also. But she still said, that she could not dare to conceal
+      from her mother anything that had happened, though she could not but own,
+      she believed their separation would be the consequence. &lsquo;Well then (cried
+      Rozella) I will endeavour to be contented, as our separation will give you
+      less pain than what you call this mighty breach of your duty: and though I
+      would willingly undergo almost any torments that could be invented, rather
+      than be debarred one moment the company of my dearest Hebe, yet I will not
+      expect that she should suffer the smallest degree of pain, or uneasiness,
+      to save me from losing what is the whole pleasure of my life.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The princess could not bear the thought of appearing ungrateful to such a
+      warm friendship as Rozella expressed; and, without farther hesitation,
+      promised to conceal what she had said, and to undergo anything, rather
+      than lose so amiable a friend.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      After this they parted. But when the princess entered the Grove, she did
+      not, as usual, run with haste and joy into the presence of her indulgent
+      mother; for her mind was disturbed: she felt a conscious shame on seeing
+      her, and turned away her face, as wanting to shun the piercing look of
+      that eye, which she imagined would see the secret lurking in her bosom.
+      Her mother observed with concern her downcast look, and want of
+      cheerfulness. And asking her what was the matter, she answered, her walk
+      had fatigued her, and she begged early to retire to rest. Her kind mother
+      consented; but little rest had the poor princess that whole night, for the
+      pain of having her mind touched with guilt, and the fear she was under of
+      losing her dear companion, kept her thoughts in one continued tumult and
+      confusion. The fairy&rsquo;s gift now became her curse; for the power of seeing
+      what was right, as she had acted contrary to her knowledge, only tormented
+      her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      She hastened the next morning to meet Rozella, and told her all that had
+      passed in her own mind the preceding night; declaring that she would not
+      pass such another for the whole world; but yet would not dispense with her
+      promise to her, without her consent; and therefore came to ask her leave
+      to acquaint her good mother with all that had passed: &lsquo;For (said she) my
+      dear Rozella, we must, if we would be happy, do always what is right, and
+      trust for the consequences.&rsquo; Here Rozella drew her features into the most
+      contemptuous sneer imaginable, and said, &lsquo;Pray what are all these mighty
+      pains you have suffered? Are they not owing only to your want of sense
+      enough to know, that you can do your mother no harm, by concealing from
+      her this, or anything else that will vex her? and, my dear girl (continued
+      she) when you have once entered into this way of thinking, and have put
+      this blind duty out of your head, you will spend no more such restless
+      nights, which you must see was entirely owing to your own imaginations.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      This startled the princess to such a degree, that she was breaking from
+      her, but, putting on a more tender air, Rozella cried, &lsquo;And can you then,
+      my dear Hebe, determine to give me up for such a trifling consideration?&rsquo; 
+      Then raising her voice again, in a haughty manner, she said, &lsquo;I ought to
+      despise and laugh at you for your folly, or at best pity your ignorance,
+      rather than offer a sincere friendship to one so undeserving.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The princess, having once swerved from her duty, was now in the power of
+      every passion that should attack her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Pride and indignation, at the thought of being despised, bore more sway
+      with her, than either her duty or affection to her fond mother; and she
+      was now determined, she said, to think for herself, and make use of her
+      own understanding, which she was convinced would always teach her what was
+      right. Upon this Rozella took her by the hand, and, with tears of joy,
+      said, &lsquo;Now, my dearest girl, you are really wise, and cannot therefore
+      (according to your own rule) fail of being happy. But to show that you are
+      in earnest in this resolution, you shall this morning go home with me to
+      my father&rsquo;s cot; it is not so far off, but you will be back by the time
+      your mother expects you; and as that will be obeying the chief command, it
+      is but concealing from her the thing that would vex her, and there will be
+      no harm done.&rsquo; Here a ray of truth broke in upon our young princess; but
+      as a false shame, and fear of being laughed at, had now got possession of
+      her, she, with a soft sigh, consented to the proposal.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Rozella led the way. But just as they were turning round the walk, which
+      leads out of the wood, a large serpent darted from one side out of a
+      thicket, directly between them, and turning its hissing mouth towards the
+      princess, as seeming to make after her, she fled hastily back, and ran
+      with all her speed towards the grove, and panting for breath, flew into
+      the arms of her ever kind protectress.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Her mother was vastly terrified to see her tremble, and look so pale; and
+      as soon as she was a little recovered, asked her the occasion of her
+      fright, and added (with tears running down her cheeks) &lsquo;I am afraid, my
+      dear Hebe, some sad disaster has befallen you, for, indeed, my child, I
+      but too plainly saw last night&mdash;&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here the princess was so struck with true shame and confusion, for her
+      past behaviour, that she fell down upon her knees, confessed the whole
+      truth, and implored forgiveness for her fault.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The queen kindly raised her up, kissed and forgave her. &lsquo;I am overjoyed,
+      my dear child (said she) at this your sweet repentance, though the effect
+      of mere accident, as it appears but sent, without doubt, by some good
+      fairy, to save you from destruction; and I hope you are thoroughly
+      convinced, that the serpent which drove you home, was not half so
+      dangerous as the false Rozella.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The princess answered, that she was thoroughly sensible of the dangers she
+      had avoided, and hoped she never should again, by her own folly and
+      wickedness, deserve to be exposed to the danger from which she had so
+      lately escaped.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Some days passed, without the princess&rsquo;s offering to stir out of the
+      grove; and in that time she gave a willing and patient ear to all her
+      mother&rsquo;s instructions, and seemed thoroughly sensible of the great
+      deliverance she had lately experienced. But yet there appeared in her
+      countenance an uneasiness, which the queen wishing to remove, asked her
+      the cause of.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;It is, dear madam,&rsquo; answered the princess, &lsquo;because I have not yet had it
+      in my power to convince you of my repentance, which (though I know it to
+      be sincere) you have had no proof of, but in words only; and, indeed, my
+      heart longs for an occasion to show you, that I am now able to resist any
+      allurement which would tempt me from my duty; and I cannot be easy till
+      you have given me an opportunity of showing you the firmness of my
+      resolution; and if you will give me leave to take a walk in the wood
+      alone, this evening, I shall return to you with pleasure, and will promise
+      not to exceed any bounds that you shall prescribe.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The queen was not much pleased with this request; but the princess was so
+      earnest with her to grant it, that she could not well refuse, without
+      seeming to suspect her sincerity; which she did not, but only feared for
+      her safety, and, giving her a strict charge, not to stir a step out of the
+      wood, or to speak to the false Rozella, if she came in her way, she
+      reluctantly gave her consent.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The princess walked through all the flowery labyrinths, in which she had
+      so often strayed with Rozella; but she was so shocked with the thoughts of
+      her wickedness, that she hardly gave a sigh for the loss of a companion
+      once so dear to her; and as a proof that her repentance was sincere,
+      though she heard Rozella singing in an arbour (purposely perhaps to decoy
+      her) she turned away without the least emotion, and went quite to the
+      other side of the wood; where looking into the meadow, in which she first
+      beheld that false friend, she saw a girl about her own age, leaning
+      against a tree, and crying most bitterly. But the moment she came in
+      sight, the young shepherdess (for such by her dress she appeared to be)
+      cried out, &lsquo;O help, dear young lady, help me; for I am tied here to this
+      tree, by the spiteful contrivance of a wicked young shepherdess called
+      Rozella: my hands too, you see, are bound behind me, so that I cannot
+      myself unloose the knot; and if I am not released, here must I lie all
+      night and my wretched parents will break their hearts, for fear some sad
+      accident should have befallen their only child, their poor unhappy
+      Florimel!&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The Princess, hearing her speak of Rozella in that manner, had no
+      suspicion of her being one of that false girl&rsquo;s deluding companions; but
+      rather thought that she was a fellow-sufferer with herself; and therefore,
+      without any consideration of the bounds prescribed, she hastened to
+      relieve her, and even thought that she should have great pleasure in
+      telling her mother, that she had saved a poor young shepherdess from
+      Rozella&rsquo;s malice, and restored her to her fond parents. But as soon as she
+      had unloosed the girl from the tree, and unbound her hands, instead of
+      receiving thanks for what she had done, the wicked Florimel burst into a
+      laugh, and suddenly snatching from the Princess Hebe&rsquo;s side her father&rsquo;s
+      picture, which she always wore hanging in a ribbon, she ran away with it,
+      as fast as she could, over the meadow.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The Princess was so astonished at this strange piece of ingratitude and
+      treachery, and was so alarmed for fear of losing what she knew her mother
+      so highly valued, that hardly knowing what she was about, she pursued
+      Florimel with all her speed, begging and entreating her not to bereave her
+      so basely and ungratefully of that picture, which she would not part with
+      for the world: but it was all to no purpose for Florimel continued her
+      flight, and the princess her pursuit, till they arrived at Brunetta&rsquo;s
+      castle-gate; where the fairy herself appeared dressed and adorned in the
+      most becoming manner, and, with the most bewitching smile that can come
+      from dazzling beauty, invited the princess to enter her castle (into which
+      Florimel was run to hide herself) and promised her, on that condition, to
+      make the idle girl restore the picture.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It was now so late, that it was impossible for the princess to think of
+      returning home that night; and the pleasing address of Brunetta, together
+      with the hopes of having her picture restored, soon prevailed with her to
+      accept of the fairy&rsquo;s invitation.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The castle glittered with gaudy furniture; sweet music was heard in every
+      room; the whole company, who were all of the most beautiful forms that
+      could be conceived, strove who should be most obliging to this their new
+      guest. They omitted nothing that could amuse and delight the senses. And
+      the Princess Hebe was so entranced with joy and rapture, that she had not
+      time for thought, or for the least serious reflection; and she now began
+      to think, that she had attained the highest happiness upon earth.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      After they had kept her three days in this round of pleasure and delight,
+      they began to pull of the mask; nothing was heard but quarrels, jars, and
+      galling speeches. Instead of sweet music, the apartments were filled with
+      screams and howling; for every one giving way to the most outrageous
+      passions, they were always doing each other some malicious turn, and only
+      universal horror and confusion reigned.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The princess was hated by all, and was often asked, with insulting sneers,
+      why she did not return to her peaceful grove, and condescending mother?
+      But her mind having been thus turned aside from what was right, could not
+      bear the thoughts of returning; and though by her daily tears, she showed
+      her repentance, shame prevented her return: but this again was not the
+      right sort of shame; for then she would humbly have taken the punishment
+      due to her crime; and it was rather a stubborn pride, which, as she knew
+      herself so highly to blame, would not give her leave to suffer the
+      confusion of again confessing her fault; and till she could bring herself
+      to such a state of mind, there was no remedy for her misery.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Just as Miss Jenny had read these words, Mrs. Teachum remembering some
+      orders necessary to give in her family, left them, but bid them go on,
+      saying she would return again in a quarter of an hour. But she was no
+      sooner gone from them, than our little company, hearing the sound of
+      trumpets and kettle-drums, which seemed to be playing at some little
+      distance from Mrs. Teachum&rsquo;s house, suddenly started from their seats,
+      running directly to the terrace; and, looking over the garden wall, they
+      saw a troop of soldiers riding by, with these instruments of music playing
+      before them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They were highly delighted with the gallant and splendid appearance of
+      these soldiers, and watched them till they were out of sight, and were
+      then returning to their arbour, where Miss Jenny had been reading; but
+      Miss Nanny Spruce espied another such troop coming out of the lane from
+      whence the first had issued, and cried out, &lsquo;O! here is another fine
+      sight; let us stay, and see these go by too.&rsquo; &lsquo;Indeed (said Miss Dolly
+      Friendly) I am in such pain for the poor princess Hebe, while she is in
+      that sad castle, that I had rather hear how she escaped (for that I hope
+      she will) than see all the soldiers in the world; and besides, it is but
+      seeing the same thing we have just looked at before.&rsquo; Here some were for
+      staying, and others for going back; but as Miss Dolly&rsquo;s party was the
+      strongest, the few were ashamed to avow their inclinations; and they were
+      returning to the arbour, when they met Mrs. Teachum, who informed them
+      their dancing master was just arrived, and they must attend him; but in
+      the evening they might finish their story.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They were so curious (and especially Miss Dolly Friendly) to know what was
+      to become of the princess, that they could have wished not to have been
+      interrupted; but yet, without one word of answer, they complied with what
+      their governess thought most proper; and in the evening, hastening to
+      their arbour, Mrs. Teachum herself being present, Miss Jenny went on in
+      the following manner:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0026" id="link2H_4_0026">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      The queen, in the meantime, suffered for the loss of her child more than
+      words can express, till the good fairy Sybella returned. The queen burst
+      into tears at the sight of her; but the fairy immediately cried out, &lsquo;You
+      may spare yourself, my royal guest, the pain of relating what has
+      happened. I know it all; for that old man, whom I took such pity on, was a
+      phantom, raised by Brunetta, to allure me hence, in order to have an
+      opportunity, in my absence, of seducing the princess from her duty. She
+      knew nothing but a probable story could impose on me, and therefore raised
+      that story of the misery of the old man&rsquo;s son (from motives which too
+      often, indeed, cause the misery of mortals); as knowing I should think it
+      my duty to do what I could to relieve such a wretch. I will not tell you
+      all my journey, nor what I have gone through. I know your mind is at
+      present too much fixed on the princess, to attend to such a relation I&rsquo;ll
+      only tell you what concerns yourself. When the phantom found, that by no
+      distress he could perturb my mind, he said he was obliged to tell the
+      truth, what was the intention of my being deluded from home, and what had
+      happened since; and then vanished away.&rsquo; Here the fairy related to the
+      queen everything that had happened to the princess, as has already been
+      written; and concluded with saying, that she would wander about the castle
+      walls (for Brunetta had no power over her); and if she could get a sight
+      of the princess, she would endeavour to bring her to a true sense of her
+      fault, and then she might again be restored to happiness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The queen blessed the fairy for her goodness; and it was not long before
+      Sybella&rsquo;s continual assiduity got her a sight of the princess; for she
+      often wandered a little way towards that wood she had once so much
+      delighted in, but never could bring herself to enter into it: the thought
+      of seeing her injured mother made her start back, and run half wild into
+      the fatal castle. Rozella used frequently to throw herself in her way; and
+      on hearing her sighs, and seeing her tears, would burst into a sneering
+      laugh at her folly; to avoid which laugh, the poor princess first suffered
+      herself to throw off all her principles of goodness and obedience, and was
+      now fallen into the very contempt she so much dreaded.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The first time the fairy got a sight of her, she called to her with the
+      most friendly voice; but the princess, stung to the soul with the sight of
+      her, fled away, and did not venture out again in several days. The kind
+      Sybella began almost to despair of regaining her lost child; but never
+      failed walking round the castle many hours every day. And one evening,
+      just before the sun set, she heard within the gates a loud tumultuous
+      noise, but more like riotous mirth, than either the voice either of rage
+      or anger; and immediately she saw the princess rush out at the gate, and
+      about a dozen girls, laughing and shouting, running after her. The poor
+      princess flew with all her speed till she came to a little arbour, just by
+      the side of the wood; and her pursuers, as they intended only to tease
+      her, did not follow her very close; but, as soon as they lost sight of
+      her, turned all back again to the castle.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Sybella went directly into the arbour, where she found the little trembler
+      prostrate on the ground, crying and sobbing as if her heart was breaking.
+      The fairy seized her hand, and would not let her go till she had prevailed
+      with her to return to the Placid Grove, to throw herself once more at her
+      mother&rsquo;s feet, assuring her, that nothing but this humble state of mind
+      could cure her misery and restore her wonted peace.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The queen was filled with the highest joy to see her child; but restrained
+      herself so much, that she showed not the least sign of it, till she had
+      seen her some time prostrate at her feet, and had heard her with tears
+      properly confess, and ask pardon for, all her faults. She then raised, and
+      once more forgave her; but told her that she must learn more humility and
+      distrust of herself, before she should again expect to be trusted.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The princess answered not, but with a modest downcast look which expressed
+      her concern and true repentance, and in a short time recovered her former
+      peace of mind; and as she never afterwards disobeyed her indulgent mother,
+      she daily increased in wisdom and goodness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      After having lived on in the most innocent and peaceful manner for three
+      years (the princess being just turned of eighteen years old) the fairy
+      told the queen that she would now tell her some news of her kingdom, which
+      she had heard in her journey; namely, that her sister-in-law was dead, and
+      her brother-in-law had made proclamation throughout the kingdom, of great
+      rewards to any one who should produce the queen and the Princess Hebe,
+      whom he would immediately reinstate on the throne.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The Princess Hebe was by when she related this, and said she begged to
+      lead a private life, and never more be exposed to the temptation of
+      entering into vice, for which she already had so severely smarted.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The fairy told her, that, since she doubted herself, she was now fit to be
+      trusted; for, said she, &lsquo;I did not like your being so sure of resisting
+      temptation, when first I conferred on you the gift of wisdom. But you
+      will, my princess, if you take the crown, have an opportunity of doing so
+      much good, that, if you continue virtuous, you will have perpetual
+      pleasures; for power, if made a right use of, is indeed a very great
+      blessing.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The princess answered, that if the queen, her mother, thought it her duty
+      to take the crown, she would cheerfully submit, though a private life
+      would be otherwise her choice.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The queen replied, that she did not blame her for choosing a private life;
+      but she thought she could not innocently refuse the power that would give
+      her such opportunities of doing good, and making others happy; since, by
+      that refusal, the power might fall into hands that would make an ill use
+      of it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      After this conversation, they got into the same car in which they
+      travelled to the wood of Ardella; arrived safely at the city of Algorada;
+      and the Princess Hebe was seated, with universal consent, on her father&rsquo;s
+      throne; where she and her people were reciprocally happy, by her great
+      wisdom and prudence; and the queen-mother spent the remainder of her days
+      in peace and joy, to see her beloved daughter prove a blessing to such
+      numbers of human creatures; whilst she herself enjoyed that only true
+      content and happiness this world can produce; namely, a peaceful
+      conscience, and a quiet mind.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When Miss Jenny had finished her story, Mrs. Teachum left them for the
+      present, that they might with the utmost freedom make their own
+      observations; for she knew she should be acquainted with all their
+      sentiments from Miss Jenny afterwards.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The little hearts of all the company were swelled with joy, in that the
+      Princess Hebe was at last made happy; for hope and fear had each by turns
+      possessed their bosoms for the fate of the little princess; and Miss Dolly
+      Friendly said, that Rozella&rsquo;s artful manner was enough to have drawn in
+      the wisest girl into her snares; and she did not see how it was possible
+      for the Princess Hebe to withstand it, especially when she cried for fear
+      of parting with her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Sukey Jennett said, that Rozella&rsquo;s laughing at her, and using her
+      with contempt, she thought was insupportable, for who could bear the
+      contempt of a friend?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Many and various were the remarks made by Miss Jenny&rsquo;s hearers on the
+      story she had read to them. But now they were so confirmed in goodness,
+      and every one was so settled in her affection for her companions, that,
+      instead of being angry at any opposition that was made to their judgments,
+      every one spoke her opinion with the utmost mildness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny sat some time silent to hear their conversation on her fairy
+      tale. But her seeing them so much altered in their manner of talking to
+      each other, since the time they made their little remarks on her story of
+      the giants, filled her whole mind with the most sincere pleasure; and with
+      a smile peculiar to herself, and which diffused a cheerfulness to all
+      around her, she told her companions the joy their present behaviour had
+      inspired her with; but saying that it was as late as their governess chose
+      they should stay out, she rose, and walked towards the house, whither she
+      was cheerfully followed by the whole company.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum after supper, again, in a familiar manner, talked to them on
+      the subject of the fairy tale, and encouraged them, as much as possible,
+      to answer her freely in whatever she asked them; and at last said, &lsquo;My
+      good children, I am very much pleased when you are innocently amused; and
+      yet I would have you consider seriously enough of what you read, to draw
+      such morals from your books, as may influence your future practice; and as
+      to fairy tales in general, remember, that the fairies, as I told Miss
+      Jenny before of giants and magic, are only introduced by the writers of
+      those tales, by way of amusement to the reader. For if the story is well
+      written, the common course of things would produce the same incidents,
+      without the help of fairies.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;As for example, in this of the Princess Hebe, you see the queen her
+      mother was not admitted to know the fairy&rsquo;s history, till she could calm
+      her mind enough to hearken to reason; which only means, that whilst we
+      give way to the raging of our passions, nothing useful can ever sink into
+      our minds. For by the fairy Sybella&rsquo;s story you find, that by our own
+      faults we may turn the greatest advantages into our own misery, as
+      Sybella&rsquo;s mother did her beauty, by making use of the influence it gave
+      her over her husband, to tease him into the ruin of his child; and as also
+      Brunetta did, by depending on her father&rsquo;s gift, to enable her to complete
+      her desires, and therefore never endeavouring to conquer them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;You may observe also on the other side, that no accident had any power to
+      hurt Sybella, because she followed the paths of virtue, and kept her mind
+      free from restless passions.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;You see happiness in the good Sybella&rsquo;s peaceful grove, and misery in the
+      wicked Brunetta&rsquo;s gaudy castle. The queen desiring the fairy to endow her
+      child with true wisdom, was the cause that the Princess Hebe had it in her
+      power to be happy. But take notice, that when she swerved from her duty,
+      all her knowledge was of no use, but only rendered her more miserable, by
+      letting her see her own folly in the stronger light. Rozella first tempted
+      the princess to disobedience, by moving her tenderness, and alarming her
+      friendship, in fearing to part with her; and then by persuading her to set
+      up her own wisdom, in opposition to her mother&rsquo;s commands, rather than be
+      laughed at, and despised by her friends. You are therefore to observe,
+      that if you would steadily persevere in virtue, you must have resolution
+      enough to stand the sneers of those who would allure you to vice; for it
+      is the constant practice of the vicious, to endeavour to allure others to
+      follow their example, by an affected contempt and ridicule of virtue.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;By the Princess Hebe&rsquo;s being drawn at last beyond the prescribed bounds,
+      by the cries and entreaties of that insidious girl, you are to learn, that
+      whatever appearance of virtue any action may be attended with, yet if it
+      makes you go contrary to the commands of those who know better what is for
+      your good, than you do your selves, and who can see farther into the
+      consequences of actions than can your tender years, it will certainly lead
+      you into error and misfortune; and you find, as soon as the princess had
+      once overleaped the bounds, another plausible excuse arose to carry her
+      on; and by a false fear of incurring her mother&rsquo;s displeasure, she really
+      deserved that displeasure, and was soon reduced into the power of her
+      enemy.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;The princess, you see, could have no happiness till she returned again to
+      her obedience, and had confessed her fault. And though in this story all
+      this is brought about by fairies, yet the moral of it is, that whenever we
+      give way to our passions, and act contrary to our duty, we must be
+      miserable.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;But let me once more observe to you, that these fairies are only intended
+      to amuse you; for remember that the misery which attended the Princess
+      Hebe, on her disobedience, was the natural consequence of that
+      disobedience, as well as the natural consequence of her amendment and
+      return to her duty, was content and happiness for the rest of her life.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here good Mrs. Teachum ceased, and Miss Jenny, in the name of the company,
+      thanked her for her kind instructions, and promised that they would
+      endeavour, to the utmost of their power, to imprint them on their memory
+      for the rest of their lives.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0027" id="link2H_4_0027">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      SUNDAY. THE SEVENTH DAY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      This morning our little society rose very early, and were all dressed with
+      neatness and elegance, in order to go to church. Mrs. Teachum put Miss
+      Polly Suckling before her, and the rest followed, two and two, with
+      perfect regularity.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum expressed great approbation, that her scholars, at this
+      solemn place, showed no sort of childishness, notwithstanding their tender
+      age; but behaved with decency and devotion suitable to the occasion.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They went again in the same order, and behaved again in the same manner,
+      in the afternoon; and when they returned from church, two young ladies,
+      Lady Caroline and Lady Fanny Delun, who had formerly known Miss Jenny
+      Peace, and who were at present in that neighbourhood with their uncle,
+      came to make her a visit.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Lady Caroline was fourteen years of age, tall and genteel in her person,
+      of a fair complexion, and a regular set of features so that, upon the
+      whole, she was generally complimented with being very handsome.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Lady Fanny, who was one year younger than her sister, was rather little of
+      her age, of a brown complexion, her features irregular; and, in short, she
+      had not the least real pretensions to beauty.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It was but lately that their father was, by the death of his eldest
+      brother, become Earl of Delun; so that their titles were new, and they had
+      not been long used to your ladyship.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny Peace received them as her old acquaintance: however, she paid
+      them the deference due to their quality, and, at the same time, took care
+      not to behave as if she imagined they thought of anything else.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As it was her chief delight to communicate her pleasures to others, she
+      introduced her new-made friends to her old acquaintance, and expected to
+      have spent a very agreeable afternoon. But to describe the behaviour of
+      these two young ladies is very difficult. Lady Caroline, who was dressed
+      in a pink robe, embroidered thick with gold, and adorned with very fine
+      jewels, and the finest Mechlin lace, addressed most of her discourse to
+      her sister, that she might have the pleasure every minute of uttering
+      &lsquo;Your ladyship,&rsquo; in order to show what she herself expected. And as she
+      spoke, her fingers were in perpetual motion, either adjusting her tucker,
+      placing her plaits of her robe, or fiddling with a diamond cross, that
+      hung down on her bosom, her eyes accompanying her fingers as they moved,
+      and then suddenly being snatched off, that she might not be observed to
+      think of her own dress; yet was it plain, that her thoughts were employed
+      on only that and her titles. Miss Jenny Peace, although she would have
+      made it her choice always to have been in company who did not deserve
+      ridicule, yet had she humour enough to treat affectation as it deserved.
+      And she addressed herself to Lady Caroline with so many ladyships, and
+      such praises of her fine clothes, as she hoped would have made her
+      ashamed; but Lady Caroline was too full of her own vanity, to see her
+      design, and only exposed herself ten times the more, till she really got
+      the better of Miss Jenny, who blushed for her, since she was incapable of
+      blushing for herself.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Lady Fanny&rsquo;s dress was plain and neat only, nor did she mention anything
+      about it; and it was very visible her thoughts were otherwise employed,
+      neither did she seem to take any delight in the words &lsquo;Your ladyship&rsquo;: but
+      she tossed and threw her person about into so many ridiculous postures,
+      and as there happened unfortunately to be no looking-glass in the room
+      where they sat, she turned and rolled her eyes so many different ways, in
+      endeavouring to view as much of herself as possible, that it was very
+      plain to the whole company she thought herself a beauty, and admired
+      herself for being so.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Our little society, whose hearts were so open to each other, that they had
+      not a thought they endeavoured to conceal, were so filled with contempt at
+      Lady Caroline and Lady Fanny&rsquo;s behaviour, and yet so strictly obliged, by
+      good manners, not to show that contempt, that the reserve they were forced
+      to put on, laid them under so great a restraint, that they knew not which
+      way to turn themselves, or how to utter one word; and great was their joy
+      when Lady Caroline, as the eldest, led the way, and with a swimming
+      curtsey, her head turned half round on one shoulder, and a disdainful eye,
+      took her leave, repeating two or three times the word &lsquo;misses,&rsquo; to put
+      them in mind, that she was a lady. She was followed by her sister Lady
+      Fanny, who made a slow distinct curtsey to every one in the room, that she
+      might be the longer under observation. And then taking Miss Jenny by the
+      hand, said, &lsquo;Indeed, Miss, you are very pretty,&rsquo; in order to put them in
+      mind of her own beauty.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Our little society, as soon as they were released, retired to their
+      arbour, where, for some time, they could talk of nothing but this visit.
+      Miss Jenny Peace remarked how many shapes vanity would turn itself into,
+      and desired them to observe, how ridiculously Lady Caroline Delun turned
+      her whole thoughts on her dress, and condition of life; and how absurd it
+      was in Lady Fanny, who was a very plain girl, to set up for a beauty, and
+      to behave in a manner which would render her contemptible, even if she had
+      that beauty her own vanity made her imagine herself possessed of.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Nanny Spruce said, &lsquo;She was greatly rejoiced that she had seen her
+      folly; for she could very well remember when she had the same vanity of
+      dress and superiority of station with Lady Caroline, though she had not,
+      indeed, a title to support it; and in what manner, she said, she would
+      tell them in the story of her life.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0028" id="link2H_4_0028">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS NANNY SPRUCE.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Miss Nanny Spruce was just nine years old, and was the very reverse of
+      Patty Lockit, in all things; for she had little limbs, little features,
+      and such a compactness in her form, that she was often called the little
+      fairy. She had the misfortune to be lame in one of her hips; but by good
+      management, and a briskness and alacrity in carrying herself, it was a
+      very small blemish to her, and looked more like an idle childish gait,
+      than any real defect.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0029" id="link2H_4_0029">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE LIFE OF MISS NANNY SPRUCE.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My delight,&rsquo; said Miss Nanny Spruce, &lsquo;ever since I can remember, has been
+      in dress and finery; for whenever I did as I was bid, I was promised fine
+      coats, ribbons, and laced caps; and when I was stubborn and naughty, then
+      my fine things were all to be locked up, and I was to wear only an old
+      stuff coat; so that I thought the only reward I could have was to be
+      dressed fine and the only punishment was to be plainly dressed. By this
+      means I delighted so much in fine clothes, that I never thought of
+      anything but when I should have something new to adorn myself in; and I
+      have sat whole days considering what should be my next new coat; for I had
+      always my choice given me of the colour.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;We lived in a country parish, my papa being the only gentleman, so that
+      all the little girls in the parish used to take it as a great honour to
+      play with me. And I used to delight to show them my fine things, and to
+      see that they could not come at any but very plain coats. However, as they
+      did not pretend to have anything equal with me, I was kind enough to them.
+      As to those girls whose parents were so very poor that they went in rags,
+      I did not suffer them to come near me.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Whilst I was at home, I spent my time very pleasantly, as no one
+      pretended to be my equal; but as soon as I came to school, where other
+      misses were as fine as myself, and some finer, I grew very miserable.
+      Every new coat, every silver ribbon, that any of my schoolfellows wore,
+      made me unhappy. Your scarlet damask, Miss Betty Ford, cost me a week&rsquo;s
+      pain; and I lay awake, and sighed and wept all night, because I did not
+      dare to spoil it. I had several plots in my head, to have dirtied it, or
+      cut it, so as to have made it unfit to wear; by some accident my plots
+      were prevented; and then I was so uneasy, I could not tell what to do with
+      myself; and so afraid, lest any body should suspect me of such a thing,
+      that I could not sleep in peace, for fear I should dream of it, and in my
+      sleep discover it to my bedfellow. I would not go through the same dreads
+      and terrors again for the world. But I am very happy now, in having no
+      thoughts but what my companions may know; for since that quarrel, and Miss
+      Jenny Peace was so good as to show me what I&rsquo;m sure I never thought of
+      before, that is, that the road to happiness is by conquering such foolish
+      vanities, and the only way to be pleased is to endeavour to please others,
+      I have never known what it was to be uneasy.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As soon as Miss Nanny had finished speaking, Miss Betty Ford said, that
+      she heartily forgave her all her former designs upon her scarlet coat;
+      but, added she, Lady Fanny Delun put me no less in mind of my former life,
+      than Lady Caroline did you of yours; and if Miss Jenny pleases, I will now
+      relate it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0030" id="link2H_4_0030">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS BETTY FORD.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Miss Betty Ford was of the same age with Miss Nanny Spruce, and much of
+      the same height, and might be called the plainest girl in the school; for
+      she had nothing pleasing either in her person or face, except an exceeding
+      fair skin, and tolerable good black eyes; but her face was ill-shaped and
+      broad, her hair very red, and all the summer she was generally very full
+      of freckles; and she had also a small hesitation in her speech. But
+      without preamble, she began her life as follows.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0031" id="link2H_4_0031">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE LIFE OF MISS BETTY FORD.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My life,&rsquo; said Miss Betty Ford, &lsquo;has hitherto passed very like that of
+      Miss Nanny Spruce, only with this difference, that as all her thoughts
+      were fixed on finery, my head ran on nothing but beauty. I had an elder
+      sister, who was, I must own, a great deal handsomer than me; and yet, in
+      my own mind, at that time, I did not think so, though I was always told it
+      was not for me to pretend to the same things with pretty Miss Kitty (which
+      was the name of my sister); and in all respects she was taken so much more
+      notice of than I was, that I perfectly hated her, and could not help
+      wishing that, by some accident, her beauty might be spoiled: whenever any
+      visitors came to the house, their praises of her gave me the greatest
+      vexation; and as I had made myself believe I was a very great beauty, I
+      thought that it was prejudice and ill-nature in all around me, not to view
+      me in that light. My sister Kitty was very good natured; and though she
+      was thus cried up for her beauty, and indulged most on that account, yet
+      she never insulted me, but did all in her power to oblige me. But I could
+      not love her, and sometimes would raise lies against her, which did not
+      signify, for she could always justify herself. I could not give any reason
+      for hating her, but her beauty, for she was very good; but the better she
+      was, I thought the worse I appeared. I could not bear her praises without
+      teasing and vexing myself. At last, little Kitty died of a fever, to my
+      great joy, though, as everybody cried for her, I cried too for company,
+      and because I would not be thought ill-natured.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;After Kitty&rsquo;s death, I lived tolerably easy, till I came to school. Then
+      the same desire of beauty returned, and I hated all the misses who were
+      handsomer than myself, as much as I had before hated my sister, and always
+      took every opportunity of quarrelling with them, till I found my own peace
+      was concerned, in getting the better of this disposition; and that, if I
+      would have any content, I must not repine at my not being so handsome as
+      others.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When Miss Betty Ford ceased, Miss Jenny said, &lsquo;Indeed, my dear, it is well
+      you had not at that time the power of the eagle in the fable; for your
+      poor sister might then, like the peacock, have said in a soft voice, &ldquo;You
+      are, indeed, a great beauty; but it lies in your beak and your talons,
+      which make it death to me to dispute it.&rdquo;&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Betty Ford rejoiced, that her power did not extend to enable her to
+      do mischief, before she had seen her folly. And now this little society,
+      in good humour and cheerfulness, attended their kind governess&rsquo;s summons
+      to supper; and then, after the evening prayers, they retired to their
+      peaceful slumbers.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0032" id="link2H_4_0032">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      MONDAY. THE EIGHTH DAY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Early in the morning, after the public prayers which Mrs. Teachum read
+      every day, our little company took a walk in the garden whilst the
+      breakfast was preparing.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The fine weather, the prospects round them, all conspired to increase
+      their pleasure. They looked at one another with delight; their minds were
+      innocent and satisfied; and therefore every outward object was pleasing in
+      their sight.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny Peace said, she was sure they were happier than any other
+      society of children whatever, except where the same harmony and love were
+      preserved, as were kept up in their minds: &lsquo;For (continued she) I think
+      now, my dear companions, I can answer for you all, that no mischievous, no
+      malicious plots disturb the tranquility of your thoughts; plots, which in
+      the end, constantly fall on the head of those who invent them, after all
+      the pains they cost in forming, and endeavouring to execute.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Whilst Miss Jenny Peace was talking, Miss Dolly Friendly looked at her
+      very earnestly. She would not interrupt her; but the moment she was
+      silent, Miss Dolly said, &lsquo;My dear Miss Jenny, what is the matter with you?
+      your eyes are swelled, and you look as if you had been crying. If you have
+      any grief that you keep to yourself, you rob us of the share we have a
+      right to demand in all that belongs to you.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;No, indeed (answered Miss Jenny), I have nothing that grieves me; though,
+      if I had, I should think it increased, rather than lessened, by your being
+      grieved too; but last night, after I went upstairs, I found amongst my
+      books the play of the Funeral, or, Grief-a-la-mode; where the faithful and
+      tender behaviour of a good old servant, who had long lived in his lord&rsquo;s
+      family, with many other passages in the play (which I cannot explain,
+      unless you knew the whole story) made me cry, so that I could hardly stop
+      my tears.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Pray, Miss Jenny, let us hear this play, that had such an effect on you,&rsquo; 
+      was the general request; and Miss Jenny readily promised, when they met in
+      their arbour, to read it to them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They eagerly ran to their arbour as soon as school was over, and Miss
+      Jenny performed her promise, and was greatly pleased to find such a
+      sympathy between her companions and herself; for they were most of them
+      affected just in the same manner, and with the same parts of the play, as
+      had before affected her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      By the time they had wiped their eyes, and were rejoicing at the turn at
+      the end of the play, in favour of the characters with which they were most
+      pleased, Mrs. Teachum entered the arbour, and inquired what they had been
+      reading. Miss Jenny immediately told her, adding, &lsquo;I hope, Madam, you will
+      not think reading a play an improper amusement for us; for I should be
+      very sorry to be guilty myself, or cause my companions to be guilty, of
+      any thing that would meet with your disapprobation.&rsquo; Mrs. Teachum
+      answered, that she was not at all displeased with her having read a play,
+      as she saw by her fear of offending, that her discretion was to be trusted
+      to. &lsquo;Nay (continued this good woman), I like that you should know
+      something of all kinds of writings, where neither morals nor manners are
+      offended; for if you read plays, and consider them as you ought, you will
+      neglect and despise what is light and useless, whilst you will imprint on
+      your mind&rsquo;s every useful lesson that is to be drawn from them. I am very
+      well acquainted with the play you have been reading; but that I may see
+      whether you give the proper attention to what you have heard, I desire, my
+      little girls, that one of you will give me an account of the chief
+      incidents in the play, and tell me the story, just as you would do to one
+      of your companions that had happened to have been absent.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here they all looked upon Miss Jenny Peace, as thinking her the most
+      capable of doing what their governess required. But Mrs. Teachum, reading
+      their thoughts in their looks, said, &lsquo;I exclude Miss Jenny in this case;
+      for as the play was of her choosing to read to you, I doubt not but she is
+      thoroughly enough acquainted with every part of it; and my design was to
+      try the memory and attention of some of the others.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They all remained silent, and seemed to wait for a more particular
+      command, before any one would offer at the undertaking; not through any
+      backwardness to comply with Mrs. Teachum&rsquo;s request, but each from a
+      diffidence of herself to perform it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny Peace then said, that she had observed a great attention in
+      them all; and she did not doubt but every one was able to give a very good
+      account of what they had heard. &lsquo;But, as Miss Sukey Jennet is the eldest,
+      I believe, madam, (continued she), if you approve it, they will all be
+      very ready to depute her as their speaker.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Each smiled at being so relieved by Miss Jenny; and Mrs. Teachum, taking
+      Miss Sukey Jennet by the hand, said, &lsquo;Come, my dear, throw off all fear
+      and reserve; imagine me one of your companions, and tell me the story of
+      the play you have been reading.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Sukey, thus encouraged by her kind governess, without any hesitation,
+      spoke in the following manner:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;If I understand your commands, madam, by telling the story of the play,
+      you would not have me tell you the acts and scenes as they followed one
+      another for that I am afraid I can hardly remember, as I have heard it
+      only once but I must describe the chief people in the play, and the plots
+      and contrivances that are carried on amongst them.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum nodded her head, and Miss Sukey thus proceeded:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;There is an old Lord Brumpton, who had married a young wife, that had
+      lived with him some years, and by her deceitful and cunning ways had
+      prevailed with him to disinherit his only son Lord Hardy (who was a very
+      sensible good young man) and to leave him but a shilling. And this Lord
+      Brumpton was taken in a fit, so that all the house thought he was dead,
+      and his lady sent for an undertaker, one Mr. Sable, to bury him. But
+      coming out of his fit, when nobody but this Mr. Sable, and an old servant,
+      called Trusty, were by, he was prevailed upon by the good old Trusty to
+      feign himself still dead (and the undertaker promises secrecy) in order to
+      detect the wickedness of his wife, which old Trusty assures him is very
+      great; and then he carries his lord where he overhears a discourse between
+      the widow (as she thinks herself) and her maid Tattleaid; and he bears his
+      once beloved wife rejoicing in his supposed death, and in the success of
+      her own arts to deceive him. Then there are two young ladies, Lady
+      Charlotte and Lady Harriet Lovely, to whom this Lord Brumpton was
+      guardian; and he had also left them in the care of this wicked woman. And
+      this young Lord Hardy was in love with Lady Charlotte; and Mr. Camply, a
+      very lively young gentleman, his friend, was in love with Lady Harriet and
+      Lady Brumpton locked the two young ladies up, and would not let them be
+      seen by their lovers. But there at last they contrived, by the help of old
+      Trusty, who had their real guardian&rsquo;s consent for it, both to get away;
+      and Lady Harriet married Mr. Camply directly; but Lady Charlotte did not
+      get away so soon, and so was not married till the end of the play. This
+      Mr. Camply was a very generous man, and was newly come to a large fortune;
+      and in the beginning of the play he contrives, in a very genteel manner,
+      to give his friend Lord Hardy, who very much wanted it, three hundred
+      pounds; but he takes care to let us know, that my lord had formerly, when
+      he waited his assistance, been very kind to him. And there at last, when
+      Lady Brumpton finds out that the two young ladies are gone, she goes away
+      in a rage to Lord Hardy&rsquo;s lodgings, and in an insulting manner she pays
+      all due legacies, as she calls it, that is, she gives Lord Hardy the
+      shilling, which, by her wicked arts, was all his father had left him; and
+      she was insulting the young ladies, and glorying in her wickedness, when
+      honest old Trusty came in, and brought in old Lord Brumpton, whom they
+      imagined to be dead, and all but Lady Brumpton were greatly overjoyed to
+      see him alive; but when he taxed her with her falsehood, she defied him,
+      and said that she had got a deed of gift under his hand, which he could
+      not revoke, and she WOULD enjoy his fortune in spite of him. Upon which
+      they all looked sadly vexed, till the good old Trusty went out and came in
+      again, and brought in a man called Cabinet, who confessed himself the
+      husband to the pretended Lady Brumpton, and that he was married to her
+      half a year before she was married to my Lord Brumpton; but as my lord
+      happened to fall in love with her, they agreed to keep their marriage
+      concealed, in order that she should marry my lord, and cheat him in the
+      manner she had done; and the reason that Cabinet came to confess all this
+      was, that he looked into a closet and saw my lord writing, after he
+      thought he was dead, and, taking it for his ghost, was by that means
+      frightened into this confession, which he first made in writing to old
+      Trusty, and therefore could not now deny it. They were all rejoiced at
+      this discovery, except the late pretended Lady Brumpton, who sneaked away
+      with Cabinet her husband; and my Lord Brumpton embraced his son, and gave
+      his consent, that he should marry Lady Charlotte; and they were all
+      pleased and happy.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Miss Sukey ceased, and Mrs. Teachum told her she was a very good
+      girl, and had remembered a great deal of the play. &lsquo;But (said she) in
+      time, with using yourself to this way of repeating what you have read, you
+      will come to a better manner, and a more regular method of telling your
+      story, which you was now so intent upon finishing, that you forgot to
+      describe what sort of women those two young ladies were, though, as to all
+      the rest, you have been particular enough.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Indeed, madam, (said Miss Sukey), I had forgot that, but Lady Charlotte
+      was a very sensible, grave young lady, and lady Harriet was extremely gay
+      and coquettish; but Mr. Camply tells her how much it misbecomes her to be
+      so and she having good sense, as well as good nature, is convinced of her
+      folly, and likes him so well for his reproof, that she consents to marry
+      him.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum, addressing herself to them all, told them, that this was a
+      method she wished they would take with whatever they read; for nothing so
+      strongly imprinted anything on the memory as such a repetition; and then
+      turning to Miss Jenny Peace, she said, &lsquo;And now, Miss Jenny, I desire you
+      will speak freely what you think is the chief moral to be drawn from the
+      play you have just read.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny being thus suddenly asked a question of this nature, considered
+      some time before she gave an answer; for she was naturally very diffident
+      of her own opinion in anything where she had not been before instructed by
+      some one she thought wiser than herself. At last, with a modest look, and
+      an humble voice, she said, &lsquo;Since, madam, you have commanded me to speak
+      my sentiments freely, I think by what happened to each character in this
+      play, the author intended to prove what my good mamma first taught me, and
+      what you, madam, since have so strongly confirmed me in; namely, that
+      folly, wickedness, and misery, all three, as constantly dwell together, as
+      wisdom, virtue, and happiness do.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;&rsquo;Tis very true (answered Mrs. Teachum); but this moral does not arise
+      only from the happy turn in favour of the virtuous characters in the
+      conclusion of the play, but is strongly inculcated, as you see all along,
+      in the peace of mind that attends the virtuous, even in the midst of
+      oppression and distress, while the event is yet doubtful, and apparently
+      against them; and, on the contrary, in the confusion of mind which the
+      vicious are tormented with, even whilst they falsely imagine themselves
+      triumphant.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum then taking the book out of Miss Jenny&rsquo;s hands, and turning
+      to the passage, said, &lsquo;How does Lady Brumpton show us the wretched
+      condition of her own mind, when she says,
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;&ldquo;How miserable &lsquo;tis to have one one hates always about one! And when one
+      can&rsquo;t endure one&rsquo;s own reflections upon some actions, who can bear the
+      thoughts of another upon them?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Then with what perturbation of mind does she proceed, to wish it was in
+      her power to increase her wickedness, without making use enough of her
+      understanding, to see that by that means she would but increase her own
+      misery.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;On the other hand, what a noble figure does Lord Hardy make, when, by
+      this wicked woman&rsquo;s contrivances, he thinks himself disinherited of his
+      whole fortune, ill-treated, and neglected by a father, he never had in
+      thought offended! He could give an opportunity to a sincere friend, who
+      would not flatter him, to say,
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;&ldquo;No; you are, my lord, the extraordinary man, who, on the loss of an
+      almost princely fortune, can be master of a temper that makes you the envy
+      rather than pity, of your more fortunate, not more happy friends.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;This is a fine distinction between fortunate and happy; and intimates
+      this happiness must dwell in the mind, and depends upon no outward
+      accidents.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Fortune, indeed, is a blessing, if properly used; which Camply shows,
+      when by that means he can assist and relieve his worthy friend.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;With what advantage does Lady Charlotte appear over her sister, when the
+      latter is trifling and dancing before the glass, and the former says,
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;&ldquo;If I am at first so silly as to be a little taken with myself, I know it
+      is a fault, and take pains to correct it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;And on Lady Harriet&rsquo;s saying, very giddily, that it was too soon for her
+      to think at that rate, Lady Charlotte properly adds,
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;&ldquo;They that think it too soon to understand themselves, will very soon
+      find it too late.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;In how ridiculous a light does Lady Harriet appear, while she is
+      displaying all that foolish coquetry! And how different a figure does she
+      make, when she has got the better of it?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My Lady Brumpton, when alarmed with the least noise, breaks out into all
+      the convulsive starts natural to conscious guilt.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;&ldquo;Ha! what noise is that&mdash;that noise of fighting?&mdash;Run, I say.&mdash;Whither
+      are you going?&mdash;What, are you mad?&mdash;Will you leave me alone?&mdash;Can&rsquo;t
+      you stir?&mdash;What, you can&rsquo;t take your message with you!&mdash;Whatever
+      &lsquo;tis, I suppose you are not in the plot, not you&mdash;nor that now
+      they&rsquo;re breaking open my house for Charlotte&mdash;Not you.&mdash;Go see
+      what&rsquo;s the matter, I say; I have nobody I can trust.&mdash;One minute I
+      think this wench honest, and the next false.&mdash;Whither shall I turn
+      me?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;This is a picture of the confused, the miserable mind of a close,
+      malicious, cruel, designing woman, as Lady Brumpton was, and as Lady
+      Harriet very properly calls her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Honesty and faithfulness shine forth in all their lustre, in the good old
+      Trusty. We follow him throughout with anxious wishes for his success, and
+      tears of joy for his tenderness. And when he finds that he is likely to
+      come at the whole truth, and to save his lord from being deceived and
+      betrayed into unjustly ruining his noble son, you may remember that he
+      makes this pious reflection:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      All that is ours, is to be justly bent; And Heaven in its own time will
+      bless th&rsquo; event.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;This is the natural thought that proceeds from innocence and goodness;
+      and surely this state of mind is happiness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I have only pointed out a few passages, to show you, that though it is
+      the nature of comedy to end happily, and therefore the good characters
+      must be successful in the last act; yet the moral lies deeper, and is to
+      be deduced from a proof throughout this play, that the natural consequence
+      of vice is misery within, even in the midst of an apparent triumph; and
+      the natural consequence of goodness is a calm peace of mind, even in the
+      midst of oppression and distress.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I have endeavoured, my little dears, to show you, as clearly as I can,
+      not only what moral is to be drawn from this play, but what is to be
+      sought for in all others; and where that moral is not to be found, the
+      writer will have it to answer for, that he has been guilty of one of the
+      worst of evils; namely, that he has clothed vice in so beautiful a dress,
+      that, instead of deterring, it will allure and draw into its snares the
+      young and tender mind. And I am sorry to say, that too many of our
+      dramatic performances are of this latter cast; which is the reason, that
+      wise and prudent parents and governors in general discourage in very young
+      people the reading of plays. And though by what I have said (if it makes a
+      proper impression) I doubt not but you will all have a just abhorrence of
+      such immoral plays, instead of being pleased with them, should they fall
+      in your way; yet I would advise you rather to avoid them, and never to
+      read any but such as are approved of; and recommended to you by those who
+      have the care of your education.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here good Mrs. Teachum ceased, and left her little scholars to reflect on
+      what she had been saying; when Miss Jenny Peace declared, for her part,
+      that she could feel the truth of her governess&rsquo;s observations; for she had
+      rather be the innocent Lord Hardy, though she was to have but that one
+      shilling in the world which was so insolently offered him as his father&rsquo;s
+      last legacy, than be the Lady Brumpton, even though she had possessed the
+      fortune she so treacherously endeavoured to obtain.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Nay (said Miss Dolly Friendly) I had rather have been old Trusty, with
+      all the infirmities of age, following my Lord Hardy through the world, had
+      his poverty and distress been ever so great, than have been the malicious
+      Lady Brumpton, in the height of her beauty, surrounded by a crowd of
+      lovers and flatterers.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Henny Fret then declared how glad she was that she had now no malice
+      in her mind; though she could not always have said so, as she would inform
+      them in the history of her past life.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0033" id="link2H_4_0033">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS HENNY FRET.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Miss Henny Fret was turned of nine years old. She was very prettily made,
+      and remarkably genteel. All her features were regular. She was not very
+      fair, and looked pale. Her upper lip seemed rather shorter than it should
+      be; for it was drawn up in such a manner, as to show her upper teeth; and
+      though this was in some degree natural, yet it had been very much
+      increased by her being continually on the fret for every trifling accident
+      that offended her, or on every contradiction that was offered to her. When
+      you came to examine her face, she had not one feature but what was pretty;
+      yet, from that constant uneasiness which appeared in her countenance, it
+      gave you so little pleasure to look at her, that she seldom had common
+      justice done her, but had generally hitherto passed for a little
+      insignificant plain girl, though her very face was so altered since she
+      was grown good natured, and had got the better of that foolish fretfulness
+      she used to be possessed of, that she appeared from her good-humoured
+      smiles quite a different person; and, with a mild aspect, thus began her
+      story:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0034" id="link2H_4_0034">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE LIFE OF MISS HENNY FRET.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I had one brother,&rsquo; said Miss Henny, &lsquo;as well as Miss Jenny Peace; but my
+      manner of living with him was quite the reverse to that in which she lived
+      with her brother. All my praise or blame was to arise from my being better
+      or worse than my brother. If I was guilty of any fault, it was immediately
+      said, &ldquo;Oh! fie, miss! Master George (that was my brother&rsquo;s name) would not
+      be guilty of such a thing for the world.&rdquo; If he was carried abroad, and I
+      stayed at home, then I was bemoaned over, that poor Miss Henny was left at
+      home, and her brother carried abroad. And then I was told, that I should
+      go abroad one of these days, and my brother be left at home so that
+      whenever I went abroad, my greatest joy was, that he was left at home; and
+      I was pleased to see him come out to the coach-door with a melancholy air
+      that he could not go too. If my brother happened to have any fruit given
+      him, and was in a peevish humour, and would not give me as much as I
+      desired, the servant that attended me was sure to bid me take care, when I
+      had anything he waited, not to give him any. So that I thought, if I did
+      not endeavour to be revenged of him, I should show a want of spirit, which
+      was of all things what I dreaded most. I had a better memory than my
+      brother, and whenever I learnt anything, my comfort was to laugh at him
+      because he could not learn so fast; by which means I got a good deal of
+      learning, but never minded what I learnt, nor took any pains to keep it;
+      so that what I was eager to learn one day, to show George how much I knew
+      more than he, I forgot the next. And so I went on learning, and forgetting
+      as fast as I learnt; and all the pains I took served only to show that I
+      COULD learn.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I was so great a favourite, that I was never denied any thing I asked
+      for; but I was very unhappy for the same reason that Miss Dolly Friendly&rsquo;s
+      sister was so; and I have often sat down and cried, because I did not know
+      what I would have, till at last I own I grew so peevish and humoursome,
+      that I was always on the fret, and harboured in my mind a kind of malice
+      that made me fancy whatever my brother got, I lost; and in this unhappy
+      condition I lived, till I came to school, and here I found that other
+      misses wanted to have their humours as well as myself. This I could not
+      bear, because I had been used to have my own will, and never to trouble
+      myself about what others felt. For whenever I beat or abused my brother,
+      his pain did not make me cry; but I believe it was thinking wrong made me
+      guilty of these faults; for I don&rsquo;t find I am ill-natured; for now I have
+      been taught to consider that my companions can feel as well as myself, I
+      am sorry for their pain, and glad when they are pleased, and would be glad
+      to do anything to oblige them.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Miss Henny ceased, and Miss Jenny Peace then told her how glad she
+      was to hear that she had subdued all malice in her mind, adding, &lsquo;These
+      weeds, my dear, unless early plucked up, are (as I have heard our good
+      governess observe upon a like occasion) very apt to take such deep root,
+      as to choke every good seed around them; and then who can tell whether,
+      with the same opportunities, they might not become Lady Brumptons before
+      the end of their lives?&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Little Polly Suckling remembered that all the company had told the story
+      of their past lives, except herself; and she thought she would not be left
+      out; but yet she had a mind to be asked to tell it, hoping that her
+      companions thought her of consequence enough not to leave her out of any
+      scheme; therefore, addressing herself to Miss Jenny, she said she thought
+      it was very pleasant to hear anybody tell the history of their own lives.
+      Miss Jenny saw her meaning, and answered, &lsquo;So it is, my little dear; and
+      now, if you please, you shall oblige us with relating the history of
+      yours.&rsquo; Polly smiled at this request, and said she was ready to comply.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0035" id="link2H_4_0035">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS POLLY SUCKLING.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Miss Polly Suckling was just turned of eight years old, but so short of
+      her age, that few people took her to be above five. It was not a dwarfish
+      shortness; for she had the most exact proportioned limbs in the world,
+      very small bones, and was as fat as a little cherub. She was extremely
+      fair, and her hair quite flaxen. Her eyes a perfect blue, her mouth small,
+      and her lips quite plump and red. She had the freshness of a milkmaid; and
+      when she smiled and laughed, she seemed to show an hundred agreeable
+      dimples. She was, in short, the very picture of health and good-humour,
+      and was the plaything and general favorite of the whole school.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0036" id="link2H_4_0036">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE LIFE OF MISS POLLY SUCKLING.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Now,&rsquo; said little Polly, &lsquo;I will tell you all my whole history. I hardly
+      remember anything before I came to school, for I was but five years old
+      when I was brought hither.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;All I know is, that I don&rsquo;t love quarrelling, for I like better to live
+      in peace and quietness. But I have been always less than any of my
+      companions, ever since I have been here; and so I only followed the
+      example of the rest; and as I found they contended about everything, I did
+      so too. Besides, I have been always in fear that my schoolfellows wanted
+      to impose on me, because I was little; and so I used to engage in every
+      quarrel, rather than be left out, as if I was too little to give any
+      assistance; but, indeed, I am very glad now we all agree, because I always
+      came by the worst of it. And, besides, it is a great pleasure to me to be
+      loved, and every Miss is kind and good to me, and ready to assist me
+      whenever I ask them. And this is all I know of my whole life.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When little Polly ceased, she was kissed and applauded by the whole
+      company, for the agreeable simplicity of her little history.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      And thus ended the eighth day&rsquo;s amusement.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0037" id="link2H_4_0037">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      TUESDAY. THE NINTH DAY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny rose early in the morning, and, having collected the lives of
+      her companions (which she had wrote down each day, as they related them)
+      she carried them, after morning school, according to her promise, to her
+      governess.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum, when she had perused them, was much pleased; and said that
+      she perceived, by the manner in which her scholars had related their
+      lives, how much they were in earnest in their design of amendment. &lsquo;For
+      (continued she) they have all confessed their faults without reserve; and
+      the untowardly bent of their minds, which so strongly appeared before the
+      quarrel, has not broke out in these their little histories; but, on the
+      contrary, they all seem, according to their capacities, to have
+      endeavoured at imitating your style, in the account you gave of your own
+      life. I would have you continue to employ your leisure hours in the manner
+      you have lately done, only setting apart a proper time for exercise; and
+      today I will dispense with your attendance in the school-room and indulge
+      you this afternoon in another walk, either to the dairy house, or to the
+      cherry-garden, whichever you all agree on. But as I shall not go with you
+      myself, and shall only find a servant to take care of you, I hope to hear
+      from you, Miss Jenny, so good an account of the behaviour of your little
+      friends and companions, that I shall have no cause to repent my
+      indulgence.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny Peace respectfully took leave of her governess, and hastened to
+      the arbour, where her little friends were met, in expectation of her
+      coming. She told them how well pleased their governess was with them all,
+      for the ingenuous confession of their faults in their past lives; and she
+      then declared Mrs. Teachum&rsquo;s kind permission to them to take another walk
+      that afternoon.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As no one had at present any story to read or relate, they employed their
+      time till dinner, some in walking and running about the garden; others in
+      looking after and tending some plant or flower, that they had taken
+      particularly under their care, which Mrs. Teachum both permitted and
+      encouraged them in, whilst Miss Jenny Peace, Miss Sukey Jennett, and Miss
+      Dolly Friendly, remained in the arbour, the two latter asking a thousand
+      questions of the former, both concerning all the instructions she had ever
+      learned from her mamma, and by what means they should best be able to
+      preserve that friendship and happiness, which had of late subsisted
+      amongst them; saying, how pleased their friends and relations would be, to
+      see such a change in their temper and behaviour, and how much they should
+      be beloved by every one.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When they met at dinner, Mrs. Teachum asked them, whether they had
+      determined upon the choice she had given them in their afternoon&rsquo;s walk;
+      and they were all desirous of going to the dairy house; for little Polly
+      said, she longed to see the good-humoured old woman again, and, indeed,
+      she would not now say anything to her of her shaking head, or her grey
+      hair. Mrs. Teachum was pleased, that little Polly so gratefully remembered
+      the old woman, who had been so kind to her; and readily consented to their
+      choice, and approved of their determination.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Being soon equipped for their walk, they set out, attended by two
+      maidservants; and as soon as they arrived, the good old woman expressed
+      the highest joy on seeing them, and told little Polly, that she should
+      have plenty of cream and strawberries, for her daughter had been that day
+      in the wood, and had brought home three baskets of very fine ones. Mrs.
+      Nelly, her daughter, said very crossly, that she supposed there would be
+      fine work amongst them, now their governess was not with them; but &lsquo;twas
+      her mother&rsquo;s way, to let all children be as rude as they pleased. Miss
+      Sukey Jennett, with some indignation in her look, was going to answer her;
+      but Miss Jenny Peace, fearing she would say something less mild than she
+      wished, gave her a nod; and, turning to the young woman, with great
+      modesty and temper, thus said: &lsquo;You shall see, Mrs. Nelly, that our good
+      governess&rsquo;s instructions are of more force with us, than to lose all their
+      effect when we are out of her presence; and I hope you will have no cause,
+      when we go away, to complain of the ill behaviour of any of us.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The good old woman declared she never saw such sweet-tempered children in
+      all her life; and after they had eat their strawberries and cream, and
+      were loaded with pinks and roses by the good woman&rsquo;s bounty (for they did
+      not gather one without her permission), they took their leave with the
+      utmost civility, and Miss Jenny handsomely rewarded the old woman for her
+      good cheer. Mrs. Nelly herself was so pleased with their regular and
+      inoffensive behaviour, that she could not help telling Miss Jenny, that
+      she, and all her companions, had, indeed, behaved as well as if their
+      governess had been with them: on which Miss Jenny (as they were walking
+      home) observed to Miss Sukey Jennett (whom she had prevented from making
+      any reply to Mrs. Nelly&rsquo;s speech) how much better it was to gain another&rsquo;s
+      good will by our own endeavours to be obliging, than to provoke them to be
+      more cross, by our angry answers and reproaches.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When this little company, employed in pleasing talk and lively
+      observations, were come within about a mile of Mrs. Teachum&rsquo;s house, and
+      within view of a nobleman&rsquo;s fine seat, Miss Jenny said, that the next time
+      their governess permitted them to walk out, she would ask her leave, that
+      they might go and see that fine house; for some time ago she had told
+      them, that they should go thither when the family were absent. Mrs.
+      Wilson, the housekeeper, who by chance was walking that way, and heard
+      what Miss Jenny said, came up to them, and told Miss Jenny that her lord
+      and lady were now both absent, having set out, one for London, and the
+      other for another fine seat, forty miles off, that very morning; and as
+      she knew them to be Mrs. Teachum&rsquo;s well-regulated family, they should be
+      welcome to see the house and gardens now, if they liked it. Miss Jenny
+      thanked her, and said, as it was near two hours sooner than their
+      governess expected them home, she would accept of her kind offer. The
+      housekeeper led them through an avenue of tall elm-trees into this
+      magnificent house, in which were many spacious apartments, furnished with
+      the utmost grandeur and elegance. Some of the rooms were adorned with fine
+      pictures, others were hung with tapestry almost as lively as those
+      paintings, and most of the apartments above stairs were furnished with the
+      finest sorts of needle-work. Our little company were struck into a sort of
+      silent wonder and admiration at the splendid appearance of everything
+      around them; nor could they find words to express the various reflections
+      that passed in their minds, on seeing such a variety of dazzling gaudy
+      things: but when they came to the needlework, Miss Jenny could not help
+      smiling, to see how every one seemed most fixed in attention upon that
+      sort of work, which she herself was employed in, and she saw in every face
+      a secret wish, that their own piece of work might be finished with equal
+      neatness and perfection. The housekeeper was greatly pleased to see them
+      so much delighted, and answered all their questions concerning the stories
+      that were represented in the pictures and tapestry as fully as the time
+      would permit; but Miss Jenny, being fearful of exceeding the hour in which
+      they would be expected home, told them they must not now stay any longer,
+      but if their governess would give them leave, and it would not be
+      troublesome to Mrs. Wilson, they would come another time. She answered,
+      that it was so far from being troublesome, that she never had more
+      pleasure in her life, than to see so many well-behaved young ladies, who
+      all seemed not only pleased with what they saw, but doubly delighted, and
+      happy, in seeing each other so; and for her part, she could wish they were
+      to stay with her all their lives; and, in short, they should not go till
+      they had been in her room, and eat some sweetmeats of her own making. The
+      good woman seemed to take so much delight in giving them any pleasure,
+      that Miss Jenny could not refuse accepting her offer; and, when they were
+      all in her room, Polly Suckling said, &lsquo;Well, this is a most charming
+      house; I wish we could all live here for ever. How happy must the lord and
+      lady of this fine place be!&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Indeed, my little Polly,&rsquo; said Miss Jenny, &lsquo;you may be very much
+      mistaken; for you know our good governess has taught us, that there is no
+      happiness but in the content of our own minds; and perhaps we may have
+      more pleasure in viewing these fine things, than the owners have in the
+      possession of them.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;It is very true,&rsquo; said the housekeeper, &lsquo;for my lord and lady have no
+      delight in all this magnificence; for, by being so accustomed to it, they
+      walk through all these apartments, and never so much as observe or amuse
+      themselves with the work, the pictures, or anything else, or if they
+      observe them at all, it is rather with a look that denotes a sort of
+      weariness, at seeing the same things continually before them, than with
+      any kind of pleasure.&rsquo; And then, with a deep sigh, she added, &lsquo;You are,
+      indeed, young lady, perfectly in the right, when you say grandeur and
+      happiness do not always go together.&rsquo; But turning off the discourse, Mrs.
+      Wilson forced them to take as many dried sweetmeats as they could carry
+      away with them, and insisted upon their promise (with Mrs. Teachum&rsquo;s
+      consent) that they should come another time to see the gardens. They then
+      took their leave with many thanks, and the greatest civility; and
+      discoursed all the way home, on the fine things they had seen. Miss Betty
+      Ford said, that the fine gilding, and so many glittering looking-glasses,
+      made her think herself in Barbarico&rsquo;s great hall, where he kept all his
+      treasure.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;No,&rsquo; says Miss Nancy Spruce, &lsquo;it was not half so much like that, as it
+      was like Brunetta&rsquo;s fine castle; and I could not help thinking myself the
+      Princess Hebe, and how much I should have been pleased with such a fine
+      place at first, just as she was.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Indeed,&rsquo; says Miss Betty Ford, &lsquo;you are in the right of it, Miss Nanny;
+      for &lsquo;twas much more like the description of Brunetta&rsquo;s castle, than what I
+      said myself.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny was pleased to hear Miss Betty so ready to own herself
+      mistaken; and said to Miss Nanny Spruce, &lsquo;I am glad, my dear, to find that
+      you so well remember what you read; for it is by recalling frequently into
+      our memories the things we have read, that they are likely to be of any
+      service to us.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Being now come home, they entered into the presence of their governess
+      with that pleasure, and proper confidence, which ever attends innocence
+      and goodness; and Mrs. Teachum received them with a pleasing smile.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny gave her governess a faithful account of all that had passed,
+      with the agreeable entertainment they had accidentally met with, of seeing
+      Lord X&mdash;&mdash;&lsquo;s fine house, and the great civility of Mrs. Wilson,
+      &lsquo;Which I hope, madam,&rsquo; said Miss Jenny, &lsquo;I did not do wrong in accepting.&rsquo; 
+      &lsquo;You did very properly, my dear,&rsquo; said Mrs. Teachum, &lsquo;for when any person
+      is willing to oblige you, without any inconvenience to themselves, it is
+      always right to accept their offer, as you thereby gratify them, by
+      putting it in their power to give you pleasure.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny then with great cheerfulness and freedom, told her governess
+      all that had paled in conversation, both in their walk to the dairy house,
+      and at Lord X&mdash;&lsquo;s, what little Polly had said in the housekeeper&rsquo;s
+      room, as also Mrs. Wilson&rsquo;s answer; and said, by Mrs. Wilson&rsquo;s downcast
+      look, she was afraid that poor Lord X&mdash;&mdash; and his lady were not
+      so happy as might be wished. &lsquo;But,&rsquo; continued she, &lsquo;I did not ask Mrs.
+      Wilson any questions, because you have taught me, madam, carefully to
+      avoid the least appearance of impertinent curiosity.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;You was very right, my dear,&rsquo; said Mrs. Teachum, &lsquo;in asking no farther
+      questions; nor would she, I dare say, as she is a prudent woman, have
+      gratified you if you had; for though the unhappy story is too well known
+      all over the country, yet it would have been very unbecoming in one of the
+      family to have published it.&rsquo; Mrs. Teachum saw in her little scholars&rsquo; 
+      eyes, a secret wish of knowing what this story was; and, after a short
+      pause, she said, &lsquo;Since I find you disposed, my good girls, to make the
+      proper use of what you hear, I will indulge your curiosity.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Lord X&mdash;&mdash; and his lady have been married seven years; Lord X&mdash;&mdash;
+      is the wretchedest creature breathing, because he has no children, and
+      therefore no heir to his title and large estate. He was naturally of a
+      haughty impetuous temper, and impatient of any the least disappointment;
+      and this disposition not being subdued in his youth, has led him into all
+      sort of excesses. His lady is not much better tempered than himself, and
+      valuing herself highly upon her beauty, and the large fortune she brought
+      him, greatly resents his sometimes insolent, and always neglectful usage
+      of her. They have hitherto lived on in the most jarring, disputing manner,
+      and took no care to conceal their quarrels from the world; but at last
+      they have agreed to part by consent, and the different journeys they this
+      morning took, I suppose, was with an intent of final separation.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;That grandeur and happiness do not always go together (as Mrs. Wilson
+      observed to you) is seen by this story, which I was the more willing to
+      tell you, as it was a proper introduction to a fable I have been
+      collecting together from others, for your use. You know that all my
+      endeavours to make you good, are only intended to make you happy; and if
+      you thoroughly reflect upon the truth of this maxim, which I so often
+      endeavour to inculcate, you will doubtless reap no small advantage from
+      it.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Mrs. Teachum ceased speaking, and, giving Miss Jenny Peace a paper,
+      she bid her read it aloud; which she did, and it contained the following
+      fable:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0038" id="link2H_4_0038">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE ASSEMBLY OF THE BIRDS. A FABLE.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      In ancient days, there was a great contention amongst the birds, which,
+      from his own perfections, and peculiar advantages, had the strongest title
+      to happiness; and at last they agreed to refer the decision of the debate
+      to the eagle.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      A day was appointed for their meeting; the eagle took his seat, and the
+      birds all attended to give in their several pleas.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      First spoke the parrot. Her voice so dearly resembling human speech, and
+      which enabled her to converse with such a superior race, she doubted not
+      (she said) would have its just weight with the eagle, and engage him to
+      grant a decree in her favour; and to this plea she also added, that she
+      dwelt in a fine cage adorned with gold, and was fed every day by the hands
+      a fair lady.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;And pray, Mrs. Poll,&rsquo; said the eagle, &lsquo;how comes it, since you fare so
+      sumptuously, that you are so lean and meagre, and seem scarcely able to
+      exert that voice you thus make your boast of?&rsquo; &lsquo;Alas!&rsquo; replied the parrot,
+      &lsquo;poor Poll&rsquo;s lady has kept her bed almost this week; the servants have all
+      forgot to feed me; and I am almost starved.&rsquo; &lsquo;Pray observe,&rsquo; said the
+      eagle, &lsquo;the folly of such pride! Had you been able to have conversed only
+      with your own kind, you would have fared in common with them; but it is to
+      this vaunted imitation of the human voice, that you owe your confinement,
+      and consequently (though living in a golden cage) your dependence upon the
+      will and memory of others, even for common necessary food.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Thus reproved, the parrot, with shame, hastily retired from the assembly.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Next stood forth the daw, and, having tricked himself in all the gay
+      feathers he could muster together, on the credit of these borrowed
+      ornaments, pleaded his beauty, as a title to the preference in dispute.
+      Immediately the birds agreed to divest the silly counterfeit of all his
+      borrowed plumes; and, more abashed than the parrot, he secretly slunk
+      away.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The peacock, proud of native beauty, now flew into the midst of the
+      assembly. He displayed before the sun his gorgeous tail. &lsquo;Observe (said
+      he) how the vivid blue of the sapphire glitters in my neck; and when thus
+      I spread my tail, a gemmy brightness strikes the eye from a plumage varied
+      with a thousand glowing colours.&rsquo; At this moment, a nightingale began to
+      chant forth his melodious lay; at which the peacock, dropping his expanded
+      tail, cried out, &lsquo;Ah what avails my silent unmeaning beauty, when I am so
+      far excelled in voice by such a little russet-feathered wretch as that!&rsquo; 
+      And, by retiring, he gave up all claim to the contended-for preference.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The nightingale was so delighted with having got the better of the
+      peacock, that he exerted his little voice, and was so lost in the conceit
+      of his own melody, that he did not observe a hawk, who flew upon him, and
+      carried him off in his claws.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The eagle then declared, &lsquo;That as the peacock&rsquo;s envy had taken away all
+      his claim, so no less had the nightingale&rsquo;s self-conceit frustrated all
+      his pretensions; for those who are so wrapped up in their own perfections,
+      as to mind nothing but themselves, are forever liable to all sorts of
+      accidents.&rsquo; And, besides, it was plain, by the exultation the nightingale
+      expressed on his imagined glory over the peacock, that he would have been
+      equally dejected on any preference given to another.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      And now the owl, with an affected gravity, and whooting voice, pleaded his
+      well-known wisdom; and said, &lsquo;He doubted not but the preference would be
+      granted to him without contest, by all the whole assembly for what was so
+      likely to produce happiness as wisdom?&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The eagle declared, &lsquo;That, if his title to wisdom could be proved, the
+      justice of his claim should be allowed; and then asked him, how he could
+      convince them of the truth of what he had advanced?&rsquo; The owl answered,
+      &lsquo;That he would willingly appeal to the whole assembly for their decision
+      in this point; for he was positive nobody could deny his great superiority
+      as to wisdom.&rsquo; Being separately asked, they most of them declared, that
+      they knew no one reason, either from his words or actions, to pronounce
+      him a wise bird; though it was true, that by an affected solemnity in his
+      looks, and by frequent declarations of his own, that he was very wife, he
+      had made some very silly birds give him that character; but, since they
+      were called upon to declare their opinions, they must say, that he was
+      ever the object of contempt to all those birds who had any title to common
+      understanding. The eagle then said, &lsquo;He could by no means admit a plea,
+      which as plainly appeared to be counterfeit, as were the jay&rsquo;s borrowed
+      feathers.&rsquo; The owl, thus disappointed, flew away, and has ever since
+      shunned the light of the sun, and has never appeared in the daytime, but
+      to be scorned and wondered at.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It would be endless to repeat all the several pleas brought by the birds,
+      each desiring to prove, that happiness ought to be his own peculiar lot.
+      But the eagle observing that the arguments made use of to prove their
+      point were chiefly drawn from the disadvantages of others, rather than
+      from any advantage of their own, told them, &lsquo;There was too much envy and
+      malice amongst them, for him to pronounce any of them deserving or capable
+      of being happy; but I wonder,&rsquo; says he, &lsquo;why the dove alone is absent from
+      this meeting?&rsquo; &lsquo;I know of one in her nest hard by,&rsquo; answered the
+      redbreast, &lsquo;shall I go and call her?&rsquo; &lsquo;No,&rsquo; says the eagle, &lsquo;since she did
+      not obey our general summons, &lsquo;tis plain she had no ambition for a public
+      preference; but I will take two or three chosen friends, and we will go
+      softly to her nest, and see in what manner she is employing herself; for
+      from our own observations upon the actions of any one, we are more likely
+      to form a judgment of them, than by any boasts they can make.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The eagle was obeyed, and, accompanied only by the linnet, the lark, the
+      lapwing, and the redbreast for his guide, he stole gently to the place
+      where the dove was found hovering over her nest, waiting the return of her
+      absent mate; and, thinking herself quite unobserved,
+    </p>
+<pre xml:space="preserve">
+     [*] While o&rsquo;er her callow brood she hung,
+     She fondly thus address&rsquo;d her young:
+         &lsquo;Ye tender objects of my care,
+     Peace! peace! ye little helpless pair.
+     Anon! he comes, your gentle sire,
+     And brings you all your hearts require;
+     For us, his infants and his bride,
+     For us, with only love to guide,
+     Our lord assumes an eagle&rsquo;s speed,
+     And, like a lion, dares to bleed:
+     Nor yet by wintry skies confin&rsquo;d,
+     He mounts upon the rudest wind,
+     From danger tears the vital spoil,
+     And with affection sweetens toil.
+     Ah! cease, too vent&rsquo;rous, cease to dare;
+     In thine, our dearer safety spare.
+     From him, ye cruel falcons stray;
+     And turn, ye fowlers, far away,
+     &mdash;All-giving Pow&rsquo;r, great source of life,
+     Oh! hear the parent, hear the wife:
+     That life thou lendest from above,
+     Though little, make it large in love.
+     Oh! bid my feeling heart expand
+     To ev&rsquo;ry claim on ev&rsquo;ry hand,
+     To those, from whom my days I drew,
+     To these in whom those days renew,
+     To all my kin, however wide,
+     In cordial warmth as blood allied.
+     To friends in steely fetters twin&rsquo;d
+     And to the cruel not unkind;
+     But chief the lord of my desire,
+     My life, myself, my soul, my sire,
+     Friends, children, all that wish can claim,
+     Chaste passion clasp, and rapture name.
+     Oh! spare him, spare him, gracious Pow&rsquo;r:
+     Oh! give him to my latest hour,
+     Let me my length of life employ,
+     To give my sole enjoyment joy.
+     His love let mutual love excite;
+     Turn all my cares to his delight,
+     And ev&rsquo;ry needless blessing spare,
+     Wherein my darling wants a share.
+     &mdash;Let one unruffled calm delight
+     The loving and belov&rsquo;d unite;
+     One pure desire our bosoms warm;
+     One will direct, one wish inform;
+     Through life one mutual aid sustain;
+     In death one peaceful grave contain.&rsquo; 
+     While, swelling with the darling theme,
+     Her accents pour&rsquo;d an endless stream.
+     The well-known wings a sound impart
+     That reach&rsquo;d her ear, and touch&rsquo;d her heart.
+     Quick dropp&rsquo;d the music of her tongue,
+     And forth, with eager joy, she sprung.
+     As swift her ent&rsquo;ring consort flew,
+     And plum&rsquo;d, and kindled at the view.
+     Their wings, their souls, embracing, meet,
+     Their hearts with answ&rsquo;ring measure beat,
+     Half lost in sacred sweets, and bless&rsquo;d
+     With raptures felt, but ne&rsquo;er express&rsquo;d.
+         Strait to her humble roof she led
+     The partner of her spotless bed;
+     Her young, a flutt&rsquo;ring pair, arise,
+     Their welcome sparkling in their eyes,
+     Transported, to their sire they bound,
+     And hang, with speechless action, round.
+     In pleasure wrapt, the parents stand,
+     And see their little wings expand;
+     The sire his life sustaining prize
+     To each expecting bill applies;
+     There fondly pours the wheaten spoil,
+     With transport giv&rsquo;n, though won with toil;
+     While, all collected at the sight,
+     And silent through supreme delight,
+     The fair high heav&rsquo;n of bliss beguiles,
+     And on her lord and infants smiles.
+</pre>
+<pre xml:space="preserve">
+     [*] These verses are a quotation from that tender fable of
+     the Sparrow and the Dove, in the &lsquo;Fables for the Female
+     Sex.&rsquo; 
+</pre>
+    <p>
+      The eagle now, without any hesitation, pronounced the dove to be
+      deservedly the happiest of the feathered kind; and however unwilling the
+      rest of the birds were to assent to the judgment given, yet could they not
+      dispute the justice of the decree.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Miss Jenny ceased reading, and all the little company expressed by
+      their looks, that they were overjoyed at the eagle&rsquo;s determination; for
+      they had all in their own minds forestalled the eagle&rsquo;s judgment, of
+      giving the preference to the dove. &lsquo;Now, my good children,&rsquo; said Mrs.
+      Teachum, &lsquo;if you will pass through this life with real pleasure, imitate
+      the dove; and remember, that innocence of mind, and integrity of heart,
+      adorn the female character, and can alone produce your own happiness, and
+      diffuse it to all around you.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Our little company thanked their governess for her fable; and, just at
+      that instant, they heard a chariot drive into the court, and Mrs. Teachum
+      went out to see what visitor could be arrived so late in the evening; for
+      it was near eight o&rsquo;clock.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They all remained in the room where their governess left them; for they
+      had been taught never to run out to the door, or to the windows, to look
+      at any strangers that came, till they knew whether it was proper for them
+      to see them or not.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum soon returned with a letter open in her hand, and remained
+      some little time silent; but cast on every one round such a tender and
+      affectionate look, a tear almost starting from her eye, that the
+      sympathising sorrow seemed to spread through the whole company, and they
+      were all silent, and ready to cry, though they knew not for what reason.
+      &lsquo;I am sorry, my little dears,&rsquo; said Mrs. Teachum, &lsquo;to give your tender
+      bosoms the uneasiness I fear the contents of this letter will do, as it
+      will deprive you of that your hearts so justly hold most dear.&rsquo; And, so
+      saying, she delivered to Miss Jenny Peace, the following letter:&mdash;
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;To Miss Jenny Peace.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Monday night, June 24.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My dear niece,&mdash;I arrived safe at my own house, with your cousin
+      Harriet, last Saturday night, after a very tedious voyage by sea, and a
+      fatiguing journey by land. I long to see my dear Jenny as soon as
+      possible, and Harriet is quite impatient for that pleasure.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I have ordered my chariot to be with you tomorrow night; and I desire you
+      would set out on Wednesday morning, as early as your inclination shall
+      prompt you to come to
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;Your truly affectionate aunt,
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;M. NEWMAN.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;I have writ a letter of thanks to your kind governess, for her care of
+      you.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It is impossible to describe the various sensations of Miss Jenny&rsquo;s mind,
+      on the reading this letter. Her rising joy at the thoughts of seeing her
+      kind aunt safely returned from a long and tedious voyage, was suppressed
+      by a sorrow, which could not be resisted, on parting with such dear
+      friends, and so good a governess; and the lustre which such a joy would
+      have given to her eye, was damped by rising tears. Her heart for some time
+      was too full for utterance. At last, turning to her governess, she said,
+      &lsquo;And is the chariot really come, to carry me to my dear aunt?&rsquo; Then, after
+      a pause, the tears trickling down her cheeks, &lsquo;And must I so soon leave
+      you, madam, and all my kind companions?&rsquo; Mrs. Teachum, on seeing Miss
+      Jenny&rsquo;s tender struggles of mind, and all her companions at once bursting
+      into tears, stood up, and left the room, saying, &lsquo;She would come to them
+      again after supper.&rsquo; For this prudent woman well knew, that it was in vain
+      to contend with the very first emotions of grief on such an occasion, but
+      intended, at her return, to show them how much it was their duty and
+      interest to conquer all sorts of extravagant sorrow.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They remained some time silent, as quite struck dumb with concern, till at
+      last Miss Dolly Friendly, in broken accents, cried out, &lsquo;And must we lose
+      you, my dear Miss Jenny, now we are just settled in that love and esteem
+      for you, which your goodness so well deserves?&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny endeavoured to dry up her tears, and then said, &lsquo;Although I
+      cannot but be pleased, my dear companions, at every mark of your affection
+      for me; yet I beg that you would not give me the pain to see that I make
+      so many dear friends unhappy. Let us submit cheerfully to this separation
+      (which, believe me, is as deeply felt by me as any of you) because it is
+      our duty so to do; and let me entreat you to be comforted, by reflecting,
+      how much my good aunt&rsquo;s safe return must be conducive to my future
+      welfare; nor can you be unhappy, while you continue with so good a
+      governess, and persist in that readiness to obey her, which you have
+      lately shown. She will direct who shall preside over your innocent
+      amusements in my place. I will certainly write to you, and shall always
+      take the greatest delight in hearing from each of you, both while you
+      continue here, and when your duty and different connections shall call you
+      elsewhere. We may some, and perhaps all, of us, happen often to meet
+      again; and I hope a friendship, founded on so innocent and so good a
+      foundation as ours is, will always subsist, as far as shall be consistent
+      with our future situations in life.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny&rsquo;s friends could not answer her but by sobs and tears; only
+      little Polly Suckling, running to her, clung about her neck, and cried,
+      &lsquo;Indeed, indeed, Miss Jenny, you must not go; I shall break my heart, if I
+      lose you: sure we shan&rsquo;t, nor we can&rsquo;t, be half so happy, when you are
+      gone, though our governess was ten times better to us than she is.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny again entreated them to dry up their tears, and to be more
+      contented with the present necessity; and begged, that they would not let
+      their governess see them so overwhelmed in sorrow on her return; for she
+      might take it unkindly, that they should be so afflicted at the loss of
+      one person, while they still remained under her indulgent care and
+      protection.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It was with the utmost difficulty, that Miss Jenny refrained from shedding
+      tear for tear with her kind companions; but as it was her constant maxim
+      to partake with her friends all her pleasure, and to confine her sorrows
+      as much as possible within her own bosom, she chose rather to endeavour,
+      by her own cheerfulness and innocent talk, to steal insensibly from the
+      bosoms of her little companions half their sorrow; and they begin to
+      appear tolerably easy.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      After supper, Mrs. Teachum returned; and, seeing them all striving who
+      should most conceal their grief, for fear of giving uneasiness to the
+      rest, yet with a deep dejection fixed in every countenance, and little
+      Polly still sobbing behind Miss Jenny&rsquo;s chair, she was so moved herself
+      with the affecting scene, that the tears stole from her eyes; and the
+      sympathising company once more eased their almost bursting hearts, by
+      another general flow of melting sorrow.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &lsquo;My dear children,&rsquo; said Mrs. Teachum, &lsquo;I am not at all surprised at your
+      being so much concerned to part with Miss Jenny. I love her myself with a
+      motherly affection (as I do all of you, and shall ever continue to do so
+      while you so well deserve it); and I could wish, for my own sake, never to
+      part with her as long as I live; but I consider, that it is for her
+      advantage, and I would have you all remember, in her absence, to let her
+      example and friendship fill your hearts with joy, instead of grief. It is
+      now pretty late in the evening, and as Miss Jenny is to set out very early
+      in the morning, I must insist upon shortening your pain (for such is your
+      present situation), and desire you would take your leave of this your
+      engaging friend.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      They none of them attempted to speak another word, for their hearts were
+      still too full for utterance; and Miss Jenny took every one by the hand as
+      they went out of the room, saluted them with the tenderest affection,
+      mingling tears with those which flowed from every streaming eye; and,
+      wishing them all happiness and joy till their next meeting, they all, with
+      heavy hearts, retired to rest.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Miss Jenny returned the warmest and most grateful acknowledgments to her
+      good governess, for all her care of her; and said, &lsquo;I shall attribute
+      every happy hour, madam, that I may hereafter be blessed with, to your
+      wise and kind instruction, which I shall always remember with the highest
+      veneration, and shall ever consider you as having been to me no less than
+      a fond and indulgent mother.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum kept Miss Jenny in the room with her no longer than to assure
+      her how sincerely she should regret her absence, and confessed how much of
+      the regularity and harmony of her school she owed to her good example, for
+      sweetness of temper, and conformity to rules.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0039" id="link2H_4_0039">
+      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      THE END OF THE NINTH DAY.
+    </h2>
+    <h3>
+      THE CONCLUSION OF THE HISTORY OF MRS. TEACHUM, &amp;C.
+    </h3>
+    <p>
+      Although Miss Jenny Peace did not return any more to school; yet she ever
+      gratefully remembered the kindness of her governess, and frequently
+      corresponded with all her companions. And as they continued their innocent
+      amusements and meetings in the arbour, whenever the weather would permit,
+      there was no day thought to be better employed than that in which they
+      received a letter from their absent instructive friend, whose name was
+      always mentioned with gratitude and honour.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mrs. Teachum continued the same watchful care over any young persons who
+      were entrusted to her management; and she never increased the number of
+      her scholars, though often entreated so to do. All quarrels and
+      contentions were banished her house; and if ever any such thing was likely
+      to arise, the story of Miss Jenny Peace&rsquo;s reconciling all her little
+      companions was told to them; so that Miss Jenny, though absent, still
+      seemed (by the bright example which she left behind her) to be the cement
+      of union and harmony in this well-regulated society. And if any girl was
+      found to harbour in her breast a rising passion, which it was difficult to
+      conquer, the name and story of Miss Jenny Peace soon gained her attention,
+      and left her without any other desire than to emulate Miss Jenny&rsquo;s
+      virtues.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In short, Mrs. Teachum&rsquo;s school was always mentioned throughout the
+      country, as an example of peace and harmony; and also by the daily
+      improvement of all her girls, it plainly appeared how early young people
+      might attain great knowledge, if their minds were free from foolish
+      anxieties about trifles, and properly employed on their own improvement;
+      for never did any young lady leave Mrs. Teachum, but that her parents and
+      friends were greatly delighted with her behaviour, as she had made it her
+      chief study to learn always to pay to her governors the most exact
+      obedience, and to exert towards her companions all the good effects of a
+      mind filled with benevolence and love.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </p>
+<pre xml:space="preserve">
+
+
+
+
+
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Governess, by Sarah Fielding
+
+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 Governess
+       The Little Female Academy
+
+Author: Sarah Fielding
+
+Posting Date: October 10, 2008 [EBook #1905]
+Release Date: September, 1999
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE GOVERNESS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Pat Pflieger
+
+
+
+
+
+THE GOVERNESS;
+
+OR, THE LITTLE FEMALE ACADEMY (1749)
+
+by Sarah Fielding
+
+
+
+There lived in the northern parts of England, a gentlewoman who
+undertook the education of young ladies; and this trust she endeavoured
+faithfully to discharge, by instructing those committed to her care in
+reading, writing, working, and in all proper forms of behaviour. And
+though her principal aim was to improve their minds in all useful
+knowledge; to render them obedient to their superiors, and gentle, kind,
+and affectionate to each other; yet did she not omit teaching them an
+exact neatness in their persons and dress, and a perfect gentility in
+their whole carriage.
+
+This gentlewoman, whose name was Teachum, was the widow of a clergyman,
+with whom she had lived nine years in all the harmony and concord which
+forms the only satisfactory happiness in the married state. Two little
+girls (the youngest of which was born before the second year of their
+marriage was expired) took up a great part of their thoughts; and it was
+their mutual design to spare no pains or trouble in their education.
+
+Mr. Teachum was a very sensible man, and took great delight in improving
+his wife; as she also placed her chief pleasure in receiving his
+instructions. One of his constant subjects of discourse to her was
+concerning the education of children: so that, when in his last illness
+his physicians pronounced him beyond the power of their art to relieve
+him, he expressed great satisfaction in the thought of leaving his
+children to the care of so prudent a mother.
+
+Mrs. Teachum, though exceedingly afflicted by such a loss, yet thought
+it her duty to call forth all her resolutions to conquer her grief, in
+order to apply herself to the care of these her dear husband's children.
+But her misfortunes were not here to end: for within a twelvemonth after
+the death of her husband, she was deprived of both her children by a
+violent fever that then raged in the country; and, about the same time,
+by the unforeseen breaking of a banker, in whose hands almost all her
+fortune was just then placed, she was bereft of the means of her future
+support.
+
+The Christian fortitude with which (through her husband's instructions)
+she had armed her mind, had not left it in the power of any outward
+accident to bereave her of her understanding, or to make her incapable
+of doing what was proper on all occasions. Therefore, by the advice
+of all her friends, she undertook what she was so well qualified for;
+namely, the education of children. But as she was moderate in her
+desires, and did not seek to raise a great fortune, she was resolved to
+take no more scholars than she could have an eye to herself without
+the help of other teachers; and instead of making interest to fill her
+school, it was looked upon as a great favour when she would take any
+girl. And as her number was fixed to nine, which she on no account
+would be prevailed on to increase, great application was made, when any
+scholar went away, to have her place supplied; and happy were they who
+could get a promise for the next vacancy.
+
+Mrs. Teachum was about forty years old, tall and genteel in her person,
+though somewhat inclined to fat. She had a lively and commanding eye,
+insomuch that she naturally created an awe in all her little scholars;
+except when she condescended to smile, and talk familiarly to them;
+and then she had something perfectly kind and tender in her manner. Her
+temper was so extremely calm and good, that though she never omitted
+reprehending, and that pretty severely, any girl that was guilty of the
+smallest fault proceeding from an evil disposition; yet for no cause
+whatsoever was she provoked to be in a passion; but she kept up such a
+dignity and authority, by her steady behavior, that the girls greatly
+feared to incur her displeasure by disobeying her commands; and were
+equally pleased with her approbation, when they had done anything worthy
+her commendation.
+
+At the time of the ensuing history, the school (being full) consisted of
+the nine following young ladies:
+
+     Miss JENNY PEACE.
+     Miss NANNY SPRUCE.
+     Miss SUKEY JENNETT.
+     Miss BETTY FORD.
+     Miss DOLLY FRIENDLY.
+     Miss HENNY FRET.
+     Miss LUCY SLY.
+     Miss POLLY SUCKLING.
+     Miss PATTY LOCKIT.
+
+The eldest of these was but fourteen years old, and none of the rest had
+yet attained their twelfth year.
+
+
+
+
+AN ACCOUNT OF A FRAY,
+
+BEGUN AND CARRIED ON FOR THE SAKE OF AN APPLE: IN WHICH ARE SHOWN THE
+SAD EFFECTS OF RAGE AND ANGER.
+
+It was on a fine summer's evening when the school-hours were at an end,
+and the young ladies were admitted to divert themselves for some time,
+as they thought proper, in a pleasant garden adjoining to the house,
+that their governess, who delighted in pleasing them, brought out a
+little basket of apples, which were intended to be divided equally
+amongst them; but Mrs. Teachum being hastily called away (one of her
+poor neighhours having had an accident which wanted her assistance),
+she left the fruit in the hands of Miss Jenny Peace, the eldest of her
+scholars, with a strict charge to see that every one had an equal share
+of her gift.
+
+But here a perverse accident turned good Mrs. Teachum's design of giving
+them pleasure into their sorrow, and raised in their little hearts
+nothing but strife and anger: for, alas! there happened to be one apple
+something larger than the rest, on which the whole company immediately
+placed their desiring eyes, and all at once cried out, 'Pray, Miss
+Jenny, give me that apple.' Each gave her reasons why she had the best
+title to it: the youngest pleaded her youth, and the eldest her age; one
+insisted on her goodness, another from her meekness claimed a title to
+preference; and one, in confidence of her strength, said positively,
+she would have it; but all speaking together, it was difficult to
+distinguish who said this, or who said that.
+
+Miss Jenny begged them all to be quiet, but in vain; for she could not
+be heard: they had all set their hearts on that fine apple, looking upon
+those she had given them as nothing. She told them they had better
+be contented with what they had, than be thus seeking what it was
+impossible for her to give to them all. She offered to divide it into
+eight parts, or to do anything to satisfy them; but she might as well
+have been silent; for they were all talking and had no time to hear.
+At last as a means to quiet the disturbance, she threw this apple,
+the cause of their contention, with her utmost force over a hedge into
+another garden, where they could not come at it.
+
+At first they were all silent, as if they were struck dumb with
+astonishment with the loss of this one poor apple, though at the same
+time they had plenty before them.
+
+But this did not bring to pass Miss Jenny's design: for now they all
+began again to quarrel which had the most right to it, and which ought
+to have had it, with as much vehemence as they had before contended for
+the possession of it; and their anger by degrees became so high, that
+words could not vent half their rage; and they fell to pulling of caps,
+tearing of hair, and dragging the clothes off one another's backs:
+though they did not so much strike, as endeavour to scratch and pinch
+their enemies.
+
+Miss Dolly Friendly as yet was not engaged in the battle; but on hearing
+her friend Miss Nanny Spruce scream out, that she was hurt by a sly
+pinch from one of the girls, she flew on this sly pincher, as she called
+her, like an enraged lion on its prey; and not content only to return
+the harm her friend had received, she struck with such force, as felled
+her enemy to the ground. And now they could not distinguish between
+friend and enemy; but fought, scratched, and tore, like so many cats,
+when they extend their claws to fix them in their rival's heart.
+
+Miss Jenny was employed in endeavouring to part them.
+
+In the midst of this confusion appeared Mrs. Teachum, who was returning
+in hopes to see them happy with the fruit she had given them; but she
+was some time there before either her voice or presence could awaken
+them from their attention to the fight; when on a sudden they all faced
+her, and fear of punishment began now a little to abate their rage.
+Each of the misses held in her right hand, fast clenched, some marks
+of victory; for they beat and were beaten by turns. One of them held a
+little lock of hair torn from the head of her enemy; another grasped a
+piece of a cap, which, in aiming at her rival's hair, had deceived her
+hand, and was all the spoils she could gain; a third clenched a piece of
+an apron; a fourth, of a frock. In short, everyone unfortunately held
+in her hand a proof of having been engaged in the battle. And the ground
+was spread with rags and tatters, torn from the backs of the little
+inveterate combatants.
+
+Mrs. Teachum stood for some time astonished at the sight; but at last
+she enquired of Miss Jenny Peace, who was the only person disengaged,
+to tell her the whole truth, and to inform her of the cause of all this
+confusion.
+
+Miss Jenny was obliged to obey the commands of her governess; though
+she was so good natured that she did it in the mildest terms; and
+endeavoured all she could to lessen, rather than increase, Mrs.
+Teachum's anger. The guilty persons now began all to excuse themselves
+as fast as tears and sobs would permit them.
+
+One said, 'Indeed, madam, it was none of my fault; for I did not begin;
+for Miss Sukey Jennett, without any cause in the world (for I did
+nothing to provoke her), hit me a great slap in the face, and made my
+tooth ache; the pain DID make me angry; and then, indeed, I hit her a
+little tap; but it was on her back; and I am sure it was the smallest
+tap in the world and could not possibly hurt her half so much as her
+great blow did me.'
+
+'Law, miss!' replied Miss Jennett, 'how can you say so? when you know
+that you struck me first, and that yours was the great blow, and mine
+the little tap; for I only went to defend myself from your monstrous
+blows.'
+
+Such like defences they would all have made for themselves, each
+insisting on not being in fault, and throwing the blame on her
+companion; but Mrs. Teachum silenced them by a positive command; and
+told them, that she saw they were all equally guilty, and as such would
+treat them.
+
+Mrs. Teachum's method of punishing I never could find out. But this
+is certain, the most severe punishment she had ever inflicted on any
+misses, since she had kept a school, was now laid on these wicked girls,
+who had been thus fighting, and pulling one another to pieces, for a
+sorry apple.
+
+The first thing she did was to take away all the apples; telling them,
+that before they had any more instances of such kindness from her, they
+should give her proofs of their deserving them better. And when she had
+punished them as much as she thought proper, she made them all embrace
+one another, and promise to be friends for the future; which, in
+obedience to her commands, they were forced to comply with, though there
+remained a grudge and ill-will in their bosoms; every one thinking she
+was punished most, although she would have it, that she deserved to be
+punished least; and they continued all the sly tricks they could think
+on to vex and tease each other.
+
+
+
+
+A DIALOGUE BETWEEN MISS JENNY PEACE AND MISS SUKEY JENNETT;
+
+WHEREIN THE LATTER IS AT LAST CONVINCED OF HER OWN FOLLY IN BEING SO
+QUARRELSOME; AND, BY HER EXAMPLE, ALL HER COMPANIONS ARE BROUGHT TO SEE
+AND CONFESS THEIR FAULT.
+
+The next morning Miss Jenny Peace used her utmost endeavours to bring
+her schoolfellows to be heartily reconciled, but in vain: for each
+insisted on it, that she was not to blame; but that the whole quarrel
+arose from the faults of others. At last ensued the following dialogue
+between Miss Jenny Peace and Miss Sukey Jennett, which brought about
+Miss Jenny's designs; and which we recommend to the consideration of all
+our young readers.
+
+MISS JENNY. Now pray, Miss Sukey, tell me, what did you get by your
+contention and quarrel about that foolish apple?
+
+MISS SUKEY. Indeed, ma'am, I shall not answer you; I know that you only
+want to prove, that you are wiser than I, because you are older. But I
+don't know but some people may understand as much at eleven years old as
+others at thirteen: but, because you are the oldest in the school, you
+always want to be tutoring and governing. I don't like to have more than
+one governess; and if I obey my mistress, I think that is enough.
+
+MISS JENNY. Indeed, my dear, I don't want to govern you, nor to prove
+myself wiser than you; I only want that instead of quarrelling, and
+making yourself miserable, you should live at peace and be happy.
+Therefore, pray do answer my question, whether you get anything by your
+quarrel?
+
+MISS SUKEY. No I cannot say I got anything by it: for my mistress was
+angry, and punished me; and my hair was pulled off, and my clothes torn
+in the scuffle; neither did I value the apple; but yet I have too much
+spirit to be imposed on. I am sure I had as good a right to it as any of
+the others; and I would not give up my right to anyone.
+
+MISS JENNY. But don't you know, Miss Sukey, it would have shown much
+more spirit to have yielded the apple to another, than to have fought
+about it? Then indeed you would have proved your sense; for you would
+have shown, that you had too much understanding to fight about a trifle.
+Then your clothes had been whole, your hair not torn from your head,
+your mistress had not been angry, nor had your fruit been taken away
+from you.
+
+MISS SUKEY. And so, miss, you would fain prove, that it is wisest to
+submit to everybody that would impose upon one? But I will not believe
+ii, say what you will.
+
+MISS JENNY. But is not what I say true? If you had not been in the
+battle, would not your clothes have been whole, your hair not torn, your
+mistress pleased with you, and the apples your own?
+
+
+Here Miss Sukey paused for some time: for as Miss Jenny was in the right
+and had truth on her side, it was difficult for Miss Sukey to know what
+to answer. For it is impossible, without being very silly, to contradict
+truth; and yet Miss Sukey was so foolish, that she did not care to own
+herself in the wrong; though nothing could have been so great a sign of
+her understanding.
+
+When Miss Jenny saw her thus at a loss for an answer, she was in hopes
+of making her companion happy; for, as she had as much good nature as
+understanding, that was her design. She therefore pursued her discourse
+in the following manner:
+
+
+MISS JENNY. Pray, Miss Sukey, do answer me one question more. Don't you
+lie awake at nights, and fret and vex yourself, because you are angry
+with your school-fellows? Are not you restless and uneasy, because you
+cannot find a safe method to be revenged on them, without being punished
+yourself? Do tell me truly, is not this your case?
+
+MISS SUKEY. Yes it is. For if I could but hurt my enemies, without
+being hurt myself, it would be the greatest pleasure I could have in the
+world.
+
+MISS JENNY. Oh fie, Miss Sukey! What you have now said is wicked. Don't
+you consider what you say every day in your prayers'? And this way of
+thinking will make you lead a very uneasy life. If you would hearken to
+me, I could put you into a method of being very happy, and making all
+those misses you call your enemies, become your friends.
+
+MISS SUKEY. You could tell me a method, miss? Do you think I don't know
+as well as you what is fit to be done? I believe I am as capable of
+finding the way to be happy, as you are of teaching me.
+
+
+Here Miss Sukey burst into tears, that anybody should presume to tell
+her the way to be happy.
+
+
+MISS JENNY. Upon my word, my dear, I don't mean to vex you; but only,
+instead of tormenting yourself all night in laying plots to revenge
+yourself, I would have you employ this one night in thinking of what I
+have said. Nothing will show your sense so much, as to own that you have
+been in the wrong. Nor will anything prove a right spirit so much as
+to confess your fault. All the misses will be your friends, and perhaps
+follow your example. Then you will have the pleasure of having caused
+the quiet of the whole school; your governess will love you; and you
+will be at peace in your mind, and never have any more foolish quarrels,
+in which you all get nothing but blows and uneasiness.
+
+
+Miss Sukey began now to find, that Miss Jenny was in the right, and she
+herself in the wrong; but yet she was so proud she would not own it.
+Nothing could be so foolish as this pride; because it would have been
+both good and wise in her to confess the truth the moment she saw it.
+However, Miss Jenny was so discreet as not to press her any farther that
+night; but begged her to consider seriously on what she had said, and to
+let her know her thoughts the next morning and then left her.
+
+When Miss Sukey was alone she stood some time in great confusion. She
+could not help seeing how much hitherto she had been in the wrong; and
+that thought stung her to the heart. She cried, stamped, and was in as
+great an agony as if some sad misfortune had befallen her. At last, when
+she had somewhat vented her passion by tears, she burst forth into the
+following speech:
+
+'It is very true what Miss Jenny Peace says; for I am always uneasy. I
+don't sleep in quiet because I am always thinking, either that I have
+not my share of what is given us, or that I cannot be revenged on any of
+the girls that offend me. And when I quarrel with them, I am scratched
+and bruised; or reproached. And what do I get by all this? Why, I
+scratch, bruise, and reproach them in my turn. Is not that gain enough?
+I warrant I hurt them as much as they hurt me. But then indeed, as Miss
+Jenny says, if I could make these girls my friends, and did not wish
+to hurt them, I certainly might live a quieter, and perhaps a happier,
+life. But what then, have I been always in the wrong all my lifetime?
+for I always quarrelled and hated everyone who had offended me. Oh! I
+cannot bear that thought! It is enough to make me mad! when I imagined
+myself so wise and so sensible, to find out that I have been always a
+fool. If I think a moment longer about it, I shall die with grief and
+shame. I must think myself in the right; and I will too. But, as Miss
+Jenny says, I really am unhappy; for I hate all my schoolfellows; and
+yet I dare not do them any mischief; for my mistress will punish me
+severely if I do. I should not so much mind that neither; but then those
+I intend to hurt will triumph over me, to see me punished for their
+sakes. In short, the more I reflect, the more I am afraid Miss Jenny is
+in the right; and yet it breaks my heart to think so.'
+
+Here the poor girl wept so bitterly, and was so heartily grieved, that
+she could not utter one word more; but sat herself down, reclining her
+head upon her hand, in the most melancholy posture that could be; nor
+could she close her eyes all night, but lay tossing and raving with the
+thought how she should act, and what she should say to Miss Jenny the
+next day.
+
+When the morning came, Miss Sukey dreaded every moment, as the time drew
+nearer when she must meet Miss Jenny. She knew it would not be possible
+to resist her arguments; and yet shame for having been in fault overcame
+her.
+
+As soon as Miss Jenny saw Miss Sukey with her eyes cast down, and
+confessing, by a look of sorrow, that she would take her advice, she
+embraced her kindly; and, without giving her the trouble to speak, took
+it for granted, that she would leave off quarreling, be reconciled to
+her schoolfellows, and make herself happy.
+
+Miss Sukey did indeed stammer out some words, which implied a confession
+of her fault; but they were spoke so low they could hardly be heard;
+only Miss Jenny, who always chose to look at the fairest side of
+her companions' actions, by Miss Sukey's look and manner guessed her
+meaning.
+
+In the same manner did this good girl, Jenny, persuade, one by one, all
+her schoolfellows to be reconciled to each with sincerity and love.
+
+Miss Dolly Friendly, who had too much sense to engage the battle for
+the sake of an apple, and who was provoked to strike a blow only for
+friendship's sake, easily saw the truth of what Miss Jenny said; and was
+therefore presently convinced, that the best part she could have acted
+for her friend, would have been to have withdrawn her from the scuffle.
+
+
+
+
+A SCENE OF LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP, QUITE THE REVERSE OF THE BATTLE,
+
+WHEREIN ARE SHOWN THE DIFFERENT EFFECTS OF LOVE AND GOODNESS FROM THOSE
+ATTENDING ANGER, STRIFE, AND WICKEDNESS: WITH THE LIFE OF MISS JENNY
+PEACE.
+
+After Miss Jenny had completed the good work of making all her
+companions friends, she drew them round her in a little arbour, in that
+very garden which had been the scene of their strife, and consequently
+of their misery; and then spoke to them the following speech; which
+she delivered in so mild a voice, that it was sufficient to charm her
+hearers into attention, and to persuade them to be led by her advice,
+and to follow her example in the paths of goodness.
+
+'My dear friends and schoolfellows, you cannot imagine the happiness it
+gives me to see you thus all so heartily reconciled. You will find
+the joyful fruits of it. Nothing can show so much sense as thus to own
+yourselves in fault; for could anything have been so foolish as to spend
+all your time in misery, rather than at once to make use of the power
+you have of making yourselves happy? Now if you will use as many
+endeavours to love as you have hitherto done to hate each other, you
+will find that every one amongst you, whenever you have anything given
+you, will have double, nay, I may say eight times (as there are eight of
+you) the pleasure, in considering that your companions are happy. What
+is the end of quarrels, but that everyone is fretted and vexed, and
+no one gains anything! Whereas by endeavouring to please and love each
+other, the end is happiness to ourselves, and joy to everyone around us.
+I am sure, if you will speak the truth, none of you have been so easy
+since you quarrelled, as you are now you are reconciled. Answer me
+honestly, if this is not truth.'
+
+Here Miss Jenny was silent, and waited for an answer. But the poor
+girls, who had in them the seeds of goodwill to each other, although
+those seeds were choked and overrun with the weeds of envy and pride;
+as in a garden the finest strawberries will be spoiled by rank weeds, if
+care is not taken to root them out; these poor girls, I say, now struck
+with the force of truth, and sorry for what they had done, let drop some
+tears, which trickled down their cheeks, and were signs of meekness,
+and sorrow for their fault. Not like those tears which burst from their
+swollen eyes, when anger and hatred choked their words, and their proud
+hearts laboured with stubbornness and folly; when their skins reddened,
+and all their features were changed and distorted by the violence of
+passion, which made them frightful to the beholders, and miserable
+to themselves;-- No! Far other cause had they now for tears, and far
+different were the tears they shed; their eyes, melted with sorrow for
+their faults, let fall some drops, as tokens of their repentance; but,
+as soon as they could recover themselves to speak, they all with one
+voice cried out, 'Indeed, Miss Jenny, we are sorry for our fault, and
+will follow your advice; which we now see is owing to your goodness.'
+
+Miss Jenny now produced a basket of apples, which she had purchased out
+of the little pocket-money she was allowed, in order to prove, that the
+same things may be a pleasure or a pain, according as the persons to
+whom they are given are good or bad.
+
+These she placed in the midst of her companions, and desired them to
+eat, and enjoy themselves; and now they were so changed, that each
+helped her next neighbour before she would touch any for herself; and
+the moment they were grown thus good natured and friendly, they were as
+well-bred, and as polite, as it is possible to describe.
+
+Miss Jenny's joy was inexpressible, that she had caused this happy
+change; nor less was the joy of her companions, who now began to
+taste pleasures, from which their animosity to each other had hitherto
+debarred them. They all sat looking pleased on their companions; their
+faces borrowed beauty from the calmness and goodness of their minds;
+and all those ugly frowns, and all that ill-natured sourness, which when
+they were angry and cross were but too plain in their faces, were now
+entirely fled; jessamine and honeysuckles surrounded their seats, and
+played round their heads, of which they gathered nosegays to present
+each other with. They now enjoyed all the pleasure and happiness that
+attend those who are innocent and good.
+
+Miss Jenny, with her heart overflowing with joy at this happy change,
+said, 'Now, my dear companions, that you may be convinced what I have
+said and done was not occasioned by any desire of proving myself wiser
+than you, as Miss Sukey hinted while she was yet in her anger, I will,
+if you please, relate to you the history of my past life; by which you
+will see in what manner I came by this way of thinking; and as you will
+perceive it was chiefly owing to the instructions of a kind mamma, you
+may all likewise reap the same advantage under good Mrs. Teachum, if
+you will obey her commands, and attend to her precepts. And after I have
+given you the particulars of my life, I must beg that every one of you
+will, some day or other, when you have reflected upon it, declare all
+that you can remember of your own; for, should you not be able to relate
+anything worth remembering as an example, yet there is nothing more
+likely to amend the future part of anyone's life, than the recollecting
+and confessing the faults of the past.'
+
+All our little company highly approved of Miss Jenny's proposal, and
+promised, in their turns, to relate their own lives; and Miss Polly
+Suckling cried out, 'Yes indeed, Miss Jenny, I'll tell all when it comes
+to my turn; so pray begin, for I long to hear what you did, when you was
+no bigger than I am now.' Miss Jenny then kissed little Polly, and said
+she would instantly begin.
+
+But as in the reading of any one's story, it is an additional pleasure
+to have some acquaintance with their persons; and as I delight in giving
+my little readers every pleasure that is in my power; I shall endeavour,
+as justly as I can, by description, to set before their eyes the picture
+of this good young creature: and in the same of every one of our young
+company, as they begin their lives.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS JENNY PEACE.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace was just turned of fourteen, and could be called
+neither tall nor short of her age; but her whole person was the most
+agreeable that can be imagined. She had an exceeding fine complexion,
+with as much colour in her cheeks as is the natural effect of perfect
+health. Her hair was light brown, and curled in so regular and yet easy
+a manner, as never to want any assistance from art. Her eyebrows (which
+were not of that correct turn as to look as if they were drawn with a
+pencil) and her eyelashes were both darker than her hair; and the
+latter being very long, gave such a shade to her eyes as made them often
+mistaken for black, though they were only a dark hazel. To give any
+description of her eyes beyond the colour and size, which was perfectly
+the medium, would be impossible; except by saying they were expressive
+of everything that is amiable and good; for through them might be read
+every single thought of the mind; from whence they had such a brightness
+and cheerfulness, as seemed to cast a lustre over her whole face. She
+had fine teeth, and a mouth answering to the most correct rules of
+beauty; and when she spoke (though you were at too great a distance to
+hear what she said) there appeared so much sweetness, mildness, modesty
+and good nature, that you found yourself filled more with pleasure than
+admiration in beholding her. The delight which everyone took in looking
+on Miss Jenny was evident in this, that though Miss Sukey Jennett and
+Miss Patty Lockit were both what may be called handsomer girls (and if
+you asked any persons in company their opinion, they would tell you so)
+yet their eyes were a direct contradiction to their tongues, by being
+continually fixed on Miss Jenny; for, while she was in the room, it
+was impossible to fix them anywhere else. She had a natural ease and
+gentility in her shape; and all her motions were more pleasing, though
+less striking than what is commonly acquired by the instruction of
+dancing masters.
+
+Such was the agreeable person of Miss Jenny Peace, who, in her usual
+obliging manner, and with an air pleasing beyond my power to express, at
+the request of her companions began to relate the history of her life,
+as follows:
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS JENNY PEACE.
+
+'My father dying when I was but half a year old, I was left to the care
+of my mamma, who was the best woman in the world, and to whose memory
+I shall ever pay the most grateful honour. From the time she had any
+children, she made it the whole study of her life to promote their
+welfare, and form their minds in the manner she thought would best
+answer her purpose of making them both good and happy; for it was her
+constant maxim, that goodness and happiness dwelt in the same bosoms,
+and were generally found to life so much together, that they could not
+easily be separated.
+
+'My mother had six children born alive; but could preserve none beyond
+the first year, except my brother, Harry Peace, and myself. She made it
+one of her chief cares to cultivate and preserve the most perfect love
+and harmony between us. My brother is but a twelvemonth older than I;
+so that, till I was six years old (for seven was the age in which he was
+sent to school) he remained at home with me; in which time we often had
+little childish quarrels; but my mother always took care to convince us
+of our error in wrangling and fighting about nothing, and to teach
+us how much more pleasure we enjoyed whilst we agreed. She showed no
+partiality to either, but endeavoured to make us equal in all things,
+any otherwise than that she taught me I owed a respect to my brother as
+the eldest.
+
+'Before my brother went to school, we had set hours appointed us, in
+which we regularly attended to learn whatever was thought necessary
+for our improvement; my mamma herself daily watching the opening of our
+minds, and taking great care to instruct us in what manner to make the
+best use of the knowledge we attained. Whatever we read she explained to
+us, and made us understand, that we might be the better for our lessons.
+When we were capable of thinking, we made it so much a rule to obey our
+parent, the moment she signified her pleasure, that by that means we
+avoided many accidents and misfortunes; for example: my brother was
+running one day giddily round the brink of a well; and if he had made
+the least false step, he must have fallen to the bottom, and been
+drowned; my mamma, by a sign with her finger that called him to her,
+preserved him from the imminent danger he was in of losing his life;
+and then she took care that we should both be the better for this little
+incident, by laying before us how much our safety and happiness, as well
+as our duty, were concerned in being obedient.
+
+'My brother and I once had a quarrel about something as trifling as
+your apple of contention; and, though we both heartily wished to be
+reconciled to each other, yet did our little hearts swell so much with
+stubbornness and pride, that neither of us would speak first; by which
+means we were so silly as to be both uneasy, and yet would not use the
+remedy that was in our own power to remove that uneasiness. My mamma
+found it out, and sent for me into her closet, and said, "She was sorry
+to see her instructions had no better effect on me; for," continued she,
+"indeed, Jenny, I am ashamed of your folly, as well as wickedness, in
+thus contending with your brother." A tear, which I believe flowed from
+shame, started from my eyes at this reproof; and I fixed them on the
+ground, being too much overwhelmed with confusion to dare to lift them
+up on mamma. On which she kindly said, "She hoped my confusion was a
+sign of my amendment. That she might indeed have used another method, by
+commanding me to seek a reconciliation with my brother; for she did not
+imagine I was already so far gone in perverseness, as not to hold her
+commands as inviolable; but she was willing, for my good, first to
+convince me of my folly." As soon as my confusion would give me leave
+to speak, on my knees I gave her a thousand thanks for her goodness,
+and went immediately to seek my brother. He joyfully embraced the
+first opportunity of being reconciled to me; and this was one of the
+pleasantest hours of my life. This quarrel happened when my brother came
+home at a breaking-up, and I was nine years old.
+
+'My mamma's principal care was to keep up a perfect amity between me
+and my brother. I remember once, when Harry and I were playing in the
+fields, there was a small rivulet stopped me in my way. My brother,
+being nimbler and better able to jump than myself, with one spring
+leaped over, and left me on the other side of it; but seeing me uneasy
+that I could not get over to him, his good nature prompted him to come
+back and to assist me; and, by the help of his hand, I easily passed
+over. On this my good mamma bid me remember how much my brother's
+superior strength might assist me in his being my protector; and that I
+ought to return to use my utmost endeavours to oblige him; and that
+then we should be mutual assistants to each other throughout life. Thus
+everything that passed was made use of to improve my understanding and
+amend my heart.
+
+'I believe no child ever spent her time more agreeably than I did; for I
+not only enjoyed my own pleasures, but also those of others. And when my
+brother was carried abroad, and I was left at home, that HE was pleased,
+made me full amends for the loss of any diversion, the contentions
+between us (where our parent's commands did not interfere) were always
+exerted in endeavours each to prefer the other's pleasures to our own.
+My mind was easy and free from anxiety; for as I always took care to
+speak truth, I had nothing to conceal from my mamma, and consequently
+had never any fears of being found in a lie. For one lie obliges us
+to tell a thousand others to conceal it; and I have no notion of
+any conditions being so miserable, as to live in a continual fear of
+detection. Most particularly, my mamma instructed me to beware of all
+sorts of deceit; so that I was accustomed, not only in words to speak
+truth, but also not to endeavour by any means to deceive.
+
+'But though the friendship between my brother and me was so strongly
+cultivated, yet we were taught, that lying for each other, or praising
+each other when it was not deserved, was not only a fault, but a very
+great crime; for this, my mamma used to tell us, was not love, but
+hatred; as it was encouraging one another in folly and wickedness.
+And though my natural disposition inclined me to be very tender of
+everything in my power, yet was I not suffered to give way even to THIS
+in an unreasonable degree. One instance of which I remember.
+
+'When I was about eleven years old, I had a cat that I had bred up from
+a little kitten, that used to play round me, till I had indulged for the
+poor animal a fondness that made me delight to have it continually with
+me wherever I went; and, in return for my indulgence, the cat seemed
+to have changed its nature, and assumed the manner that more properly
+belongs to dogs than cats; for it would follow me about the house and
+gardens, mourn for my absence, and rejoice at my presence. And, what was
+very remarkable, the poor animal would, when fed by my hand, lose that
+caution which cats are known to be possessed of, and eat whatever I gave
+it, as if it could reflect that I meant only its good, and no harm could
+come from me.
+
+'I was at last so accustomed to see this little Frisk (for so I called
+it) playing round me, that I seemed to miss part of myself in its
+absence. But one day the poor little creature followed me to the door;
+when a parcel of schoolboys coming by, one of them catched her up in his
+arms, and ran away with her. All my cries were to no purpose; for he was
+out of sight with her in a moment, and there was no method to trace his
+steps. The cruel wretches, for sport, as they called it, hunted it the
+next day from one to the other, in the most barbarous manner; till at
+last it took shelter in that house that used to be its protection, and
+came and expired at my feet.
+
+'I was so struck with the sight of the little animal dying in that
+manner, that the great grief of my heart overflowed at my eyes, and I
+was for some time inconsolable.
+
+'My indulgent mamma comforted without blaming me, till she thought I
+had sufficient time to vent my grief; and then, sending for me into her
+chamber, spoke as follows:
+
+'"Jenny, I have watched you ever since the death of your little
+favourite cat; and have been in hopes daily, that your lamenting and
+melancholy on that account would be at an end. But I find you still
+persist in grieving, as if such a loss was irreparable. Now, though
+I have always encouraged you in all sentiments of good nature and
+compassion; and am sensible, that where those sentiments are strongly
+implanted, they will extend their influence even to the least animal;
+yet you are to consider, my child, that you are not to give way to
+any passions that interfere with your duty; for whenever there is any
+contention between your duty and your inclinations, you must conquer the
+latter, or become wicked and contemptible. If, therefore, you give way
+to this melancholy, how will you be able to perform your duty towards
+me, in cheerfully obeying my commands, and endeavouring, by your lively
+prattle and innocent gaiety of heart, to be my companion and delight?
+Nor will you be fit to converse with your brother, whom (as you lost
+your good papa when you were too young to know that loss) I have
+endeavoured to educate in such a manner, that I hope he will be a father
+to you, if you deserve his love and protection. In short, if you do
+not keep command enough of yourself to prevent being ruffled by every
+accident, you will be unfit for all the social offices of life, and be
+despised by all those whose regard and love are worth your seeking. I
+treat you, my girl, as capable of considering what is for your own good;
+for though you are but eleven years of age, yet I hope the pains I have
+taken in explaining all you read, and in answering all your questions in
+search of knowledge, has not been so much thrown away, but that you are
+more capable of judging, than those unhappy children are, whose parents
+have neglected to instruct them. And therefore, farther to enforce what
+I say, remember, that repining at any accident that happens to you, is
+an offence to that God to whom I have taught you daily to pray for all
+the blessings you can receive, and to whom you are to return humble
+thanks for every blessing."
+
+'"I expect therefore, Jenny, that you now dry up your tears, and resume
+your usual cheerfulness. I do not doubt but your obedience to me will
+make you at least put on the appearance of cheerfulness in my sight. But
+you will deceive yourself, if you think that is performing your duty;
+for if you would obey me as you ought, you must try heartily to root
+from your mind all sorrow and gloominess. You may depend upon it, this
+command is in your power to obey; for you know I never require anything
+of you that is impossible."
+
+'After my mamma had made this speech, she went out to take a walk in the
+garden, and left me to consider of what she had said.
+
+'The moment I came to reflect seriously, I found it was indeed in my
+power to root all melancholy from my heart, when I considered it was
+necessary, in order to perform my duty to God, to obey the best of
+mothers, and to make myself a blessing and a cheerful companion to her,
+rather than a burden, and the cause of her uneasiness, by my foolish
+melancholy.
+
+'This little accident, as managed by my mamma, has been a lesson to me
+in governing my passions ever since.
+
+'It would be endless to repeat all the methods this good mother invented
+for my instruction, amendment, and improvement. It is sufficient to
+acquaint you, that she contrived that every new day should open to me
+some new scene of knowledge; and no girl could be happier than I was
+during her life. But, alas! when I was thirteen years of age, the scene
+changed. My dear mamma was taken ill of a scarlet fever. I attended her
+day and night whilst she lay ill, my eyes starting with tears to see her
+in that condition; and yet I did not dare to give my sorrows vent, for
+fear of increasing her pain.'
+
+Here a trickling tear stole from Miss Jenny's eyes. She suppressed some
+rising sobs that interrupted her speech, and was about to proceed in her
+story, when, casting her eyes on her companions, she saw her sorrow had
+such an effect upon them all, that there was not one of her hearers who
+could refrain from shedding a sympathising tear. She therefore thought
+it was more strictly following her mamma's precepts to pass this part
+of her story in silence, rather than to grieve her friends; and having
+wiped away her tears, she hastened to conclude her story; which she did
+as follows:
+
+'After my mamma's death, my Aunt Newman, my father's sister, took the
+care of me; but being obliged to go to Jamaica, to settle some affairs
+relating to an estate she is possessed of there, she took with her my
+Cousin Harriet, her only daughter, and left me under the care of the
+good Mrs. Teachum till her return. And since I have been here, you all
+know as much of my history as I do myself.'
+
+
+As Miss Jenny spoke these words, the bell summoned them to supper into
+the presence of their governess, who having narrowly watched their looks
+ever since the fray, had hitherto plainly perceived, that though they
+did not dare to break out again into an open quarrel, yet their hearts
+had still harboured unkind thoughts of one another. She was surprised
+NOW, as she stood at a window in the hall that overlooked the garden, to
+see all her scholars walk towards her hand in hand, with such cheerful
+countenances, as plainly showed their inward good humour. And as she
+thought proper to mention to them her pleasure in seeing them thus
+altered, Miss Jenny Peace related to her governess all that had passed
+in the arbour, with their general reconciliation. Mrs. Teachum gave Miss
+Jenny all the applause due to her goodness, saying, she herself had only
+waited a little while, to see if their anger would subside, and love
+take its place in their bosoms, without her interfering again; for THAT
+she certainly should otherwise have done, to have brought about what
+Miss Jenny had so happily effected.
+
+Miss Jenny thanked her governess for her kind approbation, and said,
+that if she would give them leave, she would spend what time she was
+pleased to allow them from school in this little arbour, in reading
+stories, and such things as she should think a proper and innocent
+amusement.
+
+Mrs. Teachum not only gave leave, but very much approved of this
+proposal; and desired Miss Jenny, as a reward for what she had already
+done, to preside over these diversions, and to give her an account in
+what manner they proceeded. Miss Jenny promised in all things to be
+guided by good Mrs. Teachum. And now, soon after supper, they retired to
+rest, free from those uneasy passions which used to prevent their quiet;
+and as they had passed the day in pleasure, at night they sunk in soft
+and sweet repose.
+
+
+
+
+MONDAY.
+
+THE FIRST DAY AFTER THEIR REPENTANCE; AND, CONSEQUENTLY, THE FIRST DAY
+OF THE HAPPINESS OF MISS JENNY PEACE AND HER COMPANIONS.
+
+Early in the morning, as soon as Miss Jenny arose, all her companions
+flocked round her; for they now looked on her as the best friend they
+had in the world; and they agreed, when they came out of school, to
+adjourn into their arbour, and divert themselves till dinner-time; which
+they accordingly did. When Miss Jenny proposed, if it was agreeable to
+them to hear it, to read them a story which she had put in her pocket
+for that purpose; and as they now began to look upon her as the most
+proper person to direct them in their amusements, they all replied, What
+was most agreeable to her would please them best. She then began to
+read the following story, with which we shall open their first day's
+amusement.
+
+
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE CRUEL GIANT BARBARICO, THE GOOD GIANT BENEFICO,
+
+AND THE LITTLE PRETTY DWARF MIGNON.
+
+A great many hundred years ago, the mountains of Wales were inhabited
+by two giants; one of whom was the terror of all his neighbours and the
+plague of the whole country. He greatly exceeded the size of any giant
+recorded in history; and his eyes looked so fierce and terrible, that
+they frightened all who were so unhappy as to behold them.
+
+The name of this enormous wretch was Barbarico. A name which filled
+all who heard it with fear and astonishment. The whole delight of this
+monster's life was in acts of inhumanity and mischief; and he was the
+most miserable as well as the most wicked creature that ever yet was
+born. He had no sooner committed one outrage, but he was in agonies
+till he could commit another; never satisfied, unless he could find an
+opportunity of either torturing or devouring some innocent creature.
+And whenever he happened to be disappointed in any of his malicious
+purposes, he would stretch his immense bulk on the top of some high
+mountain, and groan, and beat the earth, and bellow with such a hollow
+voice, that the whole country heard and trembled at the sound.
+
+The other giant, whose name was Benefico, was not so tall and bulky as
+the hideous Barbarico. He was handsome, well proportioned, and of a very
+good-natured turn of mind. His delight was no less in acts of goodness
+and benevolence than the other's was in cruelty and mischief. His
+constant care was to endeavour if possible to repair the injuries
+committed by this horrid tyrant, which he had sometimes an opportunity
+of doing; for though Barbarico was much larger and stronger than
+Benefico, yet his coward mind was afraid to engage with him, and always
+shunned a meeting; leaving the pursuit of any prey, if he himself was
+pursued by Benefico: nor could the good Benefico trust farther to
+this coward spirit of his base adversary, than only to make the horrid
+creature fly; for he well knew that a close engagement might make him
+desperate; and fatal to himself might be the consequence of such a
+brutal desperation; therefore he prudently declined any attempt to
+destroy this cruel monster, till he should gain some sure advantage over
+him.
+
+It happened on a certain day, that as the inhuman Barbarico was prowling
+along the side of a craggy mountain overgrown with brambles and briery
+thickets, taking most horrid strides, rolling his ghastly eyes around
+in quest of human blood, and having his breast tortured with inward rage
+and grief, that he had been so unhappy as to live one whole day without
+some act of violence, he beheld, in a pleasant valley at a distance, a
+little rivulet winding its gentle course through rows of willows mixed
+with flowery shrubs. Hither the giant hasted; and being arrived, he
+gazed about to see if in this sweet retirement any were so unhappy as to
+fall within his power; but finding none, the disappointment set him in
+a flame of rage, which, burning like an inward furnace, parched his
+throat. And now he laid him down on the bank, to try if in the cool
+stream, that murmured as it flowed, he could assuage or slack the fiery
+thirst that burnt within him.
+
+He bent him down to drink; and at the same time casting his baleful eyes
+towards the opposite side, he discovered within a little natural arbour
+formed by the branches of a spreading tree, within the meadow's flowery
+lawn, the shepherd Fidus and his loved Amata.
+
+The gloomy tyrant no sooner perceived this happy pair, than his heart
+exulted with joy; and, suddenly leaping up on the ground, he forgot his
+thirst, and left the stream untasted. He stood for a short space to
+view them in their sweet retirement; and was soon convinced that, in
+the innocent enjoyment of reciprocal affection, their happiness was
+complete. His eyes, inflamed with envy to behold such bliss, darted a
+fearful glare; and his breast swelling with malice and envenomed rage,
+he with gigantic pace approached their peaceful seat.
+
+The happy Fidus was at that time busy in entertaining his loved Amata
+with a song which he had that very morning composed in praise of
+constancy; and the giant was now within one stride of them, when Amata,
+perceiving him, cried out in a trembling voice, 'Fly, Fidus, fly, or
+we are lost for ever; we are pursued by the hateful Barbarico!' She had
+scarce uttered these words, when the savage tyrant seized them by the
+waist in either hand, and holding up to his nearer view, thus said:
+'Speak, miscreants; and, if you would avoid immediate death, tell me
+who you are, and whence arises that tranquility of mind, which even at a
+distance was visible in your behaviour.'
+
+Poor Fidus, with looks that would have melted the hardest heart,
+innocently replied, that they were wandering that way without designing
+offence to any creature on earth. That they were faithful lovers; and,
+with the consent of all their friends and relations, were soon to be
+married; therefore he entreated him not to part them.
+
+The giant now no sooner perceived, from the last words of the affrighted
+youth, what was most likely to give them the greatest torment, than with
+a spiteful grin which made his horrible face yet more horrible, and in
+a hollow voice, as loud as thunder, he tauntingly cried out, 'Ho-hoh!
+You'd not be parted, would you? For once I'll gratify thy will, and thou
+shalt follow this thy whimpering fondling down my capatious maw.' So
+saying, he turned his ghastly visage on the trembling Amata who, being
+now no longer able to support herself under his cruel threats, fainted
+away, and remained in his hand but as a lifeless corpse. When lifting
+up his eyes towards the hill on the opposite side, he beheld Benefico
+coming hastily towards him. This good giant having been that morning
+informed that Barbarico was roaming in the mountains after prey,
+left his peaceful castle, in hopes of giving protection to whatever
+unfortunate creature should fall into the clutches of this so cruel a
+monster.
+
+Barbarico, at the sight of the friendly Benefico, started with fear; for
+although in bulk and stature he was, as we have said, the superior: yet
+that cowardice, which ever accompanies wickedness, now wrought in him in
+such a manner that he could not bear to confront him, well knowing the
+courage and fortitude that always attend the good and virtuous; and
+therefore instantly putting Fidus into the wallet that hung over his
+shoulder, he flung the fainting Amata, whom he took to be quite expired,
+into the stream that ran hard by, and fled to his cave, not daring once
+to cast his eyes behind him.
+
+The good Benefico perceiving the monster's flight, and not doubting but
+he had been perpetrating some horrid mischief, immediately hastened
+to the brook; where he found the half-expiring Amata floating down
+the stream, for her clothes had yet borne her up on the surface of the
+water. He speedily stepped in and drew her out, and taking her in his
+arms, pressed her to his warm bosom; and in a short space perceiving
+in her face the visible marks of returning life, his heart swelled with
+kind compassion, and he thus bespoke the tender maid: 'Unhappy damsel,
+lift up thy gentle eyes, and tell me by what hard fate thou hast fallen
+into the power of that barbarous monster, whose savage nature delights
+in nothing but ruin and desolation. Tremble not thus, but without fear
+or terror behold one who joys in the thought of having saved thee from
+destruction, and will bring thee every comfort his utmost power can
+procure.'
+
+The gentle Amata was now just enough recovered to open her eyes: but
+finding herself in a giant's arms, and still retaining in her mind the
+frightful image of the horrid Barbarico, she fetched a deep sigh, crying
+out in broken accents, 'Fly, Fidus, fly;' and again sunk down upon the
+friendly giant's breast. On hearing these words, and plainly seeing by
+the anguish of her mind that some settled grief was deeply rooted at her
+heart, and therefore despairing to bring her to herself immediately, the
+kind Benefico hastened with her to his hospitable castle; where every
+imaginable assistance was administered to her relief, in order to
+recover her lost sense, and to reconcile her to her wretched fate.
+
+The cruel Barbarico was no sooner arrived at his gloomy cave, than he
+called to him his little page; who, trembling to hear the tyrant now
+again returned, quickly drew near to attend his stern commands: when
+drawing out of the wallet the poor Fidus, more dead than alive, the
+monster cried out, 'Here, caitiff, take in charge this smoothed-faced
+miscreant; and, d'ye hear me? see that his allowance be no more than one
+small ounce of mouldy bread and half a pint of standing water, for each
+day's support, till his now blooming skin be withered, his flesh be
+wasted from his bones, and he dwindle to a meagre skeleton.' So saying
+he left them, as he hoped, to bewail each other's sad condition. But the
+unhappy Fidus, bereft of his Amata, was not to be appalled by any of the
+most horrid threats; for now his only comfort was the hopes of a speedy
+end to his miserable life, and to find a refuge from his misfortunes
+in the peaceful grave. With this reflection the faithful Fidus was
+endeavouring to calm the inward troubles of his mind, when the little
+page, with looks of the most tender compassion, and in gentle words,
+bid him be comforted, and with patience endure his present affliction;
+adding that he himself had long suffered the most rigorous fate, yet
+despaired not but that one day would give them an opportunity to free
+themselves from the wicked wretch, whose sole delight was in others'
+torments. 'As to his inhuman commands,' continued he, 'I will sooner
+die than obey them; and in a mutual friendship perhaps we may find some
+consolation, even in this dismal cave.'
+
+This little page the cruel Barbarico had stolen from his parents at five
+years old; ever since which time he had tortured and abused him, till he
+had now attained the age of one-and-twenty. His mother had given him
+the name of Mignon; by which name the monster always called him, as it
+gratified his insolence to make use of that fond appellation whilst he
+was abusing him, only when he said Mignon he would in derision add the
+word Dwarf; for, to say the truth, Mignon was one of the least men that
+was ever seen, though at the same time one of the prettiest: his limbs,
+though small, were exactly proportioned; his countenance was at once
+sprightly and soft; and whatever his head thought, or his heart felt,
+his eyes by their looks expressed; and his temper was as sweet as his
+person was amiable. Such was the gentle creature Barbarico chose to
+torment. For wicked giants, no less than wicked men and women, are
+constantly tormented at the appearance of those perfections in another,
+to which they themselves have no pretensions.
+
+The friendship and affection of Fidus and Mignon now every day
+increased; and the longer they were acquainted, the mere delight
+they took in each other's company. The faithful Fidus related to
+his companion the story of his loved Amata, whilst the tender Mignon
+consoled his friend's inward sorrows, and supplied him with necessaries,
+notwithstanding the venture he run of the cruel tyrant's heavy
+displeasure. The giant ceased not every day to view the hapless Fidus,
+to see if the cruelty of his intentions had in any degree wrought its
+desired effect; but perceiving in him no alteration, he now began to be
+suspicious that the little Mignon had not punctually obeyed his savage
+command. In order therefore to satisfy his wicked curiosity, he resolved
+within himself narrowly to watch every occasion these poor unhappy
+captives had of conversing with each other. Mignon, well knowing the
+implacable and revengeful disposition of this barbarous tyrant, had
+taken all the precautions imaginable to avoid discovery; and therefore
+generally sought every opportunity of being alone with Fidus, and
+carrying him his daily provisions at those hours he knew the giant was
+most likely to be asleep.
+
+It so befell that, on a certain day, the wicked giant had, as was his
+usual custom, been abroad for many hours in search of some unhappy
+creature on whom to glut his hateful inhumanity; when, tired with
+fruitless roaming, he returned to his gloomy cave, beguiled of all his
+horrid purposes; for he had not once that day espied so much as the
+track of man, or other harmless animal, to give him hopes even to
+gratify his rage or cruelty; but now raving with inward torment and
+despair, he laid him down upon his iron couch, to try if he could close
+his eyes and quiet the tumultuous passions of his breast. He tossed and
+tumbled and could get no rest, starting with fearful dreams, and horrid
+visions of tormenting furies.
+
+Meanwhile the gentle Mignon had prepared a little delicate repast, and
+having seen the monster lay himself at length, and thinking now that a
+fit occasion offered in which to comfort and refresh his long-expecting
+friend, was hastening with it to the cell where the faithful Fidus
+was confined. At the fatal moment the giant, rearing himself up on his
+couch, perceived the little Mignon just at the entrance of the cell;
+when calling to him in a hollow voice, that dismally resounded through
+the cave, he so startled the poor unhappy page, that he dropped the
+cover from his trembling hand and stood fixed and motionless as a
+statue.
+
+'Come hither, Mignon, caitiff, dwarf,' said then the taunting homicide:
+but the poor little creature was so thunderstruck he was quite unable
+to stir one foot. Whereat the giant, rousing himself from off his couch,
+with one huge stride reached out his brawny arm, and seized him by
+the waist; and, pointing to the scattered delicates, cried out, 'Vile
+miscreant! is it thus thou hast obeyed my orders? Is this the mouldy
+bread and muddy water, with which alone it was my command thou shouldst
+sustain that puny mortal? But I'll--' Here raising him aloft, he was
+about to dash him to the ground, when suddenly revolving in his wicked
+thoughts, that if at once he should destroy his patient slave, his
+cruelty to him must also have an end, he paused--and then recovering, he
+stretched out his arm, and bringing the little trembler near his glaring
+eyes, he thus subjoins: 'No; I'll not destroy thy wretched life; but
+thou shalt waste thy weary days in a dark dungeon, as far remote from
+the least dawn of light as from thy loved companion. And I myself will
+carefully supply you both so equally with mouldy bread and water,
+that each by his own sufferings shall daily know what his dear friend
+endures.' So saying, he hastened with him to his deepest dungeon; and
+having thrust him in, he doubly barred the iron door. And now again
+retiring to his couch, this new-wrought mischief, which greatly
+gratified his raging mind, soon sunk him down into a sound and heavy
+sleep. The reason this horrid monster had not long ago devoured his
+little captive (for he thought him a delicious morsel) was, that he
+might never want an object at hand to gratify his cruelty. For though
+extremely great was his voracious hunger, yet greater still was his
+desire of tormenting; and oftentimes when he had teased, beat, and
+tortured the poor gentle Mignon, so as to force from him tears, and
+sometimes a soft complaint, he would, with a malicious sneer, scornfully
+reproach him in the following words: 'Little does it avail to whine, to
+blubber, or complain; for, remember, abject wretch,
+
+     I am a giant, and I can eat thee:
+     Thou art a dwarf, and thou canst not eat me.'
+
+When Mignon was thus alone, he threw himself on the cold ground,
+bemoaning his unhappy fate. However, he soon recollected that patience
+and resignation were his only succour in this distressful condition; not
+doubting but that, as goodness cannot always suffer, he should in time
+meet with some unforeseen deliverance from the savage power of the
+inhuman Barbarico.
+
+Whilst the gentle Mignon was endeavouring to comfort himself in his
+dungeon with these good reflections, he suddenly perceived, at a little
+distance from him, a small glimmering light. Immediately he rose from
+the ground, and going towards it, found that it shone through a little
+door that had been left at jar, which led him to a spacious hall,
+wherein the giant hoarded his immense treasures. Mignon was at first
+dazzled with the lustre of so much gold and silver, and sparkling jewels
+as were there heaped together. But casting his eyes on a statue that was
+placed in the middle of the room, he read on the pedestal, written in
+very small letters, the following verses:
+
+     Wouldst thou from the rage be free
+     Of the tyrant's tyranny,
+     Loose the fillet which is bound
+     Twice three times my brows around;
+     Bolts and bars shall open fly,
+     By a magic sympathy.
+     Take him in his sleeping hour;
+     Bind his neck and break his pow'r.
+     Patience bids, make no delay:
+     Haste to bind him, haste away.
+
+Mignon's little heart now leapt for joy, that he had found the means
+of such a speedy deliverance; and eagerly climbing up the statue, he
+quickly unbound the magic fillet; which was no sooner done, but suddenly
+the bolts and bars of the brazen gates through which the giant used to
+pass to this his treasury, were all unloosed, and the folding-doors of
+their own accord flew open, grating harsh thunder on their massy hinges.
+At the same instant, stretched on his iron couch in the room adjoining
+to the hall, the giant gave a deadly groan. Here again the little
+Mignon's trembling heart began to fail; for he feared the monster was
+awakened by the noise, and that he should now suffer the cruellest
+torments his wicked malice could invent. Wherefore for a short space he
+remained clinging round the statue, till he perceived that all again was
+hushed and silent; when, getting down, he gently stole into the giant's
+chamber, where he found him still in a profound sleep.
+
+
+But here, to the great mortification of Miss Jenny's attentive hearers,
+the hour of entertaining themselves being at an end, they were obliged
+to leave the poor little Mignon in the greatest distress and fright
+lest the giant should awake before he could fulfil the commands of
+the oracle, and to wait for the remainder of the story till another
+opportunity.
+
+In the evening, as soon as school was over, the little company again met
+in their arbour, and nothing could be greater than their impatience to
+hear the event of Mignon's hazardous undertaking. Miss Dolly Friendly
+said that if the poor little creature was destroyed, she should not
+sleep that night. But they all joined in entreating Miss Jenny to
+proceed; which she did in the following manner:
+
+
+
+
+A CONTINUATION OF THE STORY OF THE GIANTS.
+
+Now, thought Mignon, is the lucky moment to fulfil the instructions of
+the oracle. And then cautiously getting up the side of the couch, with
+trembling hands he put the fillet round the monster's neck, and tied it
+firmly in a threefold knot; and again softly creeping down, he retired
+into a corner of the room to wait the wished event. In a few minutes the
+giant waked; and opening his enormous eyes, he glared their horrid orbs
+around (but without the least motion of his head or body) and spied the
+little Mignon where he lay, close shrinking to avoid his baleful sight.
+
+The giant no sooner perceived his little page at liberty, but his heart
+sorely smote him, and he began to suspect the worst that could befall;
+for, recollecting that he had carelessly left open the little door
+leading from the dungeon to the great hall wherein was placed the fatal
+magic statue, he was now entirely convinced that Mignon had discovered
+the secret charm on which his power depended; for he already found the
+magic of the fillet round his neck fully to operate, his sinews all
+relax, his joints all tremble; and when he would by his own hand have
+tried to free himself, his shivering limbs he found refused obedience to
+their office. Thus bereft of all his strength, and well nigh motionless,
+in this extremity of impotence he cast about within himself by what sly
+fraud (for fraud and subtlety were now his only refuge) he best might
+work upon the gentle Mignon to lend his kind assistance to unloose him.
+Wherefore with guileful words and seeming courtesy, still striving to
+conceal his cursed condition, he thus bespake his little captive:
+
+'Come hither Mignon; my pretty gentle boy, come near me. This fillet
+thou has bound around my neck, to keep me from the cold, gives me some
+pain. I know thy gentle nature will not let thee see thy tender master
+in the least uneasiness, without affording him thy cheerful aid and kind
+relief. Come hither, my dear child, I say, and loose the knot which in
+thy kind concern (I thank thee for thy care) thou hast tied so hard, it
+somewhat frets my neck.'
+
+These words the insidious wretch uttered in such a low trembling tone of
+voice, and with such an affectation of tenderness, that the little page,
+who had never before experience from him any such kind of dialect, and
+but too well knew his savage nature to believe that anything but guile
+or want of power could move him to the least friendly speech, or kind
+affection, began now strongly to be persuaded that all was as he wished,
+and that the power of the inhuman tyrant was at an end. He knew full
+well, that if the giant had not lost the ability of rising from the
+couch, he should ere now too sensibly have felt the sad effects of his
+malicious resentment, and therefore boldly adventured to approach him,
+and coming near the couch, and finding not the least effort in the
+monster to reach him, and from thence quite satisfied of the giant's
+total incapacity of doing farther mischief, he flew with raptures to the
+cell where Fidus lay confined.
+
+Poor Fidus all this time was quite disconsolate; nor could he guess the
+cause why his little friend so long had kept away; one while he thought
+the giant's stern commands had streightened him of all subsistence;
+another while his heart misgave him for his gentle friend, lest unawares
+his kind beneficence towards him had caused him to fall a sacrifice
+to the tyrant's cruel resentment. With these and many other like
+reflections the unhappy youth was busied, when Mignon, suddenly unbarred
+the cell, flew to his friend, and eagerly embraced him, cried out, 'Come
+Fidus, haste, my dearest friend; for thou and all of us are from this
+moment free. Come and behold the cruel monster, where he lies, bereft of
+all his strength. I cannot stay to tell thee now the cause; but haste,
+and thou shall see the dreadful tyrant stretched on his iron couch,
+deprived of all his wicked power. But first let us unbar each cell,
+wherein is pent some wretched captive, that we may share a general
+transport for this our glad deliverance.'
+
+The faithful Fidus, whose heart had known but little joy since he had
+lost his loved Amata, now felt a dawning hope that he might once more
+chance to find her, if she had survived their fatal separation; and,
+without one word of answer, he followed Mignon to the several cells, and
+soon released all the astonished captives.
+
+Mignon first carried them to behold their former terror, now, to
+appearance, almost a lifeless corpse; who on seeing them all surround
+his couch, gave a most hideous roar, which made them tremble, all but
+the gentle Mignon, who was convinced of the impotence of his rage, and
+begged them to give him their attendance in the hall; where they were no
+sooner assembled than he showed them the statue, read them the oracle,
+and told them every circumstance before related.
+
+They now began to bethink themselves of what method was to be taken
+to procure their entire liberty; for the influence of the magic
+fillet extended only to the gates of the hall; and still they remained
+imprisoned within the dismal cave; and though they knew from the oracle,
+as well as from what appeared, that the monster's power was at an end,
+yet still were they to seek the means of their escape from this his
+horrid abode. At length Mignon again ascended the couch to find the
+massy key, and spying one end of it peep out from under the pillow, he
+called to Fidus, who first stepped up to his friend's assistance; the
+rest by his example quickly followed; and now, by their united force,
+they dragged the ponderous key from under the monster's head; and then
+descending they all went to the outer door of the cave, where, with some
+difficulty, they set wide open the folding iron gates.
+
+They now determined to dispatch a messenger to the good Benefico with
+the news, which they knew would be so welcome to him and all his guests,
+and with one voice agreed that Fidus should bear the joyful tidings;
+and then returned to observe the monster, and to wait the coming of
+Benefico. The nimble Fidus soon reached the giant's dwelling, where, at
+a little distance from the castle, he met the good Benefico with a
+train of happy friends, enjoying the pleasures of the evening, and the
+instructive and cheerful conversation of their kind protector. Fidus
+briefly told his errand; and instantly Benefico, with all his train,
+joyfully hastened to behold the wonders he had related; for now many
+hearts leapt for joy, in hopes of meeting some friend of whom they had
+been bereft by the cruelty of the savage Barbarico.
+
+They were not long before they arrived at the horrid cave, where
+Benefico, proceeding directly to the monster's chamber, suddenly
+appeared to him at the side of his couch. Barbarico, on seeing him,
+gave a hideous yell, and rolled his glaring eyes in such a manner as
+expressed the height of rage and envious bitterness.
+
+Benefico, turning to all the company present, thus spoke, 'How shall I
+enough praise and admire the gentle Mignon for having put in my power
+to justice on this execrable wretch, and freeing you all from an
+insufferable slavery, and the whole country from their terror?' Then
+reaching the monster's own sword, which hung over his couch, his hand
+yet suspended over the impious tyrant, he thus said, 'Speak, wretch,
+if yet the power of speech is left thee; and with thy latest breath
+declare, what advantage hast thou found of all thy wicked life?'
+
+Barbarico well knew that too bad had been that life, to leave the least
+room for hope of mercy; and therefore, instead of an answer, he gave
+another hideous yell, gnashing his horrid teeth, and again rolling his
+ghastly eyes on all around.
+
+Benefico seeing him thus impenitent and sullen, lifted on high the
+mighty sword, and with one blow severed his odious head from his
+enormous body.
+
+The whole assembly gave a shout for joy; and Benefico holding in his
+hand the monster's yet grinning head, thus addressed his half-astonished
+companions: 'See here, my friends, the proper conclusion of a rapacious
+cruel life. But let us hasten from this monster's gloomy cave; and on
+the top of one of our highest mountains, fixed on a pole, will I set up
+this joyful spectacle, that all the country round may know themselves at
+liberty to pursue their rural business or amusements, without the
+dread of any annoyance from a devouring vile tormentor. And when his
+treasures, which justly all belong to the good patient Mignon, are
+removed, we will shut up the mouth of this abominable dwelling; and,
+casting on the door a heap of earth, we'll hope, in time, that both
+place and remembrance of this cruel savage may in time be lost.'
+
+Every one readily cried out, that to Benefico, the good Benefico,
+alone belonged the tyrant's treasures; that Benefico should ever be, as
+heretofore, their governor, their father, and their kind protector.
+
+The beneficent heart of the good giant was quite melted with this their
+kind confidence and dependence upon him, and assured them, he should
+ever regard them as his children: and now, exulting in the general joy
+that must attend the destruction of this savage monster, when the whole
+country should find themselves freed from the terror his rapine and
+desolation, he sent before to his castle, to give intelligence to all
+within that happy place of the grim monster's fall, and little Mignon's
+triumph; giving in charge to the harbinger of these tidings, that it
+should be his first and chiefest care to glad the gentle bosom of a
+fair disconsolate (who kept herself retired and pent up within her own
+apartment) with the knowledge that the inhuman monster was no more; and
+that henceforth sweet peace and rural innocence might reign in all their
+woods and groves. The hearts of all within the castle bounded with
+joy, on hearing the report of the inhuman monster's death, and the
+deliverance of all his captives, and with speedy steps they hastened
+to meet their kind protector; nor did the melancholy fair one, lest
+she should seem unthankful for the general blessing, refuse to join the
+train.
+
+It was not long after the messenger that Benefico, and those his joyful
+friends, arrived: but the faithful Fidus alone, of all this happy
+company, was tortured with the inward pangs of a sad grief he could
+not conquer, and his fond heart remained still captivated to a melting
+sorrow: nor could even the tender friendship of the gentle Mignon quite
+remove, though it alleviated, his sadness; but the thoughts of his loved
+lost amata embittered every joy, and overwhelmed his generous soul with
+sorrow.
+
+When the company from the castle joined Benefico, he declared to them in
+what manner their deliverance was effected; and, as a general shout of
+joy resounded through the neighbouring mountains, Fidus, lifting up
+his eyes, beheld in the midst of the multitude, standing in a pensive
+posture, the fair disconsolate. Her tender heart was at the instant
+overflowing in soft tears, caused by a kind participation of their
+present transport, yet mixed with the deep sad impression of a grief her
+bosom was full fraught with. Her face, at first, was almost hid by her
+white handkerchief, with which she wiped away the trickling drops, which
+falling, had bedewed her beauteous cheeks: but as she turned her lovely
+face to view the joyful conquerors, and to speak a welcome to her kind
+protector, what words can speak the raptures, the astonishment, that
+swelled the bosom of the faithful youth, when in this fair disconsolate
+he saw his loved, his constant, his long-lost Amata! Their delighted
+eyes in the same instant beheld each other, and, breaking on each
+side from their astonished friends, they flew like lightning into each
+other's arms.
+
+After they had given a short account of what had passed in their
+separation, Fidus presented to his loved Amata the kind, the gentle
+Mignon, with lavish praises of his generous friendship, and steady
+resolution, in hazarding his life by disobeying the injunctions of the
+cruel tyrant. No sooner had Amata heard the name of Mignon, but she
+cried out, 'Surely my happiness is now complete, and all my sorrows, by
+this joyful moment, are more than fully recompensed; for, in the kind
+preserver of my Fidus, I have found my brother. My mother lost her
+little Mignon when he was five years old; and pining grief, after some
+years vain search, ended her wretched life.'
+
+The generous hearts of all who were present shared the raptures of
+the faithful Fidus, the lovely Amata, and gentle Mignon, on this happy
+discovery; and in the warmest congratulations they expressed their joy.
+
+Benefico now led all the delighted company into his castle, where
+freedom was publicly proclaimed; and every one was left a liberty either
+to remain there with Benefico, or, loaded with wealth sufficient for
+their use, to go where their attachments or inclinations might invite
+them.
+
+Fidus, Amata, and the little Mignon, hesitated not one moment to declare
+their choice of staying with the generous Benefico.
+
+The nuptials of the faithful Fidus, and his loved Amata, were solemnized
+in the presence of all their friends.
+
+Benefico passed the remainder of his days in pleasing reflections on his
+well-spent life.
+
+The treasures of the dead tyrant were turned into blessings by the use
+they were now made of: little Mignon was loved and cherished by all his
+companions. Peace, harmony and love reigned in every bosom; dissension,
+discord, and hatred were banished from this friendly dwelling; and that
+happiness, which is the natural consequence of goodness, appeared in
+every cheerful countenance throughout the castle of the good Benefico;
+and as heretofore affright and terror spread itself from the monster's
+hateful cave, so now from this peaceful castle was diffused tranquility
+and joy through all the happy country round.
+
+
+Thus ended the story of the two giants: and Miss Jenny being tired with
+reading, they left the arbour for that night, and agreed to meet there
+again the next day.
+
+As soon as they had supped, Mrs. Teachum sent for Miss Jenny Peace into
+her closet, and desired an exact account from her of this their first
+day's amusement, that she might judge from thence how far they might be
+trusted with the liberty she had given them.
+
+Miss Jenny showed her governess the story she had read; and said, 'I
+hope, madam, you will not think it an improper one; for it was given
+me by my mamma; and she told me, that she thought it contained a very
+excellent moral.'
+
+Mrs. Teachum, having looked it over, thus spoke: 'I have no objection,
+Miss Jenny, to your reading any stories to amuse you, provided you read
+them with the proper disposition of mind not to be hurt by them. A very
+good moral may indeed be drawn from the whole, and likewise from almost
+every part of it; and as you had this story from your mamma, I doubt not
+but you are very well qualified to make the proper remarks yourself
+upon the moral of it to your companions. But here let me observe to you
+(which I would have you communicate to your little friends) that giants,
+magic, fairies, and all sorts of supernatural assistances in a story,
+are only introduced to amuse and divert: for a giant is called so only
+to express a man of great power; and the magic fillet round the statue
+was intended only to show you, that by patience you will overcome all
+difficulties. Therefore, by no means let the notion of giants or magic
+dwell upon your minds. And you may farther observe, that there is
+a different style adapted to every sort of writing; and the various
+sounding epithets given to Barbarico are proper to express the raging
+cruelty of his wicked mind. But neither this high-sounding language, nor
+the supernatural contrivances in this story, do I so thoroughly approve,
+as to recommend them much to your reading; except, as I said before,
+great care is taken to prevent your being carried away, by these
+high-flown things, from that simplicity of taste and manners which it is
+my chief study to inculcate.'
+
+Here Miss Jenny looked a little confounded; and, by her down-cast eye,
+showed a fear that she had incurred the disapprobation, if not the
+displeasure, of her governess: upon which Mrs. Teachum thus proceeded:
+
+'I do not intend by this, my dear, to blame you for what you have done;
+but only to instruct you how to make the best use of even the most
+trifling things: and if you have any more stories of this kind, with
+an equal good moral, when you are not better employed, I shall not be
+against your reading them; always remembering the cautions I have this
+evening been giving you.'
+
+Miss Jenny thanked her governess for her instructions, and kind
+indulgence to her, and promised to give her an exact account of their
+daily amusements; and, taking leave, retired to her rest.
+
+
+
+
+TUESDAY. THE SECOND DAY.
+
+That Miss Jenny's meeting with her companions in the morning, after
+school, she asked them how they liked the history of the giants? They
+all declared they thought it a very pretty diverting story. Miss Jenny
+replied, though she was glad they were pleased, yet she would have them
+look farther than the present amusement: 'for,' continued she, 'my mamma
+always taught me to understand what I read; otherwise, she said, it was
+to no manner of purpose to read ever so many books, which would only
+stuff my brain, without being any improvement to my mind.'
+
+The misses all agreed, that certainly it was of no use to read, without
+understanding what they read; and began to talk of the story of the
+giants, to prove they could make just remarks on it.
+
+Miss Sukey Jennett said, 'I am most pleased with that part of the story
+where the good Benefico cuts off the monster's head, and puts an end
+to his cruelty, especially as he was so sullen he would not confess his
+wickedness; because, you know, Miss Jenny, if he had had sense enough to
+have owned his error, and have followed the example of the good giant,
+he might have been happy.'
+
+Miss Lucy Sly delivered the following opinion: 'My greatest joy was
+whilst Mignon was tying the magic fillet round the monster's neck, and
+conquering him.'
+
+'Now I (said Miss Dolly Friendly) am most pleased with that part of the
+story, were Fidus and Amata meet the reward of their constancy and love,
+when they find each other after all their sufferings.'
+
+Miss Polly Suckling said, with some eagerness, 'My greatest joy was in
+the description of Mignon; and to think that it should be in the power
+of that little creature to conquer such a great monster.'
+
+Miss Patty Lockit, Miss Nanny Spruce, Miss Betty Ford, and Miss Henny
+Fret, advanced no new opinions; but agreed some to one, and some to
+another, of those that were already advanced. And as every one was eager
+to maintain her own opinion, an argument followed, the particulars of
+which I could never learn: only thus much I know, that it was concluded
+by Miss Lucy Sly, saying, with an air and tone of voice that implied
+more anger than had been heard since the reconciliation, that she was
+sure Miss Polly Suckling only liked that part about Mignon, because she
+was the least in the school; and Mignon being such a little creature,
+put her in mind of herself.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace now began to be frighted, lest this contention should
+raise another quarrel; and therefore begged to be heard before they went
+any farther. They were not yet angry enough to refuse hearing what she
+had to say: and then Miss Jenny desired them to consider the moral of
+the story, and what use they might make of it, instead of contending
+which was the prettiest part: 'For otherwise,' continued she, 'I have
+lost my breath in reading to you; and you will be worse, rather than
+better, for what you have heard. Pray observe, that Benefico's happiness
+arose entirely from his goodness: he had less strength, and less riches,
+than the cruel monster; and yet, by the good use he made of what he
+possessed, you see how he turned all things to his advantage. But
+particularly remember, that the good little Mignon, in the moment
+that he was patiently submitting to his sufferings, found a method of
+relieving himself from them, and of overcoming a barbarous monster, who
+had so cruelly abused him.
+
+'Our good governess last night not only instructed me in this moral I
+am now communicating to you, but likewise bid me warn you by no means
+to let the notion of giants or magic to dwell upon your minds; for by a
+giant is meant no more than a man of great power; and the magic fillet
+round the head of the statue was only intended to teach you, that by the
+assistance of patience you may overcome all difficulties.
+
+'In order therefore to make what you read of any use to you, you must
+not only think of it thus in general, but make the application to
+yourselves. For when (as now) instead of improving yourselves by
+reading, you make what you read a subject to quarrel about, what is this
+less than being like the monster Barbarico, who turned his very riches
+to a curse? I am sure it is not following the example of Benefico, who
+made everything a blessing to him. Remember, if you pinch and abuse a
+dog or cat, because it is in your power, you are like the cruel Monster,
+when he abused the little Mignon, and said,
+
+     I am a giant, and I can eat thee;
+     Thou art a dwarf, and thou canst not eat me.
+
+'In short, if you will reap any benefit from this story towards
+rendering you happy, whenever you have any power, you must follow the
+example of the giant Benefico, and do good with it: and when you are
+under any sufferings, like Mignon, you must patiently endure them till
+you can find a remedy: then, in one case, like Benefico, you will enjoy
+what you possess; and, in the other, you will in time, like Mignon,
+overcome your sufferings: for the natural consequence of indulging
+cruelty and revenge in the mind, even where there is the highest power
+to gratify it, is misery.'
+
+Here Miss Sukey Jennet interrupted Miss Jenny, saying, that she herself
+had experienced the truth of that observation in the former part of her
+life: for she never had known either peace or pleasure, till she had
+conquered in her mind the desire of hurting and being revenged on those
+who she thought did not by their behaviour show the same regard for her,
+that her own good opinion of herself made her think she deserved. Miss
+Jenny then asked her, if she was willing to lead the way to the rest of
+her companions, by telling her past life? She answered, she would do it
+with all her heart; and, by having so many and great faults to confess,
+she hoped she should, by her true confessions, set them an example of
+honesty and ingenuity.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS SUKEY JENNETT.
+
+Miss Sukey Jennett, who was next in years to Miss Jenny Peace, was not
+quite twelve years old; but so very tall of her age, that she was within
+a trifle as tall as Miss Jenny Peace; and, by growing so fast, was
+much thinner: and though she was not really so well made, yet, from an
+assured air in her manner of carrying herself, she was called much the
+genteelest girl. There was, on first view, a great resemblance in their
+persons. Her face was very handsome, and her complexion extremely good;
+but a little more inclined to pale than Miss Jenny's. Her eyes were a
+degree darker, and had a life and fire in them which was very beautiful:
+but yet her impatience on the least contradiction often brought a
+fierceness into her eyes, and gave such a discomposure to her whole
+countenance, as immediately took off your admiration. But her eyes had
+now, since her hearty reconciliation with her companions, lost a great
+part of their fierceness; and with great mildness, and an obliging
+manner, she told her story as follows:
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS SUKEY JENNETT.
+
+'My mamma died when I was so young that I cannot remember her; and my
+papa marrying again within half a year after her death, I was chiefly
+left to the care of an old servant, that had lived many years in the
+family. I was a great favourite of hers, and in everything had my own
+way. When I was but four years old, if ever anything crossed me, I was
+taught to beat it, and be revenged of it, even though it could not
+feel. If I fell down and hurt myself, the very ground was to be beat for
+hurting the sweet child: so that, instead of fearing to fall, I did not
+dislike it; for I was pleased to find, that I was of such consequence,
+that everything was to take care that I came by no harm.
+
+'I had a little playfellow, in a child of one of my papa's servants, who
+was to be entirely under my command. This girl I used to abuse and beat,
+whenever I was out of humour; and when I had abused her, if she dared
+to grumble, or make the least complaint, I thought it the greatest
+impudence in the world; and, instead of mending my behaviour to her,
+I grew very angry that she should dare to dispute my power: for my
+governess always told her, that she was but a servant's girl, and I was
+a gentleman's daughter; and that therefore she ought to give way to me;
+for that I did her great honour in playing with her. Thus I thought the
+distance between us was so great, that I never considered that she could
+feel: but whilst I myself suffered nothing, I fancied everything was
+very right; and it never once came into my head, that I could be in the
+wrong.
+
+'This life I led till I came to school, when I was eleven years
+old. Here I had nobody in my power; for all my schoolfellows thought
+themselves my equals: so that I could only quarrel, fight, and contend
+for everything: but being liable to be punished, when I was trying to be
+revenged on any of my enemies, as I thought them, I never had a moment's
+ease or pleasure, till Miss Jenny was so good to take the pains to
+convince me of my folly, and made me be reconciled to you, my dear
+companions.'
+
+Here Miss Sukey ceased; and Miss Jenny smiled with pleasure, at the
+thoughts that she had been the cause of her happiness.
+
+Mrs. Teachum being now come into the arbour, to see in what manner
+her little scholars passed their time, they all rose up and do her
+reverence. Miss Jenny gave her an account how they had been employed;
+and she was much pleased with their innocent and useful entertainment;
+but especially with the method they had found out of relating their past
+lives. She took little Polly Suckling by the hand, and bidding the rest
+follow, it being now dinner time, she walked towards the house, attended
+by the whole company.
+
+Mrs. Teachum had a great inclination to hear the history of the lives
+of all her little scholars: but she thought, that being present at those
+relations might be a balk to the narration, as perhaps they might be
+ashamed freely to confess their past faults before her; and therefore,
+that she might not be any bar in this case to the freedom of their
+speech, and yet might be acquainted with their stories (though this was
+not merely a vain curiosity, but a desire by this means to know their
+different dispositions), she called Miss Jenny Peace to her parlour
+after dinner, and told her, she would have her get the lives of her
+companions in writing, and bring them to her; and Miss Jenny readily
+promised to obey her commands.
+
+In the evening our little company again met in their charming arbour;
+where they were no sooner seated, with that calmness and content which
+now always attended them, than the cries and sobs of a child, at a
+little distance from their garden, disturbed their tranquility.
+
+Miss Jenny, ever ready to relieve the distressed, ran immediately to
+the place whence the sound seemed to come, and was followed by all her
+companions: when, at a small distance from Mrs. Teachum's garden-wall,
+over which from the terrace our young company looked, they saw, under a
+large spreading tree, part of the branches of which shaded a seat at
+the end of that terrace, a middle-aged woman beating a little girl, who
+looked to be about eight years old, so severely, that it was no wonder
+her cries had reached their arbour.
+
+Miss Jenny could not forbear calling out to the woman, and begging her
+to forbear: and little Polly Suckling cried as much as the girl, and
+desired she might not be beat any more. The woman, in respect to them,
+let the child go; but said, 'Indeed, young ladies, you don't know what
+a naughty girl she is: for though you now see me correct her in this
+manner, yet am I in all respects very kind to her, and never strike her
+but for lying. I have tried all means, good and bad, to break her of
+this vile fault; but hitherto all I have done has been in vain: nor
+can I ever get one word of truth out of her mouth. But I am resolved to
+break her of this horrid custom, or I cannot live with her: for though I
+am but poor, yet I will breed up my child to be honest, both in word and
+deed.'
+
+Miss Jenny could not but approve of what the poor woman said. However,
+they all joined in begging forgiveness for the girl this time, provided
+she promised amendment for the future: and then our little society
+returned to their arbour.
+
+Miss Jenny could not help expressing her great detestation of all lying
+whatsoever; when Miss Dolly Friendly, colouring, confessed she had often
+been guilty of this fault, though she never scarcely did it but for her
+friend.
+
+Here Miss Jenny, interrupting her, said, that even that was no sort of
+excuse for lying; besides that the habit of it on any occasion, even
+with the appearance of a good intention, would but too likely lead to
+the use of it on many others: and as she did not doubt, by Miss Dolly's
+blushing, that she was now very sensible of the truth of what she had
+just been saying, she hoped she would take this opportunity of obliging
+them with the history of her past life: which request she made no
+hesitation to grant, saying, the shame of her past faults should by o
+means induce her to conceal them.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS DOLLY FRIENDLY.
+
+Miss Dolly Friendly was just turned of eleven years of age. Her person
+was neither plain nor handsome: and though she had not what is properly
+called one fine feature in her face, yet the disposition of them were so
+suitable to each other, that her countenance was rather agreeable than
+otherwise. She had generally something very quiet, or rather indolent,
+in her look, except when she was moved by anger; which seldom happened,
+but in defense of some favourite or friend; and she had then a
+fierceness and eagerness which altered her whole countenance: for she
+could not bear the least reflection or insult on those she loved. This
+disposition made her always eager to comply with her friends' requests;
+and she immediately began, as follows:
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS DOLLY FRIENDLY.
+
+'I was bred up, till I was nine years of age, with a sister, who was one
+year younger than myself. The chief care of our parents was to make us
+love each other; and, as I was naturally inclined to have very strong
+affections, I became so fond of my sister Molly, which was her name,
+that all my delight was to please her; and this I carried to such a
+height, that I scrupled no lies to excuse her faults: and whatever she
+did, I justified, and thought right, only because she did it.
+
+'I was ready to fight her quarrels, whether right or wrong; and hated
+everybody that offended her. My parents winked at whatever I did in
+defence of my sister; and I had no notion that any thing done for her
+could be unreasonable. In short, I made it my study to oblige and please
+her, till I found at last it was out of my power; for she grew so very
+humoursome, that she could not find out what she had most mind to have;
+and I found her always miserable; for she would cry only because she did
+not know her own mind.
+
+'She never minded what faults she committed, because she knew I would
+excuse her; and she was forgiven in consideration of our friendship,
+which gave our parents great pleasure.
+
+'My poor little sister grew very sickly, and she died just before I
+came to school: but the same disposition still continued; and it was my
+friend's outcries of being hurt, that drew me into that odious quarrel,
+that we have all now repented.'
+
+
+
+Here Miss Dolly Friendly ceased; and Miss Jenny said, she hoped Miss
+Dolly would remember, for the rest of her life, what HER good mamma had
+always taught her; namely, that it was not the office of friendship, to
+justify or excuse our friend when in the wrong; for that was the way
+to prevent their ever being in the right: that it was rather hatred,
+or contempt, than love, when the fear of another's anger made us forego
+their good, for the sake of our own present pleasure; and that the
+friends who expected such flattery were not worth keeping.
+
+The bell again summoned our little company to supper: but, before they
+went in, Miss Dolly Friendly said, if Miss Jenny approved of it, she
+would the next morning read them a story given her by an uncle of
+hers, that, she said, she was sure would please her, as its subject was
+friendship. Miss Jenny replied, that she was certain it would be a great
+pleasure to them all, to hear any story Miss Dolly thought proper to
+read them.
+
+
+
+
+WEDNESDAY. THE THIRD DAY.
+
+As soon as school was over in the morning, our little company were
+impatient to go into the arbour, to hear Miss Dolly's story: but
+Mrs. Teachum told them they must be otherwise employed; for their
+writing-master, who lived some miles off; and who was expected in the
+afternoon, was just then come in, and begged that they would give him
+their attendance, though out of school-time; because he was obliged to
+be at home again before the afternoon, to meet a person who would confer
+some favour on him, and would be highly disobliged should he not keep
+his appointment: 'And I know (said Mrs. Teachum) my little dears, you
+would rather lose your own amusement, than let any one suffer a
+real inconvenience on your accounts.' They all readily complied, and
+cheerfully set to their writing; and in the afternoon Mrs. Teachum
+permitted them to leave off work an hour sooner than usual, as a reward
+for their readiness to lose their amusement in the morning: and being
+met in their arbour, Miss Dolly read as follows:
+
+
+
+
+THE STORY OF CAELIA AND CHLOE.
+
+Caelia and Chloe were both left orphans, at the tender age of six years.
+Amanda their aunt, who was very rich, and a maiden, took them directly
+under her care, and bred them up as her own children. Caelia's mother
+was Amanda's sister; and Chloe's father was her brother; so that she was
+equally related to both.
+
+They were left entirely unprovided for; were both born on the same day;
+and both lost their mothers on the day of their birth: their fathers
+were soldiers of fortune; and both killed in one day, in the fame
+engagement. But their fortunes were not more similar than their persons
+and dispositions. They were both extremely handsome; and in their
+Childhood were so remarkable for liveliness of parts, and sweetness of
+temper, that they were the admiration of the whole country where they
+lived.
+
+Their aunt loved them with a sincere and equal affection, and took the
+greatest pleasure imaginable in their education, and particularly to
+encourage that love and friendship which she with pleasure perceived
+between them. Amanda being (as was said) very rich, and having no other
+relations, it was supposed that these her nieces would be very great
+fortunes; and as soon as they became women, they were addressed by all
+the men of fortune and no fortune round the neighbourhood. But as the
+love of admiration, and a desire of a large train of admirers, had
+no place in their minds, they soon dismissed, in the most civil and
+obliging manner, one after another, all these lovers.
+
+The refusing such numbers of men, and some such as by the world were
+called good offers, soon got them the name of jilts; and by that means
+they were freed from any farther importunity, and for some years enjoyed
+that peace and quiet they had long wished. Their aunt, from being their
+mother and their guardian, was now become their friend. For, as she
+endeavoured not in the least to force their inclinations, they never
+kept anything concealed from her; and every action of their lives was
+still guided by her advice and approbation.
+
+They lived on in this way, perfectly happy in their own little
+community, till they were about two-and-twenty years old when there
+happened to be a regiment quartered in the neighbouring town, to which
+their house was nearly situated; and the lieutenant-colonel, a man about
+four-and-thirty years old, hearing their names, had a great desire to
+see them. For when he was a boy of sixteen, he was put into the Army
+under the care of Chloe's father, who treated him with the greatest
+tenderness; and (in that fatal engagement in which he lost his life)
+received his death's wound by endeavouring to save him from being taken
+by the enemy. And gratitude to the memory of so good a friend was as
+great an inducement to make him desire to see his daughter, as the
+report he had heard both of hers and her cousin's great beauty.
+
+Sempronius (for so this Colonel was called) was a very sensible,
+well-bred, agreeable man; and from the circumstances of his former
+acquaintance, and his present proper and polite behaviour, he soon
+became very intimate in the family. The old lady was particularly
+pleased with him; and secretly wished, that before she died she might
+be so happy as to see one of her nieces married to Sempronius. She could
+not from his behaviour see the least particular liking to either, though
+he showed an equal and very great esteem and regard for both.
+
+He in reality liked them both extremely; and the reason of making no
+declaration of love was, his being so undetermined in any preference
+that was due to either. He saw plainly that he was very agreeable to
+both; and with pleasure he observed, that they made use of none of those
+arts which women generally do to get away a disputed lover: and this
+sincere friendship which subsisted between them raised in him the
+highest degree of love and admiration. However he at last determined to
+make the following trial:
+
+He went first to Chloe, and (finding her alone) told her, that he had
+the greatest liking in the world to her cousin; and had really a mind
+to propose himself to her: but as he saw a very great friendship between
+them, he was willing to ask her advice in the matter; and conjured her
+to tell him sincerely, whether there was anything in Caelia's temper
+(not discoverable by him) which as a wife would make him unhappy? He
+told her, that, if she knew any such thing, it would be no treachery,
+but rather kind in her to declare it, as it would prevent her friend's
+being unhappy; which must be the consequence, in marriage, of her making
+him so.
+
+Chloe could not help seeing very plainly, that if Caelia was removed she
+stood the very next in Sempronius's favour. Her lover was present--her
+friend was absent--and the temptation was too strong and agreeable to be
+resisted. She then answered, that since he insisted upon the truth, and
+had convinced her that it was in reality acting justly and kindly by her
+friend, she must confess, that Caelia was possessed (though in a very
+small degree) of what she had often heard him declare most against of
+anything in the world; and that was, an artfulness of temper, and some
+few sparks of envy.
+
+Chloe's confused manner of speaking, and frequent hesitation, as
+unwilling to pronounce her friend's condemnation (which, as being
+unused to falsehood, was really unaffected) he imputed to tenderness
+and concern for Caelia; but he did not in the least doubt, but on his
+application to her he should soon be convinced of the truth of what
+Chloe had said.
+
+He then went directly to the arbour at the end of the garden, and there
+to his wish he found Caelia quite alone; and he addressed her exactly in
+the same manner concerning her cousin, as he had before spoke to Chloe
+concerning her. Caelia suddenly blushed (from motives I leave those to
+find out who can put themselves in her circumstances) and then fetched a
+soft sigh, from the thought that she was hearing a man she loved declare
+a passion of which she was not the object. But after some little
+pause, she told him, that if Chloe had any faults, they were to her yet
+undiscovered, and she really and sincerely believed her cousin would
+make him extremely happy. Sempronius then said, that of all other
+things, TREACHERY and ENVY were what he had the greatest dislike to: and
+he asked her, if she did not think her cousin was a little tainted with
+these?--Here Caelia could not help interrupting, and assuring him, that
+she believed her totally free from both. And, from his casting on
+her friend an aspersion which her very soul abhorred, forgetting all
+rivalship, she could not refrain from growing quite lavish in her
+praise. 'Suppose then (said Sempronius) I was to say the same to your
+cousin concerning my intentions towards you as I have to you concerning
+her, do you think she would say as many fine things in your praise as
+you have done in hers?'
+
+Caelia answered, that she verily believed her cousin would say as much
+for her as she really deserved; but whether that would be equal to what
+with justice she could say of Chloe, her modesty left her in some doubt
+of.
+
+Sempronius had too much penetration not to see the real and true
+difference in the behaviour of these two women, and could not help
+crying out, 'O Caelia! your honest truth and goodness in every word and
+look are too visible to leave me one doubt of their reality. But, could
+you believe it? this friend of yours is false. I have already put her
+to the trial, by declaring to her my sincere and unalterable passion
+for you. When, on my insisting, as I did to you, upon her speaking the
+truth, she accused you of what nothing should now convince me you are
+guilty of. I own, that hitherto my regard, esteem, and love, have been
+equal to both; but now I offer to the sincere, artless, and charming
+Caelia, my whole heart, love, and affection, and the service of every
+minute of my future life; and from this moment I banish from my mind the
+false and ungrateful Chloe.'
+
+Caelia's friendship for Chloe was so deeply rooted in her breast, that
+even a declaration of love from Sempronius could not blot it one moment
+from her heart; and on his speaking the words 'false Chloe,' she burst
+into tears, and said, 'Is it possible that Chloe should act such a part
+towards her Caelia! You must forgive her, Sempronius: it was her violent
+passion for you, and fear of losing you, which made her do what hitherto
+her nature has ever appeared averse to.'
+
+Sempronius answered, 'that he could not enough admire her goodness to
+her friend Chloe; but such proofs of passion, he said, were to him at
+the same time proofs of its being such a passion as he had no regard
+for; since it was impossible for any one to gain or increase his love
+by an action which at the same time lessened his esteem.' This was so
+exactly Caelia's own way of thinking, that she could not but assent to
+what he said.
+
+But just as they were coming out of the arbour, Chloe, unseen by them,
+passed by; and from seeing him kiss her hand, and the complacency of
+Caelia's look, it was easy for her to guess what had been the result
+of their private conference. She could not however help indulging her
+curiosity, so far as to walk on the other side of a thick yew hedge, to
+listen to their discourse; and as they walked on, she heard Sempronius
+entreat Caelia to be cheerful, and think no more of her treacherous
+friend, whose wickedness he doubted not would sufficiently punish
+itself. She then heard Caelia say, 'I cannot bear, Sempronius, to hear
+you speak so hardly of my Chloe. Say that you forgive her, and I will
+indeed be cheerful.'
+
+Nothing upon earth can be conceived so wretched as poor Chloe, for on
+the first moment that she suffered herself to reflect on what she had
+done, she thoroughly repented, and heartily detested herself for
+such baseness. She went directly into the garden in hopes of meeting
+Sempronius, to have thrown herself at his feet, confessed her treachery,
+and to have begged him never to have mentioned it to Caelia; but now she
+was conscious her repentance would come too late; and he would despise
+her, if possible still more, for such a recantation, after her knowledge
+of what had passed between him and Caelia.
+
+She could indeed have gone to him, and not have owned what she had seen
+or heard; but now her abhorrence of even the appearance of treachery or
+cunning was so great, that she could not bear to add the smallest grain
+of falsehood or deceit to the weight of her guilt, which was already
+almost insupportable: and should she tell him of her repentance, with a
+confession of her knowledge of his engagement with Caelia, it would (as
+has been before observed) appear both servile and insincere.
+
+Nothing could now appear so altered as the whole face of this once happy
+family. Sempronius as much as possible shunned the sight of Chloe; for
+as she was the cause of all the confusion amongst them, he had almost an
+aversion to her. Though he was not of an implacable temper, yet, as the
+injury was intended to one he sincerely loved, he found it much harder
+to forgive it, than if it had even succeeded against himself; and as he
+still looked upon Chloe as the cause of melancholy in his dear Caelia,
+he could hardly have any patience with her.
+
+No words can describe the various passions which were expressed in the
+sad countenance of Chloe, when first she met her friend. They were both
+afraid of speaking. Shame, and the fear of being (and with too good
+reason) suspected of insincerity, withheld Chloe; and an unwillingness
+to accuse or hurt her friend withheld the gentle Caelia. She sometimes
+indeed thought she saw repentance in Chloe's face, and wished for
+nothing more than to seal her pardon. But till it was asked, she was
+in doubt (from what had passed) whether such pardon and proffered
+reconciliation might not be rejected. She knew that her friend's
+passions were naturally stronger than hers; and she therefore trembled
+at the consequences of coming to an explanation.
+
+But there was hardly a greater sufferer in this scene of confusion than
+the poor old Lady Amanda. She saw a sort of horror and wildness in the
+face of Chloe; and in Caelia's a settled melancholy, and such an unusual
+reserve in both towards each other, as well as to herself, as quite
+astonished her.
+
+Sempronius came indeed to the house as often as usual; but in his
+countenance she could perceive a sort of anger and concern which
+perfectly frightened her. But as they did not speak to her, she could
+not bring herself to ask the cause of this woeful change, for fear of
+hearing something too bad to bear.
+
+Caelia had absolutely refused granting to Sempronius leave to ask her
+aunt's consent, till she should come to some explanation with Chloe,
+which seemed every day farther off than ever.
+
+The great perturbation of Chloe's mind threw her into a disorder not
+many degrees short of madness; and at last she was seized with a violent
+fever so as to keep her bed. She said she could not bear to look on
+Amanda; but begged Caelia to be with her as much as possible; which she
+did, in hopes of bringing herself to ease her mind, by speaking to her
+of what had given them all this torment.
+
+Caelia watched with her night and day for three days, when the physician
+who attended her pronounced that there was no hope of her life. Caelia
+could not any longer bear to stay in the room, and went downstairs,
+expecting every moment to hear she was expired.
+
+Chloe soon perceived by Caelia's abrupt leaving the room, and the looks
+of those who were left in it, that her fate was pronounced; which,
+instead of sinking her spirits, and making her dejected, gave a
+tranquillity to her mind; for she thought within herself, 'I shall now
+make my dear cousin happy, by removing out of her way an object that
+must embitter all her joy; and now likewise, as she is convinced I am on
+my death-bed, she will once more believe me capable of speaking truth;
+and will, in the manner I could wish, receive my sincere repentance.'
+Then sending for Caelia up to her bedside, she in a weak voice, with
+hardly strength for utterance, spoke in this manner: 'My dear Caelia,
+though you know me to be a worthless base wretch, yet do not think so
+hardly of me, as to imagine I would deceive you with my last breath.
+Believe me then when I tell you, that I sincerely repent of my treachery
+towards you; and as sincerely rejoice that it has in reality been
+the cause of your happiness with Sempronius. Tell him this; and then,
+perhaps, he will not hate my memory.' Here she fainted away, and they
+forced Caelia out of the room, thinking her breath was for ever flown.
+But in some time she came again to herself, and cried out, 'What! would
+not my dear Caelia say that she forgave me? Methinks I would not die,
+till I had obtained her pardon. She is too good to refuse her friend
+this last request.' Her attendants then told her, that seeing her faint
+away, they had forced Caelia out of the room; and they begged her to try
+to compose herself, for they were sure that seeing her friend again, at
+this time, would only disturb her mind, and do her an injury.
+
+Chloe, from the vent she had given her grief in speaking to Caelia,
+found herself something more easy and composed; and desiring the room to
+be made perfectly quiet, she fell into a gentle sleep, which lasted two
+hours; and when she awaked she found herself so much better, that those
+about her were convinced, from her composed manner of speaking, that she
+was now able to bear another interview.
+
+They again called for Caelia, and told her of her cousin's amendment.
+She flew with all speed to her chamber; and the moment she entered,
+Chloe cried out, 'Can you forgive me, Caelia?' 'Yes, with the greatest
+joy and sincerity imaginable, my dearest Chloe,' answered Caelia, 'and
+never let it be again mentioned or remembered.'
+
+The sudden recovery of Chloe was almost incredible; for in less than a
+week she was able to quit both her bed and room, and go into her aunt's
+chamber. The good old lady shed tears of joy, to see such a return of
+Chloe's health, and of cheerfulness in the family; and was perfectly
+contented, now she saw their melancholy removed, not to inquire into the
+late cause of it, for fear of renewing their trouble even one moment by
+the remembrance of it.
+
+Sempronius, in the meantime, upon some affairs of his duty in the army,
+had been called away, and was absent the whole time of Chloe's illness,
+and was not yet returned. Caelia spent almost her whole time with Chloe;
+but three weeks passed on, and they were often alone; yet they had never
+once mentioned the name of Sempronius, which laid Caelia still under
+the greatest difficulty how to act, so as to avoid giving her friend any
+uneasiness, and yet not disoblige Sempronius; for she had promised
+him at his departure, that she would give him leave to ask her aunt's
+consent immediately upon his return. But the very day he was expected,
+she was made quite easy by what passed between her and her friend.
+
+Chloe, in this time, by proper reflections, and a due sense of Caelia's
+great goodness and affection to her, had so entirely got the better
+of herself in this affair, that she found she could now, without any
+uneasiness, see them married; and calling Caelia to her, she said with a
+smile, 'I have, my dear friend, been so long accustomed to read in that
+intelligible index, your countenance, all your most inmost thoughts,
+that I have not been unobserving of those kind fears you have had on
+my account; and the reason I have so long delayed speaking was, my
+resolution, if possible, never again to deceive you. I can with pleasure
+now assure you, that nothing can give me so much joy as to see your
+wedding with Sempronius. I make no doubt, but if you ask it, you will
+have my aunt's consent; and, if any intercession should be wanting
+towards obtaining it, I will (if you can trust me) use all my influence
+in your behalf. Be assured, my dear Caelia, I have now no farther regard
+left for Sempronius, than as your husband; and that regard will increase
+in proportion as he is the cause of your happiness.'
+
+They were interrupted in their discourse by news being brought of
+the arrival of Sempronius, and Chloe received him with that ease and
+cheerfulness as convinced Caelia her professions were unfeigned.
+
+Caelia related to Sempronius all that had passed between her and
+Chloe; and by her continued cheerfulness of behaviour, the peace and
+tranquillity of the family was perfectly restored, and their joy greatly
+increased by Amanda's ready consent to the marriage of Sempronius and
+Caelia, having first settled all her fortune to be divided at her death
+equally between her nieces; and in her lifetime there was no occasion of
+settlements, or deeds of gift, for they lived all together, and separate
+property was not so much as mentioned or thought on in this family of
+harmony and peace.
+
+Here Miss Dolly ceased reading; and all her hearers sat some little time
+silent, and then expressed their great joy that Caelia and Chloe were at
+last happy; for none of them had been able to refrain from tears whilst
+they were otherwise. On which Miss Jenny Peace begged them to observe
+from this story, the miserable effects that attend deceit and treachery:
+'For,' continued she, 'you see you could not refrain from tears, only by
+imagining what Chloe must feel after her wickedness (by which indeed she
+lost the very happiness she intended treacherously to gain); nor could
+she enjoy one moment's peace, till by confessing her fault, and
+heartily repenting of it, her mind was restored to its former calm and
+tranquility.' Miss Dolly thanked Miss Jenny for her remarks; but Miss
+Lucy Sly was most sensibly touched with this story, as cunning had
+formerly entirely possessed HER mind; and said, that if her companions
+were not weary at present of their arbour, she would now recount to them
+the history of her life, as this story was a proper introduction to it.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS LUCY SLY.
+
+Miss Lucy Sly was of the same age as Miss Dolly Friendly; but shorter,
+at least, by half the head. She was generally called a pretty girl,
+from having a pair of exceeding fine black eyes, only with the allay of
+something cunning in their look. She had a high forehead, and very good
+curling black hair. She had a sharp high nose, and a very small mouth.
+Her complexion was but indifferent, and the lower part of her face
+ill-turned, for her chin was too long for due proportion.
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS LUCY SLY.
+
+From the time I was two years old, (said Miss Lucy) my mamma was so
+sickly, that she was unable to take any great care of me herself, and I
+was left to the care of a governess, who made it her study to bring me
+to do what she had a mind to have done, without troubling her head what
+induced me so to do. And whenever I did anything wrong, she used to say
+it was the foot-boy, and not miss, that was naughty. Nay, she would say,
+it was the dog, or the cat, or anything she could lay the blame upon,
+sooner than own it was me. I thought this pure, that I was never in
+fault; and soon got into a way of telling any lies, and of laying my own
+faults on others, since I found I should be believed. I remember once,
+when I had broken a fine china-cup, that I artfully got out of the
+scrape, and hid the broken cup in the foot-boy's room. He was whipped
+for breaking it; and the next day whilst I was at play about the room,
+I heard my governess say to a friend who was with her, "Yesterday Miss
+Lucy broke a china-cup; but the artful little hussy went and hid it
+in the foot-boy's room, and the poor boy was whipped for it. I don't
+believe there was ever a girl of her age that had half her cunning and
+contrivance." I knew by her tone of voice, and her manner of speaking,
+that she did not blame me in her heart, but rather commended my
+ingenuity. And I thought myself so wise, that I could thus get off the
+blame from myself, that I every day improved in new inventions to save
+myself, and have others punished in my place.
+
+'This life of endeavouring to deceive I led till I came to school. But
+here I found that I could not so well carry on my little schemes; for I
+was found out and punished for my own faults; and this created in me a
+hatred to my companions. For whatever Miss I had a mind to serve as I
+used to serve our foot-boy, in laying the blame falsely upon her, if she
+could justify herself, and prove me in the wrong, I was very angry with
+her, for daring to contradict me, and not submitting as quietly to be
+punished wrongfully, as the foot-boy was forced to do.
+
+'This is all I know of my life hitherto.'
+
+
+Thus ended Miss Lucy Sly: and Miss Jenny Peace commended Miss Lucy for
+her free confession of her faults, and said, 'She doubted not but she
+would find the advantage of amending, and endeavouring to change a
+disposition so very pernicious to her own peace and quiet, as well as
+to that of all her friends;' but they now obeyed the summons of the
+supper-bell, and soon after retired to rest.
+
+
+
+
+THURSDAY. THE FOURTH DAY.
+
+Our little company, as soon as the morning school-hours were over,
+hastened to their arbour, and were attentive to what Miss Jenny Peace
+should propose to them for their amusement till dinner-time; when Miss
+Jenny, looking round upon them, said, 'that she had not at present any
+story to read; but that she hoped, from Miss Dolly Friendly's example
+yesterday, some of the rest might endeavour sometimes to furnish out
+the entertainment of the day.' Upon which Miss Sukey Jennett said,
+'that though she could not promise them such an agreeable story as Miss
+Dolly's; yet she would read them a letter she had received the evening
+before from her Cousin Peggy Smith, who lived at York; in which there
+was a story that she thought very strange and remarkable. They were all
+very desirous of it, when Miss Sukey read as follows:
+
+
+'Dear cousin,--I promised, you know, to write to you when I had anything
+to tell you; and as I think the following story very extraordinary, I
+was willing to keep my word.
+
+'Some time ago there came to settle in this city, a lady, whose name was
+Dison. We all visited her: but she had so deep a melancholy, arising, as
+it appeared, from a settled state of ill health, that nothing we could
+do could afford her the least relief, or make her cheerful. In this
+condition she languished amongst us five years, still continuing to grow
+worse and worse.
+
+'We all grieved at her fate. Her flesh was withered away; her appetite
+decayed by degrees, till all food became nauseous to her sight; her
+strength failed her; her feet could not support her tottering body,
+lean and worn away as it was; and we hourly expected her death. When, at
+last, she one day called her most intimate friends to her bedside, and,
+as well as she could, spoke to the following purpose: "I know you all
+pity me; but, alas! I am not so much the object of your pity, as your
+contempt; for all my misery is of my own seeking, and owing to the
+wickedness of my own mind. I had two sisters, with whom I was bred up;
+and I have all my lifetime been unhappy, for no other cause but for
+their success in the world. When we were young, I could neither eat nor
+sleep in peace, when they had either praise or pleasure. When we grew
+up to be women, they were both soon married much to their advantage and
+satisfaction. This galled me to the heart; and, though I had several
+good offers, yet as I did not think them in all respects equal to my
+sisters, I would not accept them; and yet was inwardly vexed to refuse
+them, for fear I would get no better. I generally deliberated so long
+that I lost my lovers, and then I pined for that loss. I never wanted
+for anything; and was in a situation in which I might have been happy,
+if I pleased. My sisters loved me very well, for I concealed as much
+as possible from them my odious envy; and yet never did any poor wretch
+lead so miserable a life as I have done; for every blessing they enjoyed
+was as so many daggers to my heart. 'Tis this envy that has caused all
+my ill health, has preyed upon my very vitals, and will now bring me to
+my Grave."
+
+'In a few days after this confession she died; and her words and death
+made such a strong impression on my mind, that I could not help sending
+you this relation; and begging you, my dear Sukey, to remember how
+careful we ought to be to curb in our minds the very first risings of a
+passion so detestable, and so fatal, as this proved to poor Mrs. Dison.
+I know I have no particular reason for giving you this caution; for I
+never saw anything in you, but what deserved the love and esteem of
+
+'Your very affectionate cousin,
+
+'M. SMITH.'
+
+
+As soon as Miss Sukey had finished her letter, Miss Patty Lockit rose
+up, and, flying to Miss Jenny Peace, embraced her, and said, 'What
+thanks can I give you, my dear friend, for having put me into a way of
+examining my heart, and reflecting on my own actions; by which you have
+saved me, perhaps, from a life as miserable as that of the poor woman
+in Miss Sukey's letter!' Miss Jenny did not thoroughly understand her
+meaning; but imagining it might be something relating to her past life,
+desired her to explain herself; which she said she would do, telling
+now, in her turn, all that had hitherto happened to her.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS PATTY LOCKIT.
+
+Miss Patty Lockit was but ten years old; tall, inclined to fat. Her
+neck was short; and she was not in the least genteel. Her face was very
+handsome; for all her features were extremely good. She had large blue
+eyes; was exceeding fair; and had a great bloom on her cheeks. Her hair
+was the very first degree of light brown; was bright and shining; and
+hung in ringlets half way down her back. Her mouth was rather too large;
+but she had such fine teeth, and looked so agreeably when she smiled,
+that you was not sensible of any fault in it.
+
+This was the person of Miss Patty Lockit, who was slow to relate her
+past life; which she did, in the following manner:
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS PATTY LOCKIT.
+
+I lived, till I was six years old, in a very large family; for I had
+four sisters, all older than myself, and three brothers. We played
+together, and passed our time much in the common way: sometimes we
+quarrelled, and sometimes agreed, just as accident would have it. Our
+parents had no partiality to any of us; so we had no cause to envy one
+another on that account; and we lived tolerably well together.
+
+'When I was six years old, my grandmother by my father's side (and
+who was also my godmother) offering to take me to live with her, and
+promising to look upon me as her own child, and entirely to provide
+for me, my father and mother, as they had a large family, very readily
+accepted her offer, and sent me directly to her house.
+
+'About half a year before this, she had taken another goddaughter, the
+only child of my Aunt Bradly, who was lately dead, and whose husband was
+gone to the West Indies. My cousin, Molly Bradly, was four years older
+than I; and her mother had taken such pains in her education, that the
+understood more than most girls of her age; and had so much liveliness,
+good humour, and ingenuity, that everybody was fond of her; and wherever
+we went together, all the notice was taken of my cousin, and I was very
+little regarded.
+
+'Though I had all my life before lived in a family where every one in it
+was older, and knew more than myself, yet I was very easy; for we were
+generally together in the nursery; and nobody took much notice of us,
+whether we knew anything, or whether we did not. But now, as I lived
+in the house with only one companion, who was so much more admired than
+myself, the comparison began to vex me, and I found a strong hatred and
+aversion for my cousin arising in my mind; and yet, I verily believe I
+should have got the better of it, and been willing to have learnt of my
+cousin, and should have loved her for teaching me, if any one had told
+me it was right; and if it had not been that Betty, the maid who took
+care of us, used to be for ever teasing me about the preference that was
+shown to my cousin, and the neglect I always met with. She used to tell
+me, that she wondered how I could bear to see Miss Molly so caressed;
+and that it was want of spirit not to think myself as good as she was;
+and, if she was in my place, she would not submit to be taught by a
+child; for my Cousin Molly frequently offered to instruct me in anything
+she knew; but I used to say (as Betty had taught me) that I would not
+learn of her; for she was but a child, though she was a little older;
+and that I was not put under her care, but that of my grandmamma. But
+she, poor woman, was so old and unhealthy, that she never troubled her
+head much about us, but only to take care that we wanted for nothing. I
+lived in this manner three years, fretting and vexing myself that I did
+not know so much, nor was not so much liked, as my Cousin Molly, and yet
+resolving not to learn anything she could teach me; when my grandmamma
+was advised to send me to school; but, as soon as I came here, the case
+was much worse; for, instead of one person to envy, I found many;
+for all my schoolfellows had learned more than I; and, instead of
+endeavouring to get knowledge, I began to hate all those who knew more
+than myself; and this, I am now convinced, was owing to that odious
+envy, which, if not cured, would always have made me as miserable as
+Mrs. Dison was and which constantly tormented me, till we came to live
+in that general peace and good-humour we have lately enjoyed: and as I
+hope this wicked spirit was not natural to me, but only blown up by
+that vile Betty's instigations, I don't doubt but I shall now grow
+very happy, and learn something every day, and be pleased with being
+instructed, and that I shall always love those who are so good as to
+instruct me.'
+
+
+Here Miss Patty Lockit ceased; and the dinner-bell called them from
+their arbour.
+
+Mrs. Teachum, as soon as they had dined, told them, that she thought
+it proper they would use some bodily exercise, that they might not,
+by sitting constantly still, impair their health. Not but that she was
+greatly pleased with their innocent and instructive manner of employing
+their leisure hours; but this wise woman knew that the faculties of the
+mind grow languid and useless, when the health of the body is lost.
+
+As soon as they understood their governess's pleasure, they readily
+resolved to obey her commands, and desired that, after school, they
+might take a walk as far as the dairy house, to eat some curds and
+cream. Mrs. Teachum not only granted their request, but said she would
+dispense with their school-attendance that afternoon, in order to give
+them more time for their walk, which was between two and three miles;
+and she likewise added, that she herself would go with them. They all
+flew like lightning to get their hats, and to equip themselves for their
+walk; and, with cheerful countenances, attended Mrs. Teachum in the
+schoolroom. This good gentlewoman, so far from laying them under a
+restraint by her presence, encouraged them to run in the fields, and
+to gather flowers; which they did, each miss trying to get the best
+to present to her governess. In this agreeable manner, with laughing,
+talking, and singing, they arrived at the dairy-house, before they
+imagined they had walked a mile.
+
+There lived at this dairy-house an old woman, near seventy years of age.
+She had a fresh colour in her face; but was troubled with the palsy,
+that made her head shake a little. She was bent forward with age, and
+her hair was quite grey: but she retained much good-humour, and received
+this little party with hearty welcome.
+
+Our little gentry flocked about this good woman, asking her a thousand
+questions. Miss Polly Suckling asked her, 'Why she shook her head so?'
+and Miss Patty Lockit said, 'She hoped her hair would never be of such a
+colour.'
+
+Miss Jenny Peace was afraid they would say something that would offend
+the old woman, and advised them to turn their discourse. 'Oh! let the
+dear rogues alone,' says the old woman; 'I like their prattle;' and,
+taking Miss Polly by the hand, said, 'Come, my dear, we will go into
+the dairy, and skim the milk pans.' At which words they all run into the
+dairy, and some of them dipped their fingers in the cream; which when
+Mrs. Nelly perceived (who was the eldest daughter of the old woman,
+and who managed all the affairs) she desired they would walk out of the
+dairy, and she would bring them what was fit for them: upon which Miss
+Dolly Friendly said, 'she had rather be as old and good-natured as the
+mother, than as young and ill-natured as the daughter.'
+
+The old woman desired her company to sit down at a long table, which
+she soon supplied with plenty of cream, strawberries, brown bread, and
+sugar. Mrs. Teachum took her place at the upper end, and the rest sat
+down in their usual order, and eat plentifully of these good things.
+After which, Mrs. Teachum told them they might walk out and see the
+garden and orchard, and by that time it would be proper to return home.
+
+The good old woman showed them the way into the garden; and gathered the
+finest roses and pinks she could pick, and gave them to Miss Polly, to
+whom she had taken a great Fancy.
+
+At their taking leave, Mrs. Teachum rewarded the good old woman for her
+trouble; who, on her part, expressed much pleasure in feeing so many
+well-behaved young ladies; and said, she hoped they would come often.
+
+These little friends had not walked far in their way home, before they
+met a miserable ragged fellow, who begged their charity. Our young
+folks immediately gathered together about this poor creature, and were
+hearkening very earnestly to his story, which he set forth in a terrible
+manner, of having been burnt out of his house, and, from one distress
+to another, reduced to that miserable state they saw him in, when Mrs.
+Teachum came up to them. She was not a little pleased to see all
+the misses' hands in their pockets, pulling out half-pence, and some
+sixpences. She told them, she approved of their readiness to assist the
+poor fellow, as he appeared to them; but oftentimes those fellows made
+up dismal stories without much foundation, and because they were lazy,
+and would not work. Miss Dolly said, indeed she believed the poor
+man spoke truth; for he looked honest; and, besides, he seemed almost
+starved.
+
+Mrs. Teachum told them it would be late before they could get home;
+so, after each of them had given what they thought proper, they pursued
+their walk, prattling all the way.
+
+They got home about nine o'clock; and, as they did not choose any
+supper, the bell rang for prayers; after which our young travellers
+retired to their rest, where we doubt not but they had a good repose.
+
+
+
+
+FRIDAY. THE FIFTH DAY.
+
+Mrs. Teachum, in the morning, inquired how her scholars did after
+their walk, and was pleased to hear they were all very well. They then
+performed their several tasks with much cheerfulness; and, after the
+school-hours, they were hastening, as usual, to their arbour, when Miss
+Jenny desired them all to go thither without her, and she would soon
+follow them; which they readily consented to; but begged her not to
+deprive them long of the pleasure of her sweet company.
+
+Miss Jenny then went directly into her governess's parlour, and told her
+that she had some thoughts of reading to her companions a fairy tale,
+which was also given her by her mamma; and though it was not in such a
+pompous style, nor so full of wonderful images, as the giant-story;
+yet she would not venture to read anything of that kind without her
+permission; but, as she had not absolutely condemned all that sort
+of writing, she hoped she was not guilty of a fault in asking that
+permission. Mrs. Teachum, with a gracious smile, told her, that she
+seemed so thoroughly well to understand the whole force of her Monday
+night's discourse to her, that she might be trusted almost in anything;
+and desired her to go and follow her own judgment and inclinations in
+the amusement of her happy friends. Miss Jenny, overjoyed with this kind
+condescension in her governess, thanked her, with, a low courtesy, and
+said, she hoped she should never do anything unworthy of the confidence
+reposed on her; and, hastening to the arbour, she there found all her
+little companions quite impatient of this short absence.
+
+Miss Jenny told them, that she had by her a fairy-tale, which, if they
+liked it, she would read; and, as it had pleased her, she did not doubt
+but it would give them equal pleasure.
+
+It was the custom now so much amongst them to assent to any proposal
+that came from Miss Jenny, that they all with one voice desired her
+to read it; till Miss Polly Suckling said, 'that although she was very
+unwilling to contradict anything Miss Jenny liked, yet she could not
+help saying, she thought it would be better if they were to read some
+true history, from which they might learn something; for she thought
+fairy-tales were fit only for little children.
+
+Miss Jenny could not help smiling at such an objection's coming from
+the little dumpling, who was not much above seven years of age; and then
+said, 'I will tell you a story, my little Polly, of what happened to me
+whilst I was at home.
+
+'There came into our village, when I was six years old, a man who
+carried about a raree-show, which all the children of the parish were
+fond of seeing; but I had taken it into my head, that it was beneath my
+wisdom to see raree-shows; and therefore would not be persuaded to
+join my companions to see this sight; and although I had as great an
+inclination as any of them to see it, yet I avoided it, in order to
+boast of my own great sense, in that I was above such trifles.
+
+'When my mamma asked me, why I would not see the show, when she had
+given me leave? I drew up my head, and said, "Indeed I did not like
+raree-shows. That I had been reading; and I thought that much more
+worth my while, than to lose my time at such foolish entertainments."
+My mamma, who saw the cause of my refusing this amusement was only a
+pretence of being wise, laughed, and said, "She herself had seen it,
+and it was really very comical and diverting." On hearing this, I was
+heartily vexed to think I had denied myself a pleasure, which I fancied
+was beneath me, when I found even my mamma was not above seeing it. This
+in a great measure cured me of the folly of thinking myself above any
+innocent amusement. And when I grew older, and more capable of hearing
+reason, my mamma told me, "She had taken this method of laughing at me,
+as laughing is the proper manner of treating affectation; which of all
+things, she said, she would have me carefully avoid; otherwise, whenever
+I was found out, I should become contemptible."'
+
+Here Miss Jenny ceased speaking; and Miss Polly Suckling, blushing that
+she had made any objection to what Miss Jenny had proposed, begged her
+to begin the fairy tale; when just at that instant, Mrs. Teachum, who
+had been taking a walk in the garden, turned into the arbour to delight
+herself with a view of her little school united in harmony and love, and
+Miss Jenny, with great good humour, told her mistress the small contest
+she had just had with Miss Polly about reading a fairy tale, and the
+occasion of it. Mrs. Teachum kindly chucking the little dumpling under
+the chin, said, she had so good an opinion of Miss Jenny, as to answer
+for her, that she would read nothing to them but what was proper; and
+added, that she herself would stay and hear this fairy tale which Miss
+Jenny, on her commands, immediately began.
+
+
+
+
+THE PRINCESS HEBE. A FAIRY TALE.
+
+Above two thousand years ago, there reigned over the kingdom of Tonga,
+a king, whose name was Abdallah. He was married to a young princess, the
+daughter of a king of a neighbouring country, whose name was Rousignon.
+Her beauty and prudence engaged him so far in affection to her, that
+every hour he could possibly spare from attending the affairs of his
+kingdom he spent in her apartment. They had a little daughter, to whom
+they gave the name of Hebe, who was the darling and mutual care of both.
+
+The king was quiet in his dominion, beloved by his subjects, happy in
+his family, and all his days rolled on in calm content and joy. The
+king's brother Abdulham was also married to a young princess, named
+Tropo, who in seven years had brought him no children; and she conceived
+so mortal a hatred against the queen (for she envied her the happiness
+of the little Princess Hebe) that she resolved to do her some mischief.
+It was impossible for her, during the king's lifetime, to vent her
+malice without being discovered, and therefore she pretended the
+greatest respect and friendship imaginable for the unsuspecting queen.
+
+Whilst things were in this situation, the king fell into a violent
+fever, of which he died; and during the time that the queen was in the
+height of her affliction for him, and could think of nothing but his
+loss, the Princess Tropo took the opportunity of putting in execution
+her malicious intentions. She inflamed her husband's passions, by
+setting forth the meanness of his spirit, in letting a crown be ravished
+from his head by a female infant, till ambition seized his mind, and he
+resolved to wield the Tongian sceptre himself. It was very easy to bring
+this about, for, by his brother's appointment, he was protector of
+the realm, and guardian to the young princess his niece; and the queen
+taking him and the princess his wife for her best friends, suspected
+nothing of their designs, but in a manner gave herself up to their
+power.
+
+The protector Abdulham, having the whole treasure of the kingdom at
+his command, was in possession of the means to make all his schemes
+successful; and the Princess Tropo, by lavishly rewarding the
+instruments of her treachery, contrived to make it generally believed,
+that the queen had poisoned her husband, who was so much beloved by his
+subjects, that the very horror of the action, without any proof of her
+guilt, raised against the poor unhappy Queen a universal clamour, and a
+general aversion throughout the whole kingdom. The princess had so well
+laid her scheme, that the guards were to seize the queen, and convey her
+to a place of confinement, till she could prove her innocence; which,
+that she might never be able to do, proper care was taken by procuring
+sufficient evidence to accuse her on oath; and the Princess Hebe, her
+daughter, was to be taken from her, and educated under the care of her
+uncle. But the night before this cruel design was to have been put in
+execution, a faithful attendant of the queen's, named Loretta, by the
+assistance of one of the Princess Tropo's confidants (who had long
+professed himself her lover) discovered the whole secret, of which she
+immediately informed her royal mistress.
+
+The horrors which filled the queen's mind at the relation of the
+Princess Tropo's malicious intentions, were inexpressible, and her
+perturbation so great, that she could not form any scheme that appeared
+probable to execute for her own preservation. Loretta told her that the
+person who had given her this timely notice, had also provided a peasant
+who knew the country, and would meet her at the western gate of the
+city, and, carrying the young Princess Hebe in his arms, would conduct
+her to some place of safety; but she must consent to put on a disguise,
+and escape that very night from the palace, or she would be lost for
+ever. Horses or mules, she said, it would be impossible to come at
+without suspicion; therefore she must endeavour (though unused to such
+fatigue) to travel afoot till she got herself concealed in some cottage
+from her pursuers, if her enemies should think of endeavouring to find
+her out. Loretta offered to attend her mistress, but she absolutely
+forbad her going any farther than to the western gate; where delivering
+the little Princess Hebe into the arms of the peasant, who was there
+waiting for them, she reluctantly withdrew.
+
+The good queen, who saw no remedy to this her terrible disgrace, could
+have borne this barbarous usage without much repining, had she herself
+been the only sufferer by it; for the loss of the good king her husband
+so far exceeded all her other misfortunes, that every everything else
+was trifling in comparison of so dreadful an affliction. But the young
+Princess Hebe, whom she was accustomed to look on as her greatest
+blessing, now became to her an object of pity and concern; for, from
+being heiress to a throne, the poor infant, not yet five years old, was,
+with her wretched mother, become a vagabond, and knew not whither to fly
+for protection.
+
+Loretta had prevailed on her royal mistress to take with her a few
+little necessaries, besides a small picture of the king, and some of her
+jewels, which the queen contrived to conceal under her night-clothes, in
+the midst of that hair they were used to adorn, when her loved husband
+delighted to see it displayed in flowing ringlets round her snowy neck.
+This lady, during the life of her fond husband, was by his tender
+care kept from every inclemency of the air, and preserved from every
+inconvenience that it was possible for human nature to suffer. What then
+must be her condition now, when through bypaths and thorny ways, she was
+obliged to fly with all possible speed, to escape the fury of her cruel
+pursuers: for she too well knew the merciless temper of her enemies,
+to hope that they would not pursue her with the utmost diligence,
+especially as she was accompanied by the young Princess Hebe; whose life
+was the principal cause of their disquiet, and whose destruction they
+chiefly aimed at.
+
+The honest peasant, who carried the Princess Hebe in his arms, followed
+the queen's painful steps; and seeing the day begin to break, he begged
+her, if possible, to hasten on to a wood which was not far off, where it
+was likely she might find a place of safety. But the afflicted queen,
+at the sight of the opening morn (which once used to fill her mind with
+rising joy) burst into a flood of tears, and, quite overcome with
+grief and fatigue, cast herself on the ground, crying out in the most
+affecting manner, 'The end of my misfortunes is at hand. My weary limbs
+will no longer support me. My spirits fail me. In the grave alone must
+I seek for shelter.' The poor princess, seeing her mother in tears, cast
+her little arms about her neck, and wept also, though she knew not why.
+
+Whilst she was in this deplorable condition, turning round her head, she
+saw behind her a little girl, no older in appearance than the Princess
+Hebe; who, with an amiable and tranquil countenance, begged her to
+rise and follow her, and she would lead her where she might refresh and
+repose herself.
+
+The queen was surprised at the manner of speaking of this little child,
+as she took her to be; but soon thought it was some kind fairy sent to
+protect her, and was very ready to submit herself to her guidance and
+protection.
+
+The little fairy (for such indeed was the seeming child who had thus
+accosted them) ordered the peasant to return back, and said that she
+would take care of the queen, and her young daughter; and he, knowing
+her to be the good fairy Sybella, very readily obeyed.
+
+Sybella then striking the ground three times with a little wand, there
+suddenly rose up before them a neat plain car, and a pair of milk-white
+horses; and placing the queen with the Princess Hebe in her lap by her
+side, she drove with excessive swiftness full westward for eight hours;
+when (just as the sun began to have power enough to make the queen
+almost faint with the heat and her former fatigue) they arrived at the
+side of a shady wood; upon entering of which, the fairy made her horses
+slacken in their speed, and having travelled about a mile and a half,
+through rows of elms and beech trees, they came to a thick grove of
+firs, into which there seemed to be no entrance. For there was not any
+opening to a path, and the underwood consisting chiefly of rose-bushes,
+white-thorn, eglantine, and other flowering shrubs, was so thick, that
+it appeared impossible to attempt forcing through them. But alighting
+out of the car (which immediately disappeared) the fairy (bidding the
+queen follow her) pushed her way through a large bush of jessamine,
+whose tender branches gave way for their passage and then closed again,
+so as to leave no traces of an entrance into this charming grove.
+
+Having gone a little way through an extreme narrow path, they came into
+an opening (quite surrounded by these firs and sweet underwood) not very
+large, but in which was contained everything that is necessary towards
+making life comfortable. At the end of a green meadow was a plain neat
+house, built more for convenience than beauty, fronting the rising sun;
+and behind it was a small garden, stored only with fruits and useful
+herbs. Sybella conducted her guests into this her simple lodging; and
+as repose was the chief thing necessary for the poor fatigued queen,
+she prevailed with her to lie down on a couch. Some hours' sound sleep,
+which her weariness induced, gave her a fresh supply of spirits; the
+ease and safety from her pursuers, in which she then found herself, made
+her for a short time tolerably composed; and she begged the favour
+of knowing to whom she was so greatly obliged for this her happy
+deliverance; but the fairy seeing her mind too unsettled to give any
+due attention to what she should say, told her that she would defer the
+relation of her own life (which was worth her observation) till she had
+obtained a respite from her own sorrows; and in the meantime, by all
+manner of obliging ways, she endeavoured to divert and amuse her.
+
+The queen, after a short interval of calmness of mind, occasioned only
+by her so sudden escape from the terrors of pursuit, returned to her
+former dejection, and for some time incessantly wept at the dismal
+thought, that the princess seemed now, by this reverse of fate, to be
+for ever excluded all hopes of being seated on her father's throne;
+and, by a strange perverse way of adding to her own grief, she afflicted
+herself the more, because the little princess was ignorant of her
+misfortune; and whenever she saw her diverting herself with little
+childish plays, instead of being pleased with such her innocent
+amusement, it added to her sorrow, and made her tears gush forth in a
+larger stream than usual. She could not divert her thoughts from the
+palace from which she had been driven, to fix them on any other object;
+nor would her grief suffer her to reflect, that it was possible for the
+princess to be happy without a crown.
+
+At length time, the great cure of all ills, in some measure abated her
+Sorrows; her grief began to subside; in spite of herself, the reflection
+that her misery was only in her own fancy, would sometimes force itself
+on her mind. She could not avoid seeing, that her little hostess enjoyed
+as perfect a state of happiness as is possible to attain in this world;
+that she was free from anxious cares, undisturbed by restless passions,
+and mistress of all things that could be of any use to make life easy or
+agreeable. The oftener this reflection presented itself to her thoughts,
+the more strength it gained; and, at last, she could even bear to think,
+that her beloved child might be as happy in such a situation, as was her
+amiable hostess. Her countenance now grew more cheerful; she could take
+the Princess Hebe in her arms, and thinking the jewels she had preserved
+would secure her from any fear of want, look on her with delight; and
+began even to imagine, that her future life might be spent in calm
+content and pleasure.
+
+As soon as the voice of reason had gained this power over the queen,
+Sybella told her, that now her bosom was so free from passion, she would
+relate the history of her life. The queen, overjoyed that her curiosity
+might now be gratified, begged her not to delay giving her that pleasure
+one moment; on which our little fairy began in the following manner.
+
+
+But there Mrs. Teachum told Miss Jenny that the bell rung for dinner; on
+which she was obliged to break off. But meeting again in the same arbour
+in the evening, when their good mistress continued to them the favour of
+her presence, Miss Jenny pursued her story.
+
+
+
+
+THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED.
+
+'My father,' said the fairy, 'was a magician: he married a lady for
+love, whose beauty far outshone that of all her neighbours; and by means
+of that beauty, she had so great an influence over her husband, that she
+could command the utmost power of his art. But better had it been for
+her, had that beauty been wanting; for her power only served to make her
+wish for more, and the gratification of every desire begot a new one,
+which often it was impossible for her to gratify. My father, though he
+saw his error in thus indulging her, could not attain steadiness of mind
+enough to mend it, nor acquire resolution enough to suffer his beloved
+wife once to grieve or shed a tear to no purpose, though in order to
+cure her of that folly which made her miserable.
+
+'My grandfather so plainly saw the temper and disposition of his son
+towards women, that he did not leave him at liberty to dispose of his
+magic art to any but his posterity, that it might not be in the power
+of a wife to tease him out of it. But his caution was to very little
+purpose; for although my mother could not from herself exert any magic
+power, yet such was her unbounded influence over her husband, that she
+was sure of success in every attempt to persuade him to gratify her
+desires. For if every argument she could invent happened to fail, yet
+the shedding but one tear was a certain method to prevail with him to
+give up his reason, whatever might be the consequence.
+
+'When my father and mother had been married about a year, she was
+brought to bed of a daughter, to whom she gave the name of Brunetta. Her
+first request to my father was, that he would endow this infant with as
+much beauty as she herself was possessed of, and bestow on her as much
+of his art as should enable her to succeed in all her designs. My father
+foresaw the dreadful tendency of granting this request, but said he
+would give it with this restriction, that she should succeed in all
+her designs that were not wicked; for, said he, the success of wicked
+designs always turns out as a punishment to the person so succeeding.
+In this resolution he held for three days, till my mother (being weak
+in body after her lying-in) worked herself with her violent passions to
+such a degree, that the physicians told my father, they despaired of her
+life, unless some method could be found to make her mind more calm
+and easy. His fondness for his wife would not suffer him to bear the
+thoughts of losing her, and the horror with which that apprehension had
+but for a moment possessed his mind, prevailed with him to bestow on
+the little Brunetta (though foreseeing it would make her miserable) the
+fatal gift in its full extent. But one restriction it was out of his
+power to take off, namely, that all wicked designs ever could and should
+be rendered ineffectual by the virtue and perseverance of those against
+whom they were intended, if they in a proper manner exerted that virtue.
+
+'I was born in two years after Brunetta, and was called Sybella: but my
+mother was so taken up with her darling Brunetta, that she gave herself
+nut the least concern about me; and I was left wholly to the care of my
+father. In order to make the gift she had extorted from her fond husband
+as fatal as possible to her favourite child, she took care in her
+education (by endeavouring to cultivate in her the spirit of revenge and
+malice against those who had in the least degree offended her) to
+turn her mind to all manner of mischief; by which means she lived in a
+continual passion.
+
+'My father, as soon as I was old enough to hearken to reason, told me
+of the gift he had conferred on my sister; said he could not retract it;
+and therefore, if she had any mischievous designs against me, they must
+in some measure succeed; but she would endow me with a power superior to
+this gift of my sister's, and likewise superior to any thing else that
+he was able to bestow, which was strength and constancy of mind enough
+to bear patiently any injuries I might receive; and this was a strength,
+he said, which would not decay, but rather increase, by every new
+exercise of it; and, to secure me in the possession of this gift, he
+likewise gave me a perfect knowledge of the true value of everything
+around me, by which means I might learn, whatever outward accidents
+befell me, not to lose the greatest blessing in this world, namely, a
+calm and contented mind. He taught me so well my duty, that I cheerfully
+obeyed my mother in all things, though she seldom gave me a kind word,
+or even a kind look; for my spiteful sister was always telling some lies
+to make her angry with me. But my heart overflowed with gratitude to my
+father, that he would give me leave to love him, whilst he instructed me
+that it was my duty to pay him the most strict obedience.
+
+'Brunetta was daily encouraged by her mother to use me ill, and chiefly
+because my father loved me; and although she succeeded in all her
+designs of revenge on me, yet was she very uneasy, because she could not
+take away the cheerfulness of my mind; for I bore with patience whatever
+happened to me: and she would often say, "must I with all my beauty,
+power, and wisdom (for so she called her low cunning) be suffering
+perpetual uneasiness? and shall you, who have neither beauty, power, nor
+wisdom, pretend to be happy and cheerful?" Then would she cry and stamp,
+and rave like a mad creature, and set her invention at work to make my
+mother beat me, or lock me up, or take from me some of my best clothes
+to give to her; yet still could not her power extend to vex my mind: and
+this used to throw her again into such passions, as weakened her health,
+and greatly impaired her so much boasted beauty.
+
+'In this manner we lived, till on a certain day, after Brunetta had been
+in one of her rages with me for nothing, my father came in and chid
+her for it; which, when my mother heard, she threw herself into such a
+violent passion, that her husband could not pacify her. And, being big
+with child, the convulsions, caused by her passions, brought her to her
+grave. Thus my father lost her, by the same uncontrollable excesses, the
+fatal effects of which he had before ruined his daughter to preserve her
+from. He did not long survive her; but, before he died, gave me a little
+wand, which, by striking three times on the ground, he said, would at
+any time produce me any necessary or convenience of life, which I really
+wanted, either for myself, or the assistance of others; and this he gave
+me, because he was very sensible, he said, that as soon as he was dead,
+my sister would never rest till she had got from me both his castle,
+and everything that I had belonging to me, in it. "But," continued he,
+"whenever you are driven from thence, bend your course directly into the
+pleasant wood Ardella; there strike with your wand, and everything you
+want, will be provided for you. But keep this wand a profound secret, or
+Brunetta will get it from you; and then (though you can never, while you
+preserve your patience, be unhappy) you will not have it in your power
+to be of so much use as you would wish to be, to those who shall stand
+in need of your assistance." Saying these words, he expired, as I
+kneeled by his bedside, attending his last commands, and bewailing the
+loss of so good a father.
+
+'In the midst of this our distress, we sent to my Uncle Sochus, my
+father's brother, to come to us, and to assist us in an equal division
+of my deceased father's effects; but my sister soon contrived to make
+him believe, that I was the wickedest girl alive, and had always set
+my father against her by my art, which she said I pretended to call my
+wisdom; and by several handsome presents she soon persuaded him (for he
+did not care a farthing for either of us) to join with her in saying,
+that, as she was the eldest sister, she had a full right to the castle,
+and everything in it; but she told me I was very welcome to stay there,
+and live with her, if I pleased; and while I behaved myself well, she
+should be very glad of my company.
+
+'As it was natural for me to love every one that would give me leave to
+love them, I was quite overjoyed at this kind offer of my sister's, and
+never once thought on the treachery she had so lately been guilty of;
+and I have since reflected, that happy was it for me, that passion was
+so much uppermost with her, that she could not execute any plot, that
+required a dissimulation of any long continuance; for had her good
+humour lasted but one four-and-twenty hours, it is very probable that
+I should have opened my whole heart to her; should have endeavoured to
+have begun a friendship with her, and perhaps have betrayed the secret
+of my wand; but just as it was sunset, she came into the room where I
+was, in the most violent passion in the world, accusing me to my uncle
+of ingratitude to her great generosity, in suffering me to live in her
+castle. She said, "that she had found me out, and that my crimes were of
+the blackest dye," although she would not tell me either what they were,
+or who were my accusers. She would not give me leave to speak, either
+to ask what my offence was, or to justify my innocence; and I plainly
+perceived, that her pretended kindness was only designed to make my
+disappointment the greater; and that she was now determined to find me
+guilty, whether I pleaded, or not. And after she had raved on for some
+time, she said to me with a sneer, "Since you have always boasted of
+your calm and contented mind, you may now try to be contented this night
+with the softness of the grass for your bed; for here in my castle you
+shall not stay one moment longer." And so saying, she and my uncle led
+me to the outer court, and thrusting me with all their force from them,
+they shut up the gates, bolting and barring them as close as if to keep
+out a giant; and left me, at that time of night, friendless, and, as
+they thought, destitute of any kind of support.
+
+'I then remembered my dear father's last words, and made what haste I
+could to this wood, which is not above a mile distant from the castle;
+and being, as I thought, about the middle of it, I struck three times
+with my wand, and immediately up rose this grove of trees, which you
+see, this house, and all the other conveniences, which I now enjoy; and
+getting that very night into this my plain and easy bed, I enjoyed as
+sweet a repose as ever I did in my life, only delayed, indeed, a short
+time, by a few sighs, for the loss of so good a parent, and the unhappy
+state of a self-tormented sister, whose slumbers (I fear) on a bed of
+down, were more restless and interrupted that night than mine would have
+been, even had not my father's present of the wand prevented me from the
+necessity of using the bed of grass, which she, in her wrath, allotted
+me. In this grove, which I call Placid Grove, is contained all that I
+want; and it is so well secured from any invaders, by the thick briars
+and thorns which surround it, having no entrance but through that tender
+jessamine, that I live in no apprehensions of any disturbance, though so
+near my sister's castle. But once, indeed, she came with a large train,
+and, whilst I was asleep, set fire to the trees all around me; and
+waking, I found myself almost suffocated with smoke, and the flames had
+reached one part of my House. I started from my bed, and striking on
+the ground three times with my wand, there came such a quantity of water
+from the heavens, as soon extinguished the fire; and the next morning,
+by again having recourse to my wand, all things grew up into their
+convenient and proper order. When my sister Brunetta found that I had
+such a supernatural power at my command, though she knew not what it
+was, she desisted from ever attempting any more by force to disturb me;
+and now only uses all sorts of arts and contrivances to deceive me,
+or any persons whom I would wish to secure. One of my father's daily
+lessons to me was, that I should never omit any one day of my life
+endeavouring to be as serviceable as I possibly could to any person in
+distress. And I daily wander, as far as my feet will carry me, in search
+of any such, and hither I invite them to peace and calm contentment. But
+my father added also this command, that I should never endeavour doing
+any farther good to those whom adversity had not taught to hearken to
+the voice of reason, enough to enable them so to conquer their passions
+as not to think themselves miserable in a safe retreat from noise and
+confusion. This was the reason I could not gratify you in relating the
+history of my life, whilst you gave way to raging passions, which only
+serve to blind your eyes, and shut your ears from truth. But now, great
+queen (for I know your state, from what you vented in your grief), I am
+ready to endow this little princess with any gift in my power, that I
+know will tend really to her good; and I hope your experience of the
+world has made you too reasonable to require any other.'
+
+The queen considered a little while, and then desired Sybella to endow
+the princess with that only wisdom which would enable her to see and
+follow what was her own true good, to know the value of everything
+around her, and to be sensible that following the paths of goodness and
+performing her duty was the only road to content and happiness.
+
+Sybella was overjoyed at the queen's request, and immediately granted
+it, only telling the Princess Hebe, that it was absolutely necessary
+towards the attainment of this great blessing, that she should entirely
+obey the queen her mother, without ever pretending to examine her
+commands; for 'true obedience (said she) consists in submission; and
+when we pretend to choose what commands are proper and fit for us,
+we don't obey, but set up our own wisdom in opposition to our
+governors--this, my dear Hebe, you must be very careful of avoiding, if
+you would be happy.' She then cautioned her against giving way to the
+persuasions of any of the young shepherdesses thereabouts, who would
+endeavour to allure her to disobedience, by striving to raise in her
+mind a desire of thinking herself wise, whilst they were tearing from
+her what was indeed true wisdom. 'For (said Sybella) my sister Brunetta,
+who lives in the castle she drove me from (about a mile from this wood)
+endows young shepherdesses with great beauty, and everything that is in
+appearance amiable, and likely to persuade, in order to allure away and
+make wretched, those persons I would preserve: and all the wisdom with
+which I have endowed the Princess Hebe will not prevent her falling into
+my sister's snares, if she gives the least way to temptation; for my
+father's gift to Brunetta, in her infancy, enables her (as I told you)
+to succeed in all her designs, except they are resisted by the virtue of
+the person she is practising against. Many poor wretches has my sister
+already decoyed away from me, whom she now keeps in her castle;
+where they live in splendor and seeming joy, but in real misery, from
+perpetual jars and tumults, railed by envy, malice, and all the train of
+tumultuous and tormenting passions.'
+
+The Princess Hebe said, she doubted not but she should be able to
+withstand any of Brunetta's temptations. Her mother interrupting her,
+cried out, 'Oh, my dear child, though you are endowed with wisdom enough
+to direct you in the way to virtue, yet if you grow conceited and proud
+of that wisdom, and fancy yourself above temptation, it will lead you
+into the worst of all evils.' Here the fairy interposed, and told the
+Princess Hebe, that if she would always carefully observe and obey her
+mother, who had learned wisdom in that best school, adversity, she would
+then, indeed, be able to withstand and overcome every temptation, and
+would likewise be happy herself, and able to dispense happiness to all
+around her. Nothing was omitted by the fairy to make this retirement
+agreeable to her royal guests; and they had now passed near seven years
+in this delightful grove, in perfect peace and tranquillity; when one
+evening, as they were walking in the pleasant wood which surrounded
+their habitation, they espied under the shade, and leaning against
+the bark of a large oak, a poor old man, whose limbs were withered and
+decayed, and whose eyes were hollow, and sunk with age and misery. They
+stopped as soon as they saw him, and heard him in the anguish of his
+heart, with a loud groan, utter these words: 'When will my sorrows end?
+Where shall I find the good fairy Sybella?' The fairy immediately begged
+to know his business with her; and said, if his sorrows would end on
+finding Sybella, he might set his heart at ease; for she stood now
+before him, and ready to serve him, if his distresses were such as would
+admit of relief, and he could prove himself worthy of her friendship.
+The old Man appeared greatly overjoyed at having found the fairy, and
+began the following story:
+
+'I live from hence a thousand leagues. All this tiresome way have I come
+in search of you. My whole life has been spent in amassing wealth, to
+enrich one only son, whom I doted on to distraction. It is now five
+years since I have given him up all the riches I had laboured to get,
+only to make him happy. But, alas how am I disappointed! His wealth
+enables him to command whatever this world produces; and yet the poorest
+wretch that begs his bread cannot be more miserable. He spends his days
+in riot and luxury; has more slaves and attendants than wait in the
+palace of a prince; and still he sighs from morning till night, because,
+he says, there is nothing in this world worth living for. All his
+dainties only sate his palate, and grow irksome to his sight. He daily
+changes his opinion of what is pleasure; and, on the trial, finds
+none that he can call such; and then falls to sighing again, for the
+emptiness of all that he has enjoyed. So that, instead of being my
+delight, and the comfort of my old age, sleepless nights, and anxious
+days, are all the rewards of my past labours for him. But I have had
+many visions and dreams to admonish me, that if I would venture with my
+old frame to travel hither a-foot in search of the fairy Sybella, she
+had a glass, which if she showed him, he would be cured of this dreadful
+melancholy, and I have borne the labour and fatigue of coming this
+long tiresome way, that I may not breathe my last with the agonizing
+reflection, that all the labours of my life have been thrown away.
+But what shall I say to engage you to go with me? Can riches tempt, or
+praise allure you?'
+
+'No, (answered the fairy) neither of them has power to move me; but
+I compassionate your age; and if I thought I could succeed, would not
+refuse you. The glass which I shall bid him look in, will show him his
+inward self; but if he will not open both his eyes and heart enough to
+truth, to let him understand, that the pleasures he pursues not only are
+not but cannot be satisfactory, I can be of no sort of service to him.
+And know, old man, that the punishment you now feel is the natural
+result of your not having taught him this from his infancy; for, instead
+of heaping up wealth, to allure him to seek for happiness from such
+deceitful means, you should have taught him, that the only path to it
+was to be virtuous and good.'
+
+The old man said, he heartily repented of his conduct, and on his knees
+so fervently implored Sybella's assistance, that at last she consented
+to go with him. Then striking on the ground three times with her wand,
+the car and horses rose up, and placing the old Man by her, after taking
+leave of the queen, and begging the Princess Hebe to be careful to guard
+against all temptations to disobedience, she set out on her journey.
+
+
+It being now come to the latest hour that Mrs. Teachum thought proper
+for her little scholars to stay out in the air, she told Miss Jenny that
+she must defer reading the remaining part of her story till the next
+day. Miss Jenny always with great cheerfulness obeyed her governess, and
+immediately left off reading; and said she was ready to attend her; and
+the whole company rose up to follow her.
+
+Mrs. Teachum had so much judgment, that, perceiving such a ready
+obedience to all her commands, she now endeavoured, by all means she
+could think of; to make her scholars throw off that reserve before her,
+which must ever make it uneasy to them for her ever to be present
+whilst they were following their innocent diversions; for such was the
+understanding of this good woman, that she could keep up the authority
+of the governess in her school, yet at times become the companion of
+her scholars. And as she now saw, by their good behaviour, they deserved
+that indulgence, she took the little dumpling by the hand, and, followed
+by the rest, walked towards the house, and discoursed familiarly with
+them the rest of the evening, concerning all their past amusements.
+
+
+
+
+SATURDAY. THE SIXTH DAY.
+
+It was the custom on Saturdays to have no school in the afternoon, and
+it being also their writing day from morning-school till dinner, Mrs.
+Teachum, knowing how eager Miss Jenny's hearers were for the rest of the
+story, accompanied them into the arbour, early in the afternoon, when
+Miss Jenny went on as follows:
+
+
+
+
+THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED.
+
+The queen and the Princess Hebe remained, by the good fairy's desire, in
+her habitation during her absence. They spent their time in serenity and
+content; the princess daily improving herself in wisdom and goodness, by
+hearkening to her mother's instructions, and obeying all her commands,
+and the queen in studying what would be of most use to her child. She
+had now forgot her throne and palace, and desired nothing for her, than
+her present peaceful retreat. One morning, as they were sitting in a
+little arbour at the corner of a pleasant meadow, on a sudden they
+heard a voice, much sweeter than they had ever heard, warble through the
+following song:
+
+
+A SONG.
+
+     Virtue, soft balm of every woe,
+       Of ev'ry grief the cure,
+     'Tis thou alone that canst best bestow
+       Pleasures unmix'd and pure.
+
+     The shady wood, the verdant mead,
+       Are Virtue's flow'ry road;
+     Nor painful are the steps which lead
+       To her divine abode.
+
+     'Tis not in palaces of halls,
+       She or their train appear;
+     Far off she flies from pompous walls;
+       Virtue and Peace dwell here.
+
+
+The queen was all attention, and at the end of the song she gazed around
+her, in hopes of seeing the person whose enchanting voice she had been
+so eagerly listening to, when she espied a young shepherdess, not
+much older than the Princess Hebe, but possessed of such uncommon and
+dazzling beauty, that it was some time before she could disengage her
+eyes from so agreeable an object. As soon as the young shepherdess found
+herself observed, she seemed modestly to offer to withdraw; but the
+queen begged her not to go till she had informed them who she was, that,
+with such a commanding aspect, had so much engaged them in her favour.
+
+The shepherdess coming forward, with a bashful blush, and profound
+obedience, answered, that her name was Rozella, and she was the daughter
+of a neighbouring shepherd and shepherdess, who lived about a quarter of
+a mile from thence; and, to confess the truth, she had wandered thither,
+in hopes of seeing the young stranger, whose fame for beauty and wisdom
+had filled all that country round.
+
+The Princess Hebe, well knowing of whom she spoke, conceived from that
+moment such an inclination fur her acquaintance, that she begged her to
+stay and spend that whole day with them in Placid Grove. Here the queen
+frowned upon her, for she had, by the fairy's desire, charged her never
+to bring any one, without her permission, into that peaceful grove.
+
+The young Rozella answered, that nothing could be more agreeable to her
+inclinations; but she must be at home by noon, for so in the morning
+had her father commanded her, and never yet in her life had she either
+disputed or disobeyed her parent's commands. Here the young princess
+looked on her mother with eyes expressive of her joy at finding a
+companion, which she, and even the fairy herself, could not disapprove.
+
+When Rozella took her leave, she begged the favour that the little Hebe
+(for so she called her, not knowing her to be a princess) might come
+to her father's small cottage, and there partake such homely fare as it
+afforded; a welcome, she said, she could insure her; and though poor,
+yet from the honesty of her parents, who would be proud to entertain
+so rare a beauty, she was certain no sort of harm could happen to the
+pretty Hebe, from such a friendly visit; and she would be in the same
+place again tomorrow, to meet her, in hopes, as she said, to conduct her
+to her humble habitation.
+
+When Rozella was gone, the queen, though highly possessed in her favour,
+both by her beauty and modest behaviour, yet pondered some time on the
+thought, whether or no she was a fit companion for her daughter. She
+remembered what Sybella had told her, concerning Brunetta's adorning
+young shepherdesses with beauty, and other excellences, only to enable
+them the better to allure and entice others into wickedness. Rozella's
+beginning her acquaintance too with the princess, by flattery, had no
+good aspect; and the sudden effect it had upon her, so as to make her
+forget, or wilfully disobey, her commands, by inviting Rozella to
+Placid Grove, were circumstances which greatly alarmed her. But, by
+the repeated entreaties of the princess, she gave her consent that she
+should meet Rozella the next day, and walk with her in that meadow, and
+in the wood, but upon no account should she go home with her, or
+bring Rozella back with her. The queen then, in gentle terms, chid the
+princess for her invitation to the young shepherdess, which was contrary
+to an absolute command; and said, 'You must, my dear Hebe, be very
+careful to guard yourself extremely well against those temptations
+which wear the face of virtue. I know that your sudden affection to this
+apparent good girl, and your desire of her company, to partake with
+you the innocent pleasures of this happy place, arise from a good
+disposition; but where the indulgence of the most laudable passion, even
+benevolence and compassion itself, interferes with, or runs counter to
+your duty, you must endeavour to suppress it, or it will fare with you,
+as it did with that hen, who, thinking that she heard the voice of a
+little duckling in distress, flew from her young ones, to go and give it
+assistance, and following the cry, came at last to a hedge, out of which
+jumped a subtle and wicked fox, who had made that noise to deceive
+her, and devoured her in an instant. A kite at the same time, taking
+advantage of her absence, carried away, one by one, all her little
+innocent brood, robbed of that parent who should have been their
+protector.' The princess promised her mother that she would punctually
+obey all her commands, and be very watchful and observant of everything
+Rozella said and did, till she had approved herself worthy of her
+confidence and friendship.
+
+The queen the next morning renewed her injunctions to her daughter, that
+she should by no means go farther out of the wood than into the meadow,
+where she was to meet Rozella, and that she should give her a faithful
+account of all that should pass between them.
+
+They met according to appointment, and the princess brought home so good
+an account of their conversation, which the queen imagined would help to
+improve, rather than seduce her child, that she indulged her in the same
+pleasure as often as she asked it. They passed some hours every day
+in walking round that delightful wood, in which were many small green
+meadows, with little rivulets running through them, on the banks of
+which, covered with primroses and violets, Rozella, by the side of her
+sweet companion, used to sing the most enchanting songs in the world:
+the words were chiefly in praise of innocence and a country life.
+
+The princess came home every day more and more charmed with her young
+shepherdess, and recounted, as near as she could remember, every word
+that had passed between them. The queen very highly approved of their
+manner of amusing themselves; but again enjoined her to omit nothing
+that passed in conversation, especially if it had the least tendency
+towards alluring her from her duty.
+
+One day, as the princess Hebe and Rozella were walking alone, and
+talking, as usual, of their own happy state, and the princess was
+declaring how much her own happiness was owing to her thorough obedience
+to her mother, Rozella, with a tone of voice as half in jest, said, 'But
+don't you think, my little Hebe, that if I take a very great pleasure in
+any thing that will do me no hurt, though it is forbidden, I may disobey
+my parents in enjoying it, provided I don't tell them of it to vex them
+with the thought that I have disobeyed them? And then, my dear, what
+harm is done?'
+
+'Great harm (answered the princess, looking grave and half angry): I am
+ashamed to hear you talk so, Rozella. Are you not guilty of treachery,
+as well as disobedience? Neither ought you to determine that no harm
+is done, because you do not feel the immediate effects of your
+transgression; for the consequence may be out of our narrow
+inexperienced view; and I have been taught whenever my mother lays
+any commands on me, to take it for granted, she has some reason for
+so doing; and I obey her, without examining what those reasons are;
+otherwise, it would not be obeying her, but setting up my own wisdom,
+and doing what she bid me, only when I thought proper.'
+
+They held a long argument on this head, in which Rozella made use of
+many a fallacy to prove her point; but the princess, as she had not yet
+departed from Truth, nor failed in her duty, could not be imposed upon.
+Rozella, seeing every attempt to persuade her was in vain, turned all
+her past discourse into a jest; said she had only a mind to try her; and
+was overjoyed to find her so steady in the cause of truth and virtue.
+The princess resumed her usual cheerfulness and good humour. Rozella
+sung her a song in praise of constancy of mind; and they passed the rest
+of the time they stayed together, as they used to do.
+
+But, just before they parted, Rozella begged she would not tell her
+mother of the first part of the conversation that had passed between
+them. The princess replied, that it would be breaking through one of her
+mother's commands, and therefore she dared not grant her request. Then,
+said Rozella, 'Here I must for ever part with my dear little Hebe.
+Your mother, not knowing the manner in which I spoke, will have an ill
+opinion of me, and will never trust you again in my company. Thus will
+you be torn from me; and loss will be irreparable.' These words she
+accompanied with a flood of tears, and such little tendernesses, as
+quite melted the princess into tears also. But she still said, that she
+could not dare to conceal from her mother anything that had happened,
+though she could not but own, she believed their separation would be
+the consequence. 'Well then (cried Rozella) I will endeavour to be
+contented, as our separation will give you less pain than what you call
+this mighty breach of your duty: and though I would willingly undergo
+almost any torments that could be invented, rather than be debarred one
+moment the company of my dearest Hebe, yet I will not expect that she
+should suffer the smallest degree of pain, or uneasiness, to save me
+from losing what is the whole pleasure of my life.'
+
+The princess could not bear the thought of appearing ungrateful to such
+a warm friendship as Rozella expressed; and, without farther hesitation,
+promised to conceal what she had said, and to undergo anything, rather
+than lose so amiable a friend.
+
+After this they parted. But when the princess entered the Grove, she did
+not, as usual, run with haste and joy into the presence of her indulgent
+mother; for her mind was disturbed: she felt a conscious shame on seeing
+her, and turned away her face, as wanting to shun the piercing look of
+that eye, which she imagined would see the secret lurking in her
+bosom. Her mother observed with concern her downcast look, and want of
+cheerfulness. And asking her what was the matter, she answered, her
+walk had fatigued her, and she begged early to retire to rest. Her
+kind mother consented; but little rest had the poor princess that whole
+night, for the pain of having her mind touched with guilt, and the fear
+she was under of losing her dear companion, kept her thoughts in one
+continued tumult and confusion. The fairy's gift now became her curse;
+for the power of seeing what was right, as she had acted contrary to her
+knowledge, only tormented her.
+
+She hastened the next morning to meet Rozella, and told her all that had
+passed in her own mind the preceding night; declaring that she would not
+pass such another for the whole world; but yet would not dispense with
+her promise to her, without her consent; and therefore came to ask her
+leave to acquaint her good mother with all that had passed: 'For (said
+she) my dear Rozella, we must, if we would be happy, do always what is
+right, and trust for the consequences.' Here Rozella drew her features
+into the most contemptuous sneer imaginable, and said, 'Pray what are
+all these mighty pains you have suffered? Are they not owing only to
+your want of sense enough to know, that you can do your mother no harm,
+by concealing from her this, or anything else that will vex her? and,
+my dear girl (continued she) when you have once entered into this way of
+thinking, and have put this blind duty out of your head, you will spend
+no more such restless nights, which you must see was entirely owing to
+your own imaginations.'
+
+This startled the princess to such a degree, that she was breaking from
+her, but, putting on a more tender air, Rozella cried, 'And can
+you then, my dear Hebe, determine to give me up for such a trifling
+consideration?' Then raising her voice again, in a haughty manner, she
+said, 'I ought to despise and laugh at you for your folly, or at best
+pity your ignorance, rather than offer a sincere friendship to one so
+undeserving.'
+
+The princess, having once swerved from her duty, was now in the power of
+every passion that should attack her.
+
+Pride and indignation, at the thought of being despised, bore more sway
+with her, than either her duty or affection to her fond mother; and she
+was now determined, she said, to think for herself, and make use of her
+own understanding, which she was convinced would always teach her what
+was right. Upon this Rozella took her by the hand, and, with tears
+of joy, said, 'Now, my dearest girl, you are really wise, and cannot
+therefore (according to your own rule) fail of being happy. But to show
+that you are in earnest in this resolution, you shall this morning go
+home with me to my father's cot; it is not so far off, but you will be
+back by the time your mother expects you; and as that will be obeying
+the chief command, it is but concealing from her the thing that would
+vex her, and there will be no harm done.' Here a ray of truth broke in
+upon our young princess; but as a false shame, and fear of being laughed
+at, had now got possession of her, she, with a soft sigh, consented to
+the proposal.
+
+Rozella led the way. But just as they were turning round the walk, which
+leads out of the wood, a large serpent darted from one side out of a
+thicket, directly between them, and turning its hissing mouth towards
+the princess, as seeming to make after her, she fled hastily back, and
+ran with all her speed towards the grove, and panting for breath, flew
+into the arms of her ever kind protectress.
+
+Her mother was vastly terrified to see her tremble, and look so pale;
+and as soon as she was a little recovered, asked her the occasion of her
+fright, and added (with tears running down her cheeks) 'I am afraid, my
+dear Hebe, some sad disaster has befallen you, for, indeed, my child, I
+but too plainly saw last night--'
+
+Here the princess was so struck with true shame and confusion, for her
+past behaviour, that she fell down upon her knees, confessed the whole
+truth, and implored forgiveness for her fault.
+
+The queen kindly raised her up, kissed and forgave her. 'I am overjoyed,
+my dear child (said she) at this your sweet repentance, though the
+effect of mere accident, as it appears but sent, without doubt, by some
+good fairy, to save you from destruction; and I hope you are thoroughly
+convinced, that the serpent which drove you home, was not half so
+dangerous as the false Rozella.'
+
+The princess answered, that she was thoroughly sensible of the dangers
+she had avoided, and hoped she never should again, by her own folly and
+wickedness, deserve to be exposed to the danger from which she had so
+lately escaped.
+
+Some days passed, without the princess's offering to stir out of the
+grove; and in that time she gave a willing and patient ear to all her
+mother's instructions, and seemed thoroughly sensible of the great
+deliverance she had lately experienced. But yet there appeared in her
+countenance an uneasiness, which the queen wishing to remove, asked her
+the cause of.
+
+'It is, dear madam,' answered the princess, 'because I have not yet had
+it in my power to convince you of my repentance, which (though I know it
+to be sincere) you have had no proof of, but in words only; and, indeed,
+my heart longs for an occasion to show you, that I am now able to resist
+any allurement which would tempt me from my duty; and I cannot be easy
+till you have given me an opportunity of showing you the firmness of
+my resolution; and if you will give me leave to take a walk in the
+wood alone, this evening, I shall return to you with pleasure, and will
+promise not to exceed any bounds that you shall prescribe.'
+
+The queen was not much pleased with this request; but the princess was
+so earnest with her to grant it, that she could not well refuse, without
+seeming to suspect her sincerity; which she did not, but only feared for
+her safety, and, giving her a strict charge, not to stir a step out of
+the wood, or to speak to the false Rozella, if she came in her way, she
+reluctantly gave her consent.
+
+The princess walked through all the flowery labyrinths, in which she had
+so often strayed with Rozella; but she was so shocked with the thoughts
+of her wickedness, that she hardly gave a sigh for the loss of a
+companion once so dear to her; and as a proof that her repentance
+was sincere, though she heard Rozella singing in an arbour (purposely
+perhaps to decoy her) she turned away without the least emotion, and
+went quite to the other side of the wood; where looking into the meadow,
+in which she first beheld that false friend, she saw a girl about her
+own age, leaning against a tree, and crying most bitterly. But the
+moment she came in sight, the young shepherdess (for such by her dress
+she appeared to be) cried out, 'O help, dear young lady, help me; for I
+am tied here to this tree, by the spiteful contrivance of a wicked young
+shepherdess called Rozella: my hands too, you see, are bound behind me,
+so that I cannot myself unloose the knot; and if I am not released, here
+must I lie all night and my wretched parents will break their hearts,
+for fear some sad accident should have befallen their only child, their
+poor unhappy Florimel!'
+
+The Princess, hearing her speak of Rozella in that manner, had no
+suspicion of her being one of that false girl's deluding companions;
+but rather thought that she was a fellow-sufferer with herself; and
+therefore, without any consideration of the bounds prescribed, she
+hastened to relieve her, and even thought that she should have great
+pleasure in telling her mother, that she had saved a poor young
+shepherdess from Rozella's malice, and restored her to her fond parents.
+But as soon as she had unloosed the girl from the tree, and unbound her
+hands, instead of receiving thanks for what she had done, the wicked
+Florimel burst into a laugh, and suddenly snatching from the Princess
+Hebe's side her father's picture, which she always wore hanging in a
+ribbon, she ran away with it, as fast as she could, over the meadow.
+
+The Princess was so astonished at this strange piece of ingratitude
+and treachery, and was so alarmed for fear of losing what she knew her
+mother so highly valued, that hardly knowing what she was about, she
+pursued Florimel with all her speed, begging and entreating her not to
+bereave her so basely and ungratefully of that picture, which she would
+not part with for the world: but it was all to no purpose for Florimel
+continued her flight, and the princess her pursuit, till they arrived
+at Brunetta's castle-gate; where the fairy herself appeared dressed and
+adorned in the most becoming manner, and, with the most bewitching smile
+that can come from dazzling beauty, invited the princess to enter her
+castle (into which Florimel was run to hide herself) and promised her,
+on that condition, to make the idle girl restore the picture.
+
+It was now so late, that it was impossible for the princess to think
+of returning home that night; and the pleasing address of Brunetta,
+together with the hopes of having her picture restored, soon prevailed
+with her to accept of the fairy's invitation.
+
+The castle glittered with gaudy furniture; sweet music was heard in
+every room; the whole company, who were all of the most beautiful forms
+that could be conceived, strove who should be most obliging to this
+their new guest. They omitted nothing that could amuse and delight the
+senses. And the Princess Hebe was so entranced with joy and rapture,
+that she had not time for thought, or for the least serious reflection;
+and she now began to think, that she had attained the highest happiness
+upon earth.
+
+After they had kept her three days in this round of pleasure and
+delight, they began to pull of the mask; nothing was heard but quarrels,
+jars, and galling speeches. Instead of sweet music, the apartments were
+filled with screams and howling; for every one giving way to the most
+outrageous passions, they were always doing each other some malicious
+turn, and only universal horror and confusion reigned.
+
+The princess was hated by all, and was often asked, with insulting
+sneers, why she did not return to her peaceful grove, and condescending
+mother? But her mind having been thus turned aside from what was right,
+could not bear the thoughts of returning; and though by her daily tears,
+she showed her repentance, shame prevented her return: but this again
+was not the right sort of shame; for then she would humbly have taken
+the punishment due to her crime; and it was rather a stubborn pride,
+which, as she knew herself so highly to blame, would not give her leave
+to suffer the confusion of again confessing her fault; and till she
+could bring herself to such a state of mind, there was no remedy for her
+misery.
+
+
+Just as Miss Jenny had read these words, Mrs. Teachum remembering some
+orders necessary to give in her family, left them, but bid them go on,
+saying she would return again in a quarter of an hour. But she was no
+sooner gone from them, than our little company, hearing the sound of
+trumpets and kettle-drums, which seemed to be playing at some little
+distance from Mrs. Teachum's house, suddenly started from their seats,
+running directly to the terrace; and, looking over the garden wall,
+they saw a troop of soldiers riding by, with these instruments of music
+playing before them.
+
+They were highly delighted with the gallant and splendid appearance of
+these soldiers, and watched them till they were out of sight, and were
+then returning to their arbour, where Miss Jenny had been reading; but
+Miss Nanny Spruce espied another such troop coming out of the lane from
+whence the first had issued, and cried out, 'O! here is another fine
+sight; let us stay, and see these go by too.' 'Indeed (said Miss Dolly
+Friendly) I am in such pain for the poor princess Hebe, while she is in
+that sad castle, that I had rather hear how she escaped (for that I hope
+she will) than see all the soldiers in the world; and besides, it is but
+seeing the same thing we have just looked at before.' Here some were for
+staying, and others for going back; but as Miss Dolly's party was the
+strongest, the few were ashamed to avow their inclinations; and they
+were returning to the arbour, when they met Mrs. Teachum, who informed
+them their dancing master was just arrived, and they must attend him;
+but in the evening they might finish their story.
+
+They were so curious (and especially Miss Dolly Friendly) to know what
+was to become of the princess, that they could have wished not to have
+been interrupted; but yet, without one word of answer, they complied
+with what their governess thought most proper; and in the evening,
+hastening to their arbour, Mrs. Teachum herself being present, Miss
+Jenny went on in the following manner:
+
+
+
+
+THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED.
+
+The queen, in the meantime, suffered for the loss of her child more than
+words can express, till the good fairy Sybella returned. The queen burst
+into tears at the sight of her; but the fairy immediately cried out,
+'You may spare yourself, my royal guest, the pain of relating what has
+happened. I know it all; for that old man, whom I took such pity on, was
+a phantom, raised by Brunetta, to allure me hence, in order to have an
+opportunity, in my absence, of seducing the princess from her duty.
+She knew nothing but a probable story could impose on me, and therefore
+raised that story of the misery of the old man's son (from motives which
+too often, indeed, cause the misery of mortals); as knowing I should
+think it my duty to do what I could to relieve such a wretch. I will not
+tell you all my journey, nor what I have gone through. I know your
+mind is at present too much fixed on the princess, to attend to such
+a relation I'll only tell you what concerns yourself. When the phantom
+found, that by no distress he could perturb my mind, he said he was
+obliged to tell the truth, what was the intention of my being deluded
+from home, and what had happened since; and then vanished away.' Here
+the fairy related to the queen everything that had happened to the
+princess, as has already been written; and concluded with saying, that
+she would wander about the castle walls (for Brunetta had no power over
+her); and if she could get a sight of the princess, she would endeavour
+to bring her to a true sense of her fault, and then she might again be
+restored to happiness.
+
+The queen blessed the fairy for her goodness; and it was not long before
+Sybella's continual assiduity got her a sight of the princess; for
+she often wandered a little way towards that wood she had once so
+much delighted in, but never could bring herself to enter into it: the
+thought of seeing her injured mother made her start back, and run half
+wild into the fatal castle. Rozella used frequently to throw herself
+in her way; and on hearing her sighs, and seeing her tears, would burst
+into a sneering laugh at her folly; to avoid which laugh, the poor
+princess first suffered herself to throw off all her principles of
+goodness and obedience, and was now fallen into the very contempt she so
+much dreaded.
+
+The first time the fairy got a sight of her, she called to her with the
+most friendly voice; but the princess, stung to the soul with the sight
+of her, fled away, and did not venture out again in several days. The
+kind Sybella began almost to despair of regaining her lost child; but
+never failed walking round the castle many hours every day. And one
+evening, just before the sun set, she heard within the gates a loud
+tumultuous noise, but more like riotous mirth, than either the voice
+either of rage or anger; and immediately she saw the princess rush out
+at the gate, and about a dozen girls, laughing and shouting, running
+after her. The poor princess flew with all her speed till she came to a
+little arbour, just by the side of the wood; and her pursuers, as they
+intended only to tease her, did not follow her very close; but, as soon
+as they lost sight of her, turned all back again to the castle.
+
+Sybella went directly into the arbour, where she found the little
+trembler prostrate on the ground, crying and sobbing as if her heart was
+breaking. The fairy seized her hand, and would not let her go till she
+had prevailed with her to return to the Placid Grove, to throw herself
+once more at her mother's feet, assuring her, that nothing but this
+humble state of mind could cure her misery and restore her wonted peace.
+
+The queen was filled with the highest joy to see her child; but
+restrained herself so much, that she showed not the least sign of it,
+till she had seen her some time prostrate at her feet, and had heard
+her with tears properly confess, and ask pardon for, all her faults. She
+then raised, and once more forgave her; but told her that she must learn
+more humility and distrust of herself, before she should again expect to
+be trusted.
+
+The princess answered not, but with a modest downcast look which
+expressed her concern and true repentance, and in a short time recovered
+her former peace of mind; and as she never afterwards disobeyed her
+indulgent mother, she daily increased in wisdom and goodness.
+
+After having lived on in the most innocent and peaceful manner for three
+years (the princess being just turned of eighteen years old) the fairy
+told the queen that she would now tell her some news of her kingdom,
+which she had heard in her journey; namely, that her sister-in-law
+was dead, and her brother-in-law had made proclamation throughout the
+kingdom, of great rewards to any one who should produce the queen and
+the Princess Hebe, whom he would immediately reinstate on the throne.
+
+The Princess Hebe was by when she related this, and said she begged
+to lead a private life, and never more be exposed to the temptation of
+entering into vice, for which she already had so severely smarted.
+
+The fairy told her, that, since she doubted herself, she was now fit
+to be trusted; for, said she, 'I did not like your being so sure of
+resisting temptation, when first I conferred on you the gift of wisdom.
+But you will, my princess, if you take the crown, have an opportunity
+of doing so much good, that, if you continue virtuous, you will have
+perpetual pleasures; for power, if made a right use of, is indeed a very
+great blessing.'
+
+The princess answered, that if the queen, her mother, thought it her
+duty to take the crown, she would cheerfully submit, though a private
+life would be otherwise her choice.
+
+The queen replied, that she did not blame her for choosing a private
+life; but she thought she could not innocently refuse the power that
+would give her such opportunities of doing good, and making others
+happy; since, by that refusal, the power might fall into hands that
+would make an ill use of it.
+
+After this conversation, they got into the same car in which they
+travelled to the wood of Ardella; arrived safely at the city of
+Algorada; and the Princess Hebe was seated, with universal consent, on
+her father's throne; where she and her people were reciprocally happy,
+by her great wisdom and prudence; and the queen-mother spent the
+remainder of her days in peace and joy, to see her beloved daughter
+prove a blessing to such numbers of human creatures; whilst she herself
+enjoyed that only true content and happiness this world can produce;
+namely, a peaceful conscience, and a quiet mind.
+
+
+When Miss Jenny had finished her story, Mrs. Teachum left them for
+the present, that they might with the utmost freedom make their own
+observations; for she knew she should be acquainted with all their
+sentiments from Miss Jenny afterwards.
+
+The little hearts of all the company were swelled with joy, in that
+the Princess Hebe was at last made happy; for hope and fear had each by
+turns possessed their bosoms for the fate of the little princess; and
+Miss Dolly Friendly said, that Rozella's artful manner was enough to
+have drawn in the wisest girl into her snares; and she did not see how
+it was possible for the Princess Hebe to withstand it, especially when
+she cried for fear of parting with her.
+
+Miss Sukey Jennett said, that Rozella's laughing at her, and using her
+with contempt, she thought was insupportable, for who could bear the
+contempt of a friend?
+
+Many and various were the remarks made by Miss Jenny's hearers on the
+story she had read to them. But now they were so confirmed in goodness,
+and every one was so settled in her affection for her companions,
+that, instead of being angry at any opposition that was made to their
+judgments, every one spoke her opinion with the utmost mildness.
+
+Miss Jenny sat some time silent to hear their conversation on her fairy
+tale. But her seeing them so much altered in their manner of talking to
+each other, since the time they made their little remarks on her story
+of the giants, filled her whole mind with the most sincere pleasure; and
+with a smile peculiar to herself, and which diffused a cheerfulness to
+all around her, she told her companions the joy their present behaviour
+had inspired her with; but saying that it was as late as their governess
+chose they should stay out, she rose, and walked towards the house,
+whither she was cheerfully followed by the whole company.
+
+Mrs. Teachum after supper, again, in a familiar manner, talked to
+them on the subject of the fairy tale, and encouraged them, as much as
+possible, to answer her freely in whatever she asked them; and at last
+said, 'My good children, I am very much pleased when you are innocently
+amused; and yet I would have you consider seriously enough of what you
+read, to draw such morals from your books, as may influence your future
+practice; and as to fairy tales in general, remember, that the fairies,
+as I told Miss Jenny before of giants and magic, are only introduced by
+the writers of those tales, by way of amusement to the reader. For if
+the story is well written, the common course of things would produce the
+same incidents, without the help of fairies.
+
+'As for example, in this of the Princess Hebe, you see the queen her
+mother was not admitted to know the fairy's history, till she could calm
+her mind enough to hearken to reason; which only means, that whilst we
+give way to the raging of our passions, nothing useful can ever sink
+into our minds. For by the fairy Sybella's story you find, that by our
+own faults we may turn the greatest advantages into our own misery, as
+Sybella's mother did her beauty, by making use of the influence it gave
+her over her husband, to tease him into the ruin of his child; and as
+also Brunetta did, by depending on her father's gift, to enable her to
+complete her desires, and therefore never endeavouring to conquer them.
+
+'You may observe also on the other side, that no accident had any power
+to hurt Sybella, because she followed the paths of virtue, and kept her
+mind free from restless passions.
+
+'You see happiness in the good Sybella's peaceful grove, and misery
+in the wicked Brunetta's gaudy castle. The queen desiring the fairy to
+endow her child with true wisdom, was the cause that the Princess Hebe
+had it in her power to be happy. But take notice, that when she swerved
+from her duty, all her knowledge was of no use, but only rendered her
+more miserable, by letting her see her own folly in the stronger light.
+Rozella first tempted the princess to disobedience, by moving her
+tenderness, and alarming her friendship, in fearing to part with her;
+and then by persuading her to set up her own wisdom, in opposition to
+her mother's commands, rather than be laughed at, and despised by
+her friends. You are therefore to observe, that if you would steadily
+persevere in virtue, you must have resolution enough to stand the sneers
+of those who would allure you to vice; for it is the constant practice
+of the vicious, to endeavour to allure others to follow their example,
+by an affected contempt and ridicule of virtue.
+
+'By the Princess Hebe's being drawn at last beyond the prescribed
+bounds, by the cries and entreaties of that insidious girl, you are to
+learn, that whatever appearance of virtue any action may be attended
+with, yet if it makes you go contrary to the commands of those who know
+better what is for your good, than you do your selves, and who can see
+farther into the consequences of actions than can your tender years, it
+will certainly lead you into error and misfortune; and you find, as soon
+as the princess had once overleaped the bounds, another plausible excuse
+arose to carry her on; and by a false fear of incurring her mother's
+displeasure, she really deserved that displeasure, and was soon reduced
+into the power of her enemy.
+
+'The princess, you see, could have no happiness till she returned again
+to her obedience, and had confessed her fault. And though in this story
+all this is brought about by fairies, yet the moral of it is, that
+whenever we give way to our passions, and act contrary to our duty, we
+must be miserable.
+
+'But let me once more observe to you, that these fairies are only
+intended to amuse you; for remember that the misery which attended the
+Princess Hebe, on her disobedience, was the natural consequence of that
+disobedience, as well as the natural consequence of her amendment and
+return to her duty, was content and happiness for the rest of her life.'
+
+Here good Mrs. Teachum ceased, and Miss Jenny, in the name of the
+company, thanked her for her kind instructions, and promised that they
+would endeavour, to the utmost of their power, to imprint them on their
+memory for the rest of their lives.
+
+
+
+
+SUNDAY. THE SEVENTH DAY.
+
+This morning our little society rose very early, and were all dressed
+with neatness and elegance, in order to go to church. Mrs. Teachum put
+Miss Polly Suckling before her, and the rest followed, two and two, with
+perfect regularity.
+
+Mrs. Teachum expressed great approbation, that her scholars, at this
+solemn place, showed no sort of childishness, notwithstanding their
+tender age; but behaved with decency and devotion suitable to the
+occasion.
+
+They went again in the same order, and behaved again in the same manner,
+in the afternoon; and when they returned from church, two young ladies,
+Lady Caroline and Lady Fanny Delun, who had formerly known Miss Jenny
+Peace, and who were at present in that neighbourhood with their uncle,
+came to make her a visit.
+
+Lady Caroline was fourteen years of age, tall and genteel in her person,
+of a fair complexion, and a regular set of features so that, upon the
+whole, she was generally complimented with being very handsome.
+
+Lady Fanny, who was one year younger than her sister, was rather little
+of her age, of a brown complexion, her features irregular; and, in
+short, she had not the least real pretensions to beauty.
+
+It was but lately that their father was, by the death of his eldest
+brother, become Earl of Delun; so that their titles were new, and they
+had not been long used to your ladyship.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace received them as her old acquaintance: however, she
+paid them the deference due to their quality, and, at the same time,
+took care not to behave as if she imagined they thought of anything
+else.
+
+As it was her chief delight to communicate her pleasures to others, she
+introduced her new-made friends to her old acquaintance, and expected to
+have spent a very agreeable afternoon. But to describe the behaviour of
+these two young ladies is very difficult. Lady Caroline, who was dressed
+in a pink robe, embroidered thick with gold, and adorned with very fine
+jewels, and the finest Mechlin lace, addressed most of her discourse to
+her sister, that she might have the pleasure every minute of uttering
+'Your ladyship,' in order to show what she herself expected. And as
+she spoke, her fingers were in perpetual motion, either adjusting her
+tucker, placing her plaits of her robe, or fiddling with a diamond
+cross, that hung down on her bosom, her eyes accompanying her fingers as
+they moved, and then suddenly being snatched off, that she might not be
+observed to think of her own dress; yet was it plain, that her thoughts
+were employed on only that and her titles. Miss Jenny Peace, although
+she would have made it her choice always to have been in company who did
+not deserve ridicule, yet had she humour enough to treat affectation
+as it deserved. And she addressed herself to Lady Caroline with so many
+ladyships, and such praises of her fine clothes, as she hoped would have
+made her ashamed; but Lady Caroline was too full of her own vanity, to
+see her design, and only exposed herself ten times the more, till she
+really got the better of Miss Jenny, who blushed for her, since she was
+incapable of blushing for herself.
+
+Lady Fanny's dress was plain and neat only, nor did she mention anything
+about it; and it was very visible her thoughts were otherwise employed,
+neither did she seem to take any delight in the words 'Your ladyship':
+but she tossed and threw her person about into so many ridiculous
+postures, and as there happened unfortunately to be no looking-glass
+in the room where they sat, she turned and rolled her eyes so many
+different ways, in endeavouring to view as much of herself as possible,
+that it was very plain to the whole company she thought herself a
+beauty, and admired herself for being so.
+
+Our little society, whose hearts were so open to each other, that they
+had not a thought they endeavoured to conceal, were so filled with
+contempt at Lady Caroline and Lady Fanny's behaviour, and yet so
+strictly obliged, by good manners, not to show that contempt, that
+the reserve they were forced to put on, laid them under so great a
+restraint, that they knew not which way to turn themselves, or how
+to utter one word; and great was their joy when Lady Caroline, as the
+eldest, led the way, and with a swimming curtsey, her head turned half
+round on one shoulder, and a disdainful eye, took her leave, repeating
+two or three times the word 'misses,' to put them in mind, that she
+was a lady. She was followed by her sister Lady Fanny, who made a slow
+distinct curtsey to every one in the room, that she might be the
+longer under observation. And then taking Miss Jenny by the hand, said,
+'Indeed, Miss, you are very pretty,' in order to put them in mind of her
+own beauty.
+
+Our little society, as soon as they were released, retired to their
+arbour, where, for some time, they could talk of nothing but this visit.
+Miss Jenny Peace remarked how many shapes vanity would turn itself into,
+and desired them to observe, how ridiculously Lady Caroline Delun turned
+her whole thoughts on her dress, and condition of life; and how absurd
+it was in Lady Fanny, who was a very plain girl, to set up for a beauty,
+and to behave in a manner which would render her contemptible, even if
+she had that beauty her own vanity made her imagine herself possessed
+of.
+
+Miss Nanny Spruce said, 'She was greatly rejoiced that she had seen her
+folly; for she could very well remember when she had the same vanity of
+dress and superiority of station with Lady Caroline, though she had not,
+indeed, a title to support it; and in what manner, she said, she would
+tell them in the story of her life.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS NANNY SPRUCE.
+
+Miss Nanny Spruce was just nine years old, and was the very reverse of
+Patty Lockit, in all things; for she had little limbs, little features,
+and such a compactness in her form, that she was often called the little
+fairy. She had the misfortune to be lame in one of her hips; but by good
+management, and a briskness and alacrity in carrying herself, it was a
+very small blemish to her, and looked more like an idle childish gait,
+than any real defect.
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS NANNY SPRUCE.
+
+'My delight,' said Miss Nanny Spruce, 'ever since I can remember,
+has been in dress and finery; for whenever I did as I was bid, I was
+promised fine coats, ribbons, and laced caps; and when I was stubborn
+and naughty, then my fine things were all to be locked up, and I was to
+wear only an old stuff coat; so that I thought the only reward I could
+have was to be dressed fine and the only punishment was to be plainly
+dressed. By this means I delighted so much in fine clothes, that I never
+thought of anything but when I should have something new to adorn myself
+in; and I have sat whole days considering what should be my next new
+coat; for I had always my choice given me of the colour.
+
+'We lived in a country parish, my papa being the only gentleman, so that
+all the little girls in the parish used to take it as a great honour to
+play with me. And I used to delight to show them my fine things, and to
+see that they could not come at any but very plain coats. However, as
+they did not pretend to have anything equal with me, I was kind enough
+to them. As to those girls whose parents were so very poor that they
+went in rags, I did not suffer them to come near me.
+
+'Whilst I was at home, I spent my time very pleasantly, as no one
+pretended to be my equal; but as soon as I came to school, where other
+misses were as fine as myself, and some finer, I grew very miserable.
+Every new coat, every silver ribbon, that any of my schoolfellows wore,
+made me unhappy. Your scarlet damask, Miss Betty Ford, cost me a week's
+pain; and I lay awake, and sighed and wept all night, because I did not
+dare to spoil it. I had several plots in my head, to have dirtied it, or
+cut it, so as to have made it unfit to wear; by some accident my plots
+were prevented; and then I was so uneasy, I could not tell what to do
+with myself; and so afraid, lest any body should suspect me of such a
+thing, that I could not sleep in peace, for fear I should dream of it,
+and in my sleep discover it to my bedfellow. I would not go through the
+same dreads and terrors again for the world. But I am very happy now,
+in having no thoughts but what my companions may know; for since that
+quarrel, and Miss Jenny Peace was so good as to show me what I'm sure
+I never thought of before, that is, that the road to happiness is by
+conquering such foolish vanities, and the only way to be pleased is
+to endeavour to please others, I have never known what it was to be
+uneasy.'
+
+
+As soon as Miss Nanny had finished speaking, Miss Betty Ford said, that
+she heartily forgave her all her former designs upon her scarlet coat;
+but, added she, Lady Fanny Delun put me no less in mind of my former
+life, than Lady Caroline did you of yours; and if Miss Jenny pleases, I
+will now relate it.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS BETTY FORD.
+
+Miss Betty Ford was of the same age with Miss Nanny Spruce, and much of
+the same height, and might be called the plainest girl in the school;
+for she had nothing pleasing either in her person or face, except an
+exceeding fair skin, and tolerable good black eyes; but her face was
+ill-shaped and broad, her hair very red, and all the summer she was
+generally very full of freckles; and she had also a small hesitation in
+her speech. But without preamble, she began her life as follows.
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS BETTY FORD.
+
+'My life,' said Miss Betty Ford, 'has hitherto passed very like that of
+Miss Nanny Spruce, only with this difference, that as all her thoughts
+were fixed on finery, my head ran on nothing but beauty. I had an elder
+sister, who was, I must own, a great deal handsomer than me; and yet, in
+my own mind, at that time, I did not think so, though I was always told
+it was not for me to pretend to the same things with pretty Miss Kitty
+(which was the name of my sister); and in all respects she was taken so
+much more notice of than I was, that I perfectly hated her, and could
+not help wishing that, by some accident, her beauty might be spoiled:
+whenever any visitors came to the house, their praises of her gave me
+the greatest vexation; and as I had made myself believe I was a very
+great beauty, I thought that it was prejudice and ill-nature in all
+around me, not to view me in that light. My sister Kitty was very good
+natured; and though she was thus cried up for her beauty, and indulged
+most on that account, yet she never insulted me, but did all in her
+power to oblige me. But I could not love her, and sometimes would raise
+lies against her, which did not signify, for she could always justify
+herself. I could not give any reason for hating her, but her beauty,
+for she was very good; but the better she was, I thought the worse
+I appeared. I could not bear her praises without teasing and vexing
+myself. At last, little Kitty died of a fever, to my great joy, though,
+as everybody cried for her, I cried too for company, and because I would
+not be thought ill-natured.
+
+'After Kitty's death, I lived tolerably easy, till I came to school.
+Then the same desire of beauty returned, and I hated all the misses who
+were handsomer than myself, as much as I had before hated my sister, and
+always took every opportunity of quarrelling with them, till I found my
+own peace was concerned, in getting the better of this disposition; and
+that, if I would have any content, I must not repine at my not being so
+handsome as others.'
+
+
+When Miss Betty Ford ceased, Miss Jenny said, 'Indeed, my dear, it is
+well you had not at that time the power of the eagle in the fable;
+for your poor sister might then, like the peacock, have said in a soft
+voice, "You are, indeed, a great beauty; but it lies in your beak and
+your talons, which make it death to me to dispute it."'
+
+Miss Betty Ford rejoiced, that her power did not extend to enable her to
+do mischief, before she had seen her folly. And now this little society,
+in good humour and cheerfulness, attended their kind governess's summons
+to supper; and then, after the evening prayers, they retired to their
+peaceful slumbers.
+
+
+
+
+MONDAY. THE EIGHTH DAY.
+
+Early in the morning, after the public prayers which Mrs. Teachum read
+every day, our little company took a walk in the garden whilst the
+breakfast was preparing.
+
+The fine weather, the prospects round them, all conspired to increase
+their pleasure. They looked at one another with delight; their minds
+were innocent and satisfied; and therefore every outward object was
+pleasing in their sight.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace said, she was sure they were happier than any other
+society of children whatever, except where the same harmony and love
+were preserved, as were kept up in their minds: 'For (continued she)
+I think now, my dear companions, I can answer for you all, that
+no mischievous, no malicious plots disturb the tranquility of your
+thoughts; plots, which in the end, constantly fall on the head of
+those who invent them, after all the pains they cost in forming, and
+endeavouring to execute.'
+
+Whilst Miss Jenny Peace was talking, Miss Dolly Friendly looked at her
+very earnestly. She would not interrupt her; but the moment she was
+silent, Miss Dolly said, 'My dear Miss Jenny, what is the matter with
+you? your eyes are swelled, and you look as if you had been crying. If
+you have any grief that you keep to yourself, you rob us of the share we
+have a right to demand in all that belongs to you.'
+
+'No, indeed (answered Miss Jenny), I have nothing that grieves me;
+though, if I had, I should think it increased, rather than lessened, by
+your being grieved too; but last night, after I went upstairs, I found
+amongst my books the play of the Funeral, or, Grief-a-la-mode; where the
+faithful and tender behaviour of a good old servant, who had long lived
+in his lord's family, with many other passages in the play (which I
+cannot explain, unless you knew the whole story) made me cry, so that I
+could hardly stop my tears.'
+
+'Pray, Miss Jenny, let us hear this play, that had such an effect on
+you,' was the general request; and Miss Jenny readily promised, when
+they met in their arbour, to read it to them.
+
+They eagerly ran to their arbour as soon as school was over, and Miss
+Jenny performed her promise, and was greatly pleased to find such a
+sympathy between her companions and herself; for they were most of them
+affected just in the same manner, and with the same parts of the play,
+as had before affected her.
+
+By the time they had wiped their eyes, and were rejoicing at the turn
+at the end of the play, in favour of the characters with which they were
+most pleased, Mrs. Teachum entered the arbour, and inquired what they
+had been reading. Miss Jenny immediately told her, adding, 'I hope,
+Madam, you will not think reading a play an improper amusement for us;
+for I should be very sorry to be guilty myself, or cause my companions
+to be guilty, of any thing that would meet with your disapprobation.'
+Mrs. Teachum answered, that she was not at all displeased with her
+having read a play, as she saw by her fear of offending, that her
+discretion was to be trusted to. 'Nay (continued this good woman), I
+like that you should know something of all kinds of writings, where
+neither morals nor manners are offended; for if you read plays, and
+consider them as you ought, you will neglect and despise what is light
+and useless, whilst you will imprint on your mind's every useful lesson
+that is to be drawn from them. I am very well acquainted with the play
+you have been reading; but that I may see whether you give the proper
+attention to what you have heard, I desire, my little girls, that one of
+you will give me an account of the chief incidents in the play, and tell
+me the story, just as you would do to one of your companions that had
+happened to have been absent.'
+
+Here they all looked upon Miss Jenny Peace, as thinking her the most
+capable of doing what their governess required. But Mrs. Teachum,
+reading their thoughts in their looks, said, 'I exclude Miss Jenny in
+this case; for as the play was of her choosing to read to you, I doubt
+not but she is thoroughly enough acquainted with every part of it; and
+my design was to try the memory and attention of some of the others.'
+
+They all remained silent, and seemed to wait for a more particular
+command, before any one would offer at the undertaking; not through
+any backwardness to comply with Mrs. Teachum's request, but each from a
+diffidence of herself to perform it.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace then said, that she had observed a great attention in
+them all; and she did not doubt but every one was able to give a very
+good account of what they had heard. 'But, as Miss Sukey Jennet is the
+eldest, I believe, madam, (continued she), if you approve it, they will
+all be very ready to depute her as their speaker.'
+
+Each smiled at being so relieved by Miss Jenny; and Mrs. Teachum, taking
+Miss Sukey Jennet by the hand, said, 'Come, my dear, throw off all fear
+and reserve; imagine me one of your companions, and tell me the story of
+the play you have been reading.'
+
+Miss Sukey, thus encouraged by her kind governess, without any
+hesitation, spoke in the following manner:
+
+'If I understand your commands, madam, by telling the story of the play,
+you would not have me tell you the acts and scenes as they followed one
+another for that I am afraid I can hardly remember, as I have heard
+it only once but I must describe the chief people in the play, and the
+plots and contrivances that are carried on amongst them.'
+
+Mrs. Teachum nodded her head, and Miss Sukey thus proceeded:
+
+
+'There is an old Lord Brumpton, who had married a young wife, that had
+lived with him some years, and by her deceitful and cunning ways had
+prevailed with him to disinherit his only son Lord Hardy (who was a very
+sensible good young man) and to leave him but a shilling. And this Lord
+Brumpton was taken in a fit, so that all the house thought he was dead,
+and his lady sent for an undertaker, one Mr. Sable, to bury him. But
+coming out of his fit, when nobody but this Mr. Sable, and an old
+servant, called Trusty, were by, he was prevailed upon by the good old
+Trusty to feign himself still dead (and the undertaker promises secrecy)
+in order to detect the wickedness of his wife, which old Trusty assures
+him is very great; and then he carries his lord where he overhears
+a discourse between the widow (as she thinks herself) and her maid
+Tattleaid; and he bears his once beloved wife rejoicing in his supposed
+death, and in the success of her own arts to deceive him. Then there are
+two young ladies, Lady Charlotte and Lady Harriet Lovely, to whom this
+Lord Brumpton was guardian; and he had also left them in the care of
+this wicked woman. And this young Lord Hardy was in love with Lady
+Charlotte; and Mr. Camply, a very lively young gentleman, his friend,
+was in love with Lady Harriet and Lady Brumpton locked the two young
+ladies up, and would not let them be seen by their lovers. But there
+at last they contrived, by the help of old Trusty, who had their real
+guardian's consent for it, both to get away; and Lady Harriet married
+Mr. Camply directly; but Lady Charlotte did not get away so soon, and
+so was not married till the end of the play. This Mr. Camply was a
+very generous man, and was newly come to a large fortune; and in the
+beginning of the play he contrives, in a very genteel manner, to give
+his friend Lord Hardy, who very much wanted it, three hundred pounds;
+but he takes care to let us know, that my lord had formerly, when he
+waited his assistance, been very kind to him. And there at last, when
+Lady Brumpton finds out that the two young ladies are gone, she goes
+away in a rage to Lord Hardy's lodgings, and in an insulting manner she
+pays all due legacies, as she calls it, that is, she gives Lord Hardy
+the shilling, which, by her wicked arts, was all his father had left
+him; and she was insulting the young ladies, and glorying in her
+wickedness, when honest old Trusty came in, and brought in old Lord
+Brumpton, whom they imagined to be dead, and all but Lady Brumpton
+were greatly overjoyed to see him alive; but when he taxed her with
+her falsehood, she defied him, and said that she had got a deed of
+gift under his hand, which he could not revoke, and she WOULD enjoy his
+fortune in spite of him. Upon which they all looked sadly vexed, till
+the good old Trusty went out and came in again, and brought in a man
+called Cabinet, who confessed himself the husband to the pretended Lady
+Brumpton, and that he was married to her half a year before she was
+married to my Lord Brumpton; but as my lord happened to fall in love
+with her, they agreed to keep their marriage concealed, in order that
+she should marry my lord, and cheat him in the manner she had done; and
+the reason that Cabinet came to confess all this was, that he looked
+into a closet and saw my lord writing, after he thought he was dead,
+and, taking it for his ghost, was by that means frightened into this
+confession, which he first made in writing to old Trusty, and therefore
+could not now deny it. They were all rejoiced at this discovery, except
+the late pretended Lady Brumpton, who sneaked away with Cabinet her
+husband; and my Lord Brumpton embraced his son, and gave his consent,
+that he should marry Lady Charlotte; and they were all pleased and
+happy.'
+
+Here Miss Sukey ceased, and Mrs. Teachum told her she was a very good
+girl, and had remembered a great deal of the play. 'But (said she) in
+time, with using yourself to this way of repeating what you have read,
+you will come to a better manner, and a more regular method of telling
+your story, which you was now so intent upon finishing, that you forgot
+to describe what sort of women those two young ladies were, though, as
+to all the rest, you have been particular enough.'
+
+'Indeed, madam, (said Miss Sukey), I had forgot that, but Lady Charlotte
+was a very sensible, grave young lady, and lady Harriet was extremely
+gay and coquettish; but Mr. Camply tells her how much it misbecomes her
+to be so and she having good sense, as well as good nature, is convinced
+of her folly, and likes him so well for his reproof, that she consents
+to marry him.'
+
+Mrs. Teachum, addressing herself to them all, told them, that this was
+a method she wished they would take with whatever they read; for nothing
+so strongly imprinted anything on the memory as such a repetition; and
+then turning to Miss Jenny Peace, she said, 'And now, Miss Jenny, I
+desire you will speak freely what you think is the chief moral to be
+drawn from the play you have just read.'
+
+Miss Jenny being thus suddenly asked a question of this nature,
+considered some time before she gave an answer; for she was naturally
+very diffident of her own opinion in anything where she had not been
+before instructed by some one she thought wiser than herself. At last,
+with a modest look, and an humble voice, she said, 'Since, madam,
+you have commanded me to speak my sentiments freely, I think by what
+happened to each character in this play, the author intended to prove
+what my good mamma first taught me, and what you, madam, since have so
+strongly confirmed me in; namely, that folly, wickedness, and misery,
+all three, as constantly dwell together, as wisdom, virtue, and
+happiness do.'
+
+''Tis very true (answered Mrs. Teachum); but this moral does not arise
+only from the happy turn in favour of the virtuous characters in the
+conclusion of the play, but is strongly inculcated, as you see all
+along, in the peace of mind that attends the virtuous, even in the
+midst of oppression and distress, while the event is yet doubtful, and
+apparently against them; and, on the contrary, in the confusion of mind
+which the vicious are tormented with, even whilst they falsely imagine
+themselves triumphant.'
+
+Mrs. Teachum then taking the book out of Miss Jenny's hands, and turning
+to the passage, said, 'How does Lady Brumpton show us the wretched
+condition of her own mind, when she says,
+
+'"How miserable 'tis to have one one hates always about one! And when
+one can't endure one's own reflections upon some actions, who can bear
+the thoughts of another upon them?"
+
+'Then with what perturbation of mind does she proceed, to wish it was in
+her power to increase her wickedness, without making use enough of her
+understanding, to see that by that means she would but increase her own
+misery.
+
+'On the other hand, what a noble figure does Lord Hardy make, when, by
+this wicked woman's contrivances, he thinks himself disinherited of his
+whole fortune, ill-treated, and neglected by a father, he never had in
+thought offended! He could give an opportunity to a sincere friend, who
+would not flatter him, to say,
+
+'"No; you are, my lord, the extraordinary man, who, on the loss of an
+almost princely fortune, can be master of a temper that makes you the
+envy rather than pity, of your more fortunate, not more happy friends."
+
+'This is a fine distinction between fortunate and happy; and intimates
+this happiness must dwell in the mind, and depends upon no outward
+accidents.
+
+'Fortune, indeed, is a blessing, if properly used; which Camply shows,
+when by that means he can assist and relieve his worthy friend.
+
+'With what advantage does Lady Charlotte appear over her sister, when
+the latter is trifling and dancing before the glass, and the former
+says,
+
+'"If I am at first so silly as to be a little taken with myself, I know
+it is a fault, and take pains to correct it."
+
+'And on Lady Harriet's saying, very giddily, that it was too soon for
+her to think at that rate, Lady Charlotte properly adds,
+
+'"They that think it too soon to understand themselves, will very soon
+find it too late."
+
+'In how ridiculous a light does Lady Harriet appear, while she is
+displaying all that foolish coquetry! And how different a figure does
+she make, when she has got the better of it?
+
+'My Lady Brumpton, when alarmed with the least noise, breaks out into
+all the convulsive starts natural to conscious guilt.
+
+'"Ha! what noise is that--that noise of fighting?--Run, I say.--Whither
+are you going?--What, are you mad?--Will you leave me alone?--Can't you
+stir?--What, you can't take your message with you!--Whatever 'tis, I
+suppose you are not in the plot, not you--nor that now they're breaking
+open my house for Charlotte--Not you.--Go see what's the matter, I say;
+I have nobody I can trust.--One minute I think this wench honest, and
+the next false.--Whither shall I turn me?"
+
+'This is a picture of the confused, the miserable mind of a close,
+malicious, cruel, designing woman, as Lady Brumpton was, and as Lady
+Harriet very properly calls her.
+
+'Honesty and faithfulness shine forth in all their lustre, in the
+good old Trusty. We follow him throughout with anxious wishes for his
+success, and tears of joy for his tenderness. And when he finds that he
+is likely to come at the whole truth, and to save his lord from being
+deceived and betrayed into unjustly ruining his noble son, you may
+remember that he makes this pious reflection:
+
+All that is ours, is to be justly bent; And Heaven in its own time will
+bless th' event.
+
+'This is the natural thought that proceeds from innocence and goodness;
+and surely this state of mind is happiness.
+
+'I have only pointed out a few passages, to show you, that though it is
+the nature of comedy to end happily, and therefore the good characters
+must be successful in the last act; yet the moral lies deeper, and is
+to be deduced from a proof throughout this play, that the natural
+consequence of vice is misery within, even in the midst of an apparent
+triumph; and the natural consequence of goodness is a calm peace of
+mind, even in the midst of oppression and distress.
+
+'I have endeavoured, my little dears, to show you, as clearly as I can,
+not only what moral is to be drawn from this play, but what is to be
+sought for in all others; and where that moral is not to be found, the
+writer will have it to answer for, that he has been guilty of one of
+the worst of evils; namely, that he has clothed vice in so beautiful
+a dress, that, instead of deterring, it will allure and draw into its
+snares the young and tender mind. And I am sorry to say, that too many
+of our dramatic performances are of this latter cast; which is
+the reason, that wise and prudent parents and governors in general
+discourage in very young people the reading of plays. And though by what
+I have said (if it makes a proper impression) I doubt not but you will
+all have a just abhorrence of such immoral plays, instead of being
+pleased with them, should they fall in your way; yet I would advise you
+rather to avoid them, and never to read any but such as are approved of;
+and recommended to you by those who have the care of your education.'
+
+Here good Mrs. Teachum ceased, and left her little scholars to reflect
+on what she had been saying; when Miss Jenny Peace declared, for her
+part, that she could feel the truth of her governess's observations; for
+she had rather be the innocent Lord Hardy, though she was to have but
+that one shilling in the world which was so insolently offered him as
+his father's last legacy, than be the Lady Brumpton, even though she had
+possessed the fortune she so treacherously endeavoured to obtain.
+
+'Nay (said Miss Dolly Friendly) I had rather have been old Trusty, with
+all the infirmities of age, following my Lord Hardy through the world,
+had his poverty and distress been ever so great, than have been the
+malicious Lady Brumpton, in the height of her beauty, surrounded by a
+crowd of lovers and flatterers.'
+
+Miss Henny Fret then declared how glad she was that she had now no
+malice in her mind; though she could not always have said so, as she
+would inform them in the history of her past life.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS HENNY FRET.
+
+Miss Henny Fret was turned of nine years old. She was very prettily
+made, and remarkably genteel. All her features were regular. She was not
+very fair, and looked pale. Her upper lip seemed rather shorter than it
+should be; for it was drawn up in such a manner, as to show her upper
+teeth; and though this was in some degree natural, yet it had been very
+much increased by her being continually on the fret for every trifling
+accident that offended her, or on every contradiction that was offered
+to her. When you came to examine her face, she had not one feature but
+what was pretty; yet, from that constant uneasiness which appeared in
+her countenance, it gave you so little pleasure to look at her, that she
+seldom had common justice done her, but had generally hitherto passed
+for a little insignificant plain girl, though her very face was so
+altered since she was grown good natured, and had got the better of that
+foolish fretfulness she used to be possessed of, that she appeared from
+her good-humoured smiles quite a different person; and, with a mild
+aspect, thus began her story:
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS HENNY FRET.
+
+'I had one brother,' said Miss Henny, 'as well as Miss Jenny Peace; but
+my manner of living with him was quite the reverse to that in which
+she lived with her brother. All my praise or blame was to arise from my
+being better or worse than my brother. If I was guilty of any fault,
+it was immediately said, "Oh! fie, miss! Master George (that was my
+brother's name) would not be guilty of such a thing for the world." If
+he was carried abroad, and I stayed at home, then I was bemoaned over,
+that poor Miss Henny was left at home, and her brother carried abroad.
+And then I was told, that I should go abroad one of these days, and my
+brother be left at home so that whenever I went abroad, my greatest joy
+was, that he was left at home; and I was pleased to see him come out
+to the coach-door with a melancholy air that he could not go too. If
+my brother happened to have any fruit given him, and was in a peevish
+humour, and would not give me as much as I desired, the servant that
+attended me was sure to bid me take care, when I had anything he waited,
+not to give him any. So that I thought, if I did not endeavour to be
+revenged of him, I should show a want of spirit, which was of all things
+what I dreaded most. I had a better memory than my brother, and whenever
+I learnt anything, my comfort was to laugh at him because he could not
+learn so fast; by which means I got a good deal of learning, but never
+minded what I learnt, nor took any pains to keep it; so that what I was
+eager to learn one day, to show George how much I knew more than he, I
+forgot the next. And so I went on learning, and forgetting as fast as I
+learnt; and all the pains I took served only to show that I COULD learn.
+
+'I was so great a favourite, that I was never denied any thing I
+asked for; but I was very unhappy for the same reason that Miss Dolly
+Friendly's sister was so; and I have often sat down and cried, because I
+did not know what I would have, till at last I own I grew so peevish and
+humoursome, that I was always on the fret, and harboured in my mind a
+kind of malice that made me fancy whatever my brother got, I lost; and
+in this unhappy condition I lived, till I came to school, and here I
+found that other misses wanted to have their humours as well as myself.
+This I could not bear, because I had been used to have my own will, and
+never to trouble myself about what others felt. For whenever I beat or
+abused my brother, his pain did not make me cry; but I believe it was
+thinking wrong made me guilty of these faults; for I don't find I am
+ill-natured; for now I have been taught to consider that my companions
+can feel as well as myself, I am sorry for their pain, and glad when
+they are pleased, and would be glad to do anything to oblige them.'
+
+
+Here Miss Henny ceased, and Miss Jenny Peace then told her how glad she
+was to hear that she had subdued all malice in her mind, adding, 'These
+weeds, my dear, unless early plucked up, are (as I have heard our good
+governess observe upon a like occasion) very apt to take such deep root,
+as to choke every good seed around them; and then who can tell whether,
+with the same opportunities, they might not become Lady Brumptons before
+the end of their lives?'
+
+Little Polly Suckling remembered that all the company had told the story
+of their past lives, except herself; and she thought she would not be
+left out; but yet she had a mind to be asked to tell it, hoping that her
+companions thought her of consequence enough not to leave her out of
+any scheme; therefore, addressing herself to Miss Jenny, she said she
+thought it was very pleasant to hear anybody tell the history of their
+own lives. Miss Jenny saw her meaning, and answered, 'So it is, my
+little dear; and now, if you please, you shall oblige us with relating
+the history of yours.' Polly smiled at this request, and said she was
+ready to comply.
+
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS POLLY SUCKLING.
+
+Miss Polly Suckling was just turned of eight years old, but so short
+of her age, that few people took her to be above five. It was not a
+dwarfish shortness; for she had the most exact proportioned limbs in
+the world, very small bones, and was as fat as a little cherub. She was
+extremely fair, and her hair quite flaxen. Her eyes a perfect blue, her
+mouth small, and her lips quite plump and red. She had the freshness
+of a milkmaid; and when she smiled and laughed, she seemed to show an
+hundred agreeable dimples. She was, in short, the very picture of health
+and good-humour, and was the plaything and general favorite of the whole
+school.
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS POLLY SUCKLING.
+
+'Now,' said little Polly, 'I will tell you all my whole history. I
+hardly remember anything before I came to school, for I was but five
+years old when I was brought hither.
+
+'All I know is, that I don't love quarrelling, for I like better to
+live in peace and quietness. But I have been always less than any of
+my companions, ever since I have been here; and so I only followed the
+example of the rest; and as I found they contended about everything, I
+did so too. Besides, I have been always in fear that my schoolfellows
+wanted to impose on me, because I was little; and so I used to engage in
+every quarrel, rather than be left out, as if I was too little to give
+any assistance; but, indeed, I am very glad now we all agree, because I
+always came by the worst of it. And, besides, it is a great pleasure
+to me to be loved, and every Miss is kind and good to me, and ready to
+assist me whenever I ask them. And this is all I know of my whole life.'
+
+
+When little Polly ceased, she was kissed and applauded by the whole
+company, for the agreeable simplicity of her little history.
+
+And thus ended the eighth day's amusement.
+
+
+
+
+TUESDAY. THE NINTH DAY.
+
+Miss Jenny rose early in the morning, and, having collected the lives of
+her companions (which she had wrote down each day, as they related them)
+she carried them, after morning school, according to her promise, to her
+governess.
+
+Mrs. Teachum, when she had perused them, was much pleased; and said that
+she perceived, by the manner in which her scholars had related their
+lives, how much they were in earnest in their design of amendment. 'For
+(continued she) they have all confessed their faults without reserve;
+and the untowardly bent of their minds, which so strongly appeared
+before the quarrel, has not broke out in these their little histories;
+but, on the contrary, they all seem, according to their capacities, to
+have endeavoured at imitating your style, in the account you gave of
+your own life. I would have you continue to employ your leisure hours
+in the manner you have lately done, only setting apart a proper time
+for exercise; and today I will dispense with your attendance in the
+school-room and indulge you this afternoon in another walk, either to
+the dairy house, or to the cherry-garden, whichever you all agree on.
+But as I shall not go with you myself, and shall only find a servant
+to take care of you, I hope to hear from you, Miss Jenny, so good an
+account of the behaviour of your little friends and companions, that I
+shall have no cause to repent my indulgence.'
+
+Miss Jenny Peace respectfully took leave of her governess, and hastened
+to the arbour, where her little friends were met, in expectation of her
+coming. She told them how well pleased their governess was with them
+all, for the ingenuous confession of their faults in their past lives;
+and she then declared Mrs. Teachum's kind permission to them to take
+another walk that afternoon.
+
+As no one had at present any story to read or relate, they employed
+their time till dinner, some in walking and running about the garden;
+others in looking after and tending some plant or flower, that they had
+taken particularly under their care, which Mrs. Teachum both permitted
+and encouraged them in, whilst Miss Jenny Peace, Miss Sukey Jennett,
+and Miss Dolly Friendly, remained in the arbour, the two latter asking
+a thousand questions of the former, both concerning all the instructions
+she had ever learned from her mamma, and by what means they should best
+be able to preserve that friendship and happiness, which had of late
+subsisted amongst them; saying, how pleased their friends and relations
+would be, to see such a change in their temper and behaviour, and how
+much they should be beloved by every one.
+
+When they met at dinner, Mrs. Teachum asked them, whether they had
+determined upon the choice she had given them in their afternoon's walk;
+and they were all desirous of going to the dairy house; for little Polly
+said, she longed to see the good-humoured old woman again, and, indeed,
+she would not now say anything to her of her shaking head, or her
+grey hair. Mrs. Teachum was pleased, that little Polly so gratefully
+remembered the old woman, who had been so kind to her; and readily
+consented to their choice, and approved of their determination.
+
+Being soon equipped for their walk, they set out, attended by two
+maidservants; and as soon as they arrived, the good old woman expressed
+the highest joy on seeing them, and told little Polly, that she should
+have plenty of cream and strawberries, for her daughter had been that
+day in the wood, and had brought home three baskets of very fine ones.
+Mrs. Nelly, her daughter, said very crossly, that she supposed there
+would be fine work amongst them, now their governess was not with them;
+but 'twas her mother's way, to let all children be as rude as they
+pleased. Miss Sukey Jennett, with some indignation in her look, was
+going to answer her; but Miss Jenny Peace, fearing she would say
+something less mild than she wished, gave her a nod; and, turning to the
+young woman, with great modesty and temper, thus said: 'You shall see,
+Mrs. Nelly, that our good governess's instructions are of more force
+with us, than to lose all their effect when we are out of her presence;
+and I hope you will have no cause, when we go away, to complain of the
+ill behaviour of any of us.'
+
+The good old woman declared she never saw such sweet-tempered children
+in all her life; and after they had eat their strawberries and cream,
+and were loaded with pinks and roses by the good woman's bounty (for
+they did not gather one without her permission), they took their leave
+with the utmost civility, and Miss Jenny handsomely rewarded the old
+woman for her good cheer. Mrs. Nelly herself was so pleased with their
+regular and inoffensive behaviour, that she could not help telling Miss
+Jenny, that she, and all her companions, had, indeed, behaved as well as
+if their governess had been with them: on which Miss Jenny (as they were
+walking home) observed to Miss Sukey Jennett (whom she had prevented
+from making any reply to Mrs. Nelly's speech) how much better it was to
+gain another's good will by our own endeavours to be obliging, than to
+provoke them to be more cross, by our angry answers and reproaches.
+
+When this little company, employed in pleasing talk and lively
+observations, were come within about a mile of Mrs. Teachum's house, and
+within view of a nobleman's fine seat, Miss Jenny said, that the next
+time their governess permitted them to walk out, she would ask her
+leave, that they might go and see that fine house; for some time ago she
+had told them, that they should go thither when the family were absent.
+Mrs. Wilson, the housekeeper, who by chance was walking that way, and
+heard what Miss Jenny said, came up to them, and told Miss Jenny that
+her lord and lady were now both absent, having set out, one for London,
+and the other for another fine seat, forty miles off, that very morning;
+and as she knew them to be Mrs. Teachum's well-regulated family, they
+should be welcome to see the house and gardens now, if they liked it.
+Miss Jenny thanked her, and said, as it was near two hours sooner than
+their governess expected them home, she would accept of her kind offer.
+The housekeeper led them through an avenue of tall elm-trees into this
+magnificent house, in which were many spacious apartments, furnished
+with the utmost grandeur and elegance. Some of the rooms were adorned
+with fine pictures, others were hung with tapestry almost as lively as
+those paintings, and most of the apartments above stairs were furnished
+with the finest sorts of needle-work. Our little company were struck
+into a sort of silent wonder and admiration at the splendid appearance
+of everything around them; nor could they find words to express the
+various reflections that passed in their minds, on seeing such a variety
+of dazzling gaudy things: but when they came to the needlework, Miss
+Jenny could not help smiling, to see how every one seemed most fixed in
+attention upon that sort of work, which she herself was employed in, and
+she saw in every face a secret wish, that their own piece of work might
+be finished with equal neatness and perfection. The housekeeper was
+greatly pleased to see them so much delighted, and answered all their
+questions concerning the stories that were represented in the pictures
+and tapestry as fully as the time would permit; but Miss Jenny, being
+fearful of exceeding the hour in which they would be expected home, told
+them they must not now stay any longer, but if their governess would
+give them leave, and it would not be troublesome to Mrs. Wilson, they
+would come another time. She answered, that it was so far from being
+troublesome, that she never had more pleasure in her life, than to see
+so many well-behaved young ladies, who all seemed not only pleased with
+what they saw, but doubly delighted, and happy, in seeing each other so;
+and for her part, she could wish they were to stay with her all their
+lives; and, in short, they should not go till they had been in her room,
+and eat some sweetmeats of her own making. The good woman seemed to take
+so much delight in giving them any pleasure, that Miss Jenny could not
+refuse accepting her offer; and, when they were all in her room, Polly
+Suckling said, 'Well, this is a most charming house; I wish we could all
+live here for ever. How happy must the lord and lady of this fine place
+be!'
+
+'Indeed, my little Polly,' said Miss Jenny, 'you may be very much
+mistaken; for you know our good governess has taught us, that there is
+no happiness but in the content of our own minds; and perhaps we may
+have more pleasure in viewing these fine things, than the owners have in
+the possession of them.'
+
+'It is very true,' said the housekeeper, 'for my lord and lady have no
+delight in all this magnificence; for, by being so accustomed to it,
+they walk through all these apartments, and never so much as observe or
+amuse themselves with the work, the pictures, or anything else, or if
+they observe them at all, it is rather with a look that denotes a sort
+of weariness, at seeing the same things continually before them, than
+with any kind of pleasure.' And then, with a deep sigh, she added, 'You
+are, indeed, young lady, perfectly in the right, when you say grandeur
+and happiness do not always go together.' But turning off the discourse,
+Mrs. Wilson forced them to take as many dried sweetmeats as they
+could carry away with them, and insisted upon their promise (with
+Mrs. Teachum's consent) that they should come another time to see the
+gardens. They then took their leave with many thanks, and the greatest
+civility; and discoursed all the way home, on the fine things they
+had seen. Miss Betty Ford said, that the fine gilding, and so many
+glittering looking-glasses, made her think herself in Barbarico's great
+hall, where he kept all his treasure.
+
+'No,' says Miss Nancy Spruce, 'it was not half so much like that, as it
+was like Brunetta's fine castle; and I could not help thinking myself
+the Princess Hebe, and how much I should have been pleased with such a
+fine place at first, just as she was.'
+
+'Indeed,' says Miss Betty Ford, 'you are in the right of it, Miss Nanny;
+for 'twas much more like the description of Brunetta's castle, than what
+I said myself.'
+
+Miss Jenny was pleased to hear Miss Betty so ready to own herself
+mistaken; and said to Miss Nanny Spruce, 'I am glad, my dear, to
+find that you so well remember what you read; for it is by recalling
+frequently into our memories the things we have read, that they are
+likely to be of any service to us.'
+
+Being now come home, they entered into the presence of their governess
+with that pleasure, and proper confidence, which ever attends innocence
+and goodness; and Mrs. Teachum received them with a pleasing smile.
+
+Miss Jenny gave her governess a faithful account of all that had passed,
+with the agreeable entertainment they had accidentally met with, of
+seeing Lord X----'s fine house, and the great civility of Mrs. Wilson,
+'Which I hope, madam,' said Miss Jenny, 'I did not do wrong in
+accepting.' 'You did very properly, my dear,' said Mrs. Teachum, 'for
+when any person is willing to oblige you, without any inconvenience to
+themselves, it is always right to accept their offer, as you thereby
+gratify them, by putting it in their power to give you pleasure.'
+
+Miss Jenny then with great cheerfulness and freedom, told her governess
+all that had paled in conversation, both in their walk to the
+dairy house, and at Lord X--'s, what little Polly had said in the
+housekeeper's room, as also Mrs. Wilson's answer; and said, by Mrs.
+Wilson's downcast look, she was afraid that poor Lord X---- and his lady
+were not so happy as might be wished. 'But,' continued she, 'I did
+not ask Mrs. Wilson any questions, because you have taught me, madam,
+carefully to avoid the least appearance of impertinent curiosity.'
+
+'You was very right, my dear,' said Mrs. Teachum, 'in asking no farther
+questions; nor would she, I dare say, as she is a prudent woman, have
+gratified you if you had; for though the unhappy story is too well known
+all over the country, yet it would have been very unbecoming in one
+of the family to have published it.' Mrs. Teachum saw in her little
+scholars' eyes, a secret wish of knowing what this story was; and, after
+a short pause, she said, 'Since I find you disposed, my good girls, to
+make the proper use of what you hear, I will indulge your curiosity.
+
+'Lord X---- and his lady have been married seven years; Lord X---- is
+the wretchedest creature breathing, because he has no children, and
+therefore no heir to his title and large estate. He was naturally of a
+haughty impetuous temper, and impatient of any the least disappointment;
+and this disposition not being subdued in his youth, has led him into
+all sort of excesses. His lady is not much better tempered than himself,
+and valuing herself highly upon her beauty, and the large fortune
+she brought him, greatly resents his sometimes insolent, and always
+neglectful usage of her. They have hitherto lived on in the most
+jarring, disputing manner, and took no care to conceal their quarrels
+from the world; but at last they have agreed to part by consent, and the
+different journeys they this morning took, I suppose, was with an intent
+of final separation.
+
+'That grandeur and happiness do not always go together (as Mrs. Wilson
+observed to you) is seen by this story, which I was the more willing
+to tell you, as it was a proper introduction to a fable I have been
+collecting together from others, for your use. You know that all my
+endeavours to make you good, are only intended to make you happy; and
+if you thoroughly reflect upon the truth of this maxim, which I so often
+endeavour to inculcate, you will doubtless reap no small advantage from
+it.'
+
+Here Mrs. Teachum ceased speaking, and, giving Miss Jenny Peace a paper,
+she bid her read it aloud; which she did, and it contained the following
+fable:
+
+
+
+
+THE ASSEMBLY OF THE BIRDS. A FABLE.
+
+In ancient days, there was a great contention amongst the birds, which,
+from his own perfections, and peculiar advantages, had the strongest
+title to happiness; and at last they agreed to refer the decision of the
+debate to the eagle.
+
+A day was appointed for their meeting; the eagle took his seat, and the
+birds all attended to give in their several pleas.
+
+First spoke the parrot. Her voice so dearly resembling human speech, and
+which enabled her to converse with such a superior race, she doubted not
+(she said) would have its just weight with the eagle, and engage him to
+grant a decree in her favour; and to this plea she also added, that she
+dwelt in a fine cage adorned with gold, and was fed every day by the
+hands a fair lady.
+
+'And pray, Mrs. Poll,' said the eagle, 'how comes it, since you fare so
+sumptuously, that you are so lean and meagre, and seem scarcely able
+to exert that voice you thus make your boast of?' 'Alas!' replied
+the parrot, 'poor Poll's lady has kept her bed almost this week; the
+servants have all forgot to feed me; and I am almost starved.' 'Pray
+observe,' said the eagle, 'the folly of such pride! Had you been able to
+have conversed only with your own kind, you would have fared in common
+with them; but it is to this vaunted imitation of the human voice, that
+you owe your confinement, and consequently (though living in a golden
+cage) your dependence upon the will and memory of others, even for
+common necessary food.'
+
+Thus reproved, the parrot, with shame, hastily retired from the
+assembly.
+
+Next stood forth the daw, and, having tricked himself in all the gay
+feathers he could muster together, on the credit of these borrowed
+ornaments, pleaded his beauty, as a title to the preference in dispute.
+Immediately the birds agreed to divest the silly counterfeit of all his
+borrowed plumes; and, more abashed than the parrot, he secretly slunk
+away.
+
+The peacock, proud of native beauty, now flew into the midst of the
+assembly. He displayed before the sun his gorgeous tail. 'Observe (said
+he) how the vivid blue of the sapphire glitters in my neck; and when
+thus I spread my tail, a gemmy brightness strikes the eye from a plumage
+varied with a thousand glowing colours.' At this moment, a nightingale
+began to chant forth his melodious lay; at which the peacock, dropping
+his expanded tail, cried out, 'Ah what avails my silent unmeaning
+beauty, when I am so far excelled in voice by such a little
+russet-feathered wretch as that!' And, by retiring, he gave up all claim
+to the contended-for preference.
+
+The nightingale was so delighted with having got the better of the
+peacock, that he exerted his little voice, and was so lost in the
+conceit of his own melody, that he did not observe a hawk, who flew upon
+him, and carried him off in his claws.
+
+The eagle then declared, 'That as the peacock's envy had taken away all
+his claim, so no less had the nightingale's self-conceit frustrated
+all his pretensions; for those who are so wrapped up in their own
+perfections, as to mind nothing but themselves, are forever liable to
+all sorts of accidents.' And, besides, it was plain, by the exultation
+the nightingale expressed on his imagined glory over the peacock, that
+he would have been equally dejected on any preference given to another.
+
+And now the owl, with an affected gravity, and whooting voice, pleaded
+his well-known wisdom; and said, 'He doubted not but the preference
+would be granted to him without contest, by all the whole assembly for
+what was so likely to produce happiness as wisdom?'
+
+The eagle declared, 'That, if his title to wisdom could be proved, the
+justice of his claim should be allowed; and then asked him, how he could
+convince them of the truth of what he had advanced?' The owl answered,
+'That he would willingly appeal to the whole assembly for their
+decision in this point; for he was positive nobody could deny his great
+superiority as to wisdom.' Being separately asked, they most of them
+declared, that they knew no one reason, either from his words or
+actions, to pronounce him a wise bird; though it was true, that by an
+affected solemnity in his looks, and by frequent declarations of his
+own, that he was very wife, he had made some very silly birds give
+him that character; but, since they were called upon to declare their
+opinions, they must say, that he was ever the object of contempt to all
+those birds who had any title to common understanding. The eagle then
+said, 'He could by no means admit a plea, which as plainly appeared
+to be counterfeit, as were the jay's borrowed feathers.' The owl, thus
+disappointed, flew away, and has ever since shunned the light of the
+sun, and has never appeared in the daytime, but to be scorned and
+wondered at.
+
+
+It would be endless to repeat all the several pleas brought by the
+birds, each desiring to prove, that happiness ought to be his own
+peculiar lot. But the eagle observing that the arguments made use of to
+prove their point were chiefly drawn from the disadvantages of others,
+rather than from any advantage of their own, told them, 'There was too
+much envy and malice amongst them, for him to pronounce any of them
+deserving or capable of being happy; but I wonder,' says he, 'why the
+dove alone is absent from this meeting?' 'I know of one in her nest hard
+by,' answered the redbreast, 'shall I go and call her?' 'No,' says the
+eagle, 'since she did not obey our general summons, 'tis plain she had
+no ambition for a public preference; but I will take two or three chosen
+friends, and we will go softly to her nest, and see in what manner she
+is employing herself; for from our own observations upon the actions
+of any one, we are more likely to form a judgment of them, than by any
+boasts they can make.'
+
+The eagle was obeyed, and, accompanied only by the linnet, the lark, the
+lapwing, and the redbreast for his guide, he stole gently to the place
+where the dove was found hovering over her nest, waiting the return of
+her absent mate; and, thinking herself quite unobserved,
+
+
+     [*] While o'er her callow brood she hung,
+     She fondly thus address'd her young:
+         'Ye tender objects of my care,
+     Peace! peace! ye little helpless pair.
+     Anon! he comes, your gentle sire,
+     And brings you all your hearts require;
+     For us, his infants and his bride,
+     For us, with only love to guide,
+     Our lord assumes an eagle's speed,
+     And, like a lion, dares to bleed:
+     Nor yet by wintry skies confin'd,
+     He mounts upon the rudest wind,
+     From danger tears the vital spoil,
+     And with affection sweetens toil.
+     Ah! cease, too vent'rous, cease to dare;
+     In thine, our dearer safety spare.
+     From him, ye cruel falcons stray;
+     And turn, ye fowlers, far away,
+     --All-giving Pow'r, great source of life,
+     Oh! hear the parent, hear the wife:
+     That life thou lendest from above,
+     Though little, make it large in love.
+     Oh! bid my feeling heart expand
+     To ev'ry claim on ev'ry hand,
+     To those, from whom my days I drew,
+     To these in whom those days renew,
+     To all my kin, however wide,
+     In cordial warmth as blood allied.
+     To friends in steely fetters twin'd
+     And to the cruel not unkind;
+     But chief the lord of my desire,
+     My life, myself, my soul, my sire,
+     Friends, children, all that wish can claim,
+     Chaste passion clasp, and rapture name.
+     Oh! spare him, spare him, gracious Pow'r:
+     Oh! give him to my latest hour,
+     Let me my length of life employ,
+     To give my sole enjoyment joy.
+     His love let mutual love excite;
+     Turn all my cares to his delight,
+     And ev'ry needless blessing spare,
+     Wherein my darling wants a share.
+     --Let one unruffled calm delight
+     The loving and belov'd unite;
+     One pure desire our bosoms warm;
+     One will direct, one wish inform;
+     Through life one mutual aid sustain;
+     In death one peaceful grave contain.'
+     While, swelling with the darling theme,
+     Her accents pour'd an endless stream.
+     The well-known wings a sound impart
+     That reach'd her ear, and touch'd her heart.
+     Quick dropp'd the music of her tongue,
+     And forth, with eager joy, she sprung.
+     As swift her ent'ring consort flew,
+     And plum'd, and kindled at the view.
+     Their wings, their souls, embracing, meet,
+     Their hearts with answ'ring measure beat,
+     Half lost in sacred sweets, and bless'd
+     With raptures felt, but ne'er express'd.
+         Strait to her humble roof she led
+     The partner of her spotless bed;
+     Her young, a flutt'ring pair, arise,
+     Their welcome sparkling in their eyes,
+     Transported, to their sire they bound,
+     And hang, with speechless action, round.
+     In pleasure wrapt, the parents stand,
+     And see their little wings expand;
+     The sire his life sustaining prize
+     To each expecting bill applies;
+     There fondly pours the wheaten spoil,
+     With transport giv'n, though won with toil;
+     While, all collected at the sight,
+     And silent through supreme delight,
+     The fair high heav'n of bliss beguiles,
+     And on her lord and infants smiles.
+
+
+     [*] These verses are a quotation from that tender fable of
+     the Sparrow and the Dove, in the 'Fables for the Female
+     Sex.'
+
+
+The eagle now, without any hesitation, pronounced the dove to be
+deservedly the happiest of the feathered kind; and however unwilling the
+rest of the birds were to assent to the judgment given, yet could they
+not dispute the justice of the decree.
+
+
+Here Miss Jenny ceased reading, and all the little company expressed by
+their looks, that they were overjoyed at the eagle's determination; for
+they had all in their own minds forestalled the eagle's judgment, of
+giving the preference to the dove. 'Now, my good children,' said Mrs.
+Teachum, 'if you will pass through this life with real pleasure, imitate
+the dove; and remember, that innocence of mind, and integrity of heart,
+adorn the female character, and can alone produce your own happiness,
+and diffuse it to all around you.'
+
+Our little company thanked their governess for her fable; and, just
+at that instant, they heard a chariot drive into the court, and Mrs.
+Teachum went out to see what visitor could be arrived so late in the
+evening; for it was near eight o'clock.
+
+They all remained in the room where their governess left them; for they
+had been taught never to run out to the door, or to the windows, to look
+at any strangers that came, till they knew whether it was proper for
+them to see them or not.
+
+Mrs. Teachum soon returned with a letter open in her hand, and remained
+some little time silent; but cast on every one round such a tender
+and affectionate look, a tear almost starting from her eye, that the
+sympathising sorrow seemed to spread through the whole company, and they
+were all silent, and ready to cry, though they knew not for what reason.
+'I am sorry, my little dears,' said Mrs. Teachum, 'to give your tender
+bosoms the uneasiness I fear the contents of this letter will do, as it
+will deprive you of that your hearts so justly hold most dear.' And, so
+saying, she delivered to Miss Jenny Peace, the following letter:--
+
+
+'To Miss Jenny Peace.
+
+'Monday night, June 24.
+
+'My dear niece,--I arrived safe at my own house, with your cousin
+Harriet, last Saturday night, after a very tedious voyage by sea, and
+a fatiguing journey by land. I long to see my dear Jenny as soon as
+possible, and Harriet is quite impatient for that pleasure.
+
+'I have ordered my chariot to be with you tomorrow night; and I desire
+you would set out on Wednesday morning, as early as your inclination
+shall prompt you to come to
+
+'Your truly affectionate aunt,
+
+'M. NEWMAN.
+
+'I have writ a letter of thanks to your kind governess, for her care of
+you.'
+
+
+It is impossible to describe the various sensations of Miss Jenny's
+mind, on the reading this letter. Her rising joy at the thoughts of
+seeing her kind aunt safely returned from a long and tedious voyage,
+was suppressed by a sorrow, which could not be resisted, on parting with
+such dear friends, and so good a governess; and the lustre which such a
+joy would have given to her eye, was damped by rising tears. Her heart
+for some time was too full for utterance. At last, turning to her
+governess, she said, 'And is the chariot really come, to carry me to my
+dear aunt?' Then, after a pause, the tears trickling down her cheeks,
+'And must I so soon leave you, madam, and all my kind companions?' Mrs.
+Teachum, on seeing Miss Jenny's tender struggles of mind, and all her
+companions at once bursting into tears, stood up, and left the room,
+saying, 'She would come to them again after supper.' For this prudent
+woman well knew, that it was in vain to contend with the very first
+emotions of grief on such an occasion, but intended, at her return, to
+show them how much it was their duty and interest to conquer all sorts
+of extravagant sorrow.
+
+They remained some time silent, as quite struck dumb with concern, till
+at last Miss Dolly Friendly, in broken accents, cried out, 'And must we
+lose you, my dear Miss Jenny, now we are just settled in that love and
+esteem for you, which your goodness so well deserves?'
+
+Miss Jenny endeavoured to dry up her tears, and then said, 'Although
+I cannot but be pleased, my dear companions, at every mark of your
+affection for me; yet I beg that you would not give me the pain to see
+that I make so many dear friends unhappy. Let us submit cheerfully to
+this separation (which, believe me, is as deeply felt by me as any
+of you) because it is our duty so to do; and let me entreat you to be
+comforted, by reflecting, how much my good aunt's safe return must
+be conducive to my future welfare; nor can you be unhappy, while you
+continue with so good a governess, and persist in that readiness to obey
+her, which you have lately shown. She will direct who shall preside over
+your innocent amusements in my place. I will certainly write to you, and
+shall always take the greatest delight in hearing from each of you, both
+while you continue here, and when your duty and different connections
+shall call you elsewhere. We may some, and perhaps all, of us, happen
+often to meet again; and I hope a friendship, founded on so innocent and
+so good a foundation as ours is, will always subsist, as far as shall be
+consistent with our future situations in life.'
+
+Miss Jenny's friends could not answer her but by sobs and tears; only
+little Polly Suckling, running to her, clung about her neck, and cried,
+'Indeed, indeed, Miss Jenny, you must not go; I shall break my heart, if
+I lose you: sure we shan't, nor we can't, be half so happy, when you are
+gone, though our governess was ten times better to us than she is.'
+
+Miss Jenny again entreated them to dry up their tears, and to be more
+contented with the present necessity; and begged, that they would not
+let their governess see them so overwhelmed in sorrow on her return; for
+she might take it unkindly, that they should be so afflicted at the loss
+of one person, while they still remained under her indulgent care and
+protection.
+
+It was with the utmost difficulty, that Miss Jenny refrained from
+shedding tear for tear with her kind companions; but as it was her
+constant maxim to partake with her friends all her pleasure, and to
+confine her sorrows as much as possible within her own bosom, she chose
+rather to endeavour, by her own cheerfulness and innocent talk, to steal
+insensibly from the bosoms of her little companions half their sorrow;
+and they begin to appear tolerably easy.
+
+After supper, Mrs. Teachum returned; and, seeing them all striving who
+should most conceal their grief, for fear of giving uneasiness to the
+rest, yet with a deep dejection fixed in every countenance, and little
+Polly still sobbing behind Miss Jenny's chair, she was so moved herself
+with the affecting scene, that the tears stole from her eyes; and the
+sympathising company once more eased their almost bursting hearts, by
+another general flow of melting sorrow.
+
+'My dear children,' said Mrs. Teachum, 'I am not at all surprised at
+your being so much concerned to part with Miss Jenny. I love her myself
+with a motherly affection (as I do all of you, and shall ever continue
+to do so while you so well deserve it); and I could wish, for my own
+sake, never to part with her as long as I live; but I consider, that it
+is for her advantage, and I would have you all remember, in her absence,
+to let her example and friendship fill your hearts with joy, instead of
+grief. It is now pretty late in the evening, and as Miss Jenny is to set
+out very early in the morning, I must insist upon shortening your pain
+(for such is your present situation), and desire you would take your
+leave of this your engaging friend.'
+
+They none of them attempted to speak another word, for their hearts were
+still too full for utterance; and Miss Jenny took every one by the hand
+as they went out of the room, saluted them with the tenderest affection,
+mingling tears with those which flowed from every streaming eye; and,
+wishing them all happiness and joy till their next meeting, they all,
+with heavy hearts, retired to rest.
+
+Miss Jenny returned the warmest and most grateful acknowledgments to her
+good governess, for all her care of her; and said, 'I shall attribute
+every happy hour, madam, that I may hereafter be blessed with, to
+your wise and kind instruction, which I shall always remember with the
+highest veneration, and shall ever consider you as having been to me no
+less than a fond and indulgent mother.'
+
+Mrs. Teachum kept Miss Jenny in the room with her no longer than to
+assure her how sincerely she should regret her absence, and confessed
+how much of the regularity and harmony of her school she owed to her
+good example, for sweetness of temper, and conformity to rules.
+
+
+
+
+THE END OF THE NINTH DAY.
+
+THE CONCLUSION OF THE HISTORY OF MRS. TEACHUM, &C.
+
+
+Although Miss Jenny Peace did not return any more to school; yet she
+ever gratefully remembered the kindness of her governess, and frequently
+corresponded with all her companions. And as they continued their
+innocent amusements and meetings in the arbour, whenever the weather
+would permit, there was no day thought to be better employed than that
+in which they received a letter from their absent instructive friend,
+whose name was always mentioned with gratitude and honour.
+
+Mrs. Teachum continued the same watchful care over any young persons who
+were entrusted to her management; and she never increased the number
+of her scholars, though often entreated so to do. All quarrels and
+contentions were banished her house; and if ever any such thing was
+likely to arise, the story of Miss Jenny Peace's reconciling all her
+little companions was told to them; so that Miss Jenny, though absent,
+still seemed (by the bright example which she left behind her) to be the
+cement of union and harmony in this well-regulated society. And if any
+girl was found to harbour in her breast a rising passion, which it was
+difficult to conquer, the name and story of Miss Jenny Peace soon gained
+her attention, and left her without any other desire than to emulate
+Miss Jenny's virtues.
+
+In short, Mrs. Teachum's school was always mentioned throughout the
+country, as an example of peace and harmony; and also by the daily
+improvement of all her girls, it plainly appeared how early young people
+might attain great knowledge, if their minds were free from foolish
+anxieties about trifles, and properly employed on their own improvement;
+for never did any young lady leave Mrs. Teachum, but that her parents
+and friends were greatly delighted with her behaviour, as she had made
+it her chief study to learn always to pay to her governors the most
+exact obedience, and to exert towards her companions all the good
+effects of a mind filled with benevolence and love.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Governess, by Sarah Fielding
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+The Project Gutenberg Etext of The Governess, by Sarah Fielding
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+The Governess [The Little Female Academy]
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+
+THE GOVERNESS; OR, THE LITTLE FEMALE ACADEMY (1749)
+by Sarah Fielding
+
+
+There lived in the northern parts of England, a gentlewoman who
+undertook the education of young ladies; and this trust she
+endeavoured faithfully to discharge, by instructing those
+committed to her care in reading, writing, working, and in all
+proper forms of behaviour.  And though her principal aim was to
+improve their minds in all useful knowledge; to render them
+obedient to their superiors, and gentle, kind, and affectionate to
+each other; yet did she not omit teaching them an exact neatness
+in their persons and dress, and a perfect gentility in their whole
+carriage.
+
+This gentlewoman, whose name was Teachum, was the widow of a
+clergyman, with whom she had lived nine years in all the harmony
+and concord which forms the only satisfactory happiness in the
+married state.  Two little girls (the youngest of which was born
+before the second year of their marriage was expired) took up a
+great part of their thoughts; and it was their mutual design to
+spare no pains or trouble in their education.
+
+Mr. Teachum was a very sensible man, and took great delight in
+improving his wife; as she also placed her chief pleasure in
+receiving his instructions.  One of his constant subjects of
+discourse to her was concerning the education of children:  so
+that, when in his last illness his physicians pronounced him
+beyond the power of their art to relieve him, he expressed great
+satisfaction in the thought of leaving his children to the care of
+so prudent a mother.
+
+Mrs. Teachum, though exceedingly afflicted by such a loss, yet
+thought it her duty to call forth all her resolutions to conquer
+her grief, in order to apply herself to the care of these her dear
+husband's children.  But her misfortunes were not here to end: 
+for within a twelvemonth after the death of her husband, she was
+deprived of both her children by a violent fever that then raged
+in the country; and, about the same time, by the unforeseen
+breaking of a banker, in whose hands almost all her fortune was
+just then placed, she was bereft of the means of her future
+support.
+
+The Christian fortitude with which (through her husband's
+instructions) she had armed her mind, had not left it in the power
+of any outward accident to bereave her of her understanding, or to
+make her incapable of doing what was proper on all occasions. 
+Therefore, by the advice of all her friends, she undertook what
+she was so well qualified for; namely, the education of children. 
+But as she was moderate in her desires, and did not seek to raise
+a great fortune, she was resolved to take no more scholars than
+she could have an eye to herself without the help of other
+teachers; and instead of making interest to fill her school, it
+was looked upon as a great favour when she would take any girl. 
+And as her number was fixed to nine, which she on no account would
+be prevailed on to increase, great application was made, when any
+scholar went away, to have her place supplied; and happy were they
+who could get a promise for the next vacancy.
+
+Mrs. Teachum was about forty years old, tall and genteel in her
+person, though somewhat inclined to fat.  She had a lively and
+commanding eye, insomuch that she naturally created an awe in all
+her little scholars; except when she condescended to smile, and
+talk familiarly to them; and then she had something perfectly kind
+and tender in her manner.  Her temper was so extremely calm and
+good, that though she never omitted reprehending, and that pretty
+severely, any girl that was guilty of the smallest fault
+proceeding from an evil disposition; yet for no cause whatsoever
+was she provoked to be in a passion; but she kept up such a
+dignity and authority, by her steady behavior, that the girls
+greatly feared to incur her displeasure by disobeying her
+commands; and were equally pleased with her approbation, when they
+had done anything worthy her commendation.
+
+At the time of the ensuing history, the school (being full)
+consisted of the nine following young ladies:
+
+Miss JENNY PEACE.
+Miss NANNY SPRUCE.
+Miss SUKEY JENNETT.
+Miss BETTY FORD.
+Miss DOLLY FRIENDLY.
+Miss HENNY FRET.
+Miss LUCY SLY.
+Miss POLLY SUCKLING.
+Miss PATTY LOCKIT.
+
+The eldest of these was but fourteen years old, and none of the
+rest had yet attained their twelfth year.
+
+
+
+AN ACCOUNT OF A FRAY, BEGUN AND CARRIED ON FOR THE SAKE OF AN
+APPLE: IN WHICH ARE SHOWN THE SAD EFFECTS OF RAGE AND ANGER.
+
+It was on a fine summer's evening when the school-hours were at an
+end, and the young ladies were admitted to divert themselves for
+some time, as they thought proper, in a pleasant garden adjoining
+to the house, that their governess, who delighted in pleasing
+them, brought out a little basket of apples, which were intended
+to be divided equally amongst them; but Mrs. Teachum being hastily
+called away (one of her poor neighhours having had an accident
+which wanted her assistance), she left the fruit in the hands of
+Miss Jenny Peace, the eldest of her scholars, with a strict charge
+to see that every one had an equal share of her gift.
+
+But here a perverse accident turned good Mrs. Teachum's design of
+giving them pleasure into their sorrow, and raised in their little
+hearts nothing but strife and anger:  for, alas! there happened to
+be one apple something larger than the rest, on which the whole
+company immediately placed their desiring eyes, and all at once
+cried out, 'Pray, Miss Jenny, give me that apple.'  Each gave her
+reasons why she had the best title to it:  the youngest pleaded
+her youth, and the eldest her age; one insisted on her goodness,
+another from her meekness claimed a title to preference; and one,
+in confidence of her strength, said positively, she would have it;
+but all speaking together, it was difficult to distinguish who
+said this, or who said that.
+
+Miss Jenny begged them all to be quiet, but in vain; for she could
+not be heard:  they had all set their hearts on that fine apple,
+looking upon those she had given them as nothing.  She told them
+they had better be contented with what they had, than be thus
+seeking what it was impossible for her to give to them all.  She
+offered to divide it into eight parts, or to do anything to
+satisfy them; but she might as well have been silent; for they
+were all talking and had no time to hear.  At last as a means to
+quiet the disturbance, she threw this apple, the cause of their
+contention, with her utmost force over a hedge into another
+garden, where they could not come at it.
+
+At first they were all silent, as if they were struck dumb with
+astonishment with the loss of this one poor apple, though at the
+same time they had plenty before them.
+
+But this did not bring to pass Miss Jenny's design:  for now they
+all began again to quarrel which had the most right to it, and
+which ought to have had it, with as much vehemence as they had
+before contended for the possession of it; and their anger by
+degrees became so high, that words could not vent half their rage;
+and they fell to pulling of caps, tearing of hair, and dragging
+the clothes off one another's backs:  though they did not so much
+strike, as endeavour to scratch and pinch their enemies.
+
+Miss Dolly Friendly as yet was not engaged in the battle; but on
+hearing her friend Miss Nanny Spruce scream out, that she was hurt
+by a sly pinch from one of the girls, she flew on this sly
+pincher, as she called her, like an enraged lion on its prey; and
+not content only to return the harm her friend had received, she
+struck with such force, as felled her enemy to the ground.  And
+now they could not distinguish between friend and enemy; but
+fought, scratched, and tore, like so many cats, when they extend
+their claws to fix them in their rival's heart.
+
+Miss Jenny was employed in endeavouring to part them.
+
+In the midst of this confusion appeared Mrs. Teachum, who was
+returning in hopes to see them happy with the fruit she had given
+them; but she was some time there before either her voice or
+presence could awaken them from their attention to the fight; when
+on a sudden they all faced her, and fear of punishment began now a
+little to abate their rage.  Each of the misses held in her right
+hand, fast clenched, some marks of victory; for they beat and were
+beaten by turns.  One of them held a little lock of hair torn from
+the head of her enemy; another grasped a piece of a cap, which, in
+aiming at her rival's hair, had deceived her hand, and was all the
+spoils she could gain; a third clenched a piece of an apron; a
+fourth, of a frock. In short, everyone unfortunately held in her
+hand a proof of having been engaged in the battle.  And the ground
+was spread with rags and tatters, torn from the backs of the
+little inveterate combatants.
+
+Mrs. Teachum stood for some time astonished at the sight; but at
+last she enquired of Miss Jenny Peace, who was the only person
+disengaged, to tell her the whole truth, and to inform her of the
+cause of all this confusion.
+
+Miss Jenny was obliged to obey the commands of her governess;
+though she was so good natured that she did it in the mildest
+terms; and endeavoured all she could to lessen, rather than
+increase, Mrs. Teachum's anger.  The guilty persons now began all
+to excuse themselves as fast as tears and sobs would permit them.
+
+One said, 'Indeed, madam, it was none of my fault; for I did not
+begin; for Miss Sukey Jennett, without any cause in the world (for
+I did nothing to provoke her), hit me a great slap in the face,
+and made my tooth ache; the pain DID make me angry; and then,
+indeed, I hit her a little tap; but it was on her back; and I am
+sure it was the smallest tap in the world and could not possibly
+hurt her half so much as her great blow did me.'
+
+'Law, miss!' replied Miss Jennett, 'how can you say so? when you
+know that you struck me first, and that yours was the great blow,
+and mine the little tap; for I only went to defend myself from
+your monstrous blows.'
+
+Such like defences they would all have made for themselves, each
+insisting on not being in fault, and throwing the blame on her
+companion; but Mrs. Teachum silenced them by a positive command;
+and told them, that she saw they were all equally guilty, and as
+such would treat them.
+
+Mrs. Teachum's method of punishing I never could find out.  But
+this is certain, the most severe punishment she had ever inflicted
+on any misses, since she had kept a school, was now laid on these
+wicked girls, who had been thus fighting, and pulling one another
+to pieces, for a sorry apple.
+
+The first thing she did was to take away all the apples; telling
+them, that before they had any more instances of such kindness
+from her, they should give her proofs of their deserving them
+better.  And when she had punished them as much as she thought
+proper, she made them all embrace one another, and promise to be
+friends for the future; which, in obedience to her commands, they
+were forced to comply with, though there remained a grudge and
+ill-will in their bosoms; every one thinking she was punished
+most, although she would have it, that she deserved to be punished
+least; and they continued all the sly tricks they could think on
+to vex and tease each other.
+
+
+
+A DIALOGUE BETWEEN MISS JENNY PEACE AND MISS SUKEY JENNETT;
+WHEREIN THE LATTER IS AT LAST CONVINCED OF HER OWN FOLLY IN BEING
+SO QUARRELSOME; AND, BY HER EXAMPLE, ALL HER COMPANIONS ARE
+BROUGHT TO SEE AND CONFESS THEIR FAULT.
+
+The next morning Miss Jenny Peace used her utmost endeavours to
+bring her schoolfellows to be heartily reconciled, but in vain: 
+for each insisted on it, that she was not to blame; but that the
+whole quarrel arose from the faults of others.  At last ensued the
+following dialogue between Miss Jenny Peace and Miss Sukey
+Jennett, which brought about Miss Jenny's designs; and which we
+recommend to the consideration of all our young readers.
+
+MISS JENNY.  Now pray, Miss Sukey, tell me, what did you get by
+your contention and quarrel about that foolish apple?
+
+MISS SUKEY.  Indeed, ma'am, I shall not answer you; I know that
+you only want to prove, that you are wiser than I, because you are
+older.  But I don't know but some people may understand as much at
+eleven years old as others at thirteen:  but, because you are the
+oldest in the school, you always want to be tutoring and
+governing.  I don't like to have more than one governess; and if I
+obey my mistress, I think that is enough.
+
+MISS JENNY.  Indeed, my dear, I don't want to govern you, nor to
+prove myself wiser than you; I only want that instead of
+quarrelling, and making yourself miserable, you should live at
+peace and be happy.  Therefore, pray do answer my question,
+whether you get anything by your quarrel?
+
+MISS SUKEY.  No  I cannot say I got anything by it:  for my
+mistress was angry, and punished me; and my hair was pulled off,
+and my clothes torn in the scuffle; neither did I value the apple;
+but yet I have too much spirit to be imposed on.  I am sure I had
+as good a right to it as any of the others; and I would not give
+up my right to anyone.
+
+MISS JENNY.  But don't you know, Miss Sukey, it would have shown
+much more spirit to have yielded the apple to another, than to
+have fought about it?  Then indeed you would have proved your
+sense; for you would have shown, that you had too much
+understanding to fight about a trifle.  Then your clothes had been
+whole, your hair not torn from your head, your mistress had not
+been angry, nor had your fruit been taken away from you.
+
+MISS SUKEY.  And so, miss, you would fain prove, that it is wisest
+to submit to everybody that would impose upon one?  But I will not
+believe ii, say what you will.
+
+MISS JENNY.  But is not what I say true?  If you had not been in
+the battle, would not your clothes have been whole, your hair not
+torn, your mistress pleased with you, and the apples your own?
+
+
+
+Here Miss Sukey paused for some time:  for as Miss Jenny was in
+the right and had truth on her side, it was difficult for Miss
+Sukey to know what to answer.  For it is impossible, without being
+very silly, to contradict truth; and yet Miss Sukey was so
+foolish, that she did not care to own herself in the wrong; though 
+nothing could have been so great a sign of her understanding.
+
+When Miss Jenny saw her thus at a loss for an answer, she was in
+hopes of making her companion happy; for, as she had as much good
+nature as understanding, that was her design.  She therefore
+pursued her discourse in the following manner:
+
+
+
+MISS JENNY.  Pray, Miss Sukey, do answer me one question more. 
+Don't you lie awake at nights, and fret and vex yourself, because
+you are angry with your school-fellows?  Are not you restless and
+uneasy, because you cannot find a safe method to be revenged on
+them, without being punished yourself?  Do tell me truly, is not
+this your case?
+
+MISS SUKEY.  Yes it is.  For if I could but hurt my enemies,
+without being hurt myself, it would be the greatest pleasure I
+could have in the world.
+
+MISS JENNY.  Oh fie, Miss Sukey!  What you have now said is
+wicked.  Don't you consider what you say every day in your
+prayers'?  And this way of thinking will make you lead a very
+uneasy life.  If you would hearken to me, I could put you into a
+method of being very happy, and making all those misses you call
+your enemies, become your friends.
+
+MISS SUKEY.  You could tell me a method, miss?  Do you think I
+don't know as well as you what is fit to be done?  I believe I am
+as capable of finding the way to be happy, as you are of teaching
+me.
+
+
+
+Here Miss Sukey burst into tears, that anybody should presume to
+tell her the way to be happy.
+
+
+
+MISS JENNY.  Upon my word, my dear, I don't mean to vex you; but
+only, instead of tormenting yourself all night in laying plots to
+revenge yourself, I would have you employ this one night in
+thinking of what I have said.  Nothing will show your sense so
+much, as to own that you have been in the wrong.  Nor will
+anything prove a right spirit so much. as to confess your fault. 
+All the misses will be your friends, and perhaps follow your
+example.  Then you will have the pleasure of having caused the
+quiet of the whole school; your governess will love you; and you
+will be at peace in your mind, and never have any more foolish
+quarrels, in which you all get nothing but blows and uneasiness.
+
+
+
+Miss Sukey began now to find, that Miss Jenny was in the right,
+and she herself in the wrong; but yet she was so proud she would
+not own it.  Nothing could be so foolish as this pride; because it
+would have been both good and wise in her to confess the truth the
+moment she saw it.  However, Miss Jenny was so discreet as not to
+press her any farther that night; but begged her to consider
+seriously on what she had said, and to let her know her thoughts
+the next morning and then left her.
+
+When Miss Sukey was alone she stood some time in great confusion. 
+She could not help seeing how much hitherto she had been in the
+wrong; and that thought stung her to the heart.  She cried,
+stamped, and was in as great an agony as if some sad misfortune
+had befallen her.  At last, when she had somewhat vented her
+passion by tears, she burst forth into the following speech:
+
+'It is very true what Miss Jenny Peace says; for I am always
+uneasy.  I don't sleep in quiet because I am always thinking,
+either that I have not my share of what is given us, or that I
+cannot be revenged on any of the girls that offend me.  And when I
+quarrel with them, I am scratched and bruised; or reproached.  And
+what do I get by all this?  Why, I scratch, bruise, and reproach
+them in my turn.  Is not that gain enough?  I warrant I hurt them
+as much as they hurt me.  But then indeed, as Miss Jenny says, if
+I could make these girls my friends, and did not wish to hurt
+them, I certainly might live a quieter, and perhaps a happier,
+life.  But what then, have I been always in the wrong all my
+lifetime? for I always quarrelled and hated everyone who had
+offended me.  Oh! I cannot bear that thought!  It is enough to
+make me mad! when I imagined myself so wise and so sensible, to
+find out that I have been always a fool.  If I think a moment
+longer about it, I shall die with grief and shame.  I must think
+myself in the right; and I will too.  But, as Miss Jenny says, I
+really am unhappy; for I hate all my schoolfellows; and yet I dare
+not do them any mischief; for my mistress will punish me severely
+if I do.  I should not so much mind that neither; but then those I
+intend to hurt will triumph over me, to see me punished for their
+sakes.  In short, the more I reflect, the more I am afraid Miss
+Jenny is in the right; and yet it breaks my heart to think so.'
+
+Here the poor girl wept so bitterly, and was so heartily grieved,
+that she could not utter one word more; but sat herself down,
+reclining her head upon her hand, in the most melancholy posture
+that could be; nor could she close her eyes all night, but lay
+tossing and raving with the thought how she should act, and what
+she should say to Miss Jenny the next day.
+
+When the morning came, Miss Sukey dreaded every moment, as the
+time drew nearer when she must meet Miss Jenny. She knew it would
+not be possible to resist her arguments; and yet shame for having
+been in fault overcame her.
+
+As soon as Miss Jenny saw Miss Sukey with her eyes cast down, and
+confessing, by a look of sorrow, that she would take her advice,
+she embraced her kindly; and, without giving her the trouble to
+speak, took it for granted, that she would leave off quarreling,
+be reconciled to her schoolfellows, and make herself happy.
+
+Miss Sukey did indeed stammer out some words, which implied a
+confession of her fault; but they were spoke so low they could
+hardly be heard; only Miss Jenny, who always chose to look at the
+fairest side of her companions' actions, by Miss Sukey's look and
+manner guessed her meaning.
+
+In the same manner did this good girl, Jenny, persuade, one by
+one, all her schoolfellows to be reconciled to each with sincerity
+and love.
+
+Miss Dolly Friendly, who had too much sense to engage the battle
+for the sake of an apple, and who was provoked to strike a blow
+only for friendship's sake, easily saw the truth of what Miss
+Jenny said; and was therefore presently convinced, that the best
+part she could have acted for her friend, would have been to have
+withdrawn her from the scuffle.
+
+
+
+
+A SCENE OF LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP, QUITE THE REVERSE OF THE BATTLE,
+WHEREIN ARE SHOWN THE DIFFERENT EFFECTS OF LOVE AND GOODNESS FROM
+THOSE ATTENDING ANGER, STRIFE, AND WICKEDNESS:  WITH THE LIFE OF
+MISS JENNY PEACE.
+
+After Miss Jenny had completed the good work of making all her
+companions friends, she drew them round her in a little arbour, in
+that very garden which had been the scene of their strife, and
+consequently of their misery; and then spoke to them the following
+speech; which she delivered in so mild a voice, that it was
+sufficient to charm her hearers into attention, and to persuade
+them to be led by her advice, and to follow her example in the
+paths of goodness.
+
+'My dear friends and schoolfellows, you cannot imagine the
+happiness it gives me to see you thus all so heartily reconciled. 
+You will find the joyful fruits of it.  Nothing can show so much
+sense as thus to own yourselves in fault; for could anything have
+been so foolish as to spend all your time in misery, rather than
+at once to make use of the power you have of making yourselves
+happy?  Now if you will use as many endeavours to love as you have
+hitherto done to hate each other, you will find that every one
+amongst you, whenever you have anything given you, will have
+double, nay, I may say eight times (as there are eight of you) the
+pleasure, in considering that your companions are happy.  What is
+the end of quarrels, but that everyone is fretted and vexed, and
+no one gains anything!  Whereas by endeavouring to please and love
+each other, the end is happiness to ourselves, and joy to everyone
+around us.  I am sure, if you will speak the truth, none of you
+have been so easy since you quarrelled, as you are now you are
+reconciled.  Answer me honestly, if this is not truth.'
+
+Here Miss Jenny was silent, and waited for an answer.  But the
+poor girls, who had in them the seeds of goodwill to each other,
+although those seeds were choked and overrun with the weeds of
+envy and pride; as in a garden the finest strawberries will be
+spoiled by rank weeds, if care is not taken to root them out;
+these poor girls, I say, now struck with the force of truth, and
+sorry for what they had done, let drop some tears, which trickled
+down their cheeks, and were signs of meekness, and sorrow for
+their fault.  Not like those tears which burst from their swollen
+eyes, when anger and hatred choked their words, and their proud
+hearts laboured with stubbornness and folly; when their skins
+reddened, and all their features were changed and distorted by the
+violence of passion, which made them frightful to the beholders,
+and miserable to themselves;--  No!  Far other cause had they now
+for tears, and far different were the tears they shed; their eyes,
+melted with sorrow for their faults, let fall some drops, as
+tokens of their repentance; but, as soon as they could recover
+themselves to speak, they all with one voice cried out, 'Indeed,
+Miss Jenny, we are sorry for our fault, and will follow your
+advice; which we now see is owing to your goodness.'
+
+Miss Jenny now produced a basket of apples, which she had
+purchased out of the little pocket-money she was allowed, in order
+to prove, that the same things may be a pleasure or a pain,
+according as the persons to whom they are given are good or bad.
+
+These she placed in the midst of her companions, and desired them
+to eat, and enjoy themselves; and now they were so changed, that
+each helped her next neighbour before she would touch any for
+herself; and the moment they were grown thus good natured and
+friendly, they were as well-bred, and as polite, as it is possible
+to describe.
+
+Miss Jenny's joy was inexpressible, that she had caused this happy
+change; nor less was the joy of her companions, who now began to
+taste pleasures, from which their animosity to each other had
+hitherto debarred them.  They all sat looking pleased on their
+companions; their faces borrowed beauty from the calmness and
+goodness of their minds; and all those ugly frowns, and all that
+ill-natured sourness, which when they were angry and cross were
+but too plain in their faces, were now entirely fled; jessamine
+and honeysuckles surrounded their seats, and played round their
+heads, of which they gathered nosegays to present each other with. 
+They now enjoyed all the pleasure and happiness that attend those
+who are innocent and good.
+
+Miss Jenny, with her heart overflowing with joy at this happy
+change, said, 'Now, my dear companions, that you may be convinced
+what I have said and done was not occasioned by any desire of
+proving myself wiser than you, as Miss Sukey hinted while she was
+yet in her anger, I will, if you please, relate to you the history
+of my past life; by which you will see in what manner I came by
+this way of thinking; and as you will perceive it was chiefly
+owing to the instructions of a kind mamma, you may all likewise
+reap the same advantage under good Mrs. Teachum, if you will obey
+her commands, and attend to her precepts.  And after I have given
+you the particulars of my life, I must beg that every one of you
+will, some day or other, when you have reflected upon it, declare
+all that you can remember of your own; for, should you not be able
+to relate anything worth remembering as an example, yet there is
+nothing more likely to amend the future part of anyone's life,
+than the recollecting and confessing the faults of the past.'
+
+All our little company highly approved of Miss Jenny's proposal,
+and promised, in their turns, to relate their own lives; and Miss
+Polly Suckling cried out, 'Yes indeed, Miss Jenny, I'll tell all
+when it comes to my turn; so pray begin, for I long to hear what
+you did, when you was no bigger than I am now.'  Miss Jenny then
+kissed little Polly, and said she would instantly begin.
+
+But as in the reading of any one's story, it is an additional
+pleasure to have some acquaintance with their persons; and as I
+delight in giving my little readers every pleasure that is in my
+power; I shall endeavour, as justly as I can, by description, to
+set before their eyes the picture of this good young creature: 
+and in the same of every one of our young company, as they begin
+their lives.
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS JENNY PEACE.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace was just turned of fourteen, and could be called
+neither tall nor short of her age; but her whole person was the
+most agreeable that can be imagined.  She had an exceeding fine
+complexion, with as much colour in her cheeks as is the natural
+effect of perfect health.  Her hair was light brown, and curled in
+so regular and yet easy a manner, as never to want any assistance
+from art.  Her eyebrows (which were not of that correct turn as to
+look as if they were drawn with a pencil) and her eyelashes were
+both darker than her hair; and the latter being very long, gave
+such a shade to her eyes as made them often mistaken for black,
+though they were only a dark hazel.  To give any description of
+her eyes beyond the colour and size, which was perfectly the
+medium, would be impossible; except by saying they were expressive
+of everything that is amiable and good; for through them might be
+read every single thought of the mind; from whence they had such a
+brightness and cheerfulness, as seemed to cast a lustre over her
+whole face.  She had fine teeth, and a mouth answering to the most
+correct rules of beauty; and when she spoke (though you were at
+too great a distance to hear what she said) there appeared so much
+sweetness, mildness, modesty and good nature, that you found
+yourself filled more with pleasure than admiration in beholding
+her.  The delight which everyone took in looking on Miss Jenny was
+evident in this, that though Miss Sukey Jennett and Miss Patty
+Lockit were both what may be called handsomer girls (and if you
+asked any persons in company their opinion, they would tell you
+so) yet their eyes were a direct contradiction to their tongues,
+by being continually fixed on Miss Jenny; for, while she was in
+the room, it was impossible to fix them anywhere else.  She had a
+natural ease and gentility in her shape; and all her motions were
+more pleasing, though less striking than what is commonly acquired
+by the instruction of dancing masters.
+
+Such was the agreeable person of Miss Jenny Peace, who, in her
+usual obliging manner, and with an air pleasing beyond my power to
+express, at the request of her companions began to relate the
+history of her life, as follows:
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS JENNY PEACE.
+
+'My father dying when I was but half a year old, I was left to the
+care of my mamma, who was the best woman in the world, and to
+whose memory I shall ever pay the most grateful honour.  From the
+time she had any children, she made it the whole study of her life
+to promote their welfare, and form their minds in the manner she
+thought would best answer her purpose of making them both good and
+happy; for it was her constant maxim, that goodness and happiness
+dwelt in the same bosoms, and were generally found to life so much
+together, that they could not easily be separated.
+
+'My mother had six children born alive; but could preserve none
+beyond the first year, except my brother, Harry Peace, and myself. 
+She made it one of her chief cares to cultivate and preserve the
+most perfect love and harmony between us.  My brother is but a
+twelvemonth older than I; so that, till I was six years old (for
+seven was the age in which he was sent to school) he remained at
+home with me; in which time we often had little childish quarrels;
+but my mother always took care to convince us of our error in
+wrangling and fighting about nothing, and to teach us how much
+more pleasure we enjoyed whilst we agreed.  She showed no
+partiality to either, but endeavoured to make us equal in all
+things, any otherwise than that she taught me I owed a respect to
+my brother as the eldest.
+
+'Before my brother went to school, we had set hours appointed us,
+in which we regularly attended to learn whatever was thought
+necessary for our improvement; my mamma herself daily watching the
+opening of our minds, and taking great care to instruct us in what
+manner to make the best use of the knowledge we attained. 
+Whatever we read she explained to us, and made us understand, that
+we might be the better for our lessons.  When we were capable of
+thinking, we made it so much a rule to obey our parent, the moment
+she signified her pleasure, that by that means we avoided many
+accidents and misfortunes; for example:  my brother was running
+one day giddily round the brink of a well; and if he had made the
+least false step, he must have fallen to the bottom, and been
+drowned; my mamma, by a sign with her finger that called him to
+her, preserved him from the imminent danger he was in of losing
+his life; and then she took care that we should both be the better
+for this little incident, by laying before us how much our safety
+and happiness, as well as our duty, were concerned in being
+obedient.
+
+'My brother and I once had a quarrel about something as trifling
+as your apple of contention; and, though we both heartily wished
+to be reconciled to each other, yet did our little hearts swell so
+much with stubbornness and pride, that neither of us would speak
+first; by which means we were so silly as to be both uneasy, and
+yet would not use the remedy that was in our own power to remove
+that uneasiness.  My mamma found it out, and sent for me into her
+closet, and said, "She was sorry to see her instructions had no
+better effect on me; for," continued she, "indeed, Jenny, I am
+ashamed of your folly, as well as wickedness, in thus contending
+with your brother"  A tear, which I believe flowed from shame,
+started from my eyes at this reproof; and I fixed them on the
+ground, being too much overwhelmed with confusion to dare to lift
+them up on mamma.  On which she kindly said, "She hoped my
+confusion was a sign of my amendment.  That she might indeed have
+used another method, by commanding me to seek a reconciliation
+with my brother; for she did not imagine I was already so far gone
+in perverseness, as not to hold her commands as inviolable; but
+she was willing, for my good, first to convince me of my folly." 
+As soon as my confusion would give me leave to speak, on my knees
+I gave her a thousand thanks for her goodness, and went
+immediately to seek my brother.  He joyfully embraced the first
+opportunity of being reconciled to me; and this was one of the
+pleasantest hours of my life.  This quarrel happened when my
+brother came home at a breaking-up, and I was nine years old.
+
+'My mamma's principal care was to keep up a perfect amity between
+me and my brother.  I remember once, when Harry and I were playing
+in the fields, there was a small rivulet stopped me in my way.  My
+brother, being nimbler and better able to jump than myself, with
+one spring leaped over, and left me on the other side of it; but
+seeing me uneasy that I could not get over to him, his good nature
+prompted him to come back and to assist me; and, by the help of
+his hand, I easily passed over.  On this my good mamma bid me
+remember how much my brother's superior strength might assist me
+in his being my protector; and that I ought to return to use my
+utmost endeavours to oblige him; and that then we should be mutual
+assistants to each other throughout life.  Thus everything that
+passed was made use of to improve my understanding and amend my
+heart.
+
+'I believe no child ever spent her time more agreeably than I did;
+for I not only enjoyed my own pleasures, but also those of others. 
+And when my brother was carried abroad, and I was left at home,
+that HE was pleased, made me full amends for the loss of any
+diversion.  the contentions between us (where our parent's
+commands did not interfere) were always exerted in endeavours each
+to prefer the other's pleasures to our own.  My mind was easy and
+free from anxiety; for as I always took care to speak truth, I had
+nothing to conceal from my mamma, and consequently had never any
+fears of being found in a lie.  For one lie obliges us to tell a
+thousand others to conceal it; and I have no notion of any
+conditions being so miserable, as to live in a continual fear of
+detection.  Most particularly, my mamma instructed me to beware of
+all sorts of deceit; so that I was accustomed, not only in words
+to speak truth, but also not to endeavour by any means to deceive.
+
+'But though the friendship between my brother and me was so
+strongly cultivated, yet we were taught, that lying for each
+other, or praising each other when it was not deserved, was not
+only a fault, but a very great crime; for this, my mamma used to
+tell us, was not love, but hatred; as it was encouraging one
+another in folly and wickedness.  And though my natural
+disposition inclined me to be very tender of everything in my
+power, yet was I not suffered to give way even to THIS in an
+unreasonable degree.  One instance of which I remember.
+
+'When I was about eleven years old, I had a cat that I had bred up
+from a little kitten, that used to play round me, till I had
+indulged for the poor animal a fondness that made me delight to
+have it continually with me wherever I went; and, in return for my
+indulgence, the cat seemed to have changed its nature, and assumed
+the manner that more properly belongs to dogs than cats; for it
+would follow me about the house and gardens, mourn for my absence,
+and rejoice at my presence.  And, what was very remarkable, the
+poor animal would, when fed by my hand, lose that caution which
+cats are known to be possessed of, and eat whatever I gave it, as
+if it could reflect that I meant only its good, and no harm could
+come from me.
+
+'I was at last so accustomed to see this little Frisk (for so I
+called it) playing round me, that I seemed to miss part of myself
+in its absence.  But one day the poor little creature followed me
+to the door; when a parcel of schoolboys coming by, one of them
+catched her up in his arms, and ran away with her.  All my cries
+were to no purpose; for he was out of sight with her in a moment,
+and there was no method to trace his steps.  The cruel wretches,
+for sport, as they called it, hunted it the next day from one to
+the other, in the most barbarous manner; till at last it took
+shelter in that house that used to be its protection, and came and
+expired at my feet.
+
+'I was so struck with the sight of the little animal dying in that
+manner, that the great grief of my heart overflowed at my eyes,
+and I was for some time inconsolable.
+
+'My indulgent mamma comforted without blaming me, till she thought
+I had sufficient time to vent my grief; and then, sending for me
+into her chamber, spoke as follows:
+
+'"Jenny, I have watched you ever since the death of your little
+favourite cat; and have been in hopes daily, that your lamenting
+and melancholy on that account would be at an end.  But I find you
+still persist in grieving, as if such a loss was irreparable. 
+Now, though I have always encouraged you in all sentiments of good
+nature and compassion; and am sensible, that where those
+sentiments are strongly implanted, they will extend their
+influence even to the least animal; yet you are to consider, my
+child, that you are not to give way to any passions that interfere
+with your duty; for whenever there is any contention between your
+duty and your inclinations, you must conquer the latter, or become
+wicked and contemptible.  If, therefore, you give way to this
+melancholy, how will you be able to perform your duty towards me,
+in cheerfully obeying my commands,and endeavouring, by your lively
+prattle and innocent gaiety of heart, to be my companion and
+delight?  Nor will you be fit to converse with your brother, whom
+(as you lost your good papa when you were too young to know that
+loss) I have endeavoured to educate in such a manner, that I hope
+he will be a father to you, if you deserve his love and
+protection.  In short, if you do not keep command enough of
+yourself to prevent being ruffled by every accident, you will be
+unfit for all the social offices of life, and be despised by all
+those whose regard and love are worth your seeking.  I treat you,
+my girl, as capable of considering what is for your own good; for
+though you are but eleven years of age, yet I hope the pains I
+have taken in explaining all you read, and in answering all your
+questions in search of knowledge, has not been so much thrown
+away, but that you are more capable of judging, than those unhappy
+children are, whose parents have neglected to instruct them.  And
+therefore, farther to enforce what I say, remember, that repining
+at any accident that happens to you, is an offence to that God to
+whom I have taught you daily to pray for all the blessings you can
+receive, and to whom you are to return humble thanks for every
+blessing.
+
+'"I expect therefore, Jenny, that you now dry up your tears, and
+resume your usual cheerfulness.  I do not doubt but your obedience
+to me will make you at least put on the appearance of cheerfulness
+in my sight.  But you will deceive yourself, if you think that is
+performing your duty; for if you would obey me as you ought, you
+must try heartily to root from your mind all sorrow and
+gloominess.  You may depend upon it, this command is in your power
+to obey; for you know I never require anything of you that is
+impossible."
+
+'After my mamma had made this speech, she went out to take a walk
+in the garden, and left me to consider of what she had said.
+
+'The moment I came to reflect seriously, I found it was indeed in
+my power to root all melancholy from my heart, when I considered
+it was necessary, in order to perform my duty to God, to obey the
+best of mothers, and to make myself a blessing and a cheerful
+companion to her, rather than a burden, and the cause of her
+uneasiness, by my foolish melancholy.
+
+'This little accident, as managed by my mamma, has been a lesson
+to me in governing my passions ever since.
+
+'It would be endless to repeat all the methods this good mother
+invented for my instruction, amendment, and improvement.  It is
+sufficient to acquaint you, that she contrived that every new day
+should open to me some new scene of knowledge; and no girl could
+be happier than I was during her life.  But, alas! when I was
+thirteen years of age, the scene changed.  My dear mamma was taken
+ill of a scarlet fever.  I attended her day and night whilst she
+lay ill, my eyes starting with tears to see her in that condition;
+and yet I did not dare to give my sorrows vent, for fear of
+increasing her pain.'
+
+Here a trickling tear stole from Miss Jenny's eyes.  She
+suppressed some rising sobs that interrupted her speech, and was
+about to proceed in her story, when, casting her eyes on her
+companions, she saw her sorrow had such an effect upon them all,
+that there was not one of her hearers who could refrain from
+shedding a sympathising tear.  She therefore thought it was more
+strictly following her mamma's precepts to pass this part of her
+story in silence, rather than to grieve her friends; and having
+wiped away her tears, she hastened to conclude her story; which
+she did as follows:
+
+'After my mamma's death, my Aunt Newman, my father's sister, took
+the care of me; but being obliged to go to Jamaica, to settle some
+affairs relating to an estate she is possessed of there, she took
+with her my Cousin Harriet, her only daughter, and left me under
+the care of the good Mrs. Teachum till her return.  And since I
+have been here, you all know as much of my history as I do
+myself.'
+
+
+
+As Miss Jenny spoke these words, the bell summoned them to supper
+into the presence of their governess, who having narrowly watched
+their looks ever since the fray, had hitherto plainly perceived,
+that though they did not dare to break out again into an open
+quarrel, yet their hearts had still harboured unkind thoughts of
+one another.  She was surprised NOW, as she stood at a window in
+the hall that overlooked the garden, to see all her scholars walk
+towards her hand in hand, with such cheerful countenances, as
+plainly showed their inward good humour.  And as she thought
+proper to mention to them her pleasure in seeing them thus
+altered, Miss Jenny Peace related to her governess all that had
+passed in the arbour, with their general reconciliation.  Mrs.
+Teachum gave Miss Jenny all the applause due to her goodness,
+saying, she herself had only waited a little while, to see if
+their anger would subside, and love take its place in their
+bosoms, without her interfering again; for THAT she certainly
+should otherwise have done, to have brought about what Miss Jenny
+had so happily effected.
+
+Miss Jenny thanked her governess for her kind approbation, and
+said, that if she would give them leave, she would spend what time
+she was pleased to allow them from school in this little arbour,
+in reading stories, and such things as she should think a proper
+and innocent amusement.
+
+Mrs. Teachum not only gave leave, but very much approved of this
+proposal; and desired Miss Jenny, as a reward for what she had
+already done, to preside over these diversions, and to give her an
+account in what manner they proceeded.  Miss Jenny promised in all
+things to be guided by good Mrs. Teachum.  And now, soon after
+supper, they retired to rest, free from those uneasy passions
+which used to prevent their quiet; and as they had passed the day
+in pleasure, at night they sunk in soft and sweet repose.
+
+
+
+MONDAY.
+
+THE FIRST DAY AFTER THEIR REPENTANCE; AND, CONSEQUENTLY, THE FIRST
+DAY OF THE HAPPINESS OF MISS JENNY PEACE AND HER COMPANIONS.
+
+Early in the morning, as soon as Miss Jenny arose, all her
+companions flocked round her; for they now looked on her as the
+best friend they had in the world; and they agreed, when they came
+out of school, to adjourn into their arbour, and divert themselves
+till dinner-time; which they accordingly did.  When Miss Jenny
+proposed, if it was agreeable to them to hear it, to read them a
+story which she had put in her pocket for that purpose; and as
+they now began to look upon her as the most proper person to
+direct them in their amusements, they all replied, What was most
+agreeable to her would please them best.  She then began to read
+the following story, with which we shall open their first day's
+amusement.
+
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE CRUEL GIANT BARBARICO, THE GOOD GIANT BENEFICO,
+AND THE LITTLE PRETTY DWARF MIGNON.
+
+A great many hundred years ago, the mountains of Wales were
+inhabited by two giants; one of whom was the terror of all his
+neighbours and the plague of the whole country.  He greatly
+exceeded the size of any giant recorded in history; and his eyes
+looked so fierce and terrible, that they frightened all who were
+so unhappy as to behold them.
+
+The name of this enormous wretch was Barbarico.  A name which
+filled all who heard it with fear and astonishment.  The whole
+delight of this monster's life was in acts of inhumanity and
+mischief; and he was the most miserable as well as the most wicked
+creature that ever yet was born.  He had no sooner committed one
+outrage, but he was in agonies till he could commit another; never
+satisfied, unless he could find an opportunity of either torturing
+or devouring some innocent creature.  And whenever he happened to
+be disappointed in any of his malicious purposes, he would stretch
+his immense bulk on the top of some high mountain, and groan, and
+beat the earth, and bellow with such a hollow voice, that the
+whole country heard and trembled at the sound.
+
+The other giant, whose name was Benefico, was not so tall and
+bulky as the hideous Barbarico.  He was handsome, well
+proportioned, and of a very good-natured turn of mind.  His
+delight was no less in acts of goodness and benevolence than the
+other's was in cruelty and mischief.  His constant care was to
+endeavour if possible to repair the injuries committed by this
+horrid tyrant, which he had sometimes an opportunity of doing; for
+though Barbarico was much larger and stronger than Benefico, yet
+his coward mind was afraid to engage with him, and always shunned
+a meeting; leaving the pursuit of any prey, if he himself was
+pursued by Benefico:  nor could the good Benefico trust farther to
+this coward spirit of his base adversary, than only to make the
+horrid creature fly; for he well knew that a close engagement
+might make him desperate; and fatal to himself might be the
+consequence of such a brutal desperation; therefore he prudently
+declined any attempt to destroy this cruel monster, till he should
+gain some sure advantage over him.
+
+It happened on a certain day, that as the inhuman Barbarico was
+prowling along the side of a craggy mountain overgrown with
+brambles and briery thickets, taking most horrid strides, rolling
+his ghastly eyes around in quest of human blood, and having his
+breast tortured with inward rage and grief, that he had been so
+unhappy as to live one whole day without some act of violence, he
+beheld, in a pleasant valley at a distance, a little rivulet
+winding its gentle course through rows of willows mixed with
+flowery shrubs.  Hither the giant hasted; and being arrived, he
+gazed about to see if in this sweet retirement any were so unhappy
+as to fall within his power; but finding none, the disappointment
+set him in a flame of rage, which, burning like an inward furnace,
+parched his throat.  And now he laid him down on the bank, to try
+if in the cool stream, that murmured as it flowed, he could
+assuage or slack the fiery thirst that burnt within him.
+
+He bent him down to drink; and at the same time casting his
+baleful eyes towards the opposite side, he discovered within a
+little natural arbour formed by the branches of a spreading tree,
+within the meadow's flowery lawn, the shepherd Fidus and his loved
+Amata.
+
+The gloomy tyrant no sooner perceived this happy pair, than his
+heart exulted with joy; and, suddenly leaping up on the ground, he
+forgot his thirst, and left the stream untasted.  He stood for a
+short space to view them in their sweet retirement; and was soon
+convinced that, in the innocent enjoyment of reciprocal affection,
+their happiness was complete.  His eyes, inflamed with envy to
+behold such bliss, darted a fearful glare; and his breast swelling
+with malice and envenomed rage, he with gigantic pace approached
+their peaceful seat.
+
+The happy Fidus was at that time busy in entertaining his loved
+Amata with a song which he had that very morning composed in
+praise of constancy; and the giant was now within one stride of
+them, when Amata, perceiving him, cried out in a trembling voice,
+'Fly, Fidus, fly, or we are lost for ever; we are pursued by the
+hateful Barbarico!'  She had scarce uttered these words, when the
+savage tyrant seized them by the waist n either hand, and holding
+up to his nearer view, thus said:  'Speak, miscreants; and, if you
+would avoid immediate death, tell me who you are, and whence
+arises that tranquility of mind, which even at a distance was
+visible in your behaviour.'
+
+Poor Fidus, with looks that would have melted the hardest heart,
+innocently replied, that they were wandering that way without
+designing offence to any creature on earth.  That they were
+faithful lovers; and, with the consent of all their friends and
+relations, were soon to be married; therefore he entreated him not
+to part them.
+
+The giant now no sooner perceived, from the last words of the
+affrighted youth, what was most likely to give them the greatest
+torment, than with a spiteful grin which made his horrible face
+yet more horrible, and in a hollow voice, as loud as thunder, he
+tauntingly cried out, 'Ho-hoh!  You'd not be parted, would you? 
+For once I'll gratify thy will, and thou shalt follow this thy
+whimpering fondling down my capatious maw.'  So saying, he turned
+his ghastly visage on the trembling Amata who, being now no longer
+able to support herself under his cruel threats, fainted away, and
+remained in his hand but as a lifeless corpse.  When lifting up
+his eyes towards the hill on the opposite side, he beheld Benefico
+coming hastily towards him.  This good giant having been that
+morning informed that Barbarico was roaming in the mountains after
+prey, left his peaceful castle, in hopes of giving protection to
+whatever unfortunate creature should fall into the clutches of
+this so cruel a monster.
+
+Barbarico, at the sight of the friendly Benefico, started with
+fear; for although in bulk and stature he was, as we have said,
+the superior:  yet that cowardice, which ever accompanies
+wickedness, now wrought in him in such a manner that he could not
+bear to confront him, well knowing the courage and fortitude that
+always attend the good and virtuous; and therefore instantly
+putting Fidus into the wallet that hung over his shoulder, he
+flung the fainting Amata, whom he took to be quite expired, into
+the stream that ran hard by, and fled to his cave, not daring once
+to cast his eyes behind him.
+
+The good Benefico perceiving the monster's flight, and not
+doubting but he had been perpetrating some horrid mischief,
+immediately hastened to the brook; where he found the
+half-expiring Amata floating down the stream, for her clothes had
+yet borne her up on the surface of the water.  He speedily stepped
+in,and drew her out, and taking her in his arms, pressed her to
+his warm bosom; and in a short space perceiving in her face the
+visible marks of returning life, his heart swelled with kind
+compassion, and he thus bespoke the tender maid:  'Unhappy damsel,
+lift up thy gentle eyes, and tell me by what hard fate thou hast
+fallen into the power of that barbarous monster, whose savage
+nature delights in nothing but ruin and desolation.  Tremble not
+thus, but without fear or terror behold one who joys in the
+thought of having saved thee from destruction, and will bring thee
+every comfort his utmost power can procure.'
+
+The gentle Amata was now just enough recovered to open her eyes: 
+but finding herself in a giant's arms, and still retaining in her
+mind the frightful image of the horrid Barbarico, she fetched a
+deep sigh, crying out in broken accents, 'Fly, Fidus, fly;' and
+again sunk down upon the friendly giant's breast.  On hearing
+these words, and plainly seeing by the anguish of her mind that
+some settled grief was deeply rooted at her heart, and therefore
+despairing to bring her to herself immediately, the kind Benefico
+hastened with her to his hospitable castle; where every imaginable
+assistance was administered to her relief, in order to recover her
+lost sense, and to reconcile her to her wretched fate.
+
+The cruel Barbarico was no sooner arrived at his gloomy cave, than
+he called to him his little page; who, trembling to hear the
+tyrant now again returned, quickly drew near to attend his stern
+commands:  when drawing out of the wallet the poor Fidus, more
+dead than alive, the monster cried out, 'Here, caitiff, take in
+charge this smoothed-faced miscreant; and, d'ye hear me? see that
+his allowance be no more than one small ounce of mouldy bread and
+half a pint of standing water, for each day's support, till his
+now blooming skin be withered, his flesh be wasted from his bones,
+and he dwindle to a meagre skeleton.'  So saying he left them, as
+he hoped, to bewail each other's sad condition.  But the unhappy
+Fidus, bereft of his Amata, was not to be appalled by any of the
+most horrid threats; for now his only comfort was the hopes of a
+speedy end to his miserable life, and to find a refuge from his
+misfortunes in the peaceful grave.  With this reflection the
+faithful Fidus was endeavouring to calm the inward troubles of his
+mind, when the little page, with looks of the most tender
+compassion, and in gentle words, bid him be comforted, and with
+patience endure his present affliction; adding that he himself had
+long suffered the most rigorous fate, yet despaired not but that
+one day would give them an opportunity to free themselves from the
+wicked wretch, whose sole delight was in others' torments.  'As to
+his inhuman commands,' continued he, 'I will sooner die than obey
+them; and in a mutual friendship perhaps we may find some
+consolation, even in this dismal cave.'
+
+This little page the cruel Barbarico had stolen from his parents
+at five years old; ever since which time he had tortured and
+abused him, till he had now attained the age of one-and-twenty. 
+His mother had given him the name of Mignon; by which name the
+monster always called him, as it gratified his insolence to make
+use of that fond appellation whilst he was abusing him, only when
+he said Mignon he would in derision add the word Dwarf; for, to
+say the truth, Mignon was one of the least men that was ever seen,
+though at the same time one of the prettiest:  his limbs, though
+small, were exactly proportioned; his countenance was at once
+sprightly and soft; and whatever his head thought, or his heart
+felt, his eyes by their looks expressed; and his temper was as
+sweet as his person was amiable.  Such was the gentle creature
+Barbarico chose to torment.  For wicked giants, no less than
+wicked men and women, are constantly tormented at the appearance
+of those perfections in another, to which they themselves have no
+pretensions.
+
+The friendship and affection of Fidus and Mignon now every day
+increased; and the longer they were acquainted, the mere delight
+they took in each other's company.  The faithful Fidus related to
+his companion the story of his loved Amata, whilst the tender
+Mignon consoled his friend's inward sorrows, and supplied him with
+necessaries, notwithstanding the venture he run of the cruel
+tyrant's heavy displeasure.  The giant ceased not every day to
+view the hapless Fidus, to see if the cruelty of his intentions
+had in any degree wrought its desired effect; but perceiving in
+him no alteration, he now began to be suspicious that the little
+Mignon had not punctually obeyed his savage command.  In order
+therefore to satisfy his wicked curiosity, he resolved within
+himself narrowly to watch every occasion these poor unhappy
+captives had of conversing with each other.  Mignon, well knowing
+the implacable and revengeful disposition of this barbarous
+tyrant, had taken all the precautions imaginable to avoid
+discovery; and therefore generally sought every opportunity of
+being alone with Fidus, and carrying him his daily provisions at
+those hours he knew the giant was most likely to be asleep.
+
+It so befell that, on a certain day, the wicked giant had, as was
+his usual custom, been abroad for many hours in search of some
+unhappy creature on whom to glut his hateful inhumanity; when,
+tired with fruitless roaming, he returned to his gloomy cave,
+beguiled of all his horrid purposes; for he had not once that day
+espied so much as the track of man, or other harmless animal, to
+give him hopes even to gratify his rage or cruelty; but now raving
+with inward torment and despair, he laid him down upon his iron
+couch, to try if he could close his eyes and quiet the tumultuous
+passions of his breast.  He tossed and tumbled and could get no
+rest, starting with fearful dreams, and horrid visions of
+tormenting furies.
+
+Meanwhile the gentle Mignon had prepared a little delicate repast,
+and having seen the monster lay himself at length, and thinking
+now that a fit occasion offered in which to comfort and refresh
+his long-expecting friend, was hastening with it to the cell where
+the faithful Fidus was confined.  At the fatal moment the giant,
+rearing himself up on his couch, perceived the little Mignon just
+at the entrance of the cell; when calling to him in a hollow
+voice, that dismally resounded through the cave, he so startled
+the poor unhappy page, that he dropped the cover from his
+trembling hand and stood fixed and motionless as a statue.
+
+'Come hither, Mignon, caitiff, dwarf,' said then the taunting
+homicide:  but the poor little creature was so thunderstruck he
+was quite unable to stir one foot.  Whereat the giant, rousing
+himself from off his couch, with one huge stride reached out his
+brawny arm, and seized him by the waist; and, pointing to the
+scattered delicates, cried out, 'Vile miscreant! is it thus thou
+hast obeyed my orders?  Is this the mouldy bread and muddy water,
+with which alone it was my command thou shouldst sustain that puny
+mortal?  But I'll--'  Here raising him aloft, he was about to dash
+him to the ground, when suddenly revolving in his wicked thoughts,
+that if at once he should destroy his patient slave, his cruelty
+to him must also have an end, he paused--and then recovering, he
+stretched out his arm, and bringing the little trembler near his
+glaring eyes, he thus subjoins:  'No; I'll not destroy thy
+wretched life; but thou shalt waste thy weary days in a dark
+dungeon, as far remote from the least dawn of light as from thy
+loved companion.  And I myself will carefully supply you both so
+equally with mouldy bread and water, that each by his own
+sufferings shall daily know what his dear friend endures.'  So
+saying, he hastened with him to his deepest dungeon; and having
+thrust him in, he doubly barred the iron door.  And now again
+retiring to his couch, this new-wrought mischief, which greatly
+gratified his raging mind, soon sunk him down into a sound and
+heavy sleep.  The reason this horrid monster had not long ago
+devoured his little captive (for he thought him a delicious
+morsel) was, that he might never want an object at hand to gratify
+his cruelty.  For though extremely great was his voracious hunger,
+yet greater still was his desire of tormenting; and oftentimes
+when he had teased, beat, and tortured the poor gentle Mignon, so
+as to force from him tears, and sometimes a soft complaint, he
+would, with a malicious sneer, scornfully reproach him in the
+following words:  'Little does it avail to whine, to blubber, or
+complain; for, remember, abject wretch,
+
+I am a giant, and I can eat thee:
+Thou art a dwarf, and thou canst not eat me.'
+
+When Mignon was thus alone, he threw himself on the cold ground,
+bemoaning his unhappy fate.  However, he soon recollected that
+patience and resignation were his only succour in this distressful
+condition; not doubting but that, as goodness cannot always
+suffer, he should in time meet with some unforeseen deliverance
+from the savage power of the inhuman Barbarico.
+
+Whilst the gentle Mignon was endeavouring to comfort himself in
+his dungeon with these good reflections, he suddenly perceived, at
+a little distance from him, a small glimmering light.  Immediately
+he rose from the ground, and going towards it, found that it shone
+through a little door that had been left at jar, which led him to
+a spacious hall, wherein the giant hoarded his immense treasures. 
+Mignon was at first dazzled with the lustre of so much gold and
+silver, and sparkling jewels as were there heaped together.  But
+casting his eyes on a statue that was placed in the middle of the
+room, he read on the pedestal, written in very small letters, the
+following verses:
+
+Wouldst thou from the rage be free
+Of the tyrant's tyranny,
+Loose the fillet which is bound
+Twice three times my brows around;
+Bolts and bars shall open fly,
+By a magic sympathy.
+Take him in his sleeping hour;
+Bind his neck and break his pow'r.
+Patience bids, make no delay:
+Haste to bind him, haste away.
+
+Mignon's little heart now leapt for joy, that he had found the
+means of such a speedy deliverance; and eagerly climbing up the
+statue, he quickly unbound the magic fillet; which was no sooner
+done, but suddenly the bolts and bars of the brazen gates through
+which the giant used to pass to this his treasury, were all
+unloosed, and the folding-doors of their own accord flew open,
+grating harsh thunder on their massy hinges.  At the same instant,
+stretched on his iron couch in the room adjoining to the hall, the
+giant gave a deadly groan.  Here again the little Mignon's
+trembling heart began to fail; for he feared the monster was
+awakened by the noise, and that he should now suffer the cruellest
+torments his wicked malice could invent.  Wherefore for a short
+space he remained clinging round the statue, till he perceived
+that all again was hushed and silent; when, getting down, he
+gently stole into the giant's chamber, where he found him still in
+a profound sleep.
+
+
+
+But here, to the great mortification of Miss Jenny's attentive
+hearers, the hour of entertaining themselves being at an end, they
+were obliged to leave the poor little Mignon in the greatest
+distress and fright lest the giant should awake before he could
+fulfil the commands of the oracle, and to wait for the remainder
+of the story till another opportunity.
+
+In the evening, as soon as school was over, the little company
+again met in their arbour, and nothing could be greater than their
+impatience to hear the event of Mignon's hazardous undertaking. 
+Miss Dolly Friendly said that if the poor little creature was
+destroyed, she should not sleep that night.  But they all joined
+in entreating Miss Jenny to proceed; which she did in the
+following manner:
+
+
+
+A CONTINUATION OF THE STORY OF THE GIANTS.
+
+Now, thought Mignon, is the lucky moment to fulfil the
+instructions of the oracle.  And then cautiously getting up the
+side of the couch, with trembling hands he put the fillet round
+the monster's neck, and tied it firmly in a threefold knot; and
+again softly creeping down, he retired into a corner of the room
+to wait the wished event.  In a few minutes the giant waked; and
+opening his enormous eyes, he glared their horrid orbs around (but
+without the least motion of his head or body) and spied the little
+Mignon where he lay, close shrinking to avoid his baleful sight.
+
+The giant no sooner perceived his little page at liberty, but his
+heart sorely smote him, and he began to suspect the worst that
+could befall; for, recollecting that he had carelessly left open
+the little door leading from the dungeon to the great hall wherein
+was placed the fatal magic statue, he was now entirely convinced
+that Mignon had discovered the secret charm on which his power
+depended; for he already found the magic of the fillet round his
+neck fully to operate, his sinews all relax, his joints all
+tremble; and when he would by his own hand have tried to free
+himself, his shivering limbs he found refused obedience to their
+office.  Thus bereft of all his strength, and well nigh
+motionless, in this extremity of impotence he cast about within
+himself by what sly fraud (for fraud and subtlety were now his
+only refuge) he best might work upon the gentle Mignon to lend his
+kind assistance to unloose him.  Wherefore with guileful words and
+seeming courtesy, still striving to conceal his cursed condition,
+he thus bespake his little captive:
+
+'Come hither Mignon; my pretty gentle boy, come near me.  This
+fillet thou has bound around my neck, to keep me from the cold,
+gives me some pain.  I know thy gentle nature will not let thee
+see thy tender master in the least uneasiness, without affording
+him thy cheerful aid and kind relief.  Come hither, my dear child,
+I say, and loose the knot which in thy kind concern (I thank thee
+for thy care) thou hast tied so hard, it somewhat frets my neck.'
+
+These words the insidious wretch uttered in such a low trembling
+tone of voice, and with such an affectation of tenderness, that
+the little page, who had never before experience from him any such
+kind of dialect, and but too well knew his savage nature to
+believe that anything but guile or want of power could move him to
+the least friendly speech, or kind affection, began now strongly
+to be persuaded that all was as he wished, and that the power of
+the inhuman tyrant was at an end.  He knew full well, that if the
+giant had not lost the ability of rising from the couch, he should
+ere now too sensibly have felt the sad effects of his malicious
+resentment, and therefore boldly adventured to approach him, and
+coming near the couch, and finding not the least effort in the
+monster to reach him, and from thence quite satisfied of the
+giant's total incapacity of doing farther mischief, he flew with
+raptures to the cell where Fidus lay confined.
+
+Poor Fidus all this time was quite disconsolate; nor could he
+guess the cause why his little friend so long had kept away; one
+while he thought the giant's stern commands had streightened him
+of all subsistence; another while his heart misgave him for his
+gentle friend, lest unawares his kind beneficence towards him had
+caused him to fall a sacrifice to the tyrant's cruel resentment. 
+With these and many other like reflections the unhappy youth was
+busied, when Mignon, suddenly unbarred the cell, flew to his
+friend, and eagerly embraced him, cried out, 'Come Fidus, haste,
+my dearest friend; for thou and all of us are from this moment
+free.  Come and behold the cruel monster, where he lies, bereft of
+all his strength.  I cannot stay to tell thee now the cause; but
+haste, and thou shall see the dreadful tyrant stretched on his
+iron couch, deprived of all his wicked power.  But first let us
+unbar each cell, wherein is pent some wretched captive, that we
+may share a general transport for this our glad deliverance.'
+
+The faithful Fidus, whose heart had known but little joy since he
+had lost his loved Amata, now felt a dawning hope that he might
+once more chance to find her, if she had survived their fatal
+separation; and, without one word of answer, he followed Mignon to
+the several cells, and soon released all the astonished captives.
+
+Mignon first carried them to behold their former terror, now, to
+appearance, almost a lifeless corpse; who on seeing them all
+surround his couch, gave a most hideous roar, which made them
+tremble, all but the gentle Mignon, who was convinced of the
+impotence of his rage, and begged them to give him their
+attendance in the hall; where they were no sooner assembled than
+he showed them the statue, read them the oracle, and told them
+every circumstance before related.
+
+They now began to bethink themselves of what method was to be
+taken to procure their entire liberty; for the influence of the
+magic fillet extended only to the gates of the hall; and still
+they remained imprisoned within the dismal cave; and though they
+knew from the oracle, as well as from what appeared, that the
+monster's power was at an end, yet still were they to seek the
+means of their escape from this his horrid abode.  At length
+Mignon again ascended the couch to find the massy key, and spying
+one end of it peep out from under the pillow, he called to Fidus,
+who first stepped up to his friend's assistance; the rest by his
+example quickly followed; and now, by their united force, they
+dragged the ponderous key from under the monster's head; and then
+descending they all went to the outer door of the cave, where,
+with some difficulty, they set wide open the folding iron gates.
+
+They now determined to dispatch a messenger to the good Benefico
+with the news, which they knew would be so welcome to him and all
+his guests, and with one voice agreed that Fidus should bear the
+joyful tidings; and then returned to observe the monster, and to
+wait the coming of Benefico.  The nimble Fidus soon reached the
+giant's dwelling, where, at a little distance from the castle, he
+met the good Benefico with a train of happy friends, enjoying the
+pleasures of the evening, and the instructive and cheerful
+conversation of their kind protector.  Fidus briefly told his
+errand; and instantly Benefico, with all his train, joyfully
+hastened to behold the wonders he had related; for now many hearts
+leapt for joy, in hopes of meeting some friend of whom they had
+been bereft by the cruelty of the savage Barbarico.
+
+They were not long before they arrived at the horrid cave, where
+Benefico, proceeding directly to the monster's chamber, suddenly
+appeared to him at the side of his couch.  Barbarico, on seeing
+him, gave a hideous yell, and rolled his glaring eyes in such a
+manner as expressed the height of rage and envious bitterness.
+
+Benefico, turning to all the company present, thus spoke, 'How
+shall I enough praise and admire the gentle Mignon for having put
+in my power to justice on this execrable wretch, and freeing you
+all from an insufferable slavery, and the whole country from their
+terror?'  Then reaching the monster's own sword, which hung over
+his couch, his hand yet suspended over the impious tyrant, he thus
+said, 'Speak, wretch, if yet the power of speech is left thee; and
+with thy latest breath declare, what advantage hast thou found of
+all thy wicked life?'
+
+Barbarico well knew that too bad had been that life, to leave the
+least room for hope of mercy; and therefore, instead of an answer,
+he gave another hideous yell, gnashing his horrid teeth, and again
+rolling his ghastly eyes on all around.
+
+Benefico seeing him thus impenitent and sullen, lifted on high the
+mighty sword, and with one blow severed his odious head from his
+enormous body.
+
+The whole assembly gave a shout for joy; and Benefico holding in
+his hand the monster's yet grinning head, thus addressed his
+half-astonished companions:  'See here, my friends, the proper
+conclusion of a rapacious cruel life.  But let us hasten from this
+monster's gloomy cave; and on the top of one of our highest
+mountains, fixed on a pole, will I set up this joyful spectacle,
+that all the country round may know themselves at liberty to
+pursue their rural business or amusements, without the dread of
+any annoyance from a devouring vile tormentor.  And when his
+treasures, which justly all belong to the good patient Mignon, are
+removed, we will shut up the mouth of this abominable dwelling;
+and, casting on the door a heap of earth, we'll hope, in time,
+that both place and remembrance of this cruel savage may in time
+be lost.'
+
+Every one readily cried out, that to Benefico, the good Benefico,
+alone belonged the tyrant's treasures; that Benefico should ever
+be, as heretofore, their governor, their father, and their kind
+protector.
+
+The beneficent heart of the good giant was quite melted with this
+their kind confidence and dependence upon him, and assured them,
+he should ever regard them as his children:  and now, exulting in
+the general joy that must attend the destruction of this savage
+monster, when the whole country should find themselves freed from
+the terror his rapine and desolation, he sent before to his
+castle, to give intelligence to all within that happy place of the
+grim monster's fall, and little Mignon's triumph; giving in charge
+to the harbinger of these tidings, that it should be his first and
+chiefest care to glad the gentle bosom of a fair disconsolate (who
+kept herself retired and pent up within her own apartment) with
+the knowledge that the inhuman monster was no more; and that
+henceforth sweet peace and rural innocence might reign in all
+their woods and groves.  The hearts of all within the castle
+bounded with joy, on hearing the report of the inhuman monster's
+death, and the deliverance of all his captives, and with speedy
+steps they hastened to meet their kind protector; nor did the
+melancholy fair one, lest she should seem unthankful for the
+general blessing, refuse to join the train.
+
+It was not long after the messenger that Benefico, and those his
+joyful friends, arrived:  but the faithful Fidus alone, of all
+this happy company, was tortured with the inward pangs of a sad
+grief he could not conquer, and his fond heart remained still
+captivated to a melting sorrow:  nor could even the tender
+friendship of the gentle Mignon quite remove, though it
+alleviated, his sadness; but the thoughts of his loved lost amata
+embittered every joy, and overwhelmed his generous soul with
+sorrow.
+
+When the company from the castle joined Benefico, he declared to
+them in what manner their deliverance was effected; and, as a
+general shout of joy resounded through the neighbouring mountains,
+Fidus, lifting up his eyes, beheld in the midst of the multitude,
+standing in a pensive posture, the fair disconsolate.  Her tender
+heart was at the instant overflowing in soft tears, caused by a
+kind participation of their present transport, yet mixed with the
+deep sad impression of a grief her bosom was full fraught with. 
+Her face, at first, was almost hid by her white handkerchief, with
+which she wiped away the trickling drops, which falling, had
+bedewed her beauteous cheeks:  but as she turned her lovely face
+to view the joyful conquerors, and to speak a welcome to her kind
+protector, what words can speak the raptures, the astonishment,
+that swelled the bosom of the faithful youth, when in this fair
+disconsolate he saw his loved, his constant, his long-lost Amata! 
+Their delighted eyes in the same instant beheld each other, and,
+breaking on each side from their astonished friends, they flew
+like lightning into each other's arms.
+
+After they had given a short account of what had passed in their
+separation, Fidus presented to his loved Amata the kind, the
+gentle Mignon, with lavish praises of his generous friendship, and
+steady resolution, in hazarding his life by disobeying the
+injunctions of the cruel tyrant.  No sooner had Amata heard the
+name of Mignon, but she cried out, 'Surely my happiness is now
+complete, and all my sorrows, by this joyful moment, are more than
+fully recompensed; for, in the kind preserver of my Fidus, I have
+found my brother.  My mother lost her little Mignon when he was
+five years old; and pining grief, after some years vain search,
+ended her wretched life.'
+
+The generous hearts of all who were present shared the raptures of
+the faithful Fidus, the lovely Amata, and gentle Mignon, on this
+happy discovery; and in the warmest congratulations they expressed
+their joy.
+
+Benefico now led all the delighted company into his castle, where
+freedom was publicly proclaimed; and every one was left a liberty
+either to remain there with Benefico, or, loaded with wealth
+sufficient for their use, to go where their attachments or
+inclinations might invite them.
+
+Fidus, Amata, and the little Mignon, hesitated not one moment to
+declare their choice of staying with the generous Benefico.
+
+The nuptials of the faithful Fidus, and his loved Amata, were
+solemnized in the presence of all their friends.
+
+Benefico passed the remainder of his days in pleasing reflections
+on his well-spent life.
+
+The treasures of the dead tyrant were turned into blessings by the
+use they were now made of:  little Mignon was loved and cherished
+by all his companions.  Peace, harmony and love reigned in every
+bosom; dissension, discord, and hatred were banished from this
+friendly dwelling; and that happiness, which is the natural
+consequence of goodness, appeared in every cheerful countenance
+throughout the castle of the good Benefico; and as heretofore
+affright and terror spread itself from the monster's hateful cave,
+so now from this peaceful castle was diffused tranquility and joy
+through all the happy country round.
+
+
+
+Thus ended the story of the two giants:  and Miss Jenny being
+tired with reading, they left the arbour for that night, and
+agreed to meet there again the next day.
+
+As soon as they had supped, Mrs. Teachum sent for Miss Jenny Peace
+into her closet, and desired an exact account from her of this
+their first day's amusement, that she might judge from thence how
+far they might be trusted with the liberty she had given them.
+
+Miss Jenny showed her governess the story she had read;and said,
+'I hope, madam, you will not think it an improper one; for it was
+given me by my mamma; and she told me, that she thought it
+contained a very excellent moral.'
+
+Mrs. Teachum, having looked it over, thus spoke:  'I have no
+objection, Miss Jenny, to your reading any stories to amuse you,
+provided you read them with the proper disposition of mind not to
+be hurt by them.  A very good moral may indeed be drawn from the
+whole, and likewise from almost every part of it; and as you had
+this story from your mamma, I doubt not but you are very well
+qualified to make the proper remarks yourself upon the moral of it
+to your companions.  But here let me observe to you (which I would
+have you communicate to your little friends) that giants, magic,
+fairies, and all sorts of supernatural assistances in a story, are
+only introduced to amuse and divert:  for a giant is called so
+only to express a man of great power; and the magic fillet round
+the statue was intended only to show you, that by patience you
+will overcome all difficulties.  Therefore, by no means let the
+notion of giants or magic dwell upon your minds.  And you may
+farther observe, that there is a different style adapted to every
+sort of writing; and the various sounding epithets given to
+Barbarico are proper to express the raging cruelty of his wicked
+mind.  But neither this high-sounding language, nor the
+supernatural contrivances in this story, do I so thoroughly
+approve, as to recommend them much to your reading; except, as I
+said before, great care is taken to prevent your being carried
+away, by these high-flown things, from that simplicity of taste
+and manners which it is my chief study to inculcate.'
+
+Here Miss Jenny looked a little confounded; and, by her down-cast
+eye, showed a fear that she had incurred the disapprobation, if
+not the displeasure, of her governess:  upon which Mrs. Teachum
+thus proceeded:
+
+'I do not intend by this, my dear, to blame you for what you have
+done; but only to instruct you how to make the best use of even
+the most trifling things:  and if you have any more stories of
+this kind, with an equal good moral, when you are not better
+employed, I shall not be against your reading them; always
+remembering the cautions I have this evening been giving you.'
+
+Miss Jenny thanked her governess for her instructions, and kind
+indulgence to her, and promised to give her an exact account of
+their daily amusements; and, taking leave, retired to her rest.
+
+
+
+TUESDAY.
+THE SECOND DAY.
+
+That Miss Jenny's meeting with her companions in the morning,
+after school, she asked them how they liked the history of the
+giants?  They all declared they thought it a very pretty diverting
+story.  Miss Jenny replied, though she was glad they were pleased,
+yet she would have them look farther than the present amusement: 
+'for,' continued she, 'my mamma always taught me to understand what
+I read; otherwise, she said, it was to no manner of purpose to read
+ever so many books, which would only stuff my brain, without being
+any improvement to my mind.'
+
+The misses all agreed, that certainly it was of no use to read,
+without understanding what they read; and began to talk of the
+story of the giants, to prove they could make just remarks on it.
+
+Miss Sukey Jennett said, 'I am most pleased with that part of the
+story where the good Benefico cuts off the monster's head, and
+puts an end to his cruelty, especially as he was so sullen he
+would not confess his wickedness; because, you know, Miss Jenny,
+if he had had sense enough to have owned his error, and have
+followed the example of the good giant, he might have been happy.'
+
+Miss Lucy Sly delivered the following opinion:  'My greatest joy
+was whilst Mignon was tying the magic fillet round the monster's
+neck, and conquering him.'
+
+'Now I (said Miss Dolly Friendly) am most pleased with that part
+of the story, were Fidus and Amata meet the reward of their
+constancy and love, when they find each other after all their
+sufferings.'
+
+Miss Polly Suckling said, with some eagerness, 'My greatest joy
+was in the description of Mignon; and to think that it should be
+in the power of that little creature to conquer such a great
+monster.'
+
+Miss Patty Lockit, Miss Nanny Spruce, Miss Betty Ford, and Miss
+Henny Fret, advanced no new opinions; but agreed some to one, and
+some to another, of those that were already advanced.  And as
+every one was eager to maintain her own opinion, an argument
+followed, the particulars of which I could never learn:  only thus
+much I know, that it was concluded by Miss Lucy Sly, saying, with
+an air and tone of voice that implied more anger than had been
+heard since the reconciliation, that she was sure Miss Polly
+Suckling only liked that part about Mignon, because she was the
+least in the school; and Mignon being such a little creature, put
+her in mind of herself.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace now began to be frighted, lest this contention
+should raise another quarrel; and therefore begged to be heard
+before they went any farther.  They were not yet angry enough to
+refuse hearing what she had to say:  and then Miss Jenny desired
+them to consider the moral of the story, and what use they might
+make of it, instead of contending which was the prettiest part: 
+'For otherwise,' continued she, 'I have lost my breath in reading
+to you; and you will be worse, rather than better, for what you
+have heard.  Pray observe, that Benefico's happiness arose entirely
+from his goodness:  he had less strength, and less riches, than
+the cruel monster; and yet, by the good use he made of what he
+possessed, you see how he turned all things to his advantage.  But
+particularly remember, that the good little Mignon, in the moment
+that he was patiently submitting to his sufferings, found a method
+of relieving himself from them, and of overcoming a barbarous
+monster, who had so cruelly abused him.
+
+'Our good governess last night not only instructed me in this
+moral I am now communicating to you, but likewise bid me warn you
+by no means to let the notion of giants or magic to dwell upon
+your minds; for by a giant is meant no more than a man of great
+power; and the magic fillet round the head of the statue was only
+intended to teach you, that by the assistance of patience you may
+overcome all difficulties.
+
+'In order therefore to make what you read of any use to you, you
+must not only think of it thus in general, but make the
+application to yourselves.  For when (as now) instead of improving
+yourselves by reading, you make what you read a subject to quarrel
+about, what is this less than being like the monster Barbarico,
+who turned his very riches to a curse?  I am sure it is not
+following the example of Benefico, who made everything a blessing
+to him.  Remember, if you pinch and abuse a dog or cat, because it
+is in your power, you are like the cruel Monster, when he abused
+the little Mignon, and said,
+
+I am a giant, and I can eat thee;
+Thou art a dwarf, and thou canst not eat me.
+
+'In short, if you will reap any benefit from this story towards
+rendering you happy, whenever you have any power, you must follow
+the example of the giant Benefico, and do good with it:  and when
+you are under any sufferings, like Mignon, you must patiently
+endure them till you can find a remedy:  then, in one case, like
+Benefico, you will enjoy what you possess; and, in the other, you
+will in time, like Mignon, overcome your sufferings:  for the
+natural consequence of indulging cruelty and revenge in the mind,
+even where there is the highest power to gratify it, is misery.'
+
+Here Miss Sukey Jennet interrupted Miss Jenny, saying, that she
+herself had experienced the truth of that observation in the
+former part of her life:  for she never had known either peace or
+pleasure, till she had conquered in her mind the desire of hurting
+and being revenged on those who she thought did not by their
+behaviour show the same regard for her, that her own good opinion
+of herself made her think she deserved.  Miss Jenny then asked
+her, if she was willing to lead the way to the rest of her
+companions, by telling her past life?  She answered, she would do
+it with all her heart; and, by having so many and great faults to
+confess, she hoped she should, by her true confessions, set them
+an example of honesty and ingenuity.
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS SUKEY JENNETT.
+
+Miss Sukey Jennett, who was next in years to Miss Jenny Peace, was
+not quite twelve years old; but so very tall of her age, that she
+was within a trifle as tall as Miss Jenny Peace; and, by growing so
+fast, was much thinner:  and though she was not really so well
+made, yet, from an assured air in her manner of carrying herself,
+she was called much the genteelest girl.  There was, on first view,
+a great resemblance in their persons.  Her face was very handsome,
+and her complexion extremely good; but a little more inclined to
+pale than Miss Jenny's.  Her eyes were a degree darker, and had a
+life and fire in them which was very beautiful:  but yet her
+impatience on the least contradiction often brought a fierceness
+into her eyes, and gave such a discomposure to her whole
+countenance, as immediately took off your admiration.  But her
+eyes had now, since her hearty reconciliation with her companions,
+lost a great part of their fierceness; and with great mildness,
+and an obliging manner, she told her story as follows:
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS SUKEY JENNETT.
+
+'My mamma died when I was so young that I cannot remember her; and
+my papa marrying again within half a year after her death, I was
+chiefly left to the care of an old servant, that had lived many
+years in the family.  I was a great favourite of hers, and in
+everything had my own way.  When I was but four years old, if ever
+anything crossed me, I was taught to beat it, and be revenged of
+it, even though it could not feel.  If I fell down and hurt
+myself, the very ground was to be beat for hurting the sweet
+child:  so that, instead of fearing to fall, I did not dislike it;
+for I was pleased to find, that I was of such consequence, that
+everything was to take care that I came by no harm.
+
+'I had a little playfellow, in a child of one of my papa's
+servants, who was to be entirely under my command.  This girl I
+used to abuse and beat, whenever I was out of humour; and when I
+had abused her, if she dared to grumble, or make the least
+complaint, I thought it the greatest impudence in the world; and,
+instead of mending my behaviour to her, I grew very angry that she
+should dare to dispute my power:  for my governess always told
+her, that she was but a servant's girl, and I was a gentleman's
+daughter; and that therefore she ought to give way to me; for that
+I did her great honour in playing with her.  Thus I thought the
+distance between us was so great, that I never considered that she
+could feel:  but whilst I myself suffered nothing, I fancied
+everything was very right; and it never once came into my head,
+that I could be in the wrong.
+
+'This life I led till I came to school, when I was eleven years
+old.  Here I had nobody in my power; for all my schoolfellows
+thought themselves my equals:  so that I could only quarrel,
+fight, and contend for everything:  but being liable to be
+punished, when I was trying to be revenged on any of my enemies,
+as I thought them, I never had a moment's ease or pleasure, till
+Miss Jenny was so good to take the pains to convince me of my
+folly, and made me be reconciled to you, my dear companions.'
+
+Here Miss Sukey ceased; and Miss Jenny smiled with pleasure, at
+the thoughts that she had been the cause of her happiness.
+
+Mrs. Teachum being now come into the arbour, to see in what manner
+her little scholars passed their time, they all rose up and do her
+reverence.  Miss Jenny gave her an account how they had been
+employed; and she was much pleased with their innocent and useful
+entertainment; but especially with the method they had found out
+of relating their past lives.  She took little Polly Suckling by
+the hand, and bidding the rest follow, it being now dinner time,
+she walked towards the house, attended by the whole company.
+
+Mrs. Teachum had a great inclination to hear the history of the
+lives of all her little scholars:  but she thought, that being
+present at those relations might be a balk to the narration, as
+perhaps they might be ashamed freely to confess their past faults
+before her; and therefore, that she might not be any bar in this
+case to the freedom of their speech, and yet might be acquainted
+with their stories (though this was not merely a vain curiosity,
+but a desire by this means to know their different dispositions),
+she called Miss Jenny Peace to her parlour after dinner, and told
+her, she would have her get the lives of her companions in
+writing, and bring them to her; and Miss Jenny readily promised to
+obey her commands.
+
+In the evening our little company again met in their charming
+arbour; where they were no sooner seated, with that calmness and
+content which now always attended them, than the cries and sobs of
+a child, at a little distance from their garden, disturbed their
+tranquility.
+
+Miss Jenny, ever ready to relieve the distressed, ran immediately
+to the place whence the sound seemed to come, and was followed by
+all her companions:  when, at a small distance from Mrs. Teachum's
+garden-wall, over which from the terrace our young company looked,
+they saw, under a large spreading tree, part of the branches of
+which shaded a seat at the end of that terrace, a middle-aged
+woman beating a little girl, who looked to be about eight years
+old, so severely, that it was no wonder her cries had reached
+their arbour.
+
+Miss Jenny could not forbear calling out to the woman, and begging
+her to forbear:  and little Polly Suckling cried as much as the
+girl, and desired she might not be beat any more.  The woman, in
+respect to them, let the child go; but said, 'Indeed, young
+ladies, you don't know what a naughty girl she is:  for though you
+now see me correct her in this manner, yet am I in all respects
+very kind to her, and never strike her but for lying.  I have
+tried all means, good and bad, to break her of this vile fault;
+but hitherto all I have done has been in vain:  nor can I ever get
+one word of truth out of her mouth.  But I am resolved to break
+her of this horrid custom, or I cannot live with her:  for though
+I am but poor, yet I will breed up my child to be honest, both in
+word and deed.'
+
+Miss Jenny could not but approve of what the poor woman said. 
+However, they all joined in begging forgiveness for the girl this
+time, provided she promised amendment for the future:  and then
+our little society returned to their arbour.
+
+Miss Jenny could not help expressing her great detestation of all
+lying whatsoever; when Miss Dolly Friendly, colouring, confessed
+she had often been guilty of this fault, though she never scarcely
+did it but for her friend.
+
+Here Miss Jenny, interrupting her, said, that even that was no
+sort of excuse for lying; besides that the habit of it on any
+occasion, even with the appearance of a good intention, would but
+too likely lead to the use of it on many others:  and as she did
+not doubt, by Miss Dolly's blushing, that she was now very
+sensible of the truth of what she had just been saying, she hoped
+she would take this opportunity of obliging them with the history
+of her past life:  which request she made no hesitation to grant,
+saying, the shame of her past faults should by o means induce her
+to conceal them.
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS DOLLY FRIENDLY.
+
+Miss Dolly Friendly was just turned of eleven years of age.  Her
+person was neither plain nor handsome:  and though she had not
+what is properly called one fine feature in her face, yet the
+disposition of them were so suitable to each other, that her
+countenance was rather agreeable than otherwise.  She had
+generally something very quiet, or rather indolent, in her look,
+except when she was moved by anger; which seldom happened, but in
+defense of some favourite or friend; and she had then a fierceness
+and eagerness which altered her whole countenance:  for she could
+not bear the least reflection or insult on those she loved.  This
+disposition made her always eager to comply with her friends'
+requests; and she immediately began, as follows:
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS DOLLY FRIENDLY.
+
+'I was bred up, till I was nine years of age, with a sister, who
+was one year younger than myself.  The chief care of our parents
+was to make us love each other; and, as I was naturally inclined
+to have very strong affections, I became so fond of my sister
+Molly, which was her name, that all my delight was to please her;
+and this I carried to such a height, that I scrupled no lies to
+excuse her faults:  and whatever she did, I justified, and thought
+right, only because she did it.
+
+'I was ready to fight her quarrels, whether right or wrong; and
+hated everybody that offended her.  My parents winked at whatever
+I did in defence of my sister; and I had no notion that any thing
+done for her could be unreasonable.  In short, I made it my study
+to oblige and please her, till I found at last it was out of my
+power;  for she grew so very humoursome, that she could not find
+out what she had most mind to have; and I found her always
+miserable; for she would cry only because she did not know her own
+mind.
+
+'She never minded what faults she committed, because she knew I
+would excuse her; and she was forgiven in consideration of our
+friendship, which gave our parents great pleasure.
+
+'My poor little sister grew very sickly, and she died just before
+I came to school:  but the same disposition still continued; and
+it was my friend's outcries of being hurt, that drew me into that
+odious quarrel, that we have all now repented.'
+
+
+
+Here Miss Dolly Friendly ceased; and Miss Jenny said, she hoped
+Miss Dolly would remember, for the rest of her life, what HER good
+mamma had always taught her; namely, that it was not the office of
+friendship, to justify or excuse our friend when in the wrong; for
+that was the way to prevent their ever being in the right:  that
+it was rather hatred, or contempt, than love, when the fear of
+another's anger made us forego their good, for the sake of our own
+present pleasure; and that the friends who expected such flattery
+were not worth keeping.
+
+The bell again summoned our little company to supper:  but, before
+they went in, Miss Dolly Friendly said, if Miss Jenny approved of
+it, she would the next morning read them a story given her by an
+uncle of hers, that, she said, she was sure would please her, as
+its subject was friendship.  Miss Jenny replied, that she was
+certain it would be a great pleasure to them all, to hear any
+story Miss Dolly thought proper to read them.
+
+
+
+WEDNESDAY.
+THE THIRD DAY.
+
+As soon as school was over in the morning, our little company were
+impatient to go into the arbour, to hear Miss Dolly's story:  but
+Mrs. Teachum told them they must be otherwise employed; for their
+writing-master, who lived some miles off; and who was expected in
+the afternoon, was just then come in, and begged that they would
+give him their attendance, though out of school-time; because he
+was obliged to be at home again before the afternoon, to meet a
+person who would confer some favour on him, and would be highly
+disobliged should he not keep his appointment:  'And I know (said
+Mrs. Teachum) my little dears, you would rather lose your own
+amusement, than let any one suffer a real inconvenience on your
+accounts.'  They all readily complied, and cheerfully set to their
+writing; and in the afternoon Mrs. Teachum permitted them to leave
+off work an hour sooner than usual, as a reward for their
+readiness to lose their amusement in the morning:  and being met
+in their arbour, Miss Dolly read as follows:
+
+
+
+THE STORY OF CAELIA AND CHLOE.
+
+Caelia and Chloe were both left orphans, at the tender age of six
+years. Amanda their aunt, who was very rich, and a maiden, took
+them directly under her care, and bred them up as her own
+children.  Caelia's mother was Amanda's sister; and Chloe's father
+was her brother; so that she was equally related to both.
+
+They were left entirely unprovided for; were both born on the same
+day; and both lost their mothers on the day of their birth:  their
+fathers were soldiers of fortune; and both killed in one day, in
+the fame engagement.  But their fortunes were not more similar
+than their persons and dispositions.  They were both extremely
+handsome; and in their Childhood were so remarkable for liveliness
+of parts, and sweetness of temper, that they were the admiration
+of the whole country where they lived.
+
+Their aunt loved them with a sincere and equal affection, and took
+the greatest pleasure imaginable in their education, and
+particularly to encourage that love and friendship which she with
+pleasure perceived between them.  Amanda being (as was said) very
+rich, and having no other relations, it was supposed that these
+her nieces would be very great fortunes; and as soon as they
+became women, they were addressed by all the men of fortune and no
+fortune round the neighbourhood.  But as the love of admiration,
+and a desire of a large train of admirers, had no place in their
+minds, they soon dismissed, in the most civil and obliging manner,
+one after another, all these lovers.
+
+The refusing such numbers of men, and some such as by the world
+were called good offers, soon got them the name of jilts; and by
+that means they were freed from any farther importunity, and for
+some years enjoyed that peace and quiet they had long wished. 
+Their aunt, from being their mother and their guardian, was now
+become their friend.  For, as she endeavoured not in the least to
+force their inclinations, they never kept anything concealed from
+her; and every action of their lives was still guided by her
+advice and approbation.
+
+They lived on in this way, perfectly happy in their own little
+community, till they were about two-and-twenty years old when
+there happened to be a regiment quartered in the neighbouring
+town, to which their house was nearly situated; and the
+lieutenant-colonel, a man about four-and-thirty years old, hearing
+their names, had a great desire to see them.  For when he was a
+boy of sixteen, he was put into the Army under the care of Chloe's
+father, who treated him with the greatest tenderness; and (in that
+fatal engagement in which he lost his life) received his death's
+wound by endeavouring to save him from being taken by the enemy. 
+And gratitude to the memory of so good a friend was as great an
+inducement to make him desire to see his daughter, as the report
+he had heard both of hers and her cousin's great beauty.
+
+Sempronius (for so this Colonel was called) was a very sensible,
+well-bred, agreeable man; and from the circumstances of his former
+acquaintance, and his present proper and polite behaviour, he soon
+became very intimate in the family.  The old lady was particularly
+pleased with him; and secretly wished, that before she died she
+might be so happy as to see one of her nieces married to
+Sempronius.  She could not from his behaviour see the least
+particular liking to either, though he showed an equal and very
+great esteem and regard for both.
+
+He in reality liked them both extremely; and the reason of making
+no declaration of love was, his being so undetermined in any
+preference that was due to either.  He saw plainly that he was
+very agreeable to both; and with pleasure he observed, that they
+made use of none of those arts which women generally do to get
+away a disputed lover:  and this sincere friendship which
+subsisted between them raised in him the highest degree of love
+and admiration.  However he at last determined to make the
+following trial:
+
+He went first to Chloe, and (finding her alone) told her, that he
+had the greatest liking in the world to her cousin; and had really
+a mind to propose himself to her:  but as he saw a very great
+friendship between them, he was willing to ask her advice in the
+matter; and conjured her to tell him  sincerely, whether there was
+anything in Caelia's temper (not discoverable by him) which as a
+wife would make him unhappy?  He told her, that, if she knew any
+such thing, it would be no treachery, but rather kind in her to
+declare it, as it would prevent her friend's being unhappy; which
+must be the consequence, in marriage, of her making him so.
+
+Chloe could not help seeing very plainly, that if Caelia was
+removed she stood the very next in Sempronius's favour.  Her lover
+was present--her friend was absent--and the temptation was too
+strong and agreeable to be resisted.  She then answered, that
+since he insisted upon the truth, and had convinced her that it
+was in reality acting justly and kindly by her friend, she must
+confess, that Caelia was possessed (though in a very small degree)
+of what she had often heard him declare most against of anything
+in the world; and that was, an artfulness of temper, and some few
+sparks of envy.
+
+Chloe's confused manner of speaking, and frequent hesitation, as
+unwilling to pronounce her friend's condemnation (which, as being
+unused to falsehood, was really unaffected) he imputed to
+tenderness and concern for Caelia; but he did not in the least
+doubt, but on his application to her he should soon be convinced
+of the truth of what Chloe had said.
+
+He then went directly to the arbour at the end of the garden, and
+there to his wish he found Caelia quite alone; and he addressed
+her exactly in the same manner concerning her cousin, as he had
+before spoke to Chloe concerning her.  Caelia suddenly blushed
+(from motives I leave those to find out who can put themselves in
+her circumstances) and then fetched a soft sigh, from the thought
+that she was hearing a man she loved declare a passion of which
+she was not the object.  But after some little pause, she told
+him, that if Chloe had any faults, they were to her yet
+undiscovered, and she really and sincerely believed her cousin
+would make him extremely happy.  Sempronius then said, that of all
+other things, TREACHERY and ENVY were what he had the greatest
+dislike to:  and he asked her, if she did not think her cousin was
+a little tainted with these?--Here Caelia could not help
+interrupting, and assuring him, that she believed her totally free
+from both.  And, from his casting on her friend an aspersion which
+her very soul abhorred, forgetting all rivalship, she could not
+refrain from growing quite lavish in her praise.  'Suppose then
+(said Sempronius) I was to say the same to your cousin concerning
+my intentions towards you as I have to you concerning her, do you
+think she would say as many fine things in your praise as you have
+done in hers?'
+
+Caelia answered, that she verily believed her cousin would say as
+much for her as she really deserved; but whether that would be
+equal to what with justice she could say of Chloe, her modesty
+left her in some doubt of.
+
+Sempronius had too much penetration not to see the real and true
+difference in the behaviour of these two women, and could not help
+crying out, 'O Caelia! your honest truth and goodness in every
+word and look are too visible to leave me one doubt of their
+reality.  But, could you believe it? this friend of yours is
+false.  I have already put her to the trial, by declaring to her
+my sincere and unalterable passion for you.  When, on my
+insisting, as I did to you, upon her speaking the truth, she
+accused you of what nothing should now convince me you are guilty
+of.  I own, that hitherto my regard, esteem, and love, have been
+equal to both; but now I offer to the sincere, artless, and
+charming Caelia, my whole heart, love, and affection, and the
+service of every minute of my future life; and from this moment I
+banish from my mind the false and ungrateful Chloe.'
+
+Caelia's friendship for Chloe was so deeply rooted in her breast,
+that even a declaration of love from Sempronius could not blot it
+one moment from her heart; and on his speaking the words 'false
+Chloe,' she burst into tears, and said, 'Is it possible that Chloe
+should act such a part towards her Caelia! You must forgive her,
+Sempronius:  it was her violent passion for you, and fear of
+losing you, which made her do what hitherto her nature has ever
+appeared averse to.'
+
+Sempronius answered, 'that he could not enough admire her goodness
+to her friend Chloe; but such proofs of passion, he said, were to
+him at the same time proofs of its being such a passion as he had
+no regard for; since it was impossible for any one to gain or
+increase his love by an action which at the same time lessened his
+esteem.'  This was so exactly Caelia's own way of thinking, that
+she could not but assent to what he said.
+
+But just as they were coming out of the arbour, Chloe, unseen by
+them, passed by; and from seeing him kiss her hand, and the
+complacency of Caelia's look, it was easy for her to guess what
+had been the result of their private conference.  She could not
+however help indulging her curiosity, so far as to walk on the
+other side of a thick yew hedge, to listen to their discourse; and
+as they walked on, she heard Sempronius entreat Caelia to be
+cheerful, and think no more of her treacherous friend, whose
+wickedness he doubted not would sufficiently punish itself.  She
+then heard Caelia say, 'I cannot bear, Sempronius, to hear you
+speak so hardly of my Chloe.  Say that you forgive her, and I will
+indeed be cheerful.'
+
+Nothing upon earth can be conceived so wretched as poor Chloe, for
+on the first moment that she suffered herself to reflect on what
+she had done, she thoroughly repented, and heartily detested
+herself for such baseness.  She went directly into the garden in
+hopes of meeting Sempronius, to have thrown herself at his feet,
+confessed her treachery, and to have begged him never to have
+mentioned it to Caelia; but now she was conscious her repentance
+would come too late; and he would despise her, if possible still
+more, for such a recantation, after her knowledge of what had
+passed between him and Caelia.
+
+She could indeed have gone to him, and not have owned what she had
+seen or heard; but now her abhorrence of even the appearance of
+treachery or cunning was so great, that she could not bear to add
+the smallest grain of falsehood or deceit to the weight of her
+guilt, which was already almost insupportable:  and should she
+tell him of her repentance, with a confession of her knowledge of
+his engagement with Caelia, it would (as has been before observed)
+appear both servile and insincere.
+
+Nothing could now appear so altered as the whole face of this once
+happy family.  Sempronius as much as possible shunned the sight of
+Chloe; for as she was the cause of all the confusion amongst them,
+he had almost an aversion to her.  Though he was not of an
+implacable temper, yet, as the injury was intended to one he
+sincerely loved, he found it much harder to forgive it, than if it
+had even succeeded against himself; and as he still looked upon
+Chloe as the cause of melancholy in his dear Caelia, he could
+hardly have any patience with her.
+
+No words can describe the various passions which were expressed in
+the sad countenance of Chloe, when first she met her friend.  They
+were both afraid of speaking.  Shame, and the fear of being (and
+with too good reason) suspected of insincerity, withheld Chloe;
+and an unwillingness to accuse or hurt her friend withheld the
+gentle Caelia.  She sometimes indeed thought she saw repentance in
+Chloe's face, and wished for nothing more than to seal her pardon. 
+But till it was asked, she was in doubt (from what had passed)
+whether such pardon and proffered reconciliation might not be
+rejected.  She knew that her friend's passions were naturally
+stronger than hers; and she therefore trembled at the consequences
+of coming to an explanation.
+
+But there was hardly a greater sufferer in this scene of confusion
+than the poor old Lady Amanda.  She saw a sort of horror and
+wildness in the face of Chloe; and in Caelia's a settled
+melancholy, and such an unusual reserve in both towards each
+other, as well as to herself, as quite astonished her.
+
+Sempronius came indeed to the house as often as usual; but in his
+countenance she could perceive a sort of anger and concern which
+perfectly frightened her.  But as they did not speak to her, she
+could not bring herself to ask the cause of this woeful change,
+for fear of hearing something too bad to bear.
+
+Caelia had absolutely refused granting to Sempronius leave to ask
+her aunt's consent, till she should come to some explanation with
+Chloe, which seemed every day farther off than ever.
+
+The great perturbation of Chloe's mind threw her into a disorder
+not many degrees short of madness; and at last she was seized with
+a violent fever so as to keep her bed.  She said she could not
+bear to look on Amanda; but begged Caelia to be with her as much
+as possible; which she did, in hopes of bringing herself to ease
+her mind, by speaking to her of what had given them all this
+torment.
+
+Caelia watched with her night and day for three days, when the
+physician who attended her pronounced that there was no hope of
+her life.  Caelia could not any longer bear to stay in the room,
+and went downstairs, expecting every moment to hear she was
+expired.
+
+Chloe soon perceived by Caelia's abrupt leaving the room, and the
+looks of those who were left in it, that her fate was pronounced;
+which, instead of sinking her spirits, and making her dejected,
+gave a tranquillity to her mind; for she thought within herself,
+'I shall now make my dear cousin happy, by removing out of her way
+an object that must embitter all her joy; and now likewise, as she
+is convinced I am on my death-bed, she will once more believe me
+capable of speaking truth; and will, in the manner I could wish,
+receive my sincere repentance.'  Then sending for Caelia up to her
+bedside, she in a weak voice, with hardly strength for utterance,
+spoke in this manner:  'My dear Caelia, though you know me to be a
+worthless base wretch, yet do not think so hardly of me, as to
+imagine I would deceive you with my last breath.  Believe me then
+when I tell you, that I sincerely repent of my treachery towards
+you; and as sincerely rejoice that it has in reality been the
+cause of your happiness with Sempronius.  Tell him this; and then,
+perhaps, he will not hate my memory.'  Here she fainted away, and
+they forced Caelia out of the room, thinking her breath was for
+ever flown.  But in some time she came again to herself, and cried
+out, 'What! would not my dear Caelia say that she forgave me? 
+Methinks I would not die, till I had obtained her pardon.  She is
+too good to refuse her friend this last request.'  Her attendants
+then told her, that seeing her faint away, they had forced Caelia
+out of the room; and they begged her to try to compose herself,
+for they were sure that seeing her friend again, at this time,
+would only disturb her mind, and do her an injury.
+
+Chloe, from the vent she had given her grief in speaking to
+Caelia, found herself something more easy and composed; and
+desiring the room to be made perfectly quiet, she fell into a
+gentle sleep, which lasted two hours; and when she awaked she
+found herself so much better, that those about her were convinced,
+from her composed manner of speaking, that she was now able to
+bear another interview.
+
+They again called for Caelia, and told her of her cousin's
+amendment.  She flew with all speed to her chamber; and the moment
+she entered, Chloe cried out, 'Can you forgive me, Caelia?' 
+'Yes, with the greatest joy and sincerity imaginable, my dearest
+Chloe,' answered Caelia, 'and never let it be again mentioned or
+remembered.'
+
+The sudden recovery of Chloe was almost incredible; for in less
+than a week she was able to quit both her bed and room, and go
+into her aunt's chamber.  The good old lady shed tears of joy, to
+see such a return of Chloe's health, and of cheerfulness in the
+family; and was perfectly contented, now she saw their melancholy
+removed, not to inquire into the late cause of it, for fear of
+renewing their trouble even one moment by the remembrance of it.
+
+Sempronius, in the meantime, upon some affairs of his duty in the
+army, had been called away, and was absent the whole time of
+Chloe's illness, and was not yet returned.  Caelia spent almost
+her whole time with Chloe; but three weeks passed on, and they
+were often alone; yet they had never once mentioned the name of
+Sempronius, which laid Caelia still under the greatest difficulty
+how to act, so as to avoid giving her friend any uneasiness, and
+yet not disoblige Sempronius; for she had promised him at his
+departure, that she would give him leave to ask her aunt's consent
+immediately upon his return.  But the very day he was expected,
+she was made quite easy by what passed between her and her friend.
+
+Chloe, in this time, by proper reflections, and a due sense of
+Caelia's great goodness and affection to her, had so entirely got
+the better of herself in this affair, that she found she could
+now, without any uneasiness, see them married; and calling Caelia
+to her, she said with a smile, 'I have, my dear friend, been so
+long accustomed to read in that intelligible index, your
+countenance, all your most inmost thoughts, that I have not been
+unobserving of those kind fears you have had on my account; and
+the reason I have so long delayed speaking was, my resolution, if
+possible, never again to deceive you.  I can with pleasure now
+assure you, that nothing can give me so much joy as to see your
+wedding with Sempronius.  I make no doubt, but if you ask it, you
+will have my aunt's consent; and, if any intercession should be
+wanting towards obtaining it, I will (if you can trust me) use all
+my influence in your behalf.  Be assured, my dear Caelia, I have
+now no farther regard left for Sempronius, than as your husband;
+and that regard will increase in proportion as he is the cause of
+your happiness.'
+
+They were interrupted in their discourse by news being brought of
+the arrival of Sempronius, and Chloe received him with that ease
+and cheerfulness as convinced Caelia her professions were unfeigned.
+
+Caelia related to Sempronius all that had passed between her and
+Chloe; and by her continued cheerfulness of behaviour, the peace
+and tranquillity of the family was perfectly restored, and their
+joy greatly increased by Amanda's ready consent to the marriage of
+Sempronius and Caelia, having first settled all her fortune to be
+divided at her death equally between her nieces; and in her
+lifetime there was no occasion of settlements, or deeds of gift,
+for they lived all together, and separate property was not so much
+as mentioned or thought on in this family of harmony and peace.
+
+Here Miss Dolly ceased reading; and all her hearers sat some
+little time silent, and then expressed their great joy that Caelia
+and Chloe were at last happy; for none of them had been able to
+refrain from tears whilst they were otherwise.  On which Miss
+Jenny Peace begged them to observe from this story, the miserable
+effects that attend deceit and treachery:  'For,' continued she,
+'you see you could not refrain from tears, only by imagining what
+Chloe must feel after her wickedness (by which indeed she lost the
+very happiness she intended treacherously to gain); nor could she
+enjoy one moment's peace, till by confessing her fault, and
+heartily repenting of it, her mind was restored to its former calm
+and tranquility.'  Miss Dolly thanked Miss Jenny for her remarks;
+but Miss Lucy Sly was most sensibly touched with this story, as
+cunning had formerly entirely possessed HER mind; and said, that
+if her companions were not weary at present of their arbour, she
+would now recount to them the history of her life, as this story
+was a proper introduction to it.
+
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS LUCY SLY.
+
+Miss Lucy Sly was of the same age as Miss Dolly Friendly; but
+shorter, at least, by half the head.  She was generally called a
+pretty girl, from having a pair of exceeding fine black eyes, only
+with the allay of something cunning in their look.  She had a high
+forehead, and very good curling black hair.  She had a sharp high
+nose, and a very small mouth.  Her complexion was but indifferent,
+and the lower part of her face ill-turned, for her chin was too
+long for due proportion.
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS LUCY SLY.
+
+From the time I was two years old, (said Miss Lucy) my mamma was
+so sickly, that she was unable to take any great care of me
+herself, and I was left to the care of a governess, who made it
+her study to bring me to do what she had a mind to have done,
+without troubling her head what induced me so to do.  And whenever
+I did anything wrong, she used to say it was the foot-boy, and not
+miss, that was naughty.  Nay, she would say, it was the dog, or
+the cat, or anything she could lay the blame upon, sooner than own
+it was me.  I thought this pure, that I was never in fault; and
+soon got into a way of telling any lies, and of laying my own
+faults on others, since I found I should be believed.  I remember
+once, when I had broken a fine china-cup, that I artfully got out
+of the scrape, and hid the broken cup in the foot-boy's room.  He
+was whipped for breaking it; and the next day whilst I was at play
+about the room, I heard my governess say to a friend who was with
+her, "Yesterday Miss Lucy broke a china-cup; but the artful little
+hussy went and hid it in the foot-boy's room, and the poor boy was
+whipped for it.  I don't believe there was ever a girl of her age
+that had half her cunning and contrivance."  I knew by her tone of
+voice, and her manner of speaking, that she did not blame me in
+her heart, but rather commended my ingenuity.  And I thought
+myself so wise, that I could thus get off the blame from myself,
+that I every day improved in new inventions to save myself, and
+have others punished in my place.
+
+'This life of endeavouring to deceive I led till I came to school. 
+But here I found that I could not so well carry on my little
+schemes; for I was found out and punished for my own faults; and
+this created in me a hatred to my companions.  For whatever Miss I
+had a mind to serve as I used to serve our foot-boy, in laying the
+blame falsely upon her, if she could justify herself, and prove me
+in the wrong, I was very angry with her, for daring to contradict
+me, and not submitting as quietly to be punished wrongfully, as
+the foot-boy was forced to do.
+
+'This is all I know of my life hitherto.'
+
+
+
+Thus ended Miss Lucy Sly:  and Miss Jenny Peace commended Miss
+Lucy for her free confession of her faults, and said, 'She doubted
+not but she would find the advantage of amending, and endeavouring
+to change a disposition so very pernicious to her own peace and
+quiet, as well as to that of all her friends;' but they now obeyed
+the summons of the supper-bell, and soon after retired to rest.
+
+
+
+THURSDAY.
+THE FOURTH DAY.
+
+Our little company, as soon as the morning school-hours were over,
+hastened to their arbour, and were attentive to what Miss Jenny
+Peace should propose to them for their amusement till dinner-time;
+when Miss Jenny, looking round upon them, said, 'that she had not
+at present any story to read; but that she hoped, from Miss Dolly
+Friendly's example yesterday, some of the rest might endeavour
+sometimes to furnish out the entertainment of the day.'  Upon
+which Miss Sukey Jennett said, 'that though she could not promise
+them such an agreeable story as Miss Dolly's; yet she would read
+them a letter she had received the evening before from her Cousin
+Peggy Smith, who lived at York; in which there was a story that
+she thought very strange and remarkable.  They were all very
+desirous of it, when Miss Sukey read as follows:
+
+
+'Dear cousin,--I promised, you know, to write to you when I had
+anything to tell you;  and as I think the following story very
+extraordinary, I was willing to keep my word.
+
+'Some time ago there came to settle in this city, a lady, whose
+name was Dison.  We all visited her:  but she had so deep a
+melancholy, arising, as it appeared, from a settled state of ill
+health, that nothing we could do could afford her the least
+relief, or make her cheerful.  In this condition she languished
+amongst us five years, still continuing to grow worse and worse.
+
+'We all grieved at her fate.  Her flesh was withered away; her
+appetite decayed by degrees, till all food became nauseous to her
+sight; her strength failed her; her feet could not support her
+tottering body, lean and worn away as it was; and we hourly
+expected her death.  When, at last, she one day called her most
+intimate friends to her bedside, and, as well as she could, spoke
+to the following purpose:  'I know you all pity me; but, alas! I
+am not so much the object of your pity, as your contempt; for all
+my misery is of my own seeking, and owing to the wickedness of my
+own mind.  I had two sisters, with whom I was bred up; and I have
+all my lifetime been unhappy, for no other cause but for their
+success in the world.  When we were young, I could neither eat nor
+sleep in peace, when they had either praise or pleasure.  When we
+grew up to be women, they were both soon married much to their
+advantage and satisfaction.  This galled me to the heart; and,
+though I had several good offers, yet as I did not think them in
+all respects equal to my sisters, I would not accept them; and yet
+was inwardly vexed to refuse them, for fear I would get no better. 
+I generally deliberated so long that I lost my lovers, and then I
+pined for that loss.  I never wanted for anything; and was in a
+situation in which I might have been happy, if I pleased.  My
+sisters loved me very well, for I concealed as much as possible
+from them my odious envy; and yet never did any poor wretch lead
+so miserable a life as I have done; for every blessing they
+enjoyed was as so many daggers to my heart.  'Tis this envy that
+has caused all my ill health, has preyed upon my very vitals, and
+will now bring me to my Grave."
+
+'In a few days after this confession she died; and her words and
+death made such a strong impression on my mind, that I could not
+help sending you this relation; and begging you, my dear Sukey, to
+remember how careful we ought to be to curb in our minds the very
+first risings of a passion so detestable, and so fatal, as this
+proved to poor Mrs. Dison.  I know I have no particular reason for
+giving you this caution; for I never saw anything in you, but what
+deserved the love and esteem of
+
+'Your very affectionate cousin,
+'M. SMITH.'
+
+
+As soon as Miss Sukey had finished her letter, Miss Patty Lockit
+rose up, and, flying to Miss Jenny Peace, embraced her, and said,
+'What thanks can I give you, my dear friend, for having put me
+into a way of examining my heart, and reflecting on my own
+actions; by which you have saved me, perhaps, from a life as
+miserable as that of the poor woman in Miss Sukey's letter!'  Miss
+Jenny did not thoroughly understand her meaning; but imagining it
+might be something relating to her past life, desired her to
+explain herself; which she said she would do, telling now, in her
+turn, all that had hitherto happened to her.
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS PATTY LOCKIT.
+
+Miss Patty Lockit was but ten years old; tall, inclined to fat. 
+Her neck was short; and she was not in the least genteel.  Her
+face was very handsome; for all her features were extremely good. 
+She had large blue eyes; was exceeding fair; and had a great bloom
+on her cheeks.  Her hair was the very first degree of light brown;
+was bright and shining; and hung in ringlets half way down her
+back.  Her mouth was rather too large; but she had such fine
+teeth, and looked so agreeably when she smiled, that you was not
+sensible of any fault in it.
+
+This was the person of Miss Patty Lockit, who was slow to relate
+her past life; which she did, in the following manner:
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS PATTY LOCKIT.
+
+I lived, till I was six years old, in a very large family; for I
+had four sisters, all older than myself, and three brothers.  We
+played together, and passed our time much in the common way: 
+sometimes we quarrelled, and sometimes agreed, just as accident
+would have it.  Our parents had no partiality to any of us; so we
+had no cause to envy one another on that account; and we lived
+tolerably well together.
+
+'When I was six years old, my grandmother by my father's side (and
+who was also my godmother) offering to take me to live with her,
+and promising to look upon me as her own child, and entirely to
+provide for me, my father and mother, as they had a large family,
+very readily accepted her offer, and sent me directly to her
+house.
+
+'About half a year before this, she had taken another goddaughter,
+the only child of my Aunt Bradly, who was lately dead, and whose
+husband was gone to the West Indies.  My cousin, Molly Bradly, was
+four years older than I; and her mother had taken such pains in
+her education, that the understood more than most girls of her
+age; and had so much liveliness, good humour, and ingenuity, that
+everybody was fond of her; and wherever we went together, all the
+notice was taken of my cousin, and I was very little regarded.
+
+'Though I had all my life before lived in a family where every one
+in it was older, and knew more than myself, yet I was very easy;
+for we were generally together in the nursery; and nobody took
+much notice of us, whether we knew anything, or whether we did
+not.  But now, as I lived in the house with only one companion,
+who was so much more admired than myself, the comparison began to
+vex me, and I found a strong hatred and aversion for my cousin
+arising in my mind; and yet, I verily believe I should have got
+the better of it, and been willing to have learnt of my cousin,
+and should have loved her for teaching me, if any one had told me
+it was right; and if it had not been that Betty, the maid who took
+care of us, used to be for ever teasing me about the preference
+that was shown to my cousin, and the neglect I always met with. 
+She used to tell me, that she wondered how I could bear to see
+Miss Molly so caressed; and that it was want of spirit not to
+think myself as good as she was; and, if she was in my place, she
+would not submit to be taught by a child; for my Cousin Molly
+frequently offered to instruct me in anything she knew; but I used
+to say (as Betty had taught me) that I would not learn of her; for
+she was but a child, though she was a little older; and that I was
+not put under her care, but that of my grandmamma.  But she, poor
+woman, was so old and unhealthy, that she never troubled her head
+much about us, but only to take care that we wanted for nothing. 
+I lived in this manner three years, fretting and vexing myself
+that I did not know so much, nor was not so much liked, as my
+Cousin Molly, and yet resolving not to learn anything she could
+teach me; when my grandmamma was advised to send me to school;
+but, as soon as I came here, the case was much worse; for, instead
+of one person to envy, I found many; for all my schoolfellows had
+learned more than I; and, instead of endeavouring to get
+knowledge, I began to hate all those who knew more than myself;
+and this, I am now convinced, was owing to that odious envy,
+which, if not cured, would always have made me as miserable as
+Mrs. Dison was and which constantly tormented me, till we came to
+live in that general peace and good-humour we have lately enjoyed: 
+and as I hope this wicked spirit was not natural to me, but only
+blown up by that vile Betty's instigations, I don't doubt but I
+shall now grow very happy, and learn something every day, and be
+pleased with being instructed, and that I shall always love those
+who are so good as to instruct me.'
+
+
+
+Here Miss Patty Lockit ceased; and the dinner-bell called them
+from their arbour.
+
+Mrs. Teachum, as soon as they had dined, told them, that she
+thought it proper they would use some bodily exercise, that they
+might not, by sitting constantly still, impair their health.  Not
+but that she was greatly pleased with their innocent and
+instructive manner of employing their leisure hours; but this wise
+woman knew that the faculties of the mind grow languid and
+useless, when the health of the body is lost.
+
+As soon as they understood their governess's pleasure, they
+readily resolved to obey her commands, and desired that, after
+school, they might take a walk as far as the dairy house, to eat
+some curds and cream.  Mrs. Teachum not only granted their
+request, but said she would dispense with their school-attendance
+that afternoon, in order to give them more time for their walk,
+which was between two and three miles; and she likewise added,
+that she herself would go with them.  They all flew like lightning
+to get their hats, and to equip themselves for their walk; and,
+with cheerful countenances, attended Mrs. Teachum in the
+schoolroom.  This good gentlewoman, so far from laying them under
+a restraint by her presence, encouraged them to run in the fields,
+and to gather flowers; which they did, each miss trying to get the
+best to present to her governess.  In this agreeable manner, with
+laughing, talking, and singing, they arrived at the dairy-house,
+before they imagined they had walked a mile.
+
+There lived at this dairy-house an old woman, near seventy years
+of age.  She had a fresh colour in her face; but was troubled with
+the palsy, that made her head shake a little.  She was bent
+forward with age, and her hair was quite grey:  but she retained
+much good-humour, and received this little party with hearty
+welcome.
+
+Our little gentry flocked about this good woman, asking her a
+thousand questions.  Miss Polly Suckling asked her, 'Why she shook
+her head so?' and Miss Patty Lockit said, 'She hoped her hair
+would never be of such a colour.'
+
+Miss Jenny Peace was afraid they would say something that would
+offend the old woman, and advised them to turn their discourse. 
+'Oh! let the dear rogues alone,' says the old woman; 'I like their
+prattle;' and, taking Miss Polly by the hand, said, 'Come, my
+dear, we will go into the dairy, and skim the milk pans.'  At
+which words they all run into the dairy, and some of them dipped
+their fingers in the cream; which when Mrs. Nelly perceived (who
+was the eldest daughter of the old woman, and who managed all the
+affairs) she desired they would walk out of the dairy, and she
+would bring them what was fit for them:  upon which Miss Dolly
+Friendly said, 'she had rather be as old and good-natured as the
+mother, than as young and ill-natured as the daughter.'
+
+The old woman desired her company to sit down at a long table,
+which she soon supplied with plenty of cream, strawberries, brown
+bread, and sugar.  Mrs. Teachum took her place at the upper end,
+and the rest sat down in their usual order, and eat plentifully of
+these good things.  After which, Mrs. Teachum told them they might
+walk out and see the garden and orchard, and by that time it would
+be proper to return home.
+
+The good old woman showed them the way into the garden; and
+gathered the finest roses and pinks she could pick, and gave them
+to Miss Polly, to whom she had taken a great Fancy.
+
+At their taking leave, Mrs. Teachum rewarded the good old woman
+for her trouble; who, on her part, expressed much pleasure in
+feeing so many well-behaved young ladies; and said, she hoped they
+would come often.
+
+These little friends had not walked far in their way home, before
+they met a miserable ragged fellow, who begged their charity.  Our
+young folks immediately gathered together about this poor
+creature, and were hearkening very earnestly to his story, which
+he set forth in a terrible manner, of having been burnt out of his
+house, and, from one distress to another, reduced to that
+miserable state they saw him in, when Mrs. Teachum came up to
+them.  She was not a little pleased to see all the misses' hands
+in their pockets, pulling out half-pence, and some sixpences.  She
+told them, she approved of their readiness to assist the poor
+fellow, as he appeared to them; but oftentimes those fellows made
+up dismal stories without much foundation, and because they were
+lazy, and would not work.  Miss Dolly said, indeed she believed
+the poor man spoke truth; for he looked honest; and, besides, he
+seemed almost starved.
+
+Mrs. Teachum told them it would be late before they could get
+home; so, after each of them had given what they thought proper,
+they pursued their walk, prattling all the way.
+
+They got home about nine o'clock; and, as they did not choose any
+supper, the bell rang for prayers; after which our young
+travellers retired to their rest, where we doubt not but they had
+a good repose.
+
+
+
+FRIDAY
+THE FIFTH DAY.
+
+Mrs. Teachum, in the morning, inquired how her scholars did after
+their walk, and was pleased to hear they were all very well.  They
+then performed their several tasks with much cheerfulness; and,
+after the school-hours, they were hastening, as usual, to their
+arbour, when Miss Jenny desired them all to go thither without
+her, and she would soon follow them; which they readily consented
+to; but begged her not to deprive them long of the pleasure of her
+sweet company.
+
+Miss Jenny then went directly into her governess's parlour, and
+told her that she had some thoughts of reading to her companions a
+fairy tale, which was also given her by her mamma; and though it
+was not in such a pompous style, nor so full of wonderful images,
+as the giant-story; yet she would not venture to read anything of
+that kind without her permission; but, as she had not absolutely
+condemned all that sort of writing, she hoped she was not guilty
+of a fault in asking that permission.  Mrs. Teachum, with a
+gracious smile, told her, that she seemed so thoroughly well to
+understand the whole force of her Monday night's discourse to her,
+that she might be trusted almost in anything; and desired her to
+go and follow her own judgment and inclinations in the amusement
+of her happy friends.  Miss Jenny, overjoyed with this kind
+condescension in her governess, thanked her, with, a low courtesy,
+and said, she hoped she should never do anything unworthy of the
+confidence reposed on her; and, hastening to the arbour, she there
+found all her little companions quite impatient of this short
+absence.
+
+Miss Jenny told them, that she had by her a fairy-tale, which, if
+they liked it, she would read; and, as it had pleased her, she did
+not doubt but it would give them equal pleasure.
+
+It was the custom now so much amongst them to assent to any
+proposal that came from Miss Jenny, that they all with one voice
+desired her to read it; till Miss Polly Suckling said, 'that
+although she was very unwilling to contradict anything Miss Jenny
+liked, yet she could not help saying, she thought it would be
+better if they were to read some true history, from which they
+might learn something; for she thought fairy-tales were fit only
+for little children.
+
+Miss Jenny could not help smiling at such an objection's coming
+from the little dumpling, who was not much above seven years of
+age; and then said, 'I will tell you a story, my little Polly, of
+what happened to me whilst I was at home.
+
+'There came into our village, when I was six years old, a man who
+carried about a raree-show, which all the children of the parish
+were fond of seeing; but I had taken it into my head, that it was
+beneath my wisdom to see raree-shows; and therefore would not be
+persuaded to join my companions to see this sight; and although I
+had as great an inclination as any of them to see it, yet I
+avoided it, in order to boast of my own great sense, in that I was
+above such trifles.
+
+'When my mamma asked me, "Why I would not see the show, when she
+had given me leave?  I drew up my head, and said, "Indeed I did
+not like raree-shows.  That I had been reading; and I thought that
+much more worth my while, than to lose my time at such foolish
+entertainments."  My mamma, who saw the cause of my refusing this
+amusement was only a pretence of being wise, laughed, and said,
+"She herself had seen it, and it was really very comical and
+diverting."  On hearing this, I was heartily vexed to think I had
+denied myself a pleasure, which I fancied was beneath me, when I
+found even my mamma was not above seeing it.  This in a great
+measure cured me of the folly of thinking myself above any
+innocent amusement.  And when I grew older, and more capable of
+hearing reason, my mamma told me, "She had taken this method of
+laughing at me, as laughing is the proper manner of treating
+affectation; which of all things, she said, she would have me
+carefully avoid; otherwise, whenever I was found out, I should
+become contemptible."'
+
+Here Miss Jenny ceased speaking; and Miss Polly Suckling, blushing
+that she had made any objection to what Miss Jenny had proposed,
+begged her to begin the fairy tale; when just at that instant,
+Mrs. Teachum, who had been taking a walk in the garden, turned
+into the arbour to delight herself with a view of her little
+school united in harmony and love, and Miss Jenny, with great good
+humour, told her mistress the small contest she had just had with
+Miss Polly about reading a fairy tale, and the occasion of it. 
+Mrs. Teachum kindly chucking the little dumpling under the chin,
+said, she had so good an opinion of Miss Jenny, as to answer for
+her, that she would read nothing to them but what was proper; and
+added, that she herself would stay and hear this fairy tale which
+Miss Jenny, on her commands, immediately began.
+
+
+
+THE PRINCESS HEBE.
+A FAIRY TALE.
+
+Above two thousand years ago, there reigned over the kingdom of
+Tonga, a king, whose name was Abdallah.  He was married to a young
+princess, the daughter of a king of a neighbouring country, whose
+name was Rousignon.  Her beauty and prudence engaged him so far in
+affection to her, that every hour he could possibly spare from
+attending the affairs of his kingdom he spent in her apartment. 
+They had a little daughter, to whom they gave the name of Hebe, 
+who was the darling and mutual care of both.
+
+The king was quiet in his dominion, beloved by his subjects, happy
+in his family, and all his days rolled on in calm content and joy. 
+The king's brother Abdulham was also married to a young princess,
+named Tropo, who in seven years had brought him no children;  and
+she conceived so mortal a hatred against the queen (for she envied
+her the happiness of the little Princess Hebe) that she resolved
+to do her some mischief.  It was impossible for her, during the
+king's lifetime, to vent her malice without being discovered, and
+therefore she pretended the greatest respect and friendship
+imaginable for the unsuspecting queen.
+
+Whilst things were in this situation, the king fell into a violent
+fever, of which he died; and during the time that the queen was in
+the height of her affliction for him, and could think of nothing
+but his loss, the Princess Tropo took the opportunity of putting
+in execution her malicious intentions.  She inflamed her husband's
+passions, by setting forth the meanness of his spirit, in letting
+a crown be ravished from his head by a female infant, till
+ambition seized his mind, and he resolved to wield the Tongian
+sceptre himself.  It was very easy to bring this about, for, by
+his brother's appointment, he was protector of the realm, and
+guardian to the young princess his niece; and the queen taking him
+and the princess his wife for her best friends, suspected nothing
+of their designs, but in a manner gave herself up to their power.
+
+The protector Abdulham, having the whole treasure of the kingdom
+at his command, was in possession of the means to make all his
+schemes successful;  and the Princess Tropo, by lavishly rewarding
+the instruments of her treachery, contrived to make it generally
+believed, that the queen had poisoned her husband, who was so much
+beloved by his subjects, that the very horror of the action,
+without any proof of her guilt, raised against the poor unhappy
+Queen a universal clamour, and a general aversion throughout the
+whole kingdom.  The princess had so well laid her scheme, that the
+guards were to seize the queen, and convey her to a place of
+confinement, till she could prove her innocence; which, that she
+might never be able to do, proper care was taken by procuring
+sufficient evidence to accuse her on oath; and the Princess Hebe,
+her daughter, was to be taken from her, and educated under the
+care of her uncle.  But the night before this cruel design was to
+have been put in execution, a faithful attendant of the queen's,
+named Loretta, by the assistance of one of the Princess Tropo's
+confidants (who had long professed himself her lover) discovered
+the whole secret, of which she immediately informed her royal
+mistress.
+
+The horrors which filled the queen's mind at the relation of the
+Princess Tropo's malicious intentions, were inexpressible, and her
+perturbation so great, that she could not form any scheme that
+appeared probable to execute for her own preservation.  Loretta
+told her that the person who had given her this timely notice, had
+also provided a peasant who knew the country, and would meet her
+at the western gate of the city, and, carrying the young Princess
+Hebe in his arms, would conduct her to some place of safety; but
+she must consent to put on a disguise, and escape that very night
+from the palace, or she would be lost for ever.  Horses or mules,
+she said, it would be impossible to come at without suspicion;
+therefore she must endeavour (though unused to such fatigue) to
+travel afoot till she got herself concealed in some cottage from
+her pursuers, if her enemies should think of endeavouring to find
+her out.  Loretta offered to attend her mistress, but she
+absolutely forbad her going any farther than to the western gate; 
+where delivering the little Princess Hebe into the arms of the
+peasant, who was there waiting for them, she reluctantly withdrew.
+
+The good queen, who saw no remedy to this her terrible disgrace,
+could have borne this barbarous usage without much repining, had
+she herself been the only sufferer by it; for the loss of the good
+king her husband so far exceeded all her other misfortunes, that
+every everything else was trifling in comparison of so dreadful an
+affliction.  But the young Princess Hebe, whom she was accustomed
+to look on as her greatest blessing, now became to her an object
+of pity and concern; for, from being heiress to a throne, the poor
+infant, not yet five years old, was, with her wretched mother,
+become a vagabond, and knew not whither to fly for protection.
+
+Loretta had prevailed on her royal mistress to take with her a few
+little necessaries, besides a small picture of the king, and some
+of her jewels, which the queen contrived to conceal under her
+night-clothes, in the midst of that hair they were used to adorn,
+when her loved husband delighted to see it displayed in flowing
+ringlets round her snowy neck.  This lady, during the life of her
+fond husband, was by his tender care kept from every inclemency of
+the air, and preserved from every inconvenience that it was
+possible for human nature to suffer.  What then must be her
+condition now, when through bypaths and thorny ways, she was
+obliged to fly with all possible speed, to escape the fury of her
+cruel pursuers:  for she too well knew the merciless temper of her
+enemies, to hope that they would not pursue her with the utmost
+diligence, especially as she was accompanied by the young Princess
+Hebe; whose life was the principal cause of their disquiet, and
+whose destruction they chiefly aimed at.
+
+The honest peasant, who carried the Princess Hebe in his arms,
+followed the queen's painful steps; and seeing the day begin to
+break, he begged her, if possible, to hasten on to a wood which
+was not far off, where it was likely she might find a place of
+safety.  But the afflicted queen, at the sight of the opening morn
+(which once used to fill her mind with rising joy) burst into a
+flood of tears, and, quite overcome with grief and fatigue, cast
+herself on the ground, crying out in the most affecting manner,
+'The end of my misfortunes is at hand.  My weary limbs will no
+longer support me.  My spirits fail me.  In the grave alone must I
+seek for shelter.'  The poor princess, seeing her mother in tears,
+cast her little arms about her neck, and wept also, though she
+knew not why.
+
+Whilst she was in this deplorable condition, turning round her
+head, she saw behind her a little girl, no older in appearance
+than the Princess Hebe; who, with an amiable and tranquil
+countenance, begged her to rise and follow her, and she would lead
+her where she might refresh and repose herself.
+
+The queen was surprised at the manner of speaking of this little
+child, as she took her to be; but soon thought it was some kind
+fairy sent to protect her, and was very ready to submit herself to
+her guidance and protection.
+
+The little fairy (for such indeed was the seeming child who had
+thus accosted them) ordered the peasant to return back, and said
+that she would take care of the queen, and her young daughter; and
+he, knowing her to be the good fairy Sybella, very readily obeyed.
+
+Sybella then striking the ground three times with a little wand,
+there suddenly rose up before them a neat plain car, and a pair of
+milk-white horses; and placing the queen with the Princess Hebe in
+her lap by her side, she drove with excessive swiftness full
+westward for eight hours; when (just as the sun began to have
+power enough to make the queen almost faint with the heat and her
+former fatigue) they arrived at the side of a shady wood; upon
+entering of which, the fairy made her horses slacken in their
+speed, and having travelled about a mile and a half, through rows
+of elms and beech trees, they came to a thick grove of firs, into
+which there seemed to be no entrance.  For there was not any
+opening to a path, and the underwood consisting chiefly of
+rose-bushes, white-thorn, eglantine, and other flowering shrubs,
+was so thick, that it appeared impossible to attempt forcing
+through them.  But alighting out of the car (which immediately
+disappeared) the fairy (bidding the queen follow her) pushed her
+way through a large bush of jessamine, whose tender branches gave
+way for their passage and then closed again, so as to leave no
+traces of an entrance into this charming grove.
+
+Having gone a little way through an extreme narrow path, they came
+into an opening (quite surrounded by these firs and sweet
+underwood) not very large, but in which was contained everything
+that is necessary towards making life comfortable.  At the end of
+a green meadow was a plain neat house, built more for convenience
+than beauty, fronting the rising sun; and behind it was a small
+garden, stored only with fruits and useful herbs.  Sybella
+conducted her guests into this her simple lodging; and as repose
+was the chief thing necessary for the poor fatigued queen, she
+prevailed with her to lie down on a couch.  Some hours' sound
+sleep, which her weariness induced, gave her a fresh supply of
+spirits; the ease and safety from her pursuers, in which she then
+found herself, made her for a short time tolerably composed; and
+she begged the favour of knowing to whom she was so greatly
+obliged for this her happy deliverance; but the fairy seeing her
+mind too unsettled to give any due attention to what she should
+say, told her that she would defer the relation of her own life
+(which was worth her observation) till she had obtained a respite
+from her own sorrows; and in the meantime, by all manner of
+obliging ways, she endeavoured to divert and amuse her.
+
+The queen, after a short interval of calmness of mind, occasioned
+only by her so sudden escape from the terrors of pursuit, returned
+to her former dejection, and for some time incessantly wept at the
+dismal thought, that the princess seemed now, by this reverse of
+fate, to be for ever excluded all hopes of being seated on her
+father's throne; and, by a strange perverse way of adding to her
+own grief, she afflicted herself the more, because the little
+princess was ignorant of her misfortune; and whenever she saw her
+diverting herself with little childish plays, instead of being
+pleased with such her innocent amusement, it added to her sorrow,
+and made her tears gush forth in a larger stream than usual.  She
+could not divert her thoughts from the palace from which she had
+been driven, to fix them on any other object; nor would her grief
+suffer her to reflect, that it was possible for the princess to be
+happy without a crown.
+
+At length time, the great cure of all ills, in some measure abated
+her Sorrows; her grief began to subside; in spite of herself, the
+reflection that her misery was only in her own fancy, would
+sometimes force itself on her mind.  She could not avoid seeing,
+that her little hostess enjoyed as perfect a state of happiness as
+is possible to attain in this world; that she was free from
+anxious cares, undisturbed by restless passions, and mistress of
+all things that could be of any use to make life easy or
+agreeable.  The oftener this reflection presented itself to her
+thoughts, the more strength it gained; and, at last, she could
+even bear to think, that her beloved child might be as happy in
+such a situation, as was her amiable hostess.  Her countenance now
+grew more cheerful; she could take the Princess Hebe in her arms,
+and thinking the jewels she had preserved would secure her from
+any fear of want, look on her with delight; and began even to
+imagine, that her future life might be spent in calm content and
+pleasure.
+
+As soon as the voice of reason had gained this power over the
+queen, Sybella told her, that now her bosom was so free from
+passion, she would relate the history of her life.  The queen,
+overjoyed that her curiosity might now be gratified, begged her
+not to delay giving her that pleasure one moment; on which our
+little fairy began in the following manner.
+
+
+
+But there Mrs. Teachum told Miss Jenny that the bell rung for
+dinner; on which she was obliged to break off.  But meeting again
+in the same arbour in the evening, when their good mistress
+continued to them the favour of her presence, Miss Jenny pursued
+her story.
+
+
+
+THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED.
+
+'My father,' said the fairy, 'was a magician:  he married a lady
+for love, whose beauty far outshone that of all her neighbours;
+and by means of that beauty, she had so great an influence over
+her husband, that she could command the utmost power of his art. 
+But better had it been for her, had that beauty been wanting; for
+her power only served to make her wish for more, and the
+gratification of every desire begot a new one, which often it was
+impossible for her to gratify.  My father, though he saw his error
+in thus indulging her, could not attain steadiness of mind enough
+to mend it, nor acquire resolution enough to suffer his beloved
+wife once to grieve or shed a tear to no purpose, though in order
+to cure her of that folly which made her miserable.
+
+'My grandfather so plainly saw the temper and disposition of his
+son towards women, that he did not leave him at liberty to dispose
+of his magic art to any but his posterity, that it might not be in
+the power of a wife to tease him out of it.  But his caution was
+to very little purpose; for although my mother could not from
+herself exert any magic power, yet such was her unbounded
+influence over her husband, that she was sure of success in every
+attempt to persuade him to gratify her desires.  For if every
+argument she could invent happened to fail, yet the shedding but
+one tear was a certain method to prevail with him to give up his
+reason, whatever might be the consequence.
+
+'When my father and mother had been married about a year, she was
+brought to bed of a daughter, to whom she gave the name of
+Brunetta.  Her first request to my father was, that he would endow
+this infant with as much beauty as she herself was possessed of,
+and bestow on her as much of his art as should enable her to
+succeed in all her designs.  My father foresaw the dreadful
+tendency of granting this request, but said he would give it with
+this restriction, that she should succeed in all her designs that
+were not wicked; for, said he, the success of wicked designs
+always turns out as a punishment to the person so succeeding. In
+this resolution he held for three days, till my mother (being weak
+in body after her lying-in) worked herself with her violent
+passions to such a degree, that the physicians told my father,
+they despaired of her life, unless some method could be found to
+make her mind more calm and easy.  His fondness for his wife would
+not suffer him to bear the thoughts of losing her, and the horror
+with which that apprehension had but for a moment possessed his
+mind, prevailed with him to bestow on the little Brunetta (though
+foreseeing it would make her miserable) the fatal gift in its full
+extent.  But one restriction it was out of his power to take off,
+namely, that all wicked designs ever could and should be rendered
+ineffectual by the virtue and perseverance of those against whom
+they were intended, if they in a proper manner exerted that
+virtue.
+
+'I was born in two years after Brunetta, and was called Sybella: 
+but my mother was so taken up with her darling Brunetta, that she
+gave herself nut the least concern about me; and I was left wholly
+to the care of my father.  In order to make the gift she had
+extorted from her fond husband as fatal as possible to her
+favourite child, she took care in her education (by endeavouring
+to cultivate in her the spirit of revenge and malice against those
+who had in the least degree offended her) to turn her mind to all
+manner of mischief; by which means she lived in a continual
+passion.
+
+'My father, as soon as I was old enough to hearken to reason, told
+me of the gift he had conferred on my sister; said he could not
+retract it; and therefore, if she had any mischievous designs
+against me, they must in some measure succeed; but she would endow
+me with a power superior to this gift of my sister's, and likewise
+superior to any thing else that he was able to bestow, which was
+strength and constancy of mind enough to bear patiently any
+injuries I might receive; and this was a strength, he said, which
+would not decay, but rather increase, by every new exercise of it;
+and, to secure me in the possession of this gift, he likewise gave
+me a perfect knowledge of the true value of everything around me,
+by which means I might learn, whatever outward accidents befell
+me, not to lose the greatest blessing in this world, namely, a
+calm and contented mind.  He taught me so well my duty, that I
+cheerfully obeyed my mother in all things, though she seldom gave
+me a kind word, or even a kind look; for my spiteful sister was
+always telling some lies to make her angry with me.  But my heart
+overflowed with gratitude to my father, that he would give me
+leave to love him, whilst he instructed me that it was my duty to
+pay him the most strict obedience.
+
+'Brunetta was daily encouraged by her mother to use me ill, and
+chiefly because my father loved me; and although she succeeded in
+all her designs of revenge on me, yet was she very uneasy, because
+she could not take away the cheerfulness of my mind; for I bore
+with patience whatever happened to me:  and she would often say,
+"must I with all my beauty, power, and wisdom (for so she called
+her low cunning) be suffering perpetual uneasiness? and shall you,
+who have neither beauty, power, nor wisdom, pretend to be happy
+and cheerful?"  Then would she cry and stamp, and rave like a mad
+creature, and set her invention at work to make my mother beat me,
+or lock me up, or take from me some of my best clothes to give to
+her; yet still could not her power extend to vex my mind:  and
+this used to throw her again into such passions, as weakened her
+health, and greatly impaired her so much boasted beauty.
+
+'In this manner we lived, till on a certain day, after Brunetta
+had been in one of her rages with me for nothing, my father came
+in and chid her for it; which, when my mother heard, she threw
+herself into such a violent passion, that her husband could not
+pacify her.  And, being big with child, the convulsions, caused by
+her passions, brought her to her grave.  Thus my father lost her,
+by the same uncontrollable excesses, the fatal effects of which he
+had before ruined his daughter to preserve her from.  He did not
+long survive her; but, before he died, gave me a little wand,
+which, by striking three times on the ground, he said, would at
+any time produce me any necessary or convenience of life, which I
+really wanted, either for myself, or the assistance of others; and
+this he gave me, because he was very sensible, he said, that as
+soon as he was dead, my sister would never rest till she had got
+from me both his castle, and everything that I had belonging to
+me, in it.  "But," continued he, "whenever you are driven from
+thence, bend your course directly into the pleasant wood Ardella;
+there strike with your wand, and everything you want, will be
+provided for you.  But keep this wand a profound secret, or
+Brunetta will get it from you; and then (though you can never,
+while you preserve your patience, be unhappy) you will not have it
+in your power to be of so much use as you would wish to be, to
+those who shall stand in need of your assistance."  Saying these
+words, he expired, as I kneeled by his bedside, attending his last
+commands, and bewailing the loss of so good a father.
+
+'In the midst of this our distress, we sent to my Uncle Sochus, my
+father's brother, to come to us, and to assist us in an equal
+division of my deceased father's effects; but my sister soon
+contrived to make him believe, that I was the wickedest girl
+alive, and had always set my father against her by my art, which
+she said I pretended to call my wisdom; and by several handsome
+presents she soon persuaded him (for he did not care a farthing
+for either of us) to join with her in saying, that, as she was the
+eldest sister, she had a full right to the castle, and everything
+in it; but she told me I was very welcome to stay there, and live
+with her, if I pleased; and while I behaved myself well, she
+should be very glad of my company.
+
+'As it was natural for me to love every one that would give me
+leave to love them, I was quite overjoyed at this kind offer of my
+sister's, and never once thought on the treachery she had so
+lately been guilty of; and I have since reflected, that happy was
+it for me, that passion was so much uppermost with her, that she
+could not execute any plot, that required a dissimulation of any
+long continuance; for had her good humour lasted but one
+four-and-twenty hours, it is very probable that I should have
+opened my whole heart to her; should have endeavoured to have
+begun a friendship with her, and perhaps have betrayed the secret
+of my wand; but just as it was sunset, she came into the room
+where I was, in the most violent passion in the world, accusing me
+to my uncle of ingratitude to her great generosity, in suffering
+me to live in her castle.  She said, "that she had found me out,
+and that my crimes were of the blackest dye," although she would
+not tell me either what they were, or who were my accusers.  She
+would not give me leave to speak, either to ask what my offence
+was, or to justify my innocence; and I plainly perceived, that her
+pretended kindness was only designed to make my disappointment the
+greater; and that she was now determined to find me guilty,
+whether I pleaded, or not.  And after she had raved on for some
+time, she said to me with a sneer, "Since you have always boasted
+of your calm and contented mind, you may now try to be contented
+this night with the softness of the grass for your bed; for here
+in my castle you shall not stay one moment longer."  And so
+saying, she and my uncle led me to the outer court, and thrusting
+me with all their force from them, they shut up the gates, bolting
+and barring them as close as if to keep out a giant; and left me,
+at that time of night, friendless, and, as they thought, destitute
+of any kind of support.
+
+'I then remembered my dear father's last words, and made what
+haste I could to this wood, which is not above a mile distant from
+the castle; and being, as I thought, about the middle of it, I
+struck three times with my wand, and immediately up rose this
+grove of trees, which you see, this house, and all the other
+conveniences, which I now enjoy; and getting that very night into
+this my plain and easy bed, I enjoyed as sweet a repose as ever I
+did in my life, only delayed, indeed, a short time, by a few
+sighs, for the loss of so good a parent, and the unhappy state of
+a self-tormented sister, whose slumbers (I fear) on a bed of down,
+were more restless and interrupted that night than mine would have
+been, even had not my father's present of the wand prevented me
+from the necessity of using the bed of grass, which she, in her
+wrath, allotted me.  In this grove, which I call Placid Grove, is
+contained all that I want; and it is so well secured from any
+invaders, by the thick briars and thorns which surround it, having
+no entrance but through that tender jessamine, that I live in no
+apprehensions of any disturbance, though so near my sister's
+castle.  But once, indeed, she came with a large train, and,
+whilst I was asleep, set fire to the trees all around me; and
+waking, I found myself almost suffocated with smoke, and the
+flames had reached one part of my House.  I started from my bed,
+and striking on the ground three times with my wand, there came
+such a quantity of water from the heavens, as soon extinguished
+the fire; and the next morning, by again having recourse to my
+wand, all things grew up into their convenient and proper order. 
+When my sister Brunetta found that I had such a supernatural power
+at my command, though she knew not what it was, she desisted from
+ever attempting any more by force to disturb me; and now only uses
+all sorts of arts and contrivances to deceive me, or any persons
+whom I would wish to secure.  One of my father's daily lessons to
+me was, that I should never omit any one day of my life
+endeavouring to be as serviceable as I possibly could to any
+person in distress.  And I daily wander, as far as my feet will
+carry me, in search of any such, and hither I invite them to peace
+and calm contentment.  But my father added also this command, that
+I should never endeavour doing any farther good to those whom
+adversity had not taught to hearken to the voice of reason, enough
+to enable them so to conquer their passions as not to think
+themselves miserable in a safe retreat from noise and confusion. 
+This was the reason I could not gratify you in relating the
+history of my life, whilst you gave way to raging passions, which
+only serve to blind your eyes, and shut your ears from truth.  But
+now, great queen (for I know your state, from what you vented in
+your grief), I am ready to endow this little princess with any
+gift in my power, that I know will tend really to her good; and I
+hope your experience of the world has made you too reasonable to
+require any other.'
+
+The queen considered a little while, and then desired Sybella to
+endow the princess with that only wisdom which would enable her to
+see and follow what was her own true good, to know the value of
+everything around her, and to be sensible that following the paths
+of goodness and performing her duty was the only road to content
+and happiness.
+
+Sybella was overjoyed at the queen's request, and immediately
+granted it, only telling the Princess Hebe, that it was absolutely
+necessary towards the attainment of this great blessing, that she
+should entirely obey the queen her mother, without ever pretending
+to examine her commands; for 'true obedience (said she) consists
+in submission; and when we pretend to choose what commands are
+proper and fit for us, we don't obey, but set up our own wisdom in
+opposition to our governors--this, my dear Hebe, you must be very
+careful of avoiding, if you would be happy.'  She then cautioned
+her against giving way to the persuasions of any of the young
+shepherdesses thereabouts, who would endeavour to allure her to
+disobedience, by striving to raise in her mind a desire of
+thinking herself wise, whilst they were tearing from her what was
+indeed true wisdom.  'For (said Sybella) my sister Brunetta, who
+lives in the castle she drove me from (about a mile from this
+wood) endows young shepherdesses with great beauty, and everything
+that is in appearance amiable, and likely to persuade, in order to
+allure away and make wretched, those persons I would preserve: 
+and all the wisdom with which I have endowed the Princess Hebe
+will not prevent her falling into my sister's snares, if she gives
+the least way to temptation; for my father's gift to Brunetta, in
+her infancy, enables her (as I told you) to succeed in all her
+designs, except they are resisted by the virtue of the person she
+is practising against.  Many poor wretches has my sister already
+decoyed away from me, whom she now keeps in her castle; where they
+live in splendor and seeming joy, but in real misery, from
+perpetual jars and tumults, railed by envy, malice, and all the
+train of tumultuous and tormenting passions.'
+
+The Princess Hebe said, she doubted not but she should be able to
+withstand any of Brunetta's temptations.  Her mother interrupting
+her, cried out, 'Oh, my dear child, though you are endowed with
+wisdom enough to direct you in the way to virtue, yet if you grow
+conceited and proud of that wisdom, and fancy yourself above
+temptation, it will lead you into the worst of all evils.'  Here
+the fairy interposed, and told the Princess Hebe, that if she
+would always carefully observe and obey her mother, who had
+learned wisdom in that best school, adversity, she would then,
+indeed, be able to withstand and overcome every temptation, and
+would likewise be happy herself, and able to dispense happiness to
+all around her.  Nothing was omitted by the fairy to make this
+retirement agreeable to her royal guests; and they had now passed
+near seven years in this delightful grove, in perfect peace and
+tranquillity; when one evening, as they were walking in the
+pleasant wood which surrounded their habitation, they espied under
+the shade, and leaning against the bark of a large oak, a poor old
+man, whose limbs were withered and decayed, and whose eyes were
+hollow, and sunk with age and misery.  They stopped as soon as
+they saw him, and heard him in the anguish of his heart, with a
+loud groan, utter these words:  'When will my sorrows end?  Where
+shall I find the good fairy Sybella?'  The fairy immediately
+begged to know his business with her; and said, if his sorrows
+would end on finding Sybella, he might set his heart at ease; for
+she stood now before him, and ready to serve him, if his
+distresses were such as would admit of relief, and he could prove
+himself worthy of her friendship.  The old Man appeared greatly
+overjoyed at having found the fairy, and began the following
+story:
+
+'I live from hence a thousand leagues.  All this tiresome way have
+I come in search of you.  My whole life has been spent in amassing
+wealth, to enrich one only son, whom I doted on to distraction. 
+It is now five years since I have given him up all the riches I
+had laboured to get, only to make him happy.  But, alas how am I
+disappointed!  His wealth enables him to command whatever this
+world produces; and yet the poorest wretch that begs his bread
+cannot be more miserable.  He spends his days in riot and luxury;
+has more slaves and attendants than wait in the palace of a
+prince; and still he sighs from morning till night, because, he
+says, there is nothing in this world worth living for.  All his
+dainties only sate his palate, and grow irksome to his sight.  He
+daily changes his opinion of what is pleasure; and, on the trial,
+finds none that he can call such; and then falls to sighing again,
+for the emptiness of all that he has enjoyed.  So that, instead of
+being my delight, and the comfort of my old age, sleepless nights,
+and anxious days, are all the rewards of my past labours for him.
+But I have had many visions and dreams to admonish me, that if I
+would venture with my old frame to travel hither a-foot in search
+of the fairy Sybella, she had a glass, which if she showed him, he
+would be cured of this dreadful melancholy, and I have borne the
+labour and fatigue of coming this long tiresome way, that I may
+not breathe my last with the agonizing reflection, that all the
+labours of my life have been thrown away.  But what shall I say to
+engage you to go with me?  Can riches tempt, or praise allure you?'
+
+'No, (answered the fairy) neither of them has power to move me;
+but I compassionate your age; and if I thought I could succeed,
+would not refuse you.  The glass which I shall bid him look in,
+will show him his inward self; but if he will not open both his
+eyes and heart enough to truth, to let him understand, that the
+pleasures he pursues not only are not but cannot be satisfactory,
+I can be of no sort of service to him.  And know, old man, that
+the punishment you now feel is the natural result of your not
+having taught him this from his infancy; for, instead of heaping
+up wealth, to allure him to seek for happiness from such deceitful
+means, you should have taught him, that the only path to it was to
+be virtuous and good.'
+
+The old man said, he heartily repented of his conduct, and on his
+knees so fervently implored Sybella's assistance, that at last she
+consented to go with him.  Then striking on the ground three times
+with her wand, the car and horses rose up, and placing the old Man
+by her, after taking leave of the queen, and begging the Princess
+Hebe to be careful to guard against all temptations to
+disobedience, she set out on her journey.
+
+
+
+It being now come to the latest hour that Mrs. Teachum thought
+proper for her little scholars to stay out in the air, she told
+Miss Jenny that she must defer reading the remaining part of her
+story till the next day.  Miss Jenny always with great
+cheerfulness obeyed her governess, and immediately left off
+reading; and said she was ready to attend her; and the whole
+company rose up to follow her.
+
+Mrs. Teachum had so much judgment, that, perceiving such a ready
+obedience to all her commands, she now endeavoured, by all means
+she could think of; to make her scholars throw off that reserve
+before her, which must ever make it uneasy to them for her ever to
+be present whilst they were following their innocent diversions;
+for such was the understanding of this good woman, that she could
+keep up the authority of the governess in her school, yet at times
+become the companion of her scholars.  And as she now saw, by
+their good behaviour, they deserved that indulgence, she took the
+little dumpling by the hand, and, followed by the rest, walked
+towards the house, and discoursed familiarly with them the rest of
+the evening, concerning all their past amusements.
+
+
+
+SATURDAY.
+THE SIXTH DAY.
+
+It was the custom on Saturdays to have no school in the afternoon,
+and it being also their writing day from morning-school till
+dinner, Mrs. Teachum,  knowing how eager Miss Jenny's hearers were
+for the rest of the story, accompanied them into the arbour, early
+in the afternoon, when Miss Jenny went on as follows:
+
+
+THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED.
+
+The queen and the Princess Hebe remained, by the good fairy's
+desire, in her habitation during her absence.  They spent their
+time in serenity and content; the princess daily improving herself
+in wisdom and goodness, by hearkening to her mother's instructions,
+and obeying all her commands, and the queen in studying what would
+be of most use to her child.  She had now forgot her throne and
+palace, and desired nothing for her, than her present peaceful
+retreat.  One morning, as they were sitting in a little arbour at
+the corner of a pleasant meadow, on a sudden they heard a voice,
+much sweeter than they had ever heard, warble through the following song:
+
+A SONG.
+
+Virtue, soft balm of every woe,
+  Of ev'ry grief the cure,
+'Tis thou alone that canst best bestow
+  Pleasures unmix'd and pure.
+
+The shady wood, the verdant mead,
+  Are Virtue's flow'ry road;
+Nor painful are the steps which lead
+  To her divine abode.
+
+'Tis not in palaces of halls,
+  She or their train appear;
+Far off she flies from pompous walls;
+  Virtue and Peace dwell here.
+
+
+The queen was all attention, and at the end of the song she gazed
+around her, in hopes of seeing the person whose enchanting voice
+she had been so eagerly listening to, when she espied a young
+shepherdess, not much older than the Princess Hebe, but possessed
+of such uncommon and dazzling beauty, that it was some time before
+she could disengage her eyes from so agreeable an object.  As soon
+as the young shepherdess found herself observed, she seemed
+modestly to offer to withdraw; but the queen begged her not to go
+till she had informed them who she was, that, with such a
+commanding aspect, had so much engaged them in her favour.
+
+The shepherdess coming forward, with a bashful blush, and profound
+obedience, answered, that her name was Rozella, and she was the
+daughter of a neighbouring shepherd and shepherdess, who lived
+about a quarter of a mile from thence; and, to confess the truth,
+she had wandered thither, in hopes of seeing the young stranger,
+whose fame for beauty and wisdom had filled all that country
+round.
+
+The Princess Hebe, well knowing of whom she spoke, conceived from
+that moment such an inclination fur her acquaintance, that she
+begged her to stay and spend that whole day with them in Placid
+Grove.  Here the queen frowned upon her, for she had, by the
+fairy's desire, charged her never to bring any one, without her
+permission, into that peaceful grove.
+
+The young Rozella answered, that nothing could be more agreeable
+to her inclinations; but she must be at home by noon, for so in
+the morning had her father commanded her, and never yet in her
+life had she either disputed or disobeyed her parent's commands. 
+Here the young princess looked on her mother with eyes expressive
+of her joy at finding a companion, which she, and even the fairy
+herself, could not disapprove.
+
+When Rozella took her leave, she begged the favour that the little
+Hebe (for so she called her, not knowing her to be a princess)
+might come to her father's small cottage, and there partake such
+homely fare as it afforded; a welcome, she said, she could insure
+her; and though poor, yet from the honesty of her parents, who
+would be proud to entertain so rare a beauty, she was certain no
+sort of harm could happen to the pretty Hebe, from such a friendly
+visit; and she would be in the same place again tomorrow, to meet
+her, in hopes, as she said, to conduct her to her humble habitation.
+
+When Rozella was gone, the queen, though highly possessed in her
+favour, both by her beauty and modest behaviour, yet pondered some
+time on the thought, whether or no she was a fit companion for her
+daughter.  She remembered what Sybella had told her, concerning
+Brunetta's adorning young shepherdesses with beauty, and other
+excellences, only to enable them the better to allure and entice
+others into wickedness.  Rozella's beginning her acquaintance too
+with the princess, by flattery, had no good aspect; and the sudden
+effect it had upon her, so as to make her forget, or wilfully
+disobey, her commands, by inviting Rozella to Placid Grove, were
+circumstances which greatly alarmed her.  But, by the repeated
+entreaties of the princess, she gave her consent that she should
+meet Rozella the next day, and walk with her in that meadow, and
+in the wood, but upon no account should she go home with her, or
+bring Rozella back with her.  The queen then, in gentle terms,
+chid the princess for her invitation to the young shepherdess,
+which was contrary to an absolute command; and said, 'You must, my
+dear Hebe, be very careful to guard yourself extremely well
+against those temptations which wear the face of virtue.  I know
+that your sudden affection to this apparent good girl, and your
+desire of her company, to partake with you the innocent pleasures
+of this happy place, arise from a good disposition; but where the
+indulgence of the most laudable passion, even benevolence and
+compassion itself, interferes with, or runs counter to your duty,
+you must endeavour to suppress it, or it will fare with you, as it
+did with that hen, who, thinking that she heard the voice of a
+little duckling in distress, flew from her young ones, to go and
+give it assistance, and following the cry, came at last to a
+hedge, out of which jumped a subtle and wicked fox, who had made
+that noise to deceive her, and devoured her in an instant.  A kite
+at the same time, taking advantage of her absence, carried away,
+one by one, all her little innocent brood, robbed of that parent
+who should have been their protector.'  The princess promised her
+mother that she would punctually obey all her commands, and be
+very watchful and observant of everything Rozella said and did,
+till she had approved herself worthy of her confidence and
+friendship.
+
+The queen the next morning renewed her injunctions to her
+daughter, that she should by no means go farther out of the wood
+than into the meadow, where she was to meet Rozella, and that she
+should give her a faithful account of all that should pass between
+them.
+
+They met according to appointment, and the princess brought home
+so good an account of their conversation, which the queen imagined
+would help to improve, rather than seduce her child, that she
+indulged her in the same pleasure as often as she asked it.  They
+passed some hours every day in walking round that delightful wood,
+in which were many small green meadows, with little rivulets
+running through them, on the banks of which, covered with
+primroses and violets, Rozella, by the side of her sweet
+companion, used to sing the most enchanting songs in the world: 
+the words were chiefly in praise of innocence and a country life.
+
+The princess came home every day more and more charmed with her
+young shepherdess, and recounted, as near as she could remember,
+every word that had passed between them.  The queen very highly
+approved of their manner of amusing themselves; but again enjoined
+her to omit nothing that passed in conversation, especially if it
+had the least tendency towards alluring her from her duty.
+
+One day, as the princess Hebe and Rozella were walking alone, and
+talking, as usual, of their own happy state, and the princess was
+declaring how much her own happiness was owing to her thorough
+obedience to her mother, Rozella, with a tone of voice as half in
+jest, said, 'But don't you think, my little Hebe, that if I take a
+very great pleasure in any thing that will do me no hurt, though
+it is forbidden, I may disobey my parents in enjoying it, provided
+I don't tell them of it to vex them with the thought that I have
+disobeyed them?  And then, my dear, what harm is done?'
+
+'Great harm (answered the princess, looking grave and half angry): 
+I am ashamed to hear you talk so, Rozella.  Are you not guilty of
+treachery, as well as disobedience?  Neither ought you to
+determine that no harm is done, because you do not feel the
+immediate effects of your transgression; for the consequence may
+be out of our narrow inexperienced view; and I have been taught
+whenever my mother lays any commands on me, to take it for
+granted, she has some reason for so doing; and I obey her, without
+examining what those reasons are; otherwise, it would not be
+obeying her, but setting up my own wisdom, and doing what she bid
+me, only when I thought proper.'
+
+They held a long argument on this head, in which Rozella made use
+of many a fallacy to prove her point; but the princess, as she had
+not yet departed from Truth, nor failed in her duty, could not be
+imposed upon.  Rozella, seeing every attempt to persuade her was
+in vain, turned all her past discourse into a jest; said she had
+only a mind to try her; and was overjoyed to find her so steady in
+the cause of truth and virtue.  The princess resumed her usual
+cheerfulness and good humour.  Rozella sung her a song in praise
+of constancy of mind; and they passed the rest of the time they
+stayed together, as they used to do.
+
+But, just before they parted, Rozella begged she would not tell
+her mother of the first part of the conversation that had passed
+between them.  The princess replied, that it would be breaking
+through one of her mother's commands, and therefore she dared not
+grant her request.  Then, said Rozella, 'Here I must for ever part
+with my dear little Hebe.  Your mother, not knowing the manner in
+which I spoke, will have an ill opinion of me, and will never
+trust you again in my company.  Thus will you be torn from me; and
+loss will be irreparable.'  These words she accompanied with a
+flood of tears, and such little tendernesses, as quite melted the
+princess into tears also.  But she still said, that she could not
+dare to conceal from her mother anything that had happened, though
+she could not but own, she believed their separation would be the
+consequence.  'Well then (cried Rozella) I will endeavour to be
+contented, as our separation will give you less pain than what you
+call this mighty breach of your duty:  and though I would
+willingly undergo almost any torments that could be invented,
+rather than be debarred one moment the company of my dearest Hebe,
+yet I will not expect that she should suffer the smallest degree
+of pain, or uneasiness, to save me from losing what is the whole
+pleasure of my life.'
+
+The princess could not bear the thought of appearing ungrateful to
+such a warm friendship as Rozella expressed; and, without farther
+hesitation, promised to conceal what she had said, and to undergo
+anything, rather than lose so amiable a friend.
+
+After this they parted.  But when the princess entered the Grove,
+she did not, as usual, run with haste and joy into the presence of
+her indulgent mother; for her mind was disturbed:  she felt a
+conscious shame on seeing her, and turned away her face, as
+wanting to shun the piercing look of that eye, which she imagined
+would see the secret lurking in her bosom.  Her mother observed
+with concern her downcast look, and want of cheerfulness.  And
+asking her what was the matter, she answered, her walk had
+fatigued her, and she begged early to retire to rest.  Her kind
+mother consented; but little rest had the poor princess that whole
+night, for the pain of having her mind touched with guilt, and the
+fear she was under of losing her dear companion, kept her thoughts
+in one continued tumult and confusion.  The fairy's gift now
+became her curse; for the power of seeing what was right, as she
+had acted contrary to her knowledge, only tormented her.
+
+She hastened the next morning to meet Rozella, and told her all
+that had passed in her own mind the preceding night; declaring
+that she would not pass such another for the whole world; but yet
+would not dispense with her promise to her, without her consent;
+and therefore came to ask her leave to acquaint her good mother
+with all that had passed:  'For (said she) my dear Rozella, we
+must, if we would be happy, do always what is right, and trust for
+the consequences.'  Here Rozella drew her features into the most
+contemptuous sneer imaginable, and said, 'Pray what are all these
+mighty pains you have suffered?  Are they not owing only to your
+want of sense enough to know, that you can do your mother no harm,
+by concealing from her this, or anything else that will vex her?
+and, my dear girl (continued she) when you have once entered into
+this way of thinking, and have put this blind duty out of your
+head, you will spend no more such restless nights, which you must
+see was entirely owing to your own imaginations.'
+
+This startled the princess to such a degree, that she was breaking
+from her, but, putting on a more tender air, Rozella cried, 'And
+can you then, my dear Hebe, determine to give me up for such a
+trifling consideration?'  Then raising her voice again, in a
+haughty manner, she said, 'I ought to despise and laugh at you for
+your folly, or at best pity your ignorance, rather than offer a
+sincere friendship to one so undeserving.'
+
+The princess, having once swerved from her duty, was now in the
+power of every passion that should attack her.
+
+Pride and indignation, at the thought of being despised, bore more
+sway with her, than either her duty or affection to her fond
+mother; and she was now determined, she said, to think for
+herself, and make use of her own understanding, which she was
+convinced would always teach her what was right.  Upon this
+Rozella took her by the hand, and, with tears of joy, said, 'Now,
+my dearest girl, you are really wise, and cannot therefore
+(according to your own rule) fail of being happy.  But to show
+that you are in earnest in this resolution, you shall this morning
+go home with me to my father's cot; it is not so far off, but you
+will be back by the time your mother expects you; and as that will
+be obeying the chief command, it is but concealing from her the
+thing that would vex her, and there will be no harm done.'  Here a
+ray of truth broke in upon our young princess; but as a false
+shame, and fear of being laughed at, had now got possession of
+her, she, with a soft sigh, consented to the proposal.
+
+Rozella led the way.  But just as they were turning round the
+walk, which leads out of the wood, a large serpent darted from one
+side out of a thicket, directly between them, and turning its
+hissing mouth towards the princess, as seeming to make after her,
+she fled hastily back, and ran with all her speed towards the
+grove, and panting for breath, flew into the arms of her ever kind
+protectress.
+
+Her mother was vastly terrified to see her tremble, and look so
+pale; and as soon as she was a little recovered, asked her the
+occasion of her fright, and added (with tears running down her
+cheeks) 'I am afraid, my dear Hebe, some sad disaster has befallen
+you, for, indeed, my child, I but too plainly saw last night--'
+
+Here the princess was so struck with true shame and confusion, for
+her past behaviour, that she fell down upon her knees, confessed
+the whole truth, and implored forgiveness for her fault.
+
+The queen kindly raised her up, kissed and forgave her.  'I am
+overjoyed, my dear child (said she) at this your sweet repentance,
+though the effect of mere accident, as it appears but sent,
+without doubt, by some good fairy, to save you from destruction;
+and I hope you are thoroughly convinced, that the serpent which
+drove you home, was not half so dangerous as the false Rozella.'
+
+The princess answered, that she was thoroughly sensible of the
+dangers she had avoided, and hoped she never should again, by her
+own folly and wickedness, deserve to be exposed to the danger from
+which she had so lately escaped.
+
+Some days passed, without the princess's offering to stir out of
+the grove; and in that time she gave a willing and patient ear to
+all her mother's instructions, and seemed thoroughly sensible of
+the great deliverance she had lately experienced.  But yet there
+appeared in her countenance an uneasiness, which the queen wishing
+to remove, asked her the cause of.
+
+'It is, dear madam,' answered the princess, 'because I have not
+yet had it in my power to convince you of my repentance, which
+(though I know it to be sincere) you have had no proof of, but in
+words only; and, indeed, my heart longs for an occasion to show
+you, that I am now able to resist any allurement which would tempt
+me from my duty; and I cannot be easy till you have given me an
+opportunity of showing you the firmness of my resolution; and if
+you will give me leave to take a walk in the wood alone, this
+evening, I shall return to you with pleasure, and will promise not
+to exceed any bounds that you shall prescribe.'
+
+The queen was not much pleased with this request; but the princess
+was so earnest with her to grant it, that she could not well
+refuse, without seeming to suspect her sincerity; which she did
+not, but only feared for her safety, and, giving her a strict
+charge, not to stir a step out of the wood, or to speak to the
+false Rozella, if she came in her way, she reluctantly gave her
+consent.
+
+The princess walked through all the flowery labyrinths, in which
+she had so often strayed with Rozella; but she was so shocked with
+the thoughts of her wickedness, that she hardly gave a sigh for
+the loss of a companion once so dear to her; and as a proof that
+her repentance was sincere, though she heard Rozella singing in an
+arbour (purposely perhaps to decoy her) she turned away without
+the least emotion, and went quite to the other side of the wood;
+where looking into the meadow, in which she first beheld that
+false friend, she saw a girl about her own age, leaning against a
+tree, and crying most bitterly.  But the moment she came in sight,
+the young shepherdess (for such by her dress she appeared to be)
+cried out, 'O help, dear young lady, help me; for I am tied here
+to this tree, by the spiteful contrivance of a wicked young
+shepherdess called Rozella:  my hands too, you see, are bound
+behind me, so that I cannot myself unloose the knot; and if I am
+not released, here must I lie all night and my wretched parents
+will break their hearts, for fear some sad accident should have
+befallen their only child, their poor unhappy Florimel!'
+
+The Princess, hearing her speak of Rozella in that manner, had no
+suspicion of her being one of that false girl's deluding
+companions; but rather thought that she was a fellow-sufferer with
+herself; and therefore, without any consideration of the bounds
+prescribed, she hastened to relieve her, and even thought that she
+should have great pleasure in telling her mother, that she had
+saved a poor young shepherdess from Rozella's malice, and restored
+her to her fond parents.  But as soon as she had unloosed the girl
+from the tree, and unbound her hands, instead of receiving thanks
+for what she had done, the wicked Florimel burst into a laugh, and
+suddenly snatching from the Princess Hebe's side her father's
+picture, which she always wore hanging in a ribbon, she ran away
+with it, as fast as she could, over the meadow.
+
+The Princess was so astonished at this strange piece of
+ingratitude and treachery, and was so alarmed for fear of losing
+what she knew her mother so highly valued, that hardly knowing
+what she was about, she pursued Florimel with all her speed,
+begging and entreating her not to bereave her so basely and
+ungratefully of that picture, which she would not part with for
+the world:  but it was all to no purpose for Florimel continued
+her flight, and the princess her pursuit, till they arrived at
+Brunetta's castle-gate; where the fairy herself appeared dressed
+and adorned in the most becoming manner, and, with the most
+bewitching smile that can come from dazzling beauty, invited the
+princess to enter her castle (into which Florimel was run to hide
+herself) and promised her, on that condition, to make the idle
+girl restore the picture.
+
+It was now so late, that it was impossible for the princess to
+think of returning home that night; and the pleasing address of
+Brunetta, together  with the hopes of having her picture restored,
+soon prevailed with her to accept of the fairy's invitation.
+
+The castle glittered with gaudy furniture; sweet music was heard
+in every room; the whole company, who were all of the most
+beautiful forms that could be conceived, strove who should be most
+obliging to this their new guest.  They omitted nothing that could
+amuse and delight the senses.  And  the Princess Hebe was so
+entranced with joy and rapture, that she had not time for thought,
+or for the least serious reflection; and she now began to think,
+that she had attained the highest happiness upon earth.
+
+After they had kept her three days in this round of pleasure and
+delight, they began to pull of the mask; nothing was heard but
+quarrels, jars, and galling speeches.  Instead of sweet music, the
+apartments were filled with screams and howling; for every one
+giving way to the most outrageous passions, they were always doing
+each other some malicious turn, and only universal horror and
+confusion reigned.
+
+The princess was hated by all, and was often asked, with insulting
+sneers, why she did not return to her peaceful grove, and
+condescending mother?  But her mind having been thus turned aside
+from what was right, could not bear the thoughts of returning; and
+though by her daily tears, she showed her repentance, shame
+prevented her return:  but this again was not the right sort of
+shame; for then she would humbly have taken the punishment due to
+her crime; and it was rather a stubborn pride, which, as she knew
+herself so highly to blame, would not give her leave to suffer the
+confusion of again confessing her fault; and till she could bring
+herself to such a state of mind, there was no remedy for her misery.
+
+
+
+Just as Miss Jenny had read these words, Mrs. Teachum remembering
+some orders necessary to give in her family, left them, but bid
+them go on, saying she would return again in a quarter of an hour. 
+But she was no sooner gone from them, than our little company,
+hearing the sound of trumpets and kettle-drums, which seemed to be
+playing at some little distance from Mrs. Teachum's house, suddenly
+started from their seats, running directly to the terrace; and,
+looking over the garden wall, they saw a troop of soldiers riding
+by, with these instruments of music playing before them.
+
+They were highly delighted with the gallant and splendid
+appearance of these soldiers, and watched them till they were out
+of sight, and were then returning to their arbour, where Miss
+Jenny had been reading; but Miss Nanny Spruce espied another such
+troop coming out of the lane from whence the first had issued, and
+cried out, 'O! here is another fine sight; let us stay, and see
+these go by too.'  'Indeed (said Miss Dolly Friendly) I am in such
+pain for the poor princess Hebe, while she is in that sad castle,
+that I had rather hear how she escaped (for that I hope she will)
+than see all the soldiers in the world; and besides, it is but
+seeing the same thing we have just looked at before.'  Here some
+were for staying, and others for going back; but as Miss Dolly's
+party was the strongest, the few were ashamed to avow their
+inclinations; and they were returning to the arbour, when they met
+Mrs. Teachum, who informed them their dancing master was just
+arrived, and they must attend him; but in the evening they might
+finish their story.
+
+They were so curious (and especially Miss Dolly Friendly) to know
+what was to become of the princess, that they could have wished
+not to have been interrupted; but yet, without one word of answer,
+they complied with what their governess thought most proper; and
+in the evening, hastening to their arbour, Mrs. Teachum herself
+being present, Miss Jenny went on in the following manner:
+
+
+
+THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUED.
+
+The queen, in the meantime, suffered for the loss of her child
+more than words can express, till the good fairy Sybella returned. 
+The queen burst into tears at the sight of her; but the fairy
+immediately cried out, 'You may spare yourself, my royal guest,
+the pain of relating what has happened.  I know it all; for that
+old man, whom I took such pity on, was a phantom, raised by
+Brunetta, to allure me hence, in order to have an opportunity, in
+my absence, of seducing the princess from her duty.  She knew
+nothing but a probable story could impose on me, and therefore
+raised that story of the misery of the old man's son (from motives
+which too often, indeed, cause the misery of mortals); as knowing
+I should think it my duty to do what I could to relieve such a
+wretch.  I will not tell you all my journey, nor what I have gone
+through.  I know your mind is at present too much fixed on the
+princess, to attend to such a relation I'll only tell you what
+concerns yourself.  When the phantom found, that by no distress he
+could perturb my mind, he said he was obliged to tell the truth,
+what was the intention of my being deluded from home, and what had
+happened since; and then vanished away.'  Here the fairy related
+to the queen everything that had happened to the princess, as has
+already been written; and concluded with saying, that she would
+wander about the castle walls (for Brunetta had no power over
+her); and if she could get a sight of the princess, she would
+endeavour to bring her to a true sense of her fault, and then she
+might again be restored to happiness.
+
+The queen blessed the fairy for her goodness; and it was not long
+before Sybella's continual assiduity got her a sight of the
+princess; for she often wandered a little way towards that wood
+she had once so much delighted in, but never could bring herself
+to enter into it:  the thought of seeing her injured mother made
+her start back, and run half wild into the fatal castle.  Rozella
+used frequently to throw herself in her way; and on hearing her
+sighs, and seeing her tears, would burst into a sneering laugh at
+her folly; to avoid which laugh, the poor princess first suffered
+herself to throw off all her principles of goodness and obedience,
+and was now fallen into the very contempt she so much dreaded.
+
+The first time the fairy got a sight of her, she called to her
+with the most friendly voice; but the princess, stung to the soul
+with the sight of her, fled away, and did not venture out again in
+several days.  The kind Sybella began almost to despair of
+regaining her lost child; but never failed walking round the
+castle many hours every day.  And one evening, just before the sun
+set, she heard within the gates a loud tumultuous noise, but more
+like riotous mirth, than either the voice either of rage or anger;
+and immediately she saw the princess rush out at the gate, and
+about a dozen girls, laughing and shouting, running after her. 
+The poor princess flew with all her speed till she came to a
+little arbour, just by the side of the wood; and her pursuers, as
+they intended only to tease her, did not follow  her very close;
+but, as soon as they lost sight of her, turned all back again to
+the castle.
+
+Sybella went directly into the arbour, where she found the little
+trembler prostrate on the ground, crying and sobbing as if her
+heart was breaking.  The fairy seized her hand, and would not let
+her go till she had prevailed with her to return to the Placid
+Grove, to throw herself once more at her mother's feet, assuring
+her, that nothing but this humble state of mind could cure her
+misery and restore her wonted peace.
+
+The queen was filled with the highest joy to see her child; but
+restrained  herself so much, that she showed not the least sign of
+it, till she had seen her some time prostrate at her feet, and had
+heard her with tears properly confess, and ask pardon for, all her
+faults.  She then raised, and once more forgave her; but told her
+that she must learn more humility and distrust of herself, before
+she should again expect to be trusted.
+
+The princess answered not, but with a modest downcast look which
+expressed her concern and true repentance, and in a short time
+recovered her former peace of mind; and as she never afterwards
+disobeyed her indulgent mother, she daily increased in wisdom and
+goodness.
+
+After having lived on in the most innocent and peaceful manner for
+three years (the princess being just turned of eighteen years old)
+the fairy told the queen that she would now tell her some news of
+her kingdom, which she had heard in her journey; namely, that her
+sister-in-law was dead, and her brother-in-law had made proclamation
+throughout the kingdom, of great rewards to any one who should
+produce the queen and the Princess Hebe, whom he would immediately
+reinstate on the throne.
+
+The Princess Hebe was by when she related this, and said she
+begged to lead a private life, and never more be exposed to the
+temptation of entering into vice, for which she already had so
+severely smarted.
+
+The fairy told her, that, since she doubted herself, she was now
+fit to be trusted; for, said she, 'I did not like your being so
+sure of resisting temptation, when first I conferred on you the
+gift of wisdom.  But you will, my princess, if you take the crown,
+have an opportunity of doing so much good, that, if you continue
+virtuous, you will have perpetual pleasures; for power, if made a
+right use of, is indeed a very great blessing.'
+
+The princess answered, that if the queen, her mother, thought it
+her duty to take the crown, she would cheerfully submit, though a
+private life would be otherwise her choice.
+
+The queen replied, that she did not blame her for choosing a
+private life; but she thought she could not innocently refuse the
+power that would give her such opportunities of doing good, and
+making others happy; since, by that refusal, the power might fall
+into hands that would make an ill use of it.
+
+After this conversation, they got into the same car in which they
+travelled to the wood of Ardella; arrived safely at the city of
+Algorada; and the Princess Hebe was seated, with universal
+consent, on her father's throne; where she and her people were
+reciprocally happy, by her great wisdom and prudence; and the
+queen-mother spent the remainder of her days in peace and joy, to
+see her beloved daughter prove a blessing to such numbers of human
+creatures; whilst she herself enjoyed that only true content and
+happiness this world can produce; namely, a peaceful conscience,
+and a quiet mind.
+
+
+
+When Miss Jenny had finished her story, Mrs. Teachum left them for
+the present, that they might with the utmost freedom make their
+own observations; for she knew she should be acquainted with all
+their sentiments from Miss Jenny afterwards.
+
+The little hearts of all the company were swelled with joy, in
+that the Princess Hebe was at last made happy; for hope and fear
+had each by turns possessed their bosoms for the fate of the
+little princess; and Miss Dolly Friendly said, that Rozella's
+artful manner was enough to have drawn in the wisest girl into her
+snares; and she did not see how it was possible for the Princess
+Hebe to withstand it, especially when she cried for fear of
+parting with her.
+
+Miss Sukey Jennett said, that Rozella's laughing at her, and using
+her with contempt, she thought was insupportable, for who could
+bear the contempt of a friend?
+
+Many and various were the remarks made by Miss Jenny's hearers on
+the story she had read to them.  But now they were so confirmed in
+goodness, and every one was so settled in her affection for her
+companions, that, instead of being angry at any opposition that
+was made to their judgments, every one spoke her opinion with the
+utmost mildness.
+
+Miss Jenny sat some time silent to hear their conversation on her
+fairy tale.  But her seeing them so much altered in their manner
+of talking to each other, since the time they made their little
+remarks on her story of the giants, filled her whole mind with the
+most sincere pleasure; and with a smile peculiar to herself, and
+which diffused a cheerfulness to all around her, she told her
+companions the joy their present behaviour had inspired her with;
+but saying that it was as late as their governess chose they
+should stay out, she rose, and walked towards the house, whither
+she was cheerfully followed by the whole company.
+
+Mrs. Teachum after supper, again, in a familiar manner, talked to
+them on the subject of the fairy tale, and encouraged them, as
+much as possible, to answer her freely in whatever she asked them;
+and at last said, 'My good children, I am very much pleased when
+you are innocently amused; and yet I would have you consider
+seriously enough of what you read, to draw such morals from your
+books, as may influence your future practice; and as to fairy
+tales in general, remember, that the fairies, as I told Miss Jenny
+before of giants and magic, are only introduced by the writers of
+those tales, by way of amusement to the reader.  For if the story
+is well written, the common course of things would produce the
+same incidents, without the help of fairies.
+
+'As for example, in this of the Princess Hebe, you see the queen
+her mother was not admitted to know the fairy's history, till she
+could calm her mind enough to hearken to reason; which only means,
+that whilst we give way to the raging of our passions, nothing
+useful can ever sink into our minds.  For by the fairy Sybella's
+story you find, that by our own faults we may turn the greatest
+advantages into our own misery, as Sybella's mother did her
+beauty, by making use of the influence it gave her over her
+husband, to tease him into the ruin of his child; and as also
+Brunetta did, by depending on her father's gift, to enable her to
+complete her desires, and therefore never endeavouring to conquer
+them.
+
+'You may observe also on the other side, that no accident had any
+power to hurt Sybella, because she followed the paths of virtue,
+and kept her mind free from restless passions.
+
+'You see happiness in the good Sybella's peaceful grove, and
+misery in the wicked Brunetta's gaudy castle.  The queen desiring
+the fairy to endow her child with true wisdom, was the cause that
+the Princess Hebe had it in her power to be happy.  But take notice,
+that when she swerved from her duty, all her knowledge was of no
+use, but only rendered her more miserable, by letting her see her
+own folly in the stronger light.  Rozella first tempted the princess
+to disobedience, by moving her tenderness, and alarming her friendship,
+in fearing to part with her; and then by persuading her to set up her
+own wisdom, in opposition to her mother's commands, rather than be
+laughed at, and despised by her friends.  You are therefore to observe,
+that if you would steadily persevere in virtue, you must have
+resolution enough to stand the sneers of those who would allure you
+to vice; for it is the constant practice of the vicious, to endeavour
+to allure others to follow their example, by an affected contempt and
+ridicule of virtue.
+
+'By the Princess Hebe's being drawn at last beyond the prescribed
+bounds, by the cries and entreaties of that insidious girl, you
+are to learn, that whatever appearance of virtue any action may be
+attended with, yet if it makes you go contrary to the commands of
+those who know better what is for your good, than you do your
+selves, and who can see farther into the consequences of actions
+than can your tender years, it will certainly lead you into error
+and misfortune; and you find, as soon as the princess had once
+overleaped the bounds, another plausible excuse arose to carry her
+on; and by a false fear of incurring her mother's displeasure, she
+really deserved that displeasure, and was soon reduced into the
+power of her enemy.
+
+'The princess, you see, could have no happiness till she returned
+again to her obedience, and had confessed her fault.  And though
+in this story all this is brought about by fairies, yet the moral
+of it is, that whenever we give way to our passions, and act
+contrary to our duty, we must be miserable.
+
+'But let me once more observe to you, that these fairies are only
+intended to amuse you; for remember that the misery which attended
+the Princess Hebe, on her disobedience, was the natural consequence
+of that disobedience, as well as the natural consequence of her
+amendment and return to her duty, was content and happiness for the
+rest of her life.'
+
+Here good Mrs. Teachum ceased, and Miss Jenny, in the name of the
+company, thanked her for her kind instructions, and promised that
+they would endeavour, to the utmost of their power, to imprint
+them on their memory for the rest of their lives.
+
+
+
+SUNDAY.
+THE SEVENTH DAY.
+
+This morning our little society rose very early, and were all
+dressed with neatness and elegance, in order to go to church. 
+Mrs. Teachum put Miss Polly Suckling before her, and the rest
+followed, two and two, with perfect regularity.
+
+Mrs. Teachum expressed great approbation, that her scholars, at
+this solemn place, showed no sort of childishness, notwithstanding
+their tender age; but behaved with decency and devotion suitable
+to the occasion.
+
+They went again in the same order, and behaved again in the same
+manner, in the afternoon; and when they returned from church, two
+young ladies, Lady Caroline and Lady Fanny Delun, who had formerly
+known Miss Jenny Peace, and who were at present in that neighbourhood
+with their uncle, came to make her a visit.
+
+Lady Caroline was fourteen years of age, tall and genteel in her
+person, of a fair complexion, and a regular set of features so
+that, upon the whole, she was generally complimented with being
+very handsome.
+
+Lady Fanny, who was one year younger than her sister, was rather
+little of her age, of a brown complexion, her features irregular;
+and, in short, she had not the least real pretensions to beauty.
+
+It was but lately that their father was, by the death of his
+eldest brother, become Earl of Delun; so that their titles were
+new, and they had not been long used to your ladyship.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace received them as her old acquaintance:  however,
+she paid them the deference due to their quality, and, at the same
+time, took care not to behave as if she imagined they thought of
+anything else.
+
+As it was her chief delight to communicate her pleasures to
+others, she introduced her new-made friends to her old
+acquaintance, and expected to have spent a very agreeable
+afternoon.  But to describe the behaviour of these two young
+ladies is very difficult.  Lady Caroline, who was dressed in a
+pink robe, embroidered thick with gold, and adorned with very fine
+jewels, and the finest Mechlin lace, addressed most of her
+discourse to her sister, that she might have the pleasure every
+minute of uttering 'Your ladyship,' in order to show what she
+herself expected.  And as she spoke, her fingers were in perpetual
+motion, either adjusting her tucker, placing her plaits of her
+robe, or fiddling with a diamond cross, that hung down on her
+bosom, her eyes accompanying her fingers as they moved, and then
+suddenly being snatched off, that she might not be observed to
+think of her own dress; yet was it plain, that her thoughts were
+employed on only that and her titles.  Miss Jenny Peace, although
+she would have made it her choice always to have been in company
+who did not deserve ridicule, yet had she humour enough to treat
+affectation as it deserved.  And she addressed herself to Lady
+Caroline with so many ladyships, and such praises of her fine
+clothes, as she hoped would have made her ashamed; but Lady
+Caroline was too full of her own vanity, to see her design, and
+only exposed herself ten times the more, till she really got the
+better of Miss Jenny, who blushed for her, since she was incapable
+of blushing for herself.
+
+Lady Fanny's dress was plain and neat only, nor did she mention
+anything about it; and it was very visible her thoughts were
+otherwise employed, neither did she seem to take any delight in
+the words 'Your ladyship':  but she tossed and threw her person
+about into so many ridiculous postures, and as there happened
+unfortunately to be no looking-glass in the room where they sat,
+she turned and rolled her eyes so many different ways, in
+endeavouring to view as much of herself as possible, that it was
+very plain to the whole company she thought herself a beauty, and
+admired herself for being so.
+
+Our little society, whose hearts were so open to each other, that
+they had not a thought they endeavoured to conceal, were so filled
+with contempt at Lady Caroline and Lady Fanny's behaviour, and yet
+so strictly obliged, by good manners, not to show that contempt,
+that the reserve they were forced to put on, laid them under so
+great a restraint, that they knew not which way to turn themselves,
+or how to utter one word; and great was their joy when Lady Caroline,
+as the eldest, led the way, and with a swimming curtsey, her head
+turned half round on one shoulder, and a disdainful eye, took her
+leave, repeating two or three times the word 'misses,' to put them
+in mind, that she was a lady.  She was followed by her sister Lady
+Fanny, who made a slow distinct curtsey to every one in the room,
+that she might be the longer under observation.  And then taking
+Miss Jenny by the hand, said, 'Indeed, Miss, you are very pretty,'
+in order to put them in mind of her own beauty.
+
+Our little society, as soon as they were released, retired to
+their arbour, where, for some time, they could talk of nothing but
+this visit.  Miss Jenny Peace remarked how many shapes vanity
+would turn itself into, and desired them to observe, how
+ridiculously Lady Caroline Delun turned her whole thoughts on her
+dress, and condition of life; and how absurd it was in Lady Fanny,
+who was a very plain girl, to set up for a beauty, and to behave
+in a manner which would render her contemptible, even if she had
+that beauty her own vanity made her imagine herself possessed of.
+
+Miss Nanny Spruce said, 'She was greatly rejoiced that she had
+seen her folly; for she could very well remember when she had the
+same vanity of dress and superiority of station with Lady Caroline,
+though she had not, indeed, a title to support it; and in what
+manner, she said, she would tell them in the story of her life.
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS NANNY SPRUCE.
+
+Miss Nanny Spruce was just nine years old, and was the very
+reverse of Patty Lockit, in all things; for she had little limbs,
+little features, and such a compactness in her form, that she was
+often called the little fairy.  She had the misfortune to be lame
+in one of her hips; but by good management, and a briskness and
+alacrity in carrying herself, it was a very small blemish to her,
+and looked more like an idle childish gait, than any real defect.
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS NANNY SPRUCE.
+
+'My delight,' said Miss Nanny Spruce, 'ever since I can remember,
+has been in dress and finery; for whenever I did as I was bid, I
+was promised fine coats, ribbons, and laced caps; and when I was
+stubborn and naughty, then my fine things were all to be locked
+up, and I was to wear only an old stuff coat; so that I thought
+the only reward I could have was to be dressed fine  and the only
+punishment was to be plainly dressed.  By this means I delighted
+so much in fine clothes, that I never thought of anything but when
+I should have something new to adorn myself in; and I have sat
+whole days considering what should be my next new coat; for I had
+always my choice given me of the colour.
+
+'We lived in a country parish, my papa being the only gentleman,
+so that all the little girls in the parish used to take it as a
+great honour to play with me.  And I used to delight to show them
+my fine things, and to see that they could not come at any but
+very plain coats.  However, as they did not pretend to have
+anything equal with me, I was kind enough to them.  As to those
+girls whose parents were so very poor that they went in rags, I
+did not suffer them to come near me.
+
+'Whilst I was at home, I spent my time very pleasantly, as no one
+pretended to be my equal; but as soon as I came to school, where
+other misses were as fine as myself, and some finer, I grew very
+miserable.  Every new coat, every silver ribbon, that any of my
+schoolfellows wore, made me unhappy.  Your scarlet damask, Miss
+Betty Ford, cost me a week's pain; and I lay awake, and sighed and
+wept all night, because I did not dare to spoil it.  I had several
+plots in my head, to have dirtied it, or cut it, so as to have
+made it unfit to wear; by some accident my plots were prevented;
+and then I was so uneasy, I could not tell what to do with myself;
+and so afraid, lest any body should suspect me of such a thing,
+that I could not sleep in peace, for fear I should dream of it,
+and in my sleep discover it to my bedfellow.  I would not go
+through the same dreads and terrors again for the world.  But I am
+very happy now, in having no thoughts but what my companions may
+know; for since that quarrel, and Miss Jenny Peace was so good as
+to show me what I'm sure I never thought of before, that is, that
+the road to happiness is by conquering such foolish vanities, and
+the only way to be pleased is to endeavour to please others, I
+have never known what it was to be uneasy.'
+
+
+
+As soon as Miss Nanny had finished speaking, Miss Betty Ford said,
+that she heartily forgave her all her former designs upon her
+scarlet coat; but, added she, Lady Fanny Delun put me no less in
+mind of my former life, than Lady Caroline did you of yours; and
+if Miss Jenny pleases, I will now relate it.
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS BETTY FORD.
+
+Miss Betty Ford was of the same age with Miss Nanny Spruce, and
+much of the same height, and might be called the plainest girl in
+the school; for she had nothing pleasing either in her person or
+face, except an exceeding fair skin, and tolerable good black
+eyes; but her face was ill-shaped and broad, her hair very red,
+and all the summer she was generally very full of freckles; and
+she had also a small hesitation in her speech.  But without
+preamble, she began her life as follows.
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS BETTY FORD.
+
+'My life,' said Miss Betty Ford, 'has hitherto passed very like
+that of Miss Nanny Spruce, only with this difference, that as all
+her thoughts were fixed on finery, my head ran on nothing but
+beauty.  I had an elder sister, who was, I must own, a great deal
+handsomer than me; and yet, in my own mind, at that time, I did
+not think so, though I was always told it was not for me to
+pretend to the same things with pretty Miss Kitty (which was the
+name of my sister); and in all respects she was taken so much more
+notice of than I was, that I perfectly hated her, and could not
+help wishing that, by some accident, her beauty might be spoiled: 
+whenever any visitors came to the house, their praises of her gave
+me the greatest vexation; and as I had made myself believe I was a
+very great beauty, I thought that it was prejudice and ill-nature
+in all around me, not to view me in that light.  My sister Kitty
+was very good natured; and though she was thus cried up for her
+beauty, and indulged most on that account, yet she never insulted
+me, but did all in her power to oblige me.  But I could not love
+her, and sometimes would raise lies against her, which did not
+signify, for she could always justify herself.  I could not give
+any reason for hating her, but her beauty, for she was very good;
+but the better she was, I thought the worse I appeared.  I could
+not bear her praises without teasing and vexing myself.  At last,
+little Kitty died of a fever, to my great joy, though, as
+everybody cried for her, I cried too for company, and because I
+would not be thought ill-natured.
+
+'After Kitty's death, I lived tolerably easy, till I came to
+school.  Then the same desire of beauty returned, and I hated all
+the misses who were handsomer than myself, as much as I had before
+hated my sister, and always took every opportunity of quarrelling
+with them, till I found my own peace was concerned, in getting the
+better of this disposition; and that, if I would have any content,
+I must not repine at my not being so handsome as others.'
+
+
+
+When Miss Betty Ford ceased, Miss Jenny said, 'Indeed, my dear, it
+is well you had not at that time the power of the eagle in the
+fable; for your poor sister might then, like the peacock, have
+said in a soft voice, "You are, indeed, a great beauty; but it
+lies in your beak and your talons, which make it death to me to
+dispute it."'
+
+Miss Betty Ford rejoiced, that her power did not extend to enable
+her to do mischief, before she had seen her folly.  And now this
+little society, in good humour and cheerfulness, attended their
+kind governess's summons to supper; and then, after the evening
+prayers, they retired to their peaceful slumbers.
+
+
+
+MONDAY.
+THE EIGHTH DAY.
+
+Early in the morning, after the public prayers which Mrs. Teachum
+read every day, our little company took a walk in the garden
+whilst the breakfast was preparing.
+
+The fine weather, the prospects round them, all conspired to
+increase their pleasure.  They looked at one another with delight;
+their minds were innocent and satisfied; and therefore every
+outward object was pleasing in their sight.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace said, she was sure they were happier than any
+other society of children whatever, except where the same harmony
+and love were preserved, as were kept up in their minds:  'For
+(continued she) I think now, my dear companions, I can answer for
+you all, that no mischievous, no malicious plots disturb the
+tranquility of your thoughts; plots, which in the end, constantly
+fall on the head of those who invent them, after all the pains
+they cost in forming, and endeavouring to execute.'
+
+Whilst Miss Jenny Peace was talking, Miss Dolly Friendly looked at
+her very earnestly.  She would not interrupt her; but the moment
+she was silent, Miss Dolly said, 'My dear Miss Jenny, what is the
+matter with you? your eyes are swelled, and you look as if you had
+been crying.  If you have any grief that you keep to yourself, you
+rob us of the share we have a right to demand in all that belongs
+to you.'
+
+'No, indeed (answered Miss Jenny), I have nothing that grieves me;
+though, if I had, I should think it increased, rather than lessened,
+by your being grieved too; but last night, after I went upstairs, I
+found amongst my books the play of the Funeral, or, Grief-a-la-mode;
+where the faithful and tender behaviour of a good old servant, who
+had long lived in his lord's family, with many other passages in the
+play (which I cannot explain, unless you knew the whole story) made
+me cry, so that I could hardly stop my tears.'
+
+'Pray, Miss Jenny, let us hear this play, that had such an effect
+on you,' was the general request; and Miss Jenny readily promised,
+when they met in their arbour, to read it to them.
+
+They eagerly ran to their arbour as soon as school was over, and
+Miss Jenny performed her promise, and was greatly pleased to find
+such a sympathy between her companions and herself; for they were
+most of them affected just in the same manner, and with the same
+parts of the play, as had before affected her.
+
+By the time they had wiped their eyes, and were rejoicing at the
+turn at the end of the play, in favour of the characters with
+which they were most pleased, Mrs. Teachum entered the arbour, and
+inquired what they had been reading.  Miss Jenny immediately told
+her, adding, 'I hope, Madam, you will not think reading a play an
+improper amusement for us; for I should be very sorry to be guilty
+myself, or cause my companions to be guilty, of any thing that
+would meet with your disapprobation.'  Mrs. Teachum answered, that
+she was not at all displeased with her having read a play, as she
+saw by her fear of offending, that her discretion was to be
+trusted to.  'Nay (continued this good woman), I like that you
+should know something of all kinds of writings, where neither
+morals nor manners are offended; for if you read plays, and
+consider them as you ought, you will neglect and despise what is
+light and useless, whilst you will imprint on your mind's every
+useful lesson that is to be drawn from them.  I am very well
+acquainted with the play you have been reading; but that I may see
+whether you give the proper attention to what you have heard, I
+desire, my little girls, that one of you will give me an account
+of the chief incidents in the play, and tell me the story, just as
+you would do to one of your companions that had happened to have
+been absent.'
+
+Here they all looked upon Miss Jenny Peace, as thinking her the
+most capable of doing what their governess required.  But Mrs.
+Teachum, reading their thoughts in their looks, said, 'I exclude
+Miss Jenny in this case; for as the play was of her choosing to
+read to you, I doubt not but she is thoroughly enough acquainted
+with every part of it; and my design was to try the memory and
+attention of some of the others.'
+
+They all remained silent, and seemed to wait for a more particular
+command, before any one would offer at the undertaking; not
+through any backwardness to comply with Mrs. Teachum's request,
+but each from a diffidence of herself to perform it.
+
+Miss Jenny Peace then said, that she had observed a great
+attention in them all; and she did not doubt but every one was
+able to give a very good account of what they had heard.  'But, as
+Miss Sukey Jennet is the eldest, I believe, madam, (continued
+she), if you approve it, they will all be very ready to depute her
+as their speaker.'
+
+Each smiled at being so relieved by Miss Jenny; and Mrs. Teachum,
+taking Miss Sukey Jennet by the hand, said, 'Come, my dear, throw
+off all fear and reserve; imagine me one of your companions, and
+tell me the story of the play you have been reading.'
+
+Miss Sukey, thus encouraged by her kind governess, without any
+hesitation, spoke in the following manner:
+
+'If I understand your commands, madam, by telling the story of the
+play, you would not have me tell you the acts and scenes as they
+followed one another for that I am afraid I can hardly remember,
+as I have heard it only once  but I must describe the chief people
+in the play, and the plots and contrivances that are carried on
+amongst them.'
+
+Mrs. Teachum nodded her head, and Miss Sukey thus proceeded:
+
+
+
+'There is an old Lord Brumpton, who had married a young wife, that
+had lived with him some years, and by her deceitful and cunning
+ways had prevailed with him to disinherit his only son Lord Hardy
+(who was a very sensible good young man) and to leave him but a
+shilling.  And this Lord Brumpton was taken in a fit, so that all
+the house thought he was dead, and his lady sent for an undertaker,
+one Mr. Sable, to bury him.  But coming out of his fit, when nobody
+but this Mr. Sable, and an old servant, called Trusty, were by, he
+was prevailed upon by the good old Trusty to feign himself still
+dead (and the undertaker promises secrecy) in order to detect the
+wickedness of his wife, which old Trusty assures him is very great;
+and then he carries his lord where he overhears a discourse between
+the widow (as she thinks herself) and her maid Tattleaid; and he
+bears his once beloved wife rejoicing in his supposed death, and in
+the success of her own arts to deceive him.  Then there are two young
+ladies, Lady Charlotte and Lady Harriet Lovely, to whom this Lord
+Brumpton was guardian; and he had also left them in the care of this
+wicked woman.  And this young Lord Hardy was in love with Lady
+Charlotte; and Mr. Camply, a very lively young gentleman, his friend,
+was in love with Lady Harriet and Lady Brumpton locked the two young
+ladies up, and would not let them be seen by their lovers.  But
+there at last they contrived, by the help of old Trusty, who had
+their real guardian's consent for it, both to get away; and Lady
+Harriet married Mr. Camply directly; but Lady Charlotte did not
+get away so soon, and so was not married till the end of the play. 
+This Mr. Camply was a very generous man, and was newly come to a
+large fortune; and in the beginning of the play he contrives, in a
+very genteel manner, to give his friend Lord Hardy, who very much
+wanted it, three hundred pounds; but he takes care to let us know,
+that my lord had formerly, when he waited his assistance, been
+very kind to him.  And there at last, when Lady Brumpton finds out
+that the two young ladies are gone, she goes away in a rage to
+Lord Hardy's lodgings, and in an insulting manner she pays all due
+legacies, as she calls it, that is, she gives Lord Hardy the
+shilling, which, by her wicked arts, was all his father had left
+him; and she was insulting the young ladies, and glorying in her
+wickedness, when honest old Trusty came in, and brought in old
+Lord Brumpton, whom they imagined to be dead, and all but Lady
+Brumpton were greatly overjoyed to see him alive; but when he
+taxed her with her falsehood, she defied him, and said that she
+had got a deed of gift under his hand, which he could not revoke,
+and she WOULD enjoy his fortune in spite of him.  Upon which they
+all looked sadly vexed, till the good old Trusty went out and came
+in again, and brought in a man called Cabinet, who confessed
+himself the husband to the pretended Lady Brumpton, and that he
+was married to her half a year before she was married to my Lord
+Brumpton; but as my lord happened to fall in love with her, they
+agreed to keep their marriage concealed, in order that she should
+marry my lord, and cheat him in the manner she had done; and the
+reason that Cabinet came to confess all this was, that he looked
+into a closet and saw my lord writing, after he thought he was
+dead, and, taking it for his ghost, was by that means frightened
+into this confession, which he first made in writing to old
+Trusty, and therefore could not now deny it.  They were all
+rejoiced at this discovery, except the late pretended Lady
+Brumpton, who sneaked away with Cabinet her husband; and my Lord
+Brumpton embraced his son, and gave his consent, that he should
+marry Lady Charlotte; and they were all pleased and happy.'
+
+Here Miss Sukey ceased, and Mrs. Teachum told her she was a very
+good girl, and had remembered a great deal of the play.  'But
+(said she) in time, with using yourself to this way of repeating
+what you have read, you will come to a better manner, and a more
+regular method of telling your story, which you was now so intent
+upon finishing, that you forgot to describe what sort of women
+those two young ladies were, though, as to all the rest, you have
+been particular enough.'
+
+'Indeed, madam, (said Miss Sukey), I had forgot that, but Lady
+Charlotte was a very sensible, grave young lady, and lady Harriet
+was extremely gay and coquettish; but Mr. Camply tells her how
+much it misbecomes her to be so and she having good sense, as well
+as good nature, is convinced of her folly, and likes him so well
+for his reproof, that she consents to marry him.'
+
+Mrs. Teachum, addressing herself to them all, told them, that this
+was a method she wished they would take with whatever they read;
+for nothing so strongly imprinted anything on the memory as such a
+repetition; and then turning to Miss Jenny Peace, she said, 'And
+now, Miss Jenny, I desire you will speak freely what you think is
+the chief moral to be drawn from the play you have just read.'
+
+Miss Jenny being thus suddenly asked a question of this nature,
+considered some time before she gave an answer; for she was
+naturally very diffident of her own opinion in anything where she
+had not been before instructed by some one she thought wiser than
+herself.  At last, with a modest look, and an humble voice, she
+said, 'Since, madam, you have commanded me to speak my sentiments
+freely, I think by what happened to each character in this play,
+the author intended to prove what my good mamma first taught me,
+and what you, madam, since have so strongly confirmed me in;
+namely, that folly, wickedness, and misery, all three, as
+constantly dwell together, as wisdom, virtue, and happiness do.'
+
+''Tis very true (answered Mrs. Teachum); but this moral does not
+arise only from the happy turn in favour of the virtuous characters
+in the conclusion of the play, but is strongly inculcated, as you
+see all along, in the peace of mind that attends the virtuous, even
+in the midst of oppression and distress, while the event is yet
+doubtful, and apparently against them; and, on the contrary, in the
+confusion of mind which the vicious are tormented with, even whilst
+they falsely imagine themselves triumphant.'
+
+Mrs. Teachum then taking the book out of Miss Jenny's hands, and
+turning to the passage, said, 'How does Lady Brumpton show us the
+wretched condition of her own mind, when she says,
+
+'"How miserable 'tis to have one one hates always about one!  And
+when one can't endure one's own reflections upon some actions, who
+can bear the thoughts of another upon them?"
+
+'Then with what perturbation of mind does she proceed, to wish it
+was in her power to increase her wickedness, without making use
+enough of her understanding, to see that by that means she would
+but increase her own misery.
+
+'On the other hand, what a noble figure does Lord Hardy make, when,
+by this wicked woman's contrivances, he thinks himself disinherited
+of his whole fortune, ill-treated, and neglected by a father, he
+never had in thought offended!  He could give an opportunity to a
+sincere friend, who would not flatter him, to say,
+
+'No; you are, my lord, the extraordinary man, who, on the loss of
+an almost princely fortune, can be master of a temper that makes
+you the envy rather than pity, of your more fortunate, not more
+happy friends."
+
+'This is a fine distinction between fortunate and happy; and
+intimates this happiness must dwell in the mind, and depends upon
+no outward accidents.
+
+'Fortune, indeed, is a blessing, if properly used; which Camply
+shows, when by that means he can assist and relieve his worthy
+friend.
+
+'With what advantage does Lady Charlotte appear over her sister,
+when the latter is trifling and dancing before the glass, and the
+former says,
+
+'"If I am at first so silly as to be a little taken with myself, I
+know it is a fault, and take pains to correct it."
+
+'And on Lady Harriet's saying, very giddily, that it was too soon
+for her to think at that rate, Lady Charlotte properly adds,
+
+'"They that think it too soon to understand themselves, will very
+soon find it too late."
+
+'In how ridiculous a light does Lady Harriet appear, while she is
+displaying all that foolish coquetry!  And how different a figure
+does she make, when she has got the better of it?
+
+'My Lady Brumpton, when alarmed with the least noise, breaks out
+into all the convulsive starts natural to conscious guilt.
+
+'"Ha! what noise is that--that noise of fighting?--Run, I say.--
+Whither are you going?--What, are you mad?--Will you leave me
+alone?--Can't you stir?--What, you can't take your message with
+you!--Whatever 'tis, I suppose you are not in the plot, not you--
+nor that now they're breaking open my house for Charlotte--Not
+you.--Go see what's the matter, I say; I have nobody I can trust.--
+One minute I think this wench honest, and the next false.-- Whither
+shall I turn me?"
+
+'This is a picture of the confused, the miserable mind of a close,
+malicious, cruel, designing woman, as Lady Brumpton was, and as
+Lady Harriet very properly calls her.
+
+'Honesty and faithfulness shine forth in all their lustre, in the
+good old Trusty.  We follow him throughout with anxious wishes for
+his success, and tears of joy for his tenderness.  And when he
+finds that he is likely to come at the whole truth, and to save
+his lord from being deceived and betrayed into unjustly ruining
+his noble son, you may remember that he makes this pious
+reflection:
+
+All that is ours, is to be justly bent;
+And Heaven in its own time will bless th' event.
+
+'This is the natural thought that proceeds from innocence and
+goodness; and surely this state of mind is happiness.
+
+'I have only pointed out a few passages, to show you, that though
+it is the nature of comedy to end happily, and therefore the good
+characters must be successful in the last act; yet the moral lies
+deeper, and is to be deduced from a proof throughout this play,
+that the natural consequence of vice is misery within, even in the
+midst of an apparent triumph; and the natural consequence of
+goodness is a calm peace of mind, even in the midst of oppression
+and distress.
+
+'I have endeavoured, my little dears, to show you, as clearly as I
+can, not only what moral is to be drawn from this play, but what
+is to be sought for in all others; and where that moral is not to
+be found, the writer will have it to answer for, that he has been
+guilty of one of the worst of evils; namely, that he has clothed
+vice in so beautiful a dress, that, instead of deterring, it will
+allure and draw into its snares the young and tender mind.  And I
+am sorry to say, that too many of our dramatic performances are of
+this latter cast; which is the reason, that wise and prudent
+parents and governors in general discourage in very young people
+the reading of plays. And though by what I have said (if it makes
+a proper impression) I doubt not but you will all have a just
+abhorrence of such immoral plays, instead of being pleased with
+them, should they fall in your way; yet I would advise you rather
+to avoid them, and never to read any but such as are approved of;
+and recommended to you by those who have the care of your education.'
+
+Here good Mrs. Teachum ceased, and left her little scholars to
+reflect on what she had been saying; when Miss Jenny Peace
+declared, for her part, that she could feel the truth of her
+governess's observations; for she had rather be the innocent Lord
+Hardy, though she was to have but that one shilling in the world
+which was so insolently offered him as his father's last legacy,
+than be the Lady Brumpton, even though she had possessed the
+fortune she so treacherously endeavoured to obtain.
+
+'Nay (said Miss Dolly Friendly) I had rather have been old Trusty,
+with all the infirmities of age, following my Lord Hardy through
+the world, had his poverty and distress been ever so great, than
+have been the malicious Lady Brumpton, in the height of her
+beauty, surrounded by a crowd of lovers and flatterers.'
+
+Miss Henny Fret then declared how glad she was that she had now no
+malice in her mind; though she could not always have said so, as
+she would inform them in the history of her past life.
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS HENNY FRET.
+
+Miss Henny Fret was turned of nine years old.  She was very
+prettily made, and remarkably genteel.  All her features were
+regular.  She was not very fair, and looked pale.  Her upper lip
+seemed rather shorter than it should be; for it was drawn up in
+such a manner, as to show her upper teeth; and though this was in
+some degree natural, yet it had been very much increased by her
+being continually on the fret for every trifling accident that
+offended her, or on every contradiction that was offered to her. 
+When you came to examine her face, she had not one feature but
+what was pretty; yet, from that constant uneasiness which appeared
+in her countenance, it gave you so little pleasure to look at her,
+that she seldom had common justice done her, but had generally
+hitherto passed for a little insignificant plain girl, though her
+very face was so altered since she was grown good natured, and had
+got the better of that foolish fretfulness she used to be
+possessed of, that she appeared from her good-humoured smiles
+quite a different person; and, with a mild aspect, thus began her
+story:
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS HENNY FRET.
+
+'I had one brother,' said Miss Henny, 'as well as Miss Jenny
+Peace; but my manner of living with him was quite the reverse to
+that in which she lived with her brother.  All my praise or blame
+was to arise from my being better or worse than my brother.  If I
+was guilty of any fault, it was immediately said, "Oh! fie, miss! 
+Master George (that was my brother's name) would not be guilty of
+such a thing for the world."  If he was carried abroad, and I
+stayed at home, then I was bemoaned over, that poor Miss Henny was
+left at home, and her brother carried abroad.  And then I was
+told, that I should go abroad one of these days, and my brother be
+left at home so that whenever I went abroad, my greatest joy was,
+that he was left at home; and I was pleased to see him come out to
+the coach-door with a melancholy air that he could not go too.  If
+my brother happened to have any fruit given him, and was in a
+peevish humour, and would not give me as much as I desired, the
+servant that attended me was sure to bid me take care, when I had
+anything he waited, not to give him any.  So that I thought, if I
+did not endeavour to be revenged of him, I should show a want of
+spirit, which was of all things what I dreaded most.  I had a
+better memory than my brother, and whenever I learnt anything, my
+comfort was to laugh at him because he could not learn so fast; by
+which means I got a good deal of learning, but never minded what I
+learnt, nor took any pains to keep it; so that what I was eager to
+learn one day, to show George how much I knew more than he, I
+forgot the next.  And so I went on learning, and forgetting as
+fast as I learnt; and all the pains I took served only to show
+that I COULD learn.
+
+'I was so great a favourite, that I was never denied any thing I
+asked for;  but I was very unhappy for the same reason that Miss
+Dolly Friendly's sister was so; and I have often sat down and
+cried, because I did not know what I would have, till at last I
+own I grew so peevish and humoursome, that I was always on the
+fret, and harboured in my mind a kind of malice that made me fancy
+whatever my brother got, I lost; and in this unhappy condition I
+lived, till I came to school, and here I found that other misses
+wanted to have their humours as well as myself.  This I could not
+bear, because I had been used to have my own will, and never to
+trouble myself about what others felt.  For whenever I beat or
+abused my brother, his pain did not make me cry; but I believe it
+was thinking wrong made me guilty of these faults; for I don't
+find I am ill-natured; for now I have been taught to consider that
+my companions can feel as well as myself, I am sorry for their
+pain, and glad when they are pleased, and would be glad to do
+anything to oblige them.'
+
+
+
+Here Miss Henny ceased, and Miss Jenny Peace then told her how
+glad she was to hear that she had subdued all malice in her mind,
+adding, 'These weeds, my dear, unless early plucked up, are (as I
+have heard our good governess observe upon a like occasion) very
+apt to take such deep root, as to choke every good seed around
+them; and then who can tell whether, with the same opportunities,
+they might not become Lady Brumptons before the end of their
+lives?'
+
+Little Polly Suckling remembered that all the company had told the
+story of their past lives, except herself; and she thought she
+would not be left out; but yet she had a mind to be asked to tell
+it, hoping that her companions thought her of consequence enough
+not to leave her out of any scheme; therefore, addressing herself
+to Miss Jenny, she said she thought it was very pleasant to hear
+anybody tell the history of their own lives.  Miss Jenny saw her
+meaning, and answered, 'So it is, my little dear; and now,  if you
+please, you shall oblige us with relating the history of yours.' 
+Polly smiled at this request, and said she was ready to comply.
+
+
+THE DESCRIPTION OF MISS POLLY SUCKLING.
+
+Miss Polly Suckling was just turned of eight years old, but so
+short of her age, that few people took her to be above five.  It
+was not a dwarfish shortness; for she had the most exact
+proportioned limbs in the world, very small bones, and was as fat
+as a little cherub.  She was extremely fair, and her hair quite
+flaxen.  Her eyes a perfect blue, her mouth small, and her lips
+quite plump and red.  She had the freshness of a milkmaid; and
+when she smiled and laughed, she seemed to show an hundred
+agreeable dimples.  She was, in short, the very picture of health
+and good-humour, and was the plaything and general favorite of the
+whole school.
+
+
+THE LIFE OF MISS POLLY SUCKLING.
+
+'Now,' said little Polly, 'I will tell you all my whole history. 
+I hardly remember anything before I came to school, for I was but
+five years old when I was brought hither.
+
+'All I know is, that I don't love quarrelling, for I like better
+to live in peace and quietness.  But I have been always less than
+any of my companions, ever since I have been here; and so I only
+followed the example of the rest; and as I found they contended
+about everything, I did so too.  Besides, I have been always in
+fear that my schoolfellows wanted to impose on me, because I was
+little; and so I used to engage in every quarrel, rather than be
+left out, as if I was too little to give any assistance; but,
+indeed, I am very glad now we all agree, because I always came by
+the worst of it.  And, besides, it is a great pleasure to me to be
+loved, and every Miss is kind and good to me, and ready to assist
+me whenever I ask them.  And this is all I know of my whole life.'
+
+
+
+When little Polly ceased, she was kissed and applauded by the
+whole company, for the agreeable simplicity of her little history.
+
+And thus ended the eighth day's amusement.
+
+
+
+TUESDAY.
+THE NINTH DAY.
+
+Miss Jenny rose early in the morning, and, having collected the
+lives of her companions (which she had wrote down each day, as
+they related them) she carried them, after morning school,
+according to her promise, to her governess.
+
+Mrs. Teachum, when she had perused them, was much pleased; and
+said that she perceived, by the manner in which her scholars had
+related their lives, how much they were in earnest in their design
+of amendment.  'For (continued she) they have all confessed their
+faults without reserve; and the untowardly bent of their minds,
+which so strongly appeared before the quarrel, has not broke out
+in these their little histories; but, on the contrary, they all
+seem, according to their capacities, to have endeavoured at
+imitating your style, in the account you gave of your own life.  I
+would have you continue to employ your leisure hours in the manner
+you have lately done, only setting apart a proper time for
+exercise; and today I will dispense with your attendance in the
+school-room and indulge you this afternoon in another walk, either
+to the dairy house, or to the cherry-garden, whichever you all
+agree on.  But as I shall not go with you myself, and shall only
+find a servant to take care of you, I hope to hear from you, Miss
+Jenny, so good an account of the behaviour of your little friends
+and companions, that I shall have no cause to repent my indulgence.'
+
+Miss Jenny Peace respectfully took leave of her governess, and
+hastened to the arbour, where her little friends were met, in
+expectation of her coming. She told them how well pleased their
+governess was with them all, for the ingenuous confession of their
+faults in their past lives; and she then declared Mrs. Teachum's
+kind permission to them to take another walk that afternoon.
+
+As no one had at present any story to read or relate, they
+employed their time till dinner, some in walking and running about
+the garden; others in looking after and tending some plant or
+flower, that they had taken particularly under their care, which
+Mrs. Teachum both permitted and encouraged them in, whilst Miss
+Jenny Peace, Miss Sukey Jennett, and Miss Dolly Friendly, remained
+in the arbour, the two latter asking a thousand questions of the
+former, both concerning all the instructions she had ever learned
+from her mamma, and by what means they should best be able to
+preserve that friendship and happiness, which had of late
+subsisted amongst them; saying, how pleased their friends and
+relations would be, to see such a change in their temper and
+behaviour, and how much they should be beloved by every one.
+
+When they met at dinner, Mrs. Teachum asked them, whether they had
+determined upon the choice she had given them in their afternoon's
+walk; and they were all desirous of going to the dairy house; for
+little Polly said, she longed to see the good-humoured old woman
+again, and, indeed, she would not now say anything to her of her
+shaking head, or her grey hair.  Mrs. Teachum was pleased,  that
+little Polly so gratefully remembered the old woman, who had been
+so kind to her; and readily consented to their choice, and
+approved of their determination.
+
+Being soon equipped for their walk, they set out, attended by two
+maidservants; and as soon as they arrived, the good old woman
+expressed the highest joy on seeing them, and told little Polly,
+that she should have plenty of cream and strawberries, for her
+daughter had been that day in the wood, and had brought home three
+baskets of very fine ones.  Mrs. Nelly, her daughter, said very
+crossly, that she supposed there would be fine work amongst them,
+now their governess was not with them; but 'twas her mother's way,
+to let all children be as rude as they pleased.  Miss Sukey
+Jennett, with some indignation in her look, was going to answer
+her; but Miss Jenny Peace, fearing she would say something less
+mild than she wished, gave her a nod; and, turning to the young
+woman, with great modesty and temper, thus said:  'You shall see,
+Mrs. Nelly, that our good governess's instructions are of more
+force with us, than to lose all their effect when we are out of
+her presence; and I hope you will have no cause, when we go away,
+to complain of the ill behaviour of any of us.'
+
+The good old woman declared she never saw such sweet-tempered
+children in all her life; and after they had eat their
+strawberries and cream, and were loaded with pinks and roses by
+the good woman's bounty (for they did not gather one without her
+permission), they took their leave with the utmost civility, and
+Miss Jenny handsomely rewarded the old woman for her good cheer. 
+Mrs. Nelly herself was so pleased with their regular and
+inoffensive behaviour, that she could not help telling Miss Jenny,
+that she, and all her companions, had, indeed, behaved as well as
+if their governess had been with them:  on which Miss Jenny (as
+they were walking home) observed to Miss Sukey Jennett (whom she
+had prevented from making any reply to Mrs. Nelly's speech how
+much better it was to gain another's good will by our own
+endeavours to be obliging, than to provoke them to be more cross,
+by our angry answers and reproaches.
+
+When this little company, employed in pleasing talk and lively
+observations, were come within about a mile of Mrs. Teachum's
+house, and within view of a nobleman's fine seat, Miss Jenny said,
+that the next time their governess permitted them to walk out, she
+would ask her leave, that they might go and see that fine house;
+for some time ago she had told them, that they should go thither
+when the family were absent.  Mrs. Wilson, the housekeeper, who by
+chance was walking that way, and heard what Miss Jenny said, came
+up to them, and told Miss Jenny that her lord and lady were now
+both absent, having set out, one for London, and the other for
+another fine seat, forty miles off, that very morning; and as she
+knew them to be Mrs. Teachum's well-regulated family, they should
+be welcome to see the house and gardens now, if they liked it. 
+Miss Jenny thanked her, and said, as it was near two hours sooner
+than their governess expected them home, she would accept of her
+kind offer.  The housekeeper led them through an avenue of tall
+elm-trees into this magnificent house, in which were many spacious
+apartments, furnished with the utmost grandeur and elegance.  Some
+of the rooms were adorned with fine pictures, others were hung
+with tapestry almost as lively as those paintings, and most of the
+apartments above stairs were furnished with the finest sorts of
+needle-work.  Our little company were struck into a sort of silent
+wonder and admiration at the splendid appearance of everything
+around them; nor could they find words to express the various
+reflections that passed in their minds, on seeing such a variety
+of dazzling gaudy things:  but when they came to the needlework,
+Miss Jenny could not help smiling, to see how every one seemed
+most fixed in attention upon that sort of work, which she herself
+was employed in, and she saw in every face a secret wish, that
+their own piece of work might be finished with equal neatness and
+perfection. The housekeeper was greatly pleased to see them so
+much delighted, and answered all their questions concerning the
+stories that were represented in the pictures and tapestry as
+fully as the  time would permit; but Miss Jenny, being fearful of
+exceeding the hour in which they would be expected home, told them
+they must not now stay any longer, but if their governess would
+give them leave, and it would not be troublesome to Mrs. Wilson,
+they would come another time.  She answered, that it was so far
+from being troublesome, that she never had more pleasure in her
+life, than to see so many well-behaved young ladies, who all
+seemed not only pleased with what they saw, but doubly delighted,
+and happy, in seeing each other so; and for her part, she could
+wish they were to stay with her all their lives; and, in short,
+they should not go till they had been in her room, and eat some
+sweetmeats of her own making.  The good woman seemed to take so
+much delight in giving them any pleasure, that Miss Jenny could
+not refuse accepting her offer; and, when they were all in her
+room, Polly Suckling said, 'Well, this is a most charming house; I
+wish we could all live here for ever.  How happy must the lord and
+lady of this fine place be!'
+
+'Indeed, my little Polly,' said Miss Jenny, 'you may be very much
+mistaken; for you know our good governess has taught us, that
+there is no happiness but in the content of our own minds; and
+perhaps we may have more pleasure in viewing these fine things,
+than the owners have in the possession of them.'
+
+'It is very true,' said the housekeeper, 'for my lord and lady
+have no delight in all this magnificence; for, by being so
+accustomed to it, they walk through all these apartments, and
+never so much as observe or amuse themselves with the work, the
+pictures, or anything else, or if they observe them at all, it is
+rather with a look that denotes a sort of weariness, at seeing the
+same things continually before them, than with any kind of
+pleasure.'  And then, with a deep sigh, she added, 'You are,
+indeed, young lady, perfectly in the right, when you say grandeur
+and happiness do not always go together.'  But turning off the
+discourse, Mrs. Wilson forced them to take as many dried
+sweetmeats as they could carry away with them, and insisted upon
+their promise (with Mrs. Teachum's consent) that they should come
+another time to see the gardens.  They then took their leave with
+many thanks, and the greatest civility; and discoursed all the way
+home, on the fine things they had seen.  Miss Betty Ford said,
+that the fine gilding, and so many glittering looking-glasses,
+made her think herself in Barbarico's great hall, where he kept
+all his treasure.
+
+'No,' says Miss Nancy Spruce, 'it was not half so much like that,
+as it was like Brunetta's fine castle; and I could not help
+thinking myself the Princess Hebe, and how much I should have been
+pleased with such a fine place at first, just as she was.'
+
+'Indeed,' says Miss Betty Ford, 'you are in the right of it, Miss
+Nanny; for 'twas much more like the description of Brunetta's
+castle, than what I said myself.'
+
+Miss Jenny was pleased to hear Miss Betty so ready to own herself
+mistaken; and said to Miss Nanny Spruce, 'I am glad, my dear, to
+find that you so well remember what you read; for it is by
+recalling frequently into our memories the things we have read,
+that they are likely to be of any service to us.'
+
+Being now come home, they entered into the presence of their
+governess with that pleasure, and proper confidence, which ever
+attends innocence and goodness; and Mrs. Teachum received them
+with a pleasing smile.
+
+Miss Jenny gave her governess a faithful account of all that had
+passed, with the agreeable entertainment they had accidentally met
+with, of seeing Lord X--'s fine house, and the great civility of
+Mrs. Wilson, 'Which I hope, madam,' said Miss Jenny, 'I did not do
+wrong in accepting.'  'You did very properly, my dear,' said Mrs.
+Teachum, 'for when any person is willing to oblige you, without
+any inconvenience to themselves, it is always right to accept
+their offer, as you thereby gratify them, by putting it in their
+power to give you pleasure.'
+
+Miss Jenny then with great cheerfulness and freedom, told her
+governess all that had paled in conversation, both in their walk
+to the dairy house, and at Lord X--'s, what little Polly had said
+in the housekeeper's room, as also Mrs. Wilson's answer; and said,
+by Mrs. Wilson's downcast look, she was afraid that poor Lord X--
+and his lady were not so happy as might be wished.  'But,'
+continued she, 'I did not ask Mrs. Wilson any questions, because
+you have taught me, madam, carefully to avoid the least appearance
+of impertinent curiosity.'
+
+'You was very right, my dear,' said Mrs. Teachum, 'in asking no
+farther questions; nor would she, I dare say, as she is a prudent
+woman, have gratified you if you had; for though the unhappy story
+is too well known all over the country, yet it would have been
+very unbecoming in one of the family to have published it.'  Mrs.
+Teachum saw in her little scholars' eyes, a secret wish of knowing
+what this story was; and, after a short pause, she said, 'Since I
+find you disposed, my good girls, to make the proper use of what
+you hear, I will indulge your curiosity.
+
+'Lord X-- and his lady have been married seven years; Lord X-- is
+the wretchedest creature breathing, because he has no children,
+and therefore no heir to his title and large estate.  He was
+naturally of a haughty impetuous temper, and impatient of any the
+least disappointment; and this disposition not being subdued in
+his youth, has led him into all sort of excesses.  His lady is not
+much better tempered than himself, and valuing herself highly upon
+her beauty, and the large fortune she brought him, greatly resents
+his sometimes insolent, and always neglectful usage of her.  They
+have hitherto lived on in the most jarring, disputing manner, and
+took no care to conceal their quarrels from the world; but at last
+they have agreed to part by consent, and the different journeys
+they this morning took, I suppose, was with an intent of final
+separation.
+
+'That grandeur and happiness do not always go together (as Mrs.
+Wilson observed to you) is seen by this story, which I was the
+more willing to tell you, as it was a proper introduction to a
+fable I have been collecting together from others, for your use. 
+You know that all my endeavours to make you good, are only
+intended to make you happy; and if you thoroughly reflect upon the
+truth of this maxim, which I so often endeavour to inculcate, you
+will doubtless reap no small advantage from it.'
+
+Here Mrs. Teachum ceased speaking, and, giving Miss Jenny Peace a
+paper, she bid her read it aloud; which she did, and it contained
+the following fable:
+
+
+
+THE ASSEMBLY OF THE BIRDS.
+A  FABLE.
+
+In ancient days, there was a great contention amongst the birds,
+which, from his own perfections, and peculiar advantages, had the
+strongest title to happiness; and at last they agreed to refer the
+decision of the debate to the eagle.
+
+A day was appointed for their meeting; the eagle took his seat,
+and the birds all attended to give in their several pleas.
+
+First spoke the parrot.  Her voice so dearly resembling human
+speech, and which enabled her to converse with such a superior
+race, she doubted not (she said) would have its just weight with
+the eagle, and engage him to grant a decree in her favour; and to
+this plea she also added, that she dwelt in a fine cage adorned
+with gold, and was fed every day by the hands a fair lady.
+
+'And pray, Mrs. Poll,' said the eagle, 'how comes it, since you
+fare so sumptuously, that you are so lean and meagre, and seem
+scarcely able to exert that voice you thus make your boast of?' 
+'Alas!' replied the parrot, 'poor Poll's lady has kept her bed
+almost this week; the servants have all forgot to feed me; and I
+am almost starved.'  'Pray observe,' said the eagle, 'the folly of
+such pride!  Had you been able to have conversed only with your
+own kind, you would have fared in common with them; but it is to
+this vaunted imitation of the human voice, that you owe your
+confinement, and consequently (though living in a golden cage)
+your dependence upon the will and memory of others, even for
+common necessary food.'
+
+Thus reproved, the parrot, with shame, hastily retired from the
+assembly.
+
+Next stood forth the daw, and, having tricked himself in all the
+gay feathers he could muster together, on the credit of these
+borrowed ornaments, pleaded his beauty, as a title to the
+preference in dispute.  Immediately the birds agreed to divest the
+silly counterfeit of all his borrowed plumes; and, more abashed
+than the parrot, he secretly slunk away.
+
+The peacock, proud of native beauty, now flew into the midst of
+the assembly.  He displayed before the sun his gorgeous tail. 
+'Observe (said he) how the vivid blue of the sapphire glitters in
+my neck; and when thus I spread my tail, a gemmy brightness
+strikes the eye from a plumage varied with a thousand glowing
+colours.'  At this moment, a nightingale began to chant forth his
+melodious lay; at which the peacock, dropping his expanded tail,
+cried out, 'Ah what avails my silent unmeaning beauty, when I am
+so far excelled in voice by such a little russet-feathered wretch
+as that!'  And, by retiring, he gave up all claim to the
+contended-for preference.
+
+The nightingale was so delighted with having got the better of the
+peacock, that he exerted his little voice, and was so lost in the
+conceit of his own melody, that he did not observe a hawk, who
+flew upon him, and carried him off in his claws.
+
+The eagle then declared, 'That as the peacock's envy had taken
+away all his claim, so no less had the nightingale's self-conceit
+frustrated all his pretensions; for those who are so wrapped up in
+their own perfections, as to mind nothing but themselves, are
+forever liable to all sorts of accidents.'  And, besides, it was
+plain, by the exultation the nightingale expressed on his imagined
+glory over the peacock, that he would have been equally dejected
+on any preference given to another.
+
+And now the owl, with an affected gravity, and whooting voice,
+pleaded his well-known wisdom; and said, 'He doubted not but the
+preference would be granted to him without contest, by all the
+whole assembly for what was so likely to produce happiness as
+wisdom?'
+
+The eagle declared, 'That, if his title to wisdom could be proved,
+the justice of his claim should be allowed; and then asked him,
+how he could convince them of the truth of what he had advanced?' 
+The owl answered, 'That he would willingly appeal to the whole
+assembly for their decision in this point; for he was positive
+nobody could deny his great superiority as to wisdom.'  Being
+separately asked, they most of them declared, that they knew no
+one reason, either from his words or actions, to pronounce him a
+wise bird; though it was true, that by an affected solemnity in
+his looks, and by frequent declarations of his own, that he was
+very wife, he had made some very silly birds give him that
+character; but, since they were called upon to declare their
+opinions, they must say, that he was ever the object of contempt
+to all those birds who had any title to common understanding.  The
+eagle then said, 'He could by no means admit a plea, which as
+plainly appeared to be counterfeit, as were the jay's borrowed
+feathers.'  The owl, thus disappointed, flew away, and has ever
+since shunned the light of the sun, and has never appeared in the
+daytime, but to be scorned and wondered at.
+
+
+
+It would he endless to repeat all the several pleas brought by the
+birds, each desiring to prove, that happiness ought to be his own
+peculiar lot.  But the eagle observing that the arguments made use
+of to prove their point were chiefly drawn from the disadvantages
+of others, rather than from any advantage of their own, told them,
+'There was too much envy and malice amongst them, for him to
+pronounce any of them deserving or capable of being happy; but I
+wonder,' says he, 'why the dove alone is absent from this
+meeting?'  'I know of one in her nest hard by,' answered the
+redbreast, 'shall I go and call her?'  'No,' says the eagle,
+'since she did not obey our general summons, 'tis plain she had no
+ambition for a public preference; but I will take two or three
+chosen friends, and we will go softly to her nest, and see in what
+manner she is employing herself; for from our own observations
+upon the actions of any one, we are more likely to form a judgment
+of them, than by any boasts they can make.'
+
+The eagle was obeyed, and, accompanied only by the linnet, the
+lark, the lapwing, and the redbreast for his guide, he stole
+gently to the place where the dove was found hovering over her
+nest, waiting the return of her absent mate; and, thinking herself
+quite unobserved,
+
+
+[*] While o'er her callow brood she hung,
+She fondly thus address'd her young:
+    'Ye tender objects of my care,
+Peace! peace! ye little helpless pair.
+Anon! he comes, your gentle sire,
+And brings you all your hearts require;
+For us, his infants and his bride,
+For us, with only love to guide,
+Our lord assumes an eagle's speed,
+And, like a lion, dares to bleed:
+Nor yet by wintry skies confin'd,
+He mounts upon the rudest wind,
+From danger tears the vital spoil,
+And with affection sweetens toil.
+Ah! cease, too vent'rous, cease to dare;
+In thine, our dearer safety spare.
+From him, ye cruel falcons stray;
+And turn, ye fowlers, far away,
+--All-giving Pow'r, great source of life,
+Oh! hear the parent, hear the wife:
+That life thou lendest from above,
+Though little, make it large in love.
+Oh! bid my feeling heart expand
+To ev'ry claim on ev'ry hand,
+To those, from whom my days I drew,
+To these in whom those days renew,
+To all my kin, however wide,
+In cordial warmth as blood allied.
+To friends in steely fetters twin'd
+And to the cruel not unkind;
+But chief the lord of my desire,
+My life, myself, my soul, my sire,
+Friends, children, all that wish can claim,
+Chaste passion clasp, and rapture name.
+Oh! spare him, spare him, gracious Pow'r:
+Oh! give him to my latest hour,
+Let me my length of life employ,
+To give my sole enjoyment joy.
+His love let mutual love excite;
+Turn all my cares to his delight,
+And ev'ry needless blessing spare,
+Wherein my darling wants a share.
+--Let one unruffled calm delight
+The loving and belov'd unite;
+One pure desire our bosoms warm;
+One will direct, one wish inform;
+Through life one mutual aid sustain;
+In death one peaceful grave contain.'
+While, swelling with the darling theme,
+Her accents pour'd an endless stream.
+The well-known wings a sound impart
+That reach'd her ear, and touch'd her heart.
+Quick dropp'd the music of her tongue,
+And forth, with eager joy, she sprung.
+As swift her ent'ring consort flew,
+And plum'd, and kindled at the view.
+Their wings, their souls, embracing, meet,
+Their hearts with answ'ring measure beat,
+Half lost in sacred sweets, and bless'd
+With raptures felt, but ne'er express'd.
+    Strait to her humble roof she led
+The partner of her spotless bed;
+Her young, a flutt'ring pair, arise,
+Their welcome sparkling in their eyes,
+Transported, to their sire they bound,
+And hang, with speechless action, round.
+In pleasure wrapt, the parents stand,
+And see their little wings expand;
+The sire his life sustaining prize
+To each expecting bill applies;
+There fondly pours the wheaten spoil,
+With transport giv'n, though won with toil;
+While, all collected at the sight,
+And silent through supreme delight,
+The fair high heav'n of bliss beguiles,
+And on her lord and infants smiles.
+
+
+[*] These verses are a quotation from that tender fable of the
+Sparrow and the Dove, in the 'Fables for the Female Sex.'
+
+
+The eagle now, without any hesitation, pronounced the dove to be
+deservedly the happiest of the feathered kind; and however
+unwilling the rest of the birds were to assent to the judgment
+given, yet could they not dispute the justice of the decree.
+
+
+
+Here Miss Jenny ceased reading, and all the little company
+expressed by their looks, that they were overjoyed at the eagle's
+determination; for they had all in their own minds forestalled the
+eagle's judgment, of giving the preference to the dove.  'Now, my
+good children,' said Mrs. Teachum, 'if you will pass through this
+life with real pleasure, imitate the dove; and remember, that
+innocence of mind, and integrity of heart, adorn the female
+character, and can alone produce your own happiness, and diffuse
+it to all around you.'
+
+Our little company thanked their governess for her fable; and,
+just at that instant, they heard a chariot drive into the court,
+and Mrs. Teachum went out to see what visitor could be arrived so
+late in the evening; for it was near eight o'clock.
+
+They all remained in the room where their governess left them; for
+they had been taught never to run out to the door, or to the
+windows, to look at any strangers that came, till they knew
+whether it was proper for them to see them or not.
+
+Mrs. Teachum soon returned with a letter open in her hand, and
+remained some little time silent; but cast on every one round such
+a tender and affectionate look, a tear almost starting from her
+eye, that the sympathising sorrow seemed to spread through the
+whole company, and they were all silent, and ready to cry, though
+they knew not for what reason.  'I am sorry, my little dears,'
+said Mrs. Teachum, 'to give your tender bosoms the uneasiness I
+fear the contents of this letter will do, as it will deprive you
+of that your hearts so justly hold most dear.'  And, so saying,
+she delivered to Miss Jenny Peace, the following letter:--
+
+
+
+'To Miss Jenny Peace.
+'Monday night, June 24.
+
+'My dear niece,--I arrived safe at my own house, with your cousin
+Harriet, last Saturday night, after a very tedious voyage by sea,
+and a fatiguing journey by land.  I long to see my dear Jenny as
+soon as possible, and Harriet is quite impatient for that
+pleasure.
+
+'I have ordered my chariot to be with you tomorrow night; and I
+desire you would set out on Wednesday morning, as early as your
+inclination shall prompt you to come to
+
+'Your truly affectionate aunt,
+
+'M. NEWMAN.
+
+'I have writ a letter of thanks to your kind governess, for her
+care of you.'
+
+
+
+It is impossible to describe the various sensations of Miss
+Jenny's mind, on the reading this letter.  Her rising joy at the
+thoughts of seeing her kind aunt safely returned from a long and
+tedious voyage, was suppressed by a sorrow, which could not be
+resisted, on parting with such dear friends, and so good a
+governess; and the lustre which such a joy would have given to her
+eye, was damped by rising tears.  Her heart for some time was too
+full for utterance.  At last, turning to her governess, she said,
+'And is the chariot really come, to carry me to my dear aunt?' 
+Then, after a pause, the tears trickling down her cheeks, 'And
+must I so soon leave you, madam, and all my kind companions?' 
+Mrs. Teachum, on seeing Miss Jenny's tender struggles of mind, and
+all her companions at once bursting into tears, stood up, and left
+the room, saying, 'She would come to them again after supper.' 
+For this prudent woman well knew, that it was in vain to contend
+with the very first emotions of grief on such an occasion, but
+intended, at her return, to show them how much it was their duty
+and interest to conquer all sorts of extravagant sorrow.
+
+They remained some time silent, as quite struck dumb with concern,
+till at last Miss Dolly Friendly, in broken accents, cried out,
+'And must we lose you, my dear Miss Jenny, now we are just settled
+in that love and esteem for you, which your goodness so well
+deserves?'
+
+Miss Jenny endeavoured to dry up her tears, and then said,
+'Although I cannot but be pleased, my dear companions, at every
+mark of your affection for me; yet I beg that you would not give
+me the pain to see that I make so many dear friends unhappy.  Let
+us submit cheerfully to this separation (which, believe me, is as
+deeply felt by me as any of you) because it is our duty so to do;
+and let me entreat you to be comforted, by reflecting, how much my
+good aunt's safe return must be conducive to my future welfare;
+nor can you be unhappy, while you continue with so good a
+governess, and persist in that readiness to obey her, which you
+have lately shown.  She will direct who shall preside over your
+innocent amusements in my place.  I will certainly write to you,
+and shall always take the greatest delight in hearing from each of
+you, both while you continue here, and when your duty and
+different connections shall call you elsewhere.  We may some, and
+perhaps all, of us, happen often to meet again; and I hope a
+friendship, founded on so innocent and so good a foundation as
+ours is, will always subsist, as far as shall be consistent with
+our future situations in life.'
+
+Miss Jenny's friends could not answer her but by sobs and tears;
+only little Polly Suckling, running to her, clung about her neck,
+and cried, 'Indeed, indeed, Miss Jenny, you must not go; I shall
+break my heart, if I lose you:  sure we shan't, nor we can't, be
+half so happy, when you are gone, though our governess was ten
+times better to us than she is.'
+
+Miss Jenny again entreated them to dry up their tears, and to be
+more contented with the present necessity; and begged, that they
+would not let their governess see them so overwhelmed in sorrow on
+her return; for she might take it unkindly, that they should be so
+afflicted at the loss of one person, while they still remained
+under her indulgent care and protection.
+
+It was with the utmost difficulty, that Miss Jenny refrained from
+shedding tear for tear with her kind companions; but as it was her
+constant maxim to partake with her friends all her pleasure, and
+to confine her sorrows as much as possible within her own bosom,
+she chose rather to endeavour, by her own cheerfulness and
+innocent talk, to steal insensibly from the bosoms of her little
+companions half their sorrow; and they begin to appear tolerably
+easy.
+
+After supper, Mrs. Teachum returned; and, seeing them all striving
+who should most conceal their grief, for fear of giving uneasiness
+to the rest, yet with a deep dejection fixed in every countenance,
+and little Polly still sobbing behind Miss Jenny's chair, she was
+so moved herself with the affecting scene, that the tears stole
+from her eyes; and the sympathising company once more eased their
+almost bursting hearts, by another general flow of melting sorrow.
+
+'My dear children,' said Mrs. Teachum, 'I am not at all surprised
+at your being so much concerned to part with Miss Jenny.  I love
+her myself with a motherly affection (as I do all of you, and
+shall ever continue to do so while you so well deserve it); and I
+could wish, for my own sake, never to part with her as long as I
+live; but I consider, that it is for her advantage, and I would
+have you all remember, in her absence, to let her example and
+friendship fill your hearts with joy, instead of grief.  It is now
+pretty late in the evening, and as Miss Jenny is to set out very
+early in the morning, I must insist upon shortening your pain (for
+such is your present situation), and desire you would take your
+leave of this your engaging friend.'
+
+They none of them attempted to speak another word, for their
+hearts were still too full for utterance; and Miss Jenny took
+every one by the hand as they went out of the room, saluted them
+with the tenderest affection, mingling tears with those which
+flowed from every streaming eye; and, wishing them all happiness
+and joy till their next meeting, they all, with heavy hearts,
+retired to rest.
+
+Miss Jenny returned the warmest and most grateful acknowledgments
+to her good governess, for all her care of her; and said, 'I shall
+attribute every happy hour, madam, that I may hereafter be blessed
+with, to your wise and kind instruction, which I shall always
+remember with the highest veneration, and shall ever consider you
+as having been to me no less than a fond and indulgent mother.'
+
+Mrs. Teachum kept Miss Jenny in the room with her no longer than
+to assure her how sincerely she should regret her absence, and
+confessed how much of the regularity and harmony of her school she
+owed to her good example, for sweetness of temper, and conformity
+to rules.
+
+
+THE END OF THE NINTH DAY.
+
+
+
+THE CONCLUSION OF THE HISTORY OF MRS. TEACHUM, &C.
+
+Although Miss Jenny Peace did not return any more to school; yet
+she ever gratefully remembered the kindness of her governess, and
+frequently corresponded with all her companions.  And as they
+continued their innocent amusements and meetings in the arbour,
+whenever the weather would permit, there was no day thought to be
+better employed than that in which they received a letter from
+their absent instructive friend, whose name was always mentioned
+with gratitude and honour.
+
+Mrs. Teachum continued the same watchful care over any young
+persons who were entrusted to her management; and she never
+increased the number of her scholars, though often entreated so to
+do.  All quarrels and contentions were banished her house; and if
+ever any such thing was likely to arise, the story of Miss Jenny
+Peace's reconciling all her little companions was told to them; so
+that Miss Jenny, though absent, still seemed (by the bright
+example which she left behind her) to be the cement of union and
+harmony in this well-regulated society.  And if any girl was found
+to harbour in her breast a rising passion, which it was difficult
+to conquer, the name and story of Miss Jenny Peace soon gained her
+attention, and left her without any other desire than to emulate
+Miss Jenny's virtues.
+
+In short, Mrs. Teachum's school was always mentioned throughout
+the country, as an example of peace and harmony; and also by the
+daily improvement of all her girls, it plainly appeared how early
+young people might attain great knowledge, if their minds were
+free from foolish anxieties about trifles, and properly employed
+on their own improvement; for never did any young lady leave Mrs.
+Teachum, but that her parents and friends were greatly delighted
+with her behaviour, as she had made it her chief study to learn
+always to pay to her governors the most exact obedience, and to
+exert towards her companions all the good effects of a mind filled
+with benevolence and love.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of The Project Gutenberg Etext of The Governess, by Sarah Fielding
+
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