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diff --git a/35526-8.txt b/35526-8.txt deleted file mode 100644 index cf18dfa..0000000 --- a/35526-8.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,14827 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg EBook of Cora and The Doctor, by Harriette Newell Baker - -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: Cora and The Doctor - or Revelations of A Physician's Wife - -Author: Harriette Newell Baker - -Release Date: March 8, 2011 [EBook #35526] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK CORA AND THE DOCTOR *** - - - - -Produced by David Edwards, Martin Pettit and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -book was produced from scanned images of public domain -material from the Google Print project.) - - - - - - -CORA AND THE DOCTOR; - -OR, - -REVELATIONS OF A PHYSICIAN'S WIFE. - -FOURTH THOUSAND. - -BOSTON: -PUBLISHED BY JOHN P. JEWETT & CO. -CLEVELAND, OHIO: JEWETT, PROCTOR & WORTHINGTON. -NEW YORK: SHELDON, LAMPORT & BLAKEMAN. -LONDON: TRÜBNER & CO. -1855. - - -Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1855, by -JOHN P. JEWETT & CO. -In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of -the District of Massachusetts. - -ANDOVER: W. F. DRAPER, -STEREOTYPER AND PRINTER. - - - - -TO - -DOCTOR JOHN JEFFRIES, - -MY HIGHLY ESTEEMED PHYSICIAN, - -THIS VOLUME IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED, - -IN GRATEFUL REMEMBRANCE OF HIS PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, - -BUT WITHOUT HIS CONSENT, - -FROM A DESIRE OF THE AUTHOR - -TO REMAIN STRICTLY - -INCOGNITO. - - - - -CORA AND THE DOCTOR. - - - - -CHAPTER I. - - "Dear Mother--between friend and friend, - Prose answers every common end; - Serves in a plain and homely way, - To express the occurrence of the day, - Our health, the weather, and the news, - What walks we take, what books we choose, - And all the floating thoughts we find - Upon the surface of the mind." SOUTHEY'S COWPER. - - -_Ship Castor and Pollux, off Staten Island, 9 o'clock, Monday morning, -June 1st, 1835._ - -DEAREST MOTHER,--We are fast nearing land. The pilot is already on -board; and I shall soon set my foot upon the new world which is -henceforth to be my home. - -In fulfilment of my promise, I begin thus early my journal of daily -events, which I shall transmit to you from time to time as opportunity -shall offer. - -A torrent of emotion rushes through my mind, pleasure mingled with -pain--pleasure at the prospect of the happiness, I may reasonably expect -in the society of a beloved husband--and pain at the thought of the long -time which will probably intervene before I shall see the loved members -of our home-circle, and also from the assurance that when I set my foot -upon the shores of the Western continent, the broad Atlantic will roll -between us. - -But I must turn from these sad musings to the scene around me. The -passengers are all wide awake; Some are hurrying to and fro in search -of baggage, while others, having succeeded in getting their trunks -brought on deck, are sitting upon them and awaiting their search by the -Custom House officers. But by far the greater part are standing in -groups, leaning over the railing of the ship, eagerly gazing at the -shore, talking earnestly of friends whom they expect to meet, or -expressing curiosity at the sight of America, the birth place of the -immortal WASHINGTON. - -My dear Frank pointed out to me the harbor with the skiffs flying in -every direction--the forest of masts with their national flags--the -lofty spires pointing heaven-ward--and the stately domes looming up to -view, while directly before us are the wharves lined with extensive -ware-rooms and store-houses. But I must close the first page in my -journal. - - -_Crawford, Tuesday, June 2d._ - -We reached New York in season for dinner at the Astor House, and for the -evening boat to Providence, from which place we took the stage-coach for -Crawford; and arrived here about noon. At the public house, which I -should judge was a mile distant, we alighted; and I saw a -broad-shouldered, well-dressed colored man come eagerly forward and -seize the Doctor by the hand, while he cast a glance of curiosity at me. - -"This is your young Mistress, Cæsar," said Frank. - -Cæsar took off his hat, bowing and scraping in the most approved style; -and when I gave him my hand, he exhibited a splendid set of ivory, -extending almost from ear to ear. - -My husband went with me into the public house, where I remained until he -and Cæsar had attended to the baggage. I spent the interim in picturing -to myself a rural cottage with a luxuriant vine running over the door. -This same vine had always figured largely in my imaginary home, but my -fancy had not advanced to the interior, when Frank came to call me. - -I cannot account for the impression I had formed, that the Doctor was -not a man of wealth; I had even pleased myself vastly with plans of -industry, prudence and economy, by which I intended to provide -necessaries and even luxuries for the family. The Doctor had carefully -avoided all description of our future home, answering me only by smiles, -if I ventured to point out a pretty cottage, and to ask whether it -resembled ours. - -During the drive, Cæsar was eager to tell all the news. He said, "I'se -driven de carriage down to meet Mass'r Frank ebery time de stage hab -come in for two days. I told Missus," he continued, "better go ebery day -for a month, than have young Missus come, and nobody pear dere to -welcome her to dis yer home." - -Frank laughed heartily as he said, "Your young Mistress will be obliged -to you for sustaining the honor of the family." - -I was so much interested in looking about me, and in listening to -Cæsar's talk with his master, that I had no time to reconcile the idea -of a handsome carriage, span of horses, and colored driver with my -husband's supposed circumstances--a train of thought which had been -started before I left the Inn. But now we were drawing near my new home; -and my heart began to beat very fast. I put my hand into Frank's, who -pressed it tightly in his. - -I was about to go through a very trying scene, to meet a mother and -sister, while yet a perfect stranger to them, I feared they would deem -me unworthy of their son and brother. My color came and went, if I can -judge from the burning of my cheeks. It was with great difficulty, I -could keep from weeping. I am sure Frank understood my feelings, for he -very gently kissed my forehead, and whispered, "Cora, you will love my -mother, and I am very sure she will love you." - -I forced back my tears, and tried to show him that I meant to deserve -their love. I gave such a start of surprise, when the carriage stopped -at the door of a noble mansion that Frank laughing asked, "What?" - -"Surely, this is not your house," said I. - -"It is _our_ house," he replied in a low tone, as he handed me from the -carriage. I had hardly reached the ground, before I was caught in the -arms of one of the loveliest girls I ever saw. She kissed me repeatedly; -and then sprang to her brother, saying, "now, Frank, that's just like -you, not to tell us what a darling she was!" - -By this time we had ascended the steps leading from the front entrance, -where stood a fine looking woman, (of course she is, for Frank is the -image of her), who folded her arms about her new daughter with such a -motherly embrace that my heart was at rest. The tears filled my eyes at -the melting tone in which she said, as she held our hands joined in -hers; "Welcome, my dear son and daughter!"--as if she would fain have -blessed our union. She evidently restrained her feelings, and taking my -hand under her arm, led me into a large parlor, where there had been a -fire on the hearth. - -"We hardly expected you to-day," she said, after we were seated; "but -Emily would not rest until we came over here from the cottage." - -"Don't you reside here?" I asked in surprise. - -Mrs. Lenox smiled, and looked at her son, who said pleasantly, "You see, -mother, there is very little of Eve about her." - -"More than you imagine," I replied; "but I was constrained to suppress -my curiosity, as I received such indefinite replies to my questions." - -"After to-morrow," added he, "I will answer as many as you please; till -then I see one who is ready to answer before she is asked." - -Just then, Emily had stolen beside me, and putting her arm around my -waist said, "Come with me, if you are not too tired; and I will show you -your room." - -I went with her; and, my dear mother, I ought to be very happy, and -grateful to God for casting my lot in such a pleasant place, and among -such kind friends. As soon as we were alone, Emily again embraced me, -and said, "I shall love Frank better than ever, for bringing me so dear -a sister; now he will be contented to remain at home, instead of roving -all over creation." She spoke of her brother with great affection, and -said with enthusiasm, "Everybody loves Frank!" - -She then pointed out one thing after another, each dear to me as an -expression of his love, and his desire to render me happy in my new -home. To-morrow I hope to give you a description of the house and -grounds, over which, after dinner, I was duly installed mistress. - -I have written a long time; but my heart is full, and I find it a relief -to tell you how kind my Heavenly Father has been to me. - - - - -CHAPTER II. - - "Here blend the ties that strengthen - Our hearts in hours of grief, - The silver links that lengthen - Joy's visits when most brief." BERNARD BARTON. - - -_Wednesday, June 3d._ - -DEAR MOTHER,--I have just returned from a pleasant drive with Mother, -Frank and Emily. You will wonder that I can so soon address any other -but yourself by that endearing word, _mother_; indeed it cost me an -effort. But this morning, she came in soon after breakfast, and when I -said, joyfully, "good morning, Mrs. Lenox," she kissed me tenderly and -said, "can you give me no dearer name, my child?" I looked up in her -face, and felt that I could call her "mother." I wish, I could describe -to you the impression, she makes upon me. She is very gentle and tender -in her manner, particularly so to her only son. She is also cheerful; -but I think she must have known what sorrow is, heart-felt, abiding -sorrow. Though the expression of her countenance is placid and -touchingly sweet, yet, as I watched her yesterday, I could see her eyes -fill with tears as she looked at Frank. - -I never saw a son more affectionate and respectful to his mother. There -is a perfect understanding between them. It was his earnest wish to have -her and his sister live with him, as the house is very large; but she -thought it not best. The property was left him by his father, and he has -put up for her a beautiful English cottage, separated from his dwelling -only by the garden, while the carriage drive passes from one to the -other. - -I promised you a description of my new home. Imagine yourself entering -from the street an avenue lined with trees, (linden I think) and winding -for about twenty or thirty rods up to a stately mansion. From the -carriage drive, you ascend ten or twelve steps to the front entrance, -over which is a very fine portico supported by large pillars which are -completely covered with a running-rose vine. Entering the outer door, -you stand in a spacious hall, which runs directly through the house and -opens in the rear upon a piazza extending the entire length of the -building. From this piazza there is a most enchanting prospect. Blue -mountains skirt the horizon, while a beautiful lake nestles in their -bosom. - -There are four large rooms on the ground floor, two parlors in front, a -dining-room and a sitting room in the rear. In addition to these there -are wings on each side of the house. One is entered from the -sitting-room, and is devoted to Frank's library and cabinet; the other -enters from the dining-room and is occupied by Mistress Phebe Lenox in -her culinary department. - -In the second story there are five chambers, together with two in the -attic. Cæsar has a neat room finished off over the carriage house, which -he and Phebe appropriate to themselves. - -The fifth room on the second floor I shall not forget to describe. It is -over the rear hall, opening from our room; and my kind husband has -fitted it up as my boudoir. I can't conceive how he knew so exactly what -I should like. Emily says he selected everything himself, and that it -has been a subject of mirth for her that he should know the minutiæ of a -lady's toilet. There is one large French window which opens like a door -upon the balcony over the piazza. Rose-colored curtains are draped from -it, so that I can be secluded at pleasure. Before the window stands an -elegant easy-chair, large enough for both of us, and near it a table -holding a desk, with every convenience for writing. At this I am now -sitting, and I prophesy it will be a favorite resort. - -Two-thirds of the length of the room opposite the window is occupied by -a wardrobe of the most convenient kind, containing fixtures for hanging -dresses, also shelves and drawers. - -Opposite the door leading from my room, is a dressing table standing -before a long mirror. This table is furnished with everything which even -a French lady can wish in the making of her toilet, and is equally -tasteful and convenient. - -In the corner beyond the wardrobe, stands a beautiful piece of Italian -statuary, representing a young girl bearing a basket of fruit. She has -such a touching expression upon her lovely countenance that I can hardly -persuade myself she is not imploring my sympathy. - -I have described my own little boudoir more particularly than any other -apartment, that you may be able to think of me where I shall spend most -of my time. - -Here I may court the muses. Indeed, I feel more than half inspired -already, by the magnificent landscape before me. - - -_Afternoon._ - -I didn't quite understand, yesterday, what Frank meant about answering -my questions to-day; but while I was busily writing this morning, I -heard a gentle knock at the door. I sprang up and opened it for my -husband. - -He smiled when he saw how I was engaged, and wheeling the chair from the -table to the window, sat down and took me on his knee. - -"Well, Cora, how do you like your new home? Phebe has just expressed her -opinion that 'you'll be wonted soon.'" - -"Oh, it's beautiful!" I exclaimed, "why didn't you tell me, that I might -have the pleasure of anticipating these beauties?" - -"I could not be quite sure what fancies floated in your mind, and I had -rather surprise than disappoint you." - -"Oh, Frank, you surely know me better than that! but look there," said -I, pointing to the beautiful lake before us. We looked in silence for a -moment, when he laughed, and inquired if I had no questions to ask him. -"I am ready," said he, "to undergo a regular catechising." - -In an instant all my former fancies of my husband's poverty, and of my -assisting him darted through my mind. I suppose, I looked rather sober, -for he turned my face toward him with a questioning look. - -"I imagined, you were poor," said I, hesitatingly. - -Oh, what a merry peal of laughter rang through the room! It was a minute -or more before he could recover himself, while I didn't know whether to -laugh or cry. But laughing is contagious, and soon the absurdity of -crying because I had the best husband in the world, and with him -everything that heart could desire, caused me to join cordially with -him. - -However, he soon took both my hands in his, in a manner peculiar to him -when he has anything special to say, and resumed, "It is high time, my -love, you should know _who you are_." I will give you the substance of -his story. - -His father was a man of independent fortune, who died about eight years -ago, soon after Frank reached his majority, and a few months subsequent -to his graduation from college. Frank had always desired to be a -physician, though his father and mother had hoped he would become a -minister. The property was by will equally divided among the three, his -mother, sister and himself. - -Five of the years since his father's death he has spent in Europe, -studying his profession, and travelling. During this time he returned -twice to see his mother, and to direct about the estate. After this he -passed eighteen months in one of the southern cities, practising -medicine. Then determining to go abroad again, he passed the winter in -Paris, where you remember, I first met him. - -"I hardly know," said he, "where I should have been now, if you had said -_nay_ to one question, I asked. But I thank God for giving me my sweet -wife." This, he said so seriously that I hid my face in his bosom to -conceal my tears. - -Then in a few words he delineated the person and character of his -father, who was a very godly man, distinguished throughout the country -for sound judgment, patriotism and benevolence. Frank described the -heart-rending affliction of his mother, the asperities of which time had -somewhat softened. She is but forty-eight years of age, though I had -supposed her much older. She has received frequent proposals for a -second marriage; but never for a moment could think of entering the -matrimonial state, while her heart was so full of precious recollections -of her deceased husband. - -The Doctor looked quite serious, as he always does when his countenance -is not lighted with a smile. But I diverted his thoughts with the -request, "tell me about Emily." - -"She is in temperament like my father," he replied, "full of life and -spirit; ever ready to weep with those that weep, and to rejoice with -those that rejoice; she is just one month older than you, Cora; time -will prove," he added pleasantly, as he smoothed back my hair, "which is -the wiser." - - -_Thursday, June 4th._ - -This morning, invitations have been sent to friends of the family for a -levee at mother's cottage, in honor of the bride. Frank says my -associates in town will be likely to be of a very promiscuous character. -To-morrow evening I am to be introduced to the aristocracy, and -afterwards to my husband's poor patients, of whom Emily affirms there -are no inconsiderable number. - -This is a shire town, and a court is in session here, which brings many -distinguished members of the legal profession to the place. I am told it -contains from eight to ten thousand inhabitants. I have seen some very -beautiful country seats; and I should think it well laid out. - -There is a principal street running through the centre, lined with -houses. Upon it private dwellings are interspersed with shops, stores, -ware-rooms, and other places of business. The main street is very wide, -and at this season looks finely, with its splendid rows of shade trees. - -Within a few years many persons have left their residences in Broad -Street, and have built cottages and villas on the forest heights -overlooking the village and the surrounding country. - -The Doctor was summoned this morning to a sick woman. This is his first -professional call since his return; but now I must be reconciled to his -leaving me often, as he has a very large practice. - -There are more than half a score of regular practitioners in the place, -all of whom are invited to mother's levee. Oh, if my friends from home -could be there! I find writing a very poor substitute for talking with -you. With what delight shall I read your letters. Isabel and Nelly must -write about everything, as they promised. Beloved home, parents and -sisters, how my heart longs for one more look, one fond embrace. - - -_Friday, June 5th._ - -My services have been put in requisition at the cottage, or rather my -_advice_ (don't laugh, Bell!) has been requested with regard to the -arrangements for the table, fruits and flowers. Emily says, I know -everything, or ought to, as I was educated in France. - -I told her, all I knew was heartily at her service; and straightway the -lively girl pulled off my bonnet and gloves, and set me to work, making -bouquets for the table. - -After this, we entered right merrily into the preparations for the -evening, while mother was busily engaged with the cook. We had all -things arranged to our minds, and had resolved ourselves into a tasting -committee of the various luxuries for the entertainment, when Frank came -in and took me home with him. - -I had been deliberating about my toilet for the occasion, when he -presented me an exquisite bouquet of white flowers, together with some -beautiful white moss-rose buds for my hair. I fairly clapped my hands -with delight, they reminded me so much of home. I could say nothing in -reply but "dear Frank!" - - - - -CHAPTER III. - - "If ye court society for pastime,--what happier recreation than - a nurseling. - Its winning ways, its prattling tongue, its innocence and mirth." - TUPPER. - - -_Saturday, June 6th._ - -Oh! Mother, if you could sit by me for an hour it would be so -delightful, for I have much to tell you, and my pen will not move fast -enough. But I will begin my story. I dressed in due time. The girls will -be pleased to know that I wore my white lisse crape, with no ornaments -but the flowers in my hair, and a small bunch in my bodice. When I -descended to the parlor, Frank was awaiting me, and his eyes expressed -satisfaction with my toilet. - -We repaired to the cottage early, by mother's request. Soon after -carriages began to roll up to the door. I was presented first to the -clergyman, Mr. Munroe, who has been settled in Crawford but a short -time. He is very free and social in manner, dignified and graceful in -person; I think he will prove an agreeable friend. Mother says, he loves -the work in which he is engaged. - -There was also a younger minister present, from an adjoining parish, -about whom I must make some farther inquiries. He was quite too devoted -in his attentions to my fair sister Emily; and when I asked of her an -explanation, a blush was her only reply. - -I cannot begin to describe one half the persons who were present, but I -will mention a few, who, from different causes, interested me. - -A tall portly man, hardly a gentleman, with a self-important air, a very -large pattern to his vest, with heavy chains and seals, which he -dangled incessantly, addressed me in a patronizing manner. He asked me -how I liked "living among Yankees," and said I must come round to his -place before I made up my mind about it. He then bowed himself away. -Emily said, in a low voice, "that is our nabob, Squire Lee." - -Next came an elderly gentleman, who, in figure and conversation, formed -a striking contrast to the one who preceded him. This was Mr. Marshall, -a distinguished attorney. He was accompanied by his wife, a very -handsome lady considerably younger than her husband. They both expressed -much kind interest in the young stranger. - -Then came a lovely young lady with her brother, children of Squire Lee, -the distiller. The young man seemed cast in the same mould as his -father. He was dressed in the height of fashion, but without taste, with -a flaunting neck tie, a gayly embroidered vest, and full pantaloons. He -was rather below the medium height, but of very full habit. His face was -flushed, and when he bowed the blood rushed violently to his head, -rendering his face red as crimson. But his air was so consequential, and -his talk in a style so pompous and imposing, I could scarcely suppress -my mirth. This was the more noticeable by the contrast of his whole -appearance with his sister, a very modest, amiable looking girl, who -evidently feared lest her brother, in his desire to impress me with his -_dignity_, should disgrace both himself and her. - -After these, came the Mansfields, the Harrisses, Justice Wilson and -family, the Johnsons, Mr. Willard, Dr. Clapp, Mr. and Mrs. Morris -Whitney, and a great many whom I cannot remember. - -When this procession had passed with a word of salutation from each, -with now a bow, and then a smile, Mrs. Marshall introduced to me a lady -whose countenance I shall never forget. I should think her near fifty -years of age, not handsome, but with a kind expression, full of mildness -and benevolence. Frank addressed her very cordially, saying to me, "Miss -Proctor is my particular friend." I gave her my hand again, and asked a -share in her friendship. She was evidently much pleased, and pressed my -hand at parting. - -Near the close of the evening, I met Mr. and Mrs. Russell, a very -delightful couple. His manner reminded me of Frank's; dignified and -rather reserved, yet easy and graceful in conversation. His wife, on the -contrary, was full of life and spirits, original and witty. - -While we were in the refreshment room, I overheard several persons, -talking about a woman lately deceased in the village. She was a French -woman, and by her death her child was left without protection. I became -quite interested for the poor foundling, and was glad to learn that Miss -Proctor was to pass the night, in the hope of being able with mother, to -provide for the little orphan. - -It was quite late; but Frank stopped at my request to hear more of her -history. On Tuesday of this week, the day of our arrival, the French -woman called at the public house, saying, in broken English, that she -was ill and wished for a bed. The landlady attended her, and soon found -it necessary to summon a physician. She grew rapidly worse and died the -next evening. She had informed the landlady that the child was not hers, -but entrusted to her care by its mother, to be conveyed from France to -England. The vessel in which they sailed was wrecked. But they, with a -few other passengers and some of the crew, were taken on board an -American vessel and brought to New York. Beyond this nothing is known. - -I have quite an idea of adopting the foundling if Frank will consent. - - -_Evening._ - -_Dear_, DEAR MOTHER.--On my way to see the little French girl, I told -Frank it would please me to take the orphan. He smiled as he replied, "I -shall certainly make no objection." - -I expected to see a poor, disconsolate child, weeping for its mother. -Judge then of my astonishment, and delight, when I found a perfect -little fairy. She is a brilliant brunette, with magnificent eyes, -fringed with long black lashes, which rested on her cheek as she looked -timidly down when I entered. I was so impressed with her appearance that -I instinctively held out my arms, and said "_viens à moi, ma chère_!" - -The blood rushed to her face, as with a bound she sprang toward me, and -laying her curly head on my breast, said, "_ma chère maman, je t'aime -beau coup, beau coup_." - -This decided me; and I adopted her in my heart. Frank was desirous to -ascertain all that was known about my little protege. Mrs. Morrison, the -landlady, left me holding "Ina," as she called herself, tightly in my -arms, while she led my husband to the room where the body of the woman -was decently laid out for burial. He told me when he returned that the -child bore not the slightest resemblance to her attendant. - -After looking at the corpse, the landlady gave him a small packet, which -she had found in the pocket of the deceased; also a necklace and locket -taken from the child's neck. The locket contained a miniature to which -Ina bore a close resemblance. Frank looked eagerly for an inscription, -but found only the words "_Maman à Ina_." - -"I think these ought to be preserved for the child," said Mrs. Morrison. -"Who knows but they may bring out some day who her parents were?" Frank -assented, and assured her that the articles should be sacredly -preserved. - -"Your wife seems to take a great liking to her." - -"Yes," replied the Doctor, "as they are both strangers in this country, -she thinks the little girl has rather a claim upon her." - -"Is she a Frencher too? I always heard she was English." - -"Mrs. Lenox was educated in Paris," he replied. - -"La now!" exclaimed the woman, covering the face of the corpse, "I -didn't think of her being so learned." - -Frank then inquired whether the deceased woman left any property, and -offered to pay the expenses they had incurred. Mrs. Morrison brought -forward an old pocket-book containing a few dollars, which she said -would cover all the expenses. "As to the child," she continued, "I -couldn't think of charging anything for her. Somebody may one day have -to be looking after my little folks;" and this thought brought a tear to -her eye. - -I was talking merrily with my sweet charge, when they returned to the -parlor, and having thanked the warm-hearted landlady for her kindness to -the child, we took our departure. - -I was so impatient to go home, and show my treasure to mother and -sister, that I begged to be excused from a drive, Frank had promised me. -Emily was quite as enthusiastic as I wished, in her praise of my Ina, -and tried playfully to induce me to resign my _protegé_ in her favor. -The little one, however, was fully persuaded I was her mamma; and I felt -no desire to undeceive her. - -She is now safely asleep in her crib; the same in which Frank and Emily -were rocked. I have crept softly into the room two or three times. The -whole affair appears like a pleasant dream. Miss Proctor has made a -night-dress; and Monday I must commence vigorously upon her wardrobe. -Emily has promised to assist me. - - -_Sabbath evening--June 7th._ - -This is my first Sabbath in America. It has been a delightful day to me; -and I think I can say, it has been blessed to my soul. Though far away -from country, home and friends, yet I could meet you all at the throne -of Grace. I prayed for every dear member of the home-circle, and for my -beloved husband, myself and my precious charge. - -I went to church morning and afternoon, and was much impressed by the -services. There is a seriousness and solemnity about the audience, which -I have seldom witnessed. The sermons were chaste and in some passages -even elegant in style. But what pleased me more than all, was the fervor -with which Mr. Munroe delivered them, and the love which he manifested -for the souls of his people. - -In the morning the text was 1 Cor. 15, 22: "For as in Adam all die, even -so in Christ shall all be made alive." He dwelt upon the death which -reigns in consequence of Adam's sin; and in the afternoon, upon the -resurrection-life which all receive from Christ. - -The singing was performed by a choir in the orchestra, accompanied by a -variety of instruments. - -When I returned from Church this morning, my little Ina was still -asleep, as I had left her. But this afternoon as I went in, she came -bounding toward me, clapping her hands, and saying "_chère maman! chère -maman!_" I had to take her to my boudoir to put off my bonnet and shawl, -for she would not leave me. She was willing while in my arms to play -with Frank; but if he attempted to take her from me, she hid her face in -my neck. I like to have her call me _mamma_ when we are alone; but it -makes Emily laugh, and I see Frank is inclined to follow her example, -only that he sees it makes me blush, and embarrasses me. Sweet child! I -wish she were my own; I cannot bear the thought of parting with her. Yet -it may be that her mother is mourning her loss. - -Do you remember Pauline De Lacy, my dear friend and school-mate, in -Paris? Ina looks so much like her, one would think they must belong to -the same family; indeed, sisters seldom resemble each other so exactly. -To-day, this has occurred to me so many times, that, with the consent of -all parties, I have decided to call her Pauline De Lacy Lenox. "Quite a -romantic name," Frank says, gravely; "but as you are a very romantic -lady, it will be in good taste." - -I looked up quickly, intending to deny the charge, when I saw that -roguish twinkle in his eye, which I begin to understand. - -After an early tea, the servants were called to family prayers, mother -and Emily being present, who are hereafter to return from church and -spend Sabbath evening with us. In addition to the usual services at the -domestic altar, the good old Puritan custom of catechising the household -is observed. It was truly a _family_ service. The scene was novel and -interesting to me. All joined in singing a hymn, and then the Doctor -expressed our individual wants in prayer. I was a little fearful that -Pauline would not be quiet; but there was a charm in Cæsar's devout face -which occupied all her attention. Perhaps a very little fear was mingled -with her wonder, as she nestled herself very close to me. But the good -man took no heed of the large eyes fixed on him with such seriousness. -His soul was drinking in the Word, while he regarded his young master -with fond respect. - -When the rest of the servants retired, he remained, and the Doctor asked -him, "Well, my good Cæsar, how have you enjoyed the day?" - -"Oh, Mass'r! dis yer pears like good old times when old Mass'r live. Dem -good old days, berry!" Cæsar wiped his eyes with his coat sleeve as he -left the room; and his was not the only eye moistened by this allusion -to the past. - -I don't know as I told you that Cæsar and Phebe were purchased by Squire -Lenox from the south, where they were about to be sold separately. He -brought them to the north, where, of course, they are free; and they -have ever since constituted an important part of the family. Taught to -read and write, they have for many years been members of the same church -with their master and mistress. - - -_Monday Morning, June 8th._ - -Frank has just left me for his morning calls. He came in from the garden -when Cæsar brought the carriage to the door, and not finding me below, -he sprang up the stairs to bid me good bye. Pauline looked up quickly -and pointed with her finger to direct my attention, saying, "dere -Frank." - -We both laughed heartily. He patted her cheek, "So little miss, she's -mamma; and I, only Frank. I rather think you'll have to take me for a -papa for want of a better;" then turning to me, "it would sound oddly -enough. Now to you the name mamma seems natural as life, only it makes -you rather rosy." He bade mother and daughter good bye, and ran away in -haste. - -I am constantly haunted by the thought that she is in some way connected -with my school-mate Pauline De Lacy. I have in vain tried to remember if -she had a married sister whose child this may be. - -But I must leave this subject and finish my story about Cæsar and his -wife. It was a great trial to them when mother and Emily left the old -homestead, even to go across the garden to their cottage-home, and they -desired to go with them. But mother overruled their objections and -retained Ruth, their only child, a capable girl of twenty. - -I believe Cæsar trembled not a little at the idea of a new mistress, who -he feared would disturb the harmony of the family. I have, however, -gained his good will. He treats me like a toy which he is exceedingly -apprehensive of injuring. - -As for Phebe, such is her pride in the glory of "our folks," that as I -am a Lenox, the wife of Mass'r Frank, nothing can be too good for me. I -think, she likes me better because I am young and inexperienced in -household affairs, and, therefore, shall not be likely to interfere in -her department. There is, indeed, no occasion for me to do so. She has -been well and thoroughly trained by mother, and is fully competent to -perform the duties of her station, while Ann, the chambermaid, is -equally so in her appropriate sphere. - -To tell you the truth, I did not know exactly what was expected of me. -One day last week, I waited upon madam in the kitchen and in a very -hesitating manner began to say something about dinner, when she soon -interrupted me, "Laws, missus, don't you, honey, trouble your precious -head 'bout sich kind. I'se feel shamed to look Mass'r Frank in de face, -and den pears like make me blush to have it told down town; little young -missus spending her blessed time in de kitchen." - -I presume, I looked, as I felt, delighted to be relieved, and was -running away, laughingly, when she continued, "Dere missus, go long, -please, and play on de pianny." I came gladly away, but spent the time -writing in my journal. Now I have enough to occupy me in the care of my -little Pauline. - -After Ann had put her to bed last night, Frank showed us the little -parcel given him by the landlady. It contained part of a letter -addressed to a domestic, giving strict directions concerning the child. -It was written in French, in a delicate female hand, but gave no clue as -to the name or place of the writer. A mother's heart evidently dictated -it, from the numerous directions about clothing, diet, and the like. The -packet contained, in addition, a child's dress, with elaborate -embroidery upon the neck and sleeves; also a pair of coral and gold -sleeve clasps to match the necklace. - -Many conjectures were formed by Emily, respecting the parentage of the -child, after which the articles were returned to Frank to be locked up -safely among his treasures. His sister mischievously recommended him to -deposit them in a certain trunk, containing nothing but old letters, -saying, with an arch look at me, "I suppose now they are worthless." - -The Doctor deigned no reply. This amused Emily so much that she -whispered to me, loud enough for him to hear, "Oh, the deceitfulness of -man! He tries, beneath that solemn look, to make you believe that he -doesn't value those letters above rubies. I'll manage very differently -if I ever get in love, which to be sure, is very unlikely. I should wish -my husband to tell me once in half an hour that I was dearer to him than -all on earth. I've no doubt Frank feels as I do, for each one of those -letters used to make him bright for a week; and he hurried the poor -carpenters and masons, as if his very life depended on our moving away -from the house as soon as possible." - -"Emily," called Frank in a serious tone, looking up gravely from the -book he was reading, "did I not hear something of an exchange of pulpits -between Mr. Munroe and Mr. Benson?" - -It was now Emily's turn to be silent. She hesitated, blushed, and -finally retired from the room. After she left, Frank asked mother, "Do -you think Emily loves Mr. Benson?" - -She replied, "I really cannot tell. Beyond his coming often to the -house, and Emily seeming rather pleased with his visits, I know -nothing."-- - -Sister has just returned from town, where she has been to make purchases -for Pauline's wardrobe. Now I must drop my pen, and go to work with my -scissors and needle. - - -_Tuesday, June 9th._ - -Though very busy, I must write a few lines while Pauline is asleep. -Emily and I went to the garret this morning--the receptacle for all -things not in use, and found a great supply of playthings for Miss -Pauline. Among them are a large wax doll, and her furniture, which with -sister's permission, I shall lay by for future use. With a basket of -these toys, the dear child has amused herself on the floor, while -mother, Miss Proctor, Emily and myself have been plying our needles. We -have one suit nearly completed, and shall take her to ride in it this -afternoon. We are to go in the double carriage, and after procuring the -young Miss a suitable covering for her curly head, we are to drive as -far as Waverley, the parish of Emily's friend, though this part of our -plan has not yet been disclosed to her ladyship. - - -_Evening._ - -The doctor was summoned to a patient after tea, but will, I think, be -back soon, when I must devote myself entirely to him. Do you know, dear -mother, he is trying to make me think him jealous of the young lady I -have honored with my protection; really, he says my thoughts are so full -of Pauline that I have hardly looked at him for two days. I believe -after all he is as bad as Emily, and wants me to tell him "every half -hour what a darling he is." I must look to this, for I think I have been -to blame, and he shall see my heart is large enough for both. He knows, -however, he occupies his full share in my affections. - -I remember once before my marriage hearing him say to a lady in England, -he would never accept half a heart; no, hardly one that had loved -before. He wanted the fresh and warm gushings of affection. She inquired -if he had such a heart to give in return. He answered proudly, "I shall -ask for no more than I can bestow." - -I hear the carriage, and will run to meet him. - - -_Wednesday, June 10th._ - -Last evening, Frank laughed, as I stood at the door, and said jocosely -"I suppose Miss Lenox is asleep, and that you are glad even of my -company when you have no other." - -Though he was laughing, the tears instantly filled my eyes, and I said, -"Oh, Frank! you know how much more I love you than all the Paulines in -the world." I spoke earnestly for I thought his words implied a distrust -of my love. - -His manner changed at once, and very tenderly taking my hand, he led me -to the sofa. He turned my face to his, which I had vainly endeavored to -conceal. "Now, my love," said he, when he had kissed away the tears, -"let us have a full understanding." - -"Yes, but I want you to forgive me first, if you think I have been too -much absorbed with Pauline." - -"My sweet wife, you have never offended me. It is I who ought to ask -forgiveness for making you weep. Perhaps you will think me selfish; but -I want you to promise to ride with me every day when I can be at -liberty, and to leave Pauline with mother, or with Ann. When I am not -at liberty, Cæsar will take the large carriage and drive you all, Miss -Lenox junior among the rest. Will you promise this?" - -"With great pleasure; but why not take her with us; she would be quiet?" - -"Because, I want to take you to visit my poor patients. I have laid out -a great work for you, Cora, and if I do not mistake, you will love it. -Then it will be a good discipline for Pauline, to have you leave her -occasionally. By the way, have you settled the question with her who -shall be mistress?" - -I looked at him in wonder. "I have noticed several times," said he -pleasantly, "when your wishes and hers were at variance, that you -yielded to her, instead of insisting that she should yield to you. Now, -my dear Cora, as we have taken this child, we are responsible to God for -her proper government and education. She is not a mere plaything which -can be thrown aside at pleasure. She has a soul to be fitted for -happiness or misery. Have you thought of this? Have you counted the -cost, the care, and effort, and patience which all this requires?" - -"Yes, Frank, and I have prayed for wisdom to guide me. I know well I am -not fitted for such a charge." - -"Then, dear wife, I have no more to say. I will do anything to cooperate -with you; and if you enter upon it with such a spirit you will have both -Divine help and reward." - -I thank God, dear mother, for such a kind husband; so faithful to point -out my faults, and so ready to help me overcome them. He feared I did -not realize the care and responsibility of the work I had undertaken. I -intend at once to commence a course of reading on education. Heretofore -I have thought little upon the subject; only that children should be -taught to be obedient, truthful and affectionate. Now I understand why -Frank wished me to allow Ann to put Pauline to bed. The child cried -every time I left her, and would only be satisfied with my waiting upon -her in person. I had in two or three instances yielded to her for the -sake of peace, without realizing that the principle was wrong, or that -she was forming a bad habit. Frank saw she grew more and more imperative -in her demands and hence thought it necessary to speak to me of the -exposure. - -I believe I have not given you an account of our ride to Waverley. We -were about a mile on our way, when, whom should we meet but the very Mr. -Benson on horse-back, and going to the cottage. I whispered to Emily -that we could easily return and leave her at home while we continued our -ride. But to this she would by no means consent, and turned -indifferently to the window the opposite side of the carriage, where she -was intently occupied with the prospect, which in that place consisted -of a fine growth of forest trees. - -Mr. Benson addressed some words to me, and then rode round to ascertain -what was so charming in the opposite view. I really pitied the poor man, -for Emily was almost rude to him. I don't yet understand them; but I -think I can see that he is a little wanting in tact, and does not quite -understand all the crooks and turns in a woman's heart. - -Frank very politely invited Mr. Benson to accompany us, who said it -would give him pleasure to do so, if agreeable to our company. He looked -at Emily; but she deigned no reply, appearing wholly engaged in a frolic -with Pauline. - -I began at once to be very polite, determined to do my part toward -making amends for Emily's indifference, which I saw pained him. It is -difficult conversing from a carriage with a gentleman on horse-back; but -as we rode slowly, I endeavored to be very interesting, until after a -time the young clergyman, perceiving he had no attention from the object -of his special regard, resumed his place at my side. - -I really like Mr. Benson, and should be glad of him for a brother. I -cannot help thinking sister likes him too; when he is not talking with -her; for I noticed she kept Pauline very quiet and listened with -interest to our conversation. When we returned home, I earnestly -invited the gentleman to remain and take tea with us, and had to bite my -lips to keep from laughing to see Emily's amazement at the turn affairs -had taken. - -The suitor, after looking very much embarrassed, as if expecting an -invitation from another, accepted mine, and we entered the house. Mother -stood quietly by. I suppose she is determined to leave Emily to act for -herself. When he consented to remain, she said, "now you will excuse -us;" but I insisted they should fulfil their engagement to tea, when, at -least, one of the company became decidedly more cheerful. "I wish he -wouldn't speak to Emily again this evening," was my thought, as he -continually tried to engage her in conversation. - -Notwithstanding all my efforts, the evening passed away slowly; the -Doctor having been called out soon after tea. The occasion ended sadly -for the poor suitor, who, toward the close of it, requested a few -moments' conversation with Emily. In this interview, she decidedly -refused him, and then cried all night after it. - -Foolish girl! But I persuaded her to unburden her heart to me. She -confessed, she did not know whether she loved Mr. Benson or not. Many -traits in his character she admired; but others suggested serious -objections. The latter, however, I could not induce her to name, and -indeed, I doubt whether she had herself any distinct idea of them. - -After a pause, during which I tried in vain to think of something which -would comfort her, she looked at me earnestly and said, "Cora, tell me -truly, don't you think he's rather _soft_?" "I think," I replied, trying -to conceal my mirth, "that he has a very strong affection for you; and -that sometimes it would be more pleasing to a delicate, modest girl, if -he did not exhibit it so openly." - -"That is exactly my feeling, but I couldn't express it. Yet what is the -use of talking?" she asked, with a profound sigh; "the question is -settled, and there the matter rests." - - - - -CHAPTER IV. - - "From the light ills of infant age. - Up to the plague's destructive rage, - Pains come and go at thy command, - True to the sceptre of thy hand." EAST. - - -_Thursday, June 11th._ - -When the Doctor left for his morning duties, he said, "Please bear in -mind, Cora, that you have engaged yourself to me for the afternoon." - -"For _life_, I understood it," said I, trying to speak gravely. - -He was much pleased, and turned back to give me another embrace, and -whispered, "my darling," in such a loving tone, that my heart felt very -warm all the forenoon. - -I wish I could describe to you the view from my window. It rained all -night, and this morning was very foggy; but now the sun is beginning to -dispel the mist; and the mountain--oh, it is beautiful! I keep stopping -to look, and to inhale the balmy air. Now I can see the summit quite -distinctly; the sun is shining upon it, while the fleecy clouds roll off -and settle on the lake, from which they arise in thick mist. - -Before we left our room this morning, Frank gave me a subject for -thought which rather troubles me; but I think I know what you and dear -father would advise; I know also what is right; but courage, _courage_ -is wanting. We are constantly liable to be interrupted while engaged in -family devotions; or Frank is away at the regular time. He asked, this -morning, as a great favor to himself, that I would, in such cases, call -the family together and read prayers. - -I started at the proposition, and was about to say, "I cannot," when he -said, "do not decide hastily. Think upon the subject, and tell me -to-morrow." After a pause, he continued, "the time of a physician is not -at his own command. I may be called away day after day; and our family -services lose half their interest and profit through the want of -regularity." - -"How was it before I came?" - -"Mother always conducted the service in my absence." - -My mind was in a perfect tumult. At breakfast I thought I had found a -good excuse; at least, it then appeared so to me; and I tried to be -cheerful and to dismiss the subject. After prayers, as my husband was -leaving the room, I detained him; "Frank," I asked, "don't you think I'm -too young?--Cæsar, Phebe and Ann are so much older than I am. Does it -appear to you quite proper?" - -"Well," said he, coming back and shutting the door, "I didn't think of -it in that light. You _are_ rather young, to be sure; only eighteen the -fourth day of February." I was surprised that he remembered the exact -day. "How soon do you think you will be at the proper age?" - -I had thought, when he commenced, that he certainly considered this a -valid excuse; but the moment he asked that question, though there was -not the slightest touch of irony in his tone, yet I felt mortified in -the extreme, and the blood rushed to my very forehead. I turned quickly -away, as Emily entered the room. - -And now what can I do? My heart almost stands still at the bare thought -of it; _I_, who have never audibly lifted up my voice in prayer to God, -save only in the presence of my little Pauline. _I cannot do it_; and I -think my husband almost hard to ask it of me. He is always so calm and -self-possessed, he little knows how my heart throbs. - - -_Noon._ - -As Frank has not returned, I will add a few lines. I have taken Pauline -for a walk through the garden, and made a call upon mother and sister. -How we all laughed when the little thing lisped "grandmamma," in -obedience to my wish. Before we came out, mother remarked that I looked -quite pale. I longed to ask her advice, but conscience whispered, "you -already know your duty;" and I concluded to say nothing about my -trouble. "Emily," I replied, "can sympathize with me; she is looking -very unwell." - -As I spoke, her face and neck were covered with a burning blush. "Emily -is not well," said mother gravely; "She scarcely eats at all." - -"O, mother!" exclaimed Emily, "I'm well enough, only a head ache," and -she went to the closet to get seed cakes for Pauline. - -As I returned home through the kitchen garden, to give the child a -longer walk, I heard Phebe, who stood at the back door, call to Cæsar. - -"Look dere now! see de young Missus. It's enough to do your old curly -pate powerful sight o' good just to see her a leading dis yer baby." - - -_Evening._ - -I obtained permission from mother this morning to leave Pauline with -her, while I rode with Frank. When the time arrived, Ann put on her -bonnet, and then it was very easy to induce Miss to have hers put on for -a walk to grandmamma's. - -It has been a delightful day after the rain; and if my heart had been at -rest, I should have enjoyed the ride. I imagined my looks troubled Frank -a little, for he said he had intended taking me with him to visit one or -two families in the outskirts of the town; but if I did not feel -inclined, he would postpone it until another day. I assured him my -health was perfectly good, and I had anticipated the calls with much -pleasure. So we rode on through the village, he being more than usually -social and interesting, and giving me no time to think of myself until -we came to the border of the town, near the lake I have mentioned. - -Here stood a number of small cottages, one story in height, with the -grounds about them enclosed with low fences. I noticed one of these bore -marks of more taste and refinement than the others. It had a pleasant -little patch of flowers along the side of the beaten path to the -entrance, while a beautiful rose bush was trained upon a trellis by the -side of the door, which run upon the house nearly to the roof, and -furnished a complete shade to one of the windows. - -This was the home of the Doctor's patient, and I followed him to the -door, which stood hospitably open. A light knock brought a modest woman -to the entrance, who, in her tabby muslin cap, and her clean checked -apron, appeared very neatly. She courtesied as the Doctor introduced me, -and invited us to walk in. The patient is a young girl in her sixteenth -year, who is gradually wasting away with consumption. Never shall I -forget the bright expression of love and respect which beautified her -countenance, as Frank took her hand, and tenderly inquired how she had -passed the night. "I have brought you another friend," he added; "one I -am sure you will love. I think I can safely promise she will be happy to -do anything for your comfort." This promise I cheerfully confirmed. - -Hers is a case requiring little medicine. Her sufferings are -comparatively slight, except from exhausting fits of coughing. She -appears to be passing gently away. The bright color which burned in her -cheek had now faded, leaving her face perfectly colorless. The only -relief to the marble whiteness was the long black lashes which lay upon -her cheek when she closed her eyes. Propped up in her bed by pillows, -she looked with her whole soul at the Doctor, who sat at her side, -speaking to her of God's rich mercy. She assented to what he said by a -slight inclination of the head, and sometimes repeated after him part of -the verse of Scripture, he quoted, as if to impress it upon her own -mind. But I could see plainly that she was under restraint by the -presence of a stranger. - -When he arose, she held out her hand and whispered, "will you please to -pray with me?" Frank immediately reseated himself; and taking a little -pocket Bible from his coat, read a few verses from the fourteenth -chapter of John; and then prayed. I felt borne on wings of faith to -heaven as my dear husband praised God for the love which had sent the -Saviour into the world, that we might have pardon and eternal life; that -we might be elevated to seats at his right hand in heaven, and be joint -heirs with Christ to immortal glory and honor. He besought Jesus to -bless and comfort with his Divine presence, the dear child who was -approaching the dark valley; to give her the victory over sin, and -death, and to receive her through faith in him into the kingdom of -heaven, where her eternity might be spent in singing "Worthy the Lamb -that was slain." - -As I approached the bed to bid her farewell, I was struck dumb, with the -heavenly smile of peace and joy which shone in every feature. Surely, -thought I, she has the seal upon her forehead; she already breathes the -air of heaven. I lifted her thin white hand to my lips, and bowed my -head in silence; I dared not trust my voice to speak. - -The Doctor called Mrs. Leighton aside and gave her a few simple -directions before we left. He conducted me silently to the carriage, -turned the horse down a shady lane toward the water, and drew me to him -until I could lay my head upon his shoulder, when my excited feelings -found relief in tears. - -When I had become more composed, Frank asked, "Is she not to be envied?" - -"Oh, yes! _yes!_" I replied, "Would, I could feel the assurance of faith -and love, which lit up her face like that of an angel!" - -He then, at my request, told me something of her history. Her parents, -Mr. and Mrs. Leighton, are respectable, pious people, who have been -deeply afflicted by the loss of two daughters and one son by the same -disease which is now wasting the frame of their only surviving child. -Naturally amiable and intelligent she has been too much indulged by her -fond parents, who cling to her as their last and best beloved. - -So insidious was her disease, that, when summoned to her sick bed, Frank -found no skill could save her. He therefore endeavored to direct her to -the great Physician, to cure the disease of her soul. - -"What was the state of her mind at that time?" I asked. - -"Very rebellious. She was unwilling to hear a word of discouragement, -and talked constantly of pleasures and parties, in which her mother had -allowed her to mingle. She was a very handsome girl, lively and -agreeable in conversation, and had excited unusual attention for one so -young." - -"How soon did she become reconciled to death? She seems now to look -forward to it, as the consummation of her hopes and joys." - -"Not for many months; but she will give you an account of the change in -her feelings. I hope you will soon see her again; she has not long to -stay with us." - -As we passed the house on our return, we noticed Mrs. Leighton at the -door watching for us. Frank, thinking she wished to call him, sprang -from the carriage. But she only put into his hand a little bouquet, -saying in a suppressed voice, "Caroline," at the same time waving her -hand that it was intended for me. I was very much affected at the simple -gift, and sent my thanks to the sweet girl. There was exquisite taste in -the selection--a moss rose bud--a white rose half blown, with dark green -myrtle leaves,--and a sprig of mignonette. - -"It must have been hard for her," I said, "to give up this beautiful -earth, she is so fond of flowers and everything tasteful." - -"Ah! but she gains heaven," was Frank's reply. This suggested to me the -following lines from a favorite poet, which I repeated to my husband. - - - "Once when I look'd along the laughing earth, - Up the blue heavens, and through the middle air, - Joyfully ringing with the sky-lark's song, - I wept, and thought how sad for one so young, - To bid farewell to so much happiness. - But Christ doth call me from this lower world; - Delightful though it be." - - -We next stopped at a house of moderate size, in which the Doctor told -me, four families found their home. Having tied the horse by the little -gate, we entered a room on the right, where a poor man lay on a bench, -or, as I afterwards saw, a long chest, upon which some quilts had been -spread to make it soft. The chest was pushed to the corner of the room, -so that, with pillows behind him, the invalid could sit almost upright. - -Watching by his side was a very pretty woman, who, from her dialect, I -perceived was Welsh. Near her was a small boy of about three years of -age, sitting on a low cricket; while in a shed, opening directly out of -the room, there stood a young girl of eleven, washing. - -After putting two chairs near her husband, Mrs. Lewis resumed her seat -and her sewing, as it was only by _her_ industry, the family were -supported. - -Frank inquired particularly about the symptoms of his patient, and -prescribed for his relief. He then said, "I have brought my wife, as I -promised to introduce her to you." Here Mr. Lewis put out his emaciated -hand, and expressed pleasure at seeing me. Frank continued, "Mrs. Lenox -will come and read to you, if you wish, while your wife is busy." - -The sick man regarded me with a look of gratitude, while his wife -replied, "I am sure t'would be a great comfort to us both, to hear a bit -of the Word. My man," she continued, "is not able to read; it makes his -eyes ache badly. I have so little time, I can only repeat a verse now -and then, to give us something to think of." - -The Doctor asked Mr. Lewis if he had enjoyed more peace of mind since -his last visit. - -"Sometimes," he replied in a whisper, "I can feel willing to trust -myself in the hands of God; but again all is dark, and I can't come nigh -to him. He appears a great way off, and I seem to be praying into the -air." As he closed, his breast heaved a deep sigh. - -I became so much interested in him; and he so exactly described my own -feelings, at times, that I forgot any one else was present, and said, -"Oh, sir! I have often felt so; and the only way I can do, is to keep -praying, until God reveals himself to me. He does hear, and he will -answer if we keep asking, and if he sees we are in earnest." - -I stopped suddenly, in great embarrassment, when Frank immediately -added, "This is the case with most Christians. Sometimes while we are -yet speaking God hears, and grants an answer of peace. Again he delays, -to try our faith and patience." - -"But the prayers of the wicked are an abomination," said Mr. Lewis -feebly. "I can't feel sure that he has accepted me." - -"Has his promise ever failed?" inquired the Doctor. "He says, 'call upon -me and I will answer; knock and it shall be opened.'" - -The poor man put his hand to his breast, as if in great pain. Frank -feared lest we were prolonging the interview beyond his strength, and -rose to leave. - -"Surely you won't go without praying for me," said Mr. Lewis. - -"If you feel able to attend, I will do so with pleasure," replied the -Doctor. I was very much affected to see the sick man rise feebly, and -kneel during prayer. He wept much, and when we arose he was so exhausted -by his emotion, the Doctor and his wife were obliged to raise him to -his feet. But when he had taken some drink, he became more composed, and -said, "Thank you." "Come soon," he said to me, with a smile. - -Mrs. Lewis followed us to the door, where Frank put into her hand a bank -bill; and in addition, requested her to send to our house in the morning -for some chicken broth of which he wished her husband to partake freely. -Her eyes filled with tears, and she could only look her thanks. - -It was now becoming late, and we returned home. I cannot help thinking -how much good a pious physician has it in his power to do. He gains the -affections of his patients; and they will listen to religious -conversation which they would not hear from a stranger. Frank cares for -their souls as well as their bodies, especially as the one commonly -affects the other. - - - - -CHAPTER V. - - "Wretch that I am, what hopes for me remain, - Who cannot cease to love, yet love in vain?" COWPER. - - -_Sabbath morning, June 14th._ - -DEAR MOTHER,--I must write you a few lines to tell you how happy I am. -Yesterday, you remember, I was to decide whether I would conduct the -family devotions when Frank is absent. My mind was so much occupied -during the afternoon, I hardly thought of it; but in the evening, I -retired to my closet, determined to ask for strength from one who is -ever ready to help the weak in the performance of duty. - -When I arose from my knees, my fear was all dispelled. It appeared -almost like a privilege to do what I had so much dreaded. While I was -yet speaking, God answered. - -This morning, when I was dressing my little daughter, an employment in -which I delight, Frank came in and inquired, "Have you thought upon the -subject I proposed yesterday?" - -"Yes," was my reply. - -"And what have you decided?" - -"I will, at least, attempt the duty." My hand trembled so much, I could -scarcely button Pauline's dress; but I think he did not notice it, for -he walked quickly out of the room. I was taking her to Ann for her -breakfast, when he returned, and with such evident marks of strong -feeling on his countenance, I looked at him anxiously. - -He took my hand, and pressed it to his lips, saying, "Will you soon -return to your boudoir?" I rang for Ann, and then followed him. He -clasped me in his arms, as he exclaimed, "my own Cora, you were never -before so dear to me. You little know what a struggle it has cost me to -see the conflict in your mind, and neither say or do anything for your -relief. I have blamed myself severely for expecting so much of you, my -dear child. Many times yesterday I was on the point of withdrawing my -request; but I hesitated. I felt sure you would decide aright, and that -I should rest satisfied with your decision. It is not the first time you -have set me an example. When I heard your decision, I considered it a -great triumph of duty over inclination." - -"But you do not know all the naughty thoughts I had," said I, raising my -eyes for the first time. "I even wished,"-- - -"My own wife," said Frank, pressing me to his heart!--"And have all -these hard thoughts of your husband gone? Did you wish," he asked, -turning my face to his, "that you had never left home to live with such -an exacting man?" - -"Oh, Frank! I never wished so; I did not say that. How could I be happy -as I am, if I felt thus? I wished something worse; which I had rather -not tell." - -"You had better make a clean breast of it," said he, smiling. - -"I wished," said I in a low tone, "that you were not quite so good; and -then you would not expect so much of me." - -Frank looked very much amused. "That's the last thing in the world, I -expected my wife to complain of. But seriously, Cora, I have learned -many a lesson from you. One of your looks of wonder, a year since, upset -my favorite theory, and in the end secured to me the most precious wife -in the world." - - -_Monday, June 15th._ - -Poor Emily! I wonder if she knew Mr. Benson was to exchange with Mr. -Munroe, yesterday. If so, she did not speak of it. I never saw a man so -changed; he looked as if he had had a severe fit of sickness. - - - "He withers at his heart, and looks as wan - As the pale spectre of a murder'd man." - - -But his sermon was really sublime, and lifted me above myself. The text -was the last verse of the forty-second Psalm: "Why art thou cast down, O -my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I -shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God." - -Trust in God, was his subject. Amid all the trials and vicissitudes of -life, trust in God is the only sure source of happiness for the -Christian. Trust him to bring good out of seeming ill; to make these -very trials "work out for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of -glory." If he withdraws the light of his countenance; if our beloved -friends sicken and die before our eyes; if our worldly estate takes to -itself wings and flies away; if our fondest hopes are suddenly dashed to -the ground; if we are ever left to call out in agony of spirit, "Why art -thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me?" we -may, by Divine grace, also exclaim, "hope thou in God, for I shall yet -praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God." - -In the pale countenance of the speaker, I could read the struggle, and -the victory. I was actually startled at Emily's looks, as we turned to -come out of the pew. She caught my hand to save herself from falling; -and from the motion of her lips I understood her to say, "_faint_" -though no articulate sound came forth. - -I whispered, "Dear Emily! lean upon me; don't faint here; try to arouse -yourself." - -Never was I more thankful than when we reached the carriage and had -assisted the poor girl into it, without attracting notice. There was not -a particle of color in her face or lips. I drew off her gloves, and -chafed her hands, while mother loosed her bonnet strings, and applied -the smelling drops to her nose. - -With a deep sigh she recovered her consciousness, and was ashamed and -mortified that her feelings should have been betrayed even to her loving -friends. She tried to conceal them with the flimsy excuse, that she -arose in the morning with a head-ache, and the heat of the house had -overcome her. - -I wonder if Emily thinks, she really deceives us, or is she deceiving -herself? In the afternoon, she declared that she was fully able to go to -church; and when, at the last moment, she was forced to acknowledge -herself sick, and mother was removing her own bonnet to remain with her, -she insisted that she had rather be left alone, and mother very -reluctantly left her. - -"Poor girl!" I exclaimed, as mother related the circumstance, "my heart -aches for her." - -"I never saw a child so changed," said mother sadly; "I cannot but -think, she regrets her hasty decision. I have never before known her to -be irritable. It seems to annoy her exceedingly to have me notice her -languor or want of spirits. Frank," she continued, "I wish you would -persuade Emily to take an anodyne. I think the want of sleep is partly -the cause of her head ache." Frank asked if she would be likely to come -over to the house to tea; but mother could not tell; she was so -changeable in her feelings. - -I could not help thinking, Mr. Benson noticed sister's absence. He -looked very sad. I was so anxious about the poor girl, that I must -confess, I could not confine my thoughts to the discourse. Frank, too, -was called out; and mother looked pale and troubled. Altogether, I -worked myself up into quite a fever of excitement; and was glad when the -services were through. - -While we waited a moment in the porch for Cæsar to bring the carriage to -the door, Mr. Benson passed down from the pulpit and came out. He would -evidently have avoided the meeting, if possible; but mother stepped -forward with much kindness and thanked him for his faithful discourses. -He unbent at once, and inquired for my health and that of the family. - -I told him, I was well, but quite anxious about my sister, as she had a -severe head-ache which detained her at home. What could have come over -the man to look so pleased that she was ill? - -Fearing I had said something to compromise her delicacy, I added, "she -has had the head-ache for several days." Now I think of it, I only made -it worse. He spoke, as he conducted us to the carriage, of his sorrow at -the intelligence, while he looked perfectly delighted. - -When we reached home, Phebe met us at the door, and said "Misse Emily -here, and my pinion is dere's mighty smart chance for her to have a -fever if Mass'r Frank don't doctor her." - -As we entered the parlor, sister started up, and looked eagerly for a -moment as if expecting some one with us; and then sank back again on the -sofa pillow, evidently disappointed. Could it be that she thought Mr. -Benson would return with us? - -Cæsar went toward the village to meet his master, and soon returned with -him. The Doctor had been called to a child in a fit from indigestion. -That reminds me to tell you that in accordance with his wish, I have -restricted Pauline's diet to bread and milk, which she eats heartily, -sitting in Ann's lap. - -Emily's sickness touched the little girl's heart; I held her in my arms, -and let her put her soft-hand on "Aunty's head to make it better." Frank -came behind and put his on too, with the tenderness of a woman. He sat -down by her side and held her head while she covered her eyes as if she -feared, he would read her thoughts. - -"Emily," said he, gently, "you have too much heat; I fear you and Cora -have lately been unduly excited. I thought yesterday, she was going -beyond her strength; and such is also the case with you. I must give you -a little powder, which, I hope, will soon afford you relief; does it -ache less when I hold it so?" he asked, as he pressed the throbbing head -between his hands. - -"Oh, yes! sometimes it feels as if it would fly to pieces." - -"Poor girl! how it throbs. Cora, will you hold her head while I prepare -something for her?" - -He soon returned with a wet bandage, which he bound tightly around her -head, and then gave her ammonia. I had finished my tea and was -returning through the hall, when Cæsar answered the door bell, and to my -amazement announced "Mr. Benson." - -In my confusion, I ushered him into the parlor where Emily lay upon the -sofa, with her face toward the wall. I hoped, she was asleep, and was -just coming to my senses, and intending to invite him into the library, -when he asked, "Is she then _so ill_?" - -At the sound of his voice, Emily sprang upon her feet, tore the bandage -from her head, while the light actually flashed from her eyes at what -she fancied an intrusion. But perceiving his ghastly pallor, she sank -back upon her seat, saying, "Frank has been making a great fuss over me, -as if I were sick." Truly, one would never have thought so at that -moment. She was perfectly brilliant with excitement. The fever lit up -her cheeks, while her eyes even dazzled my sight. - -How I pitied the young suitor! He stood where he did upon his first -entrance, with his hat in his hand. His countenance changed as he gazed -at her until her eyes fell; then with an air which was almost haughty, -he said "Farewell! FAREWELL, FOREVER!!" and left the room. - -I followed him silently to the door, my heart being almost paralyzed. He -stopped, took my hand in both of his, pressed it warmly and said, "I -appreciate your kindness, but you are mistaken." The last words he -uttered in a cold, bitter tone, and was gone. - -I started to run to my chamber, but remembering my poor, strange sister, -I turned back to the parlor, where I found her prostrate upon the floor. -I screamed, "Frank! mother!" and soon the whole household came rushing -into the room. The Doctor dismissed the servants, and taking Emily in -his arms carried her up stairs to the room, she formerly occupied. - -It was some time before she revived. When she perceived where she was, -her woe-begone look penetrated my heart. Poor mother! How quietly she -goes about everything that ought to be done, with an expression of -patient suffering! How can Emily make herself and all of us so unhappy! -She lies this morning in a deep sleep, and, I hope, will awake -refreshed. I have been sitting by her while mother went over to the -cottage on some business. She has now returned, and I have persuaded her -to lie down on the couch in sister's room. She was so anxious, she -scarcely slept at all. - -Dear Pauline, what a comfort she is to me! She is the most affectionate -little creature I ever saw, and has already woven herself closely around -our hearts. Even Frank laughs merrily at her cunning ways. - -Phebe wears a turban, generally made of a bandanna handkerchief, or -something equally bright. Miss thought, she too must wear one. So she -watched her opportunity when Ann laid down her duster, which happened to -be an old silk kerchief of similar colors to madam's turban, and tried -to weave it round her head. Ann observed her unsuccessful efforts with -silent amusement, and perceiving that when one side was arranged, the -other came tumbling down, offered to assist her. - -Pauline shouted with delight: "Mamma, see! mamma, see!!" The kind -hearted girl brought the child to me. I laughed well at her grotesque -appearance. Her head was top-heavy with the turban, while the dark short -curls peeping out here and there made her look like a boy. She evidently -thought it a good joke, and was unwilling to have it taken off. You see, -we make a great pet of her; but since I began to manage her aright, she -obeys instantly. Sometimes her lip quivers a little, and she looks as if -she were about to burst into a hearty cry; and then, with a sigh, -restrains herself. - -Almost every morning, from eleven till two, I have received calls; and -shall have business enough for the fall and winter if they continue. -Many of them are formal and ceremonious; others, I suppose, are prompted -merely by curiosity to see the stranger. I find the report of my three -years' residence in Paris creates quite a sensation. People look at me -as if I ought to be something more than Americans who have never been -out of their native land, and appear somewhat disappointed to see in me -nothing more than a simple, frank girl, just like their daughters or -sisters at home. - -A few have called whom I like exceedingly; who entered into conversation -upon subjects profitable and interesting. You, my dear mother, have -spoiled me for enjoying the society of persons who cannot talk, except -of individual character and conduct; as for instance: "I suppose, your -husband has told you of the trouble in Squire Lee's family. He attends -there, I believe." - -"No," I replied. - -"Ah, indeed! Well, Lucy has had to break her engagement with young -Mansfield just to please her brother, who is no better than he should -be." I remained silent simply because I had nothing to say, and was glad -when the entrance of other company put a stop to such gossip. - -Of the more select class, are Mr. Munroe, Mr. and Mrs. Marshall, Miss -Proctor,--Frank's favorite,--and I must not forget Friend Estes, who -frankly said, "I came, my dear, to see thee out of the regard I have for -thy husband." - -I rather think, she was well enough acquainted with human nature to -know, that she was making her way directly to my heart. - -"How is Susan, thy mother?" she asked. I stopped and hesitated a moment, -before I remembered that the Friends always use the first name. She was -overflowing with love and good-will to everybody; and before she went -away we grew so friendly, that she kissed me twice and said, "I must -bring Jotham to see thee, my dear"--"Cora," I said, seeing she hesitated -for the name,--"and thou wilt come with thy husband for a visit to our -house." She warmed my heart finely by her praise of Frank. - -After all, there are a great many pleasant people in the world. I wish, -you could see how kindly her deep blue eyes looked out from her drab -poke upon your Cora. Your heart would come across the water to meet -hers. - -The more I see and hear of Miss Proctor, the better I love and esteem -her. She is truly a "Dorcas," in whom the sick and afflicted always find -a friend and helper. She has been an efficient aid and cooperator with -Frank in his gratuitous practice. - -Speaking of this class, I must relate to you an incident, Emily told me. -A short time since, when Frank had fairly established himself in his -profession, and had collected a good practice, a young physician came to -the place, rather to the annoyance of some of his brethren of the -profession, who took no pains to call upon him. The Doctor, however, -embraced the first opportunity to visit him at his office, to which -there was little more than a showy sign, announcing to the public that -"Dr. Clapp, Physician and Surgeon, was ready to extract teeth and cut -off legs at the shortest notice, and for the lowest price imaginable." - -Frank entered into conversation with this young son of Æsculapius, and -found, he was well learned in his profession, and had high -recommendations from his professors as to his qualifications for his -office. My good husband encouraged him to persevere, and offered to -recommend him wherever it was in his power. - -"I shall never be displeased," he added, "if I hear, you are taking my -practice, except in the case of my poor patients. Most of these have -grown up with me, and I flatter myself, I am, with them, an exception to -the general rule, 'a prophet is not without honor, save in his own -country.'" - -The sequel to this visit is quite romantic. Dr. Clapp, who is about -twenty-four years of age, walked to the window, where he vigorously -plied his handkerchief, as if afflicted with a sudden cold. After this -operation he was relieved, and came back offering his hand to Frank. He -said, or tried to say, for his voice was rather husky, "Your kindness, -Dr. Lenox, inspires me with new life and courage. I am yet waiting for -my first patient." Then, encouraged by Frank's kind interest, he -unburdened his heart, and asked advice with regard to a little private -affair of his own. - -It appears that, like a great many foolish young men, (I don't say it -was foolish in _his_ case, not knowing the circumstances,) he had fallen -in love, while in college, with "the most amiable girl in the world." -That was five years ago, so that their courtship had been quite -protracted. To the ardent lovers, at least, it had seemed sufficiently -so. - -Harriet Phillips, who, at the time of their engagement, was but -fourteen, had now arrived at the mature age of nineteen years,--"Quite -old enough," he added, with an inquiring look at the Doctor, "to take -charge of a family." - -The decided tone in which Frank replied, "_Certainly_," gave the suitor -new courage. To marry, or not to marry, that was now the question; and -the judge who was to give the important decision, acknowledged that he -found himself in rather a novel predicament. However, he shielded -himself as many judges do, behind general principles. He acknowledged -the great propriety of a physician being a man of family, and as soon as -he could support a wife in comfort, he certainly advised him to marry. - -"This," said Dr. Clapp, "is exactly the way I view the subject." - -The young man soon after returned the call in the Doctor's absence. With -a frankness which seems rather peculiar to him, he told Emily all the -first part of the interview, and more than hinted at the latter; so that -she, who has a considerable share of curiosity, coaxed Frank to tell her -the rest, saying, "I'm sure Dr. Clapp wants me to know about it." - -Now she says, "I shall advise him to bring his Harriet without delay. I -fancy, he thought her old enough when he saw you at mother's levee. -Besides Frank is so much older than he is." - -Emily insists that I do not look more than sixteen, and that I keep -blushing like a girl of twelve. I wish I could break myself of this -habit; but the more I try, the more the blood will rush to my face. It -is very disagreeable, and sometimes places me in awkward situations. - -But to return to my story, Dr. Clapp intends to profit by the excellent -example set him by an elder brother of the cloth, and will soon be -joined in the bands of Hymen to his beloved Harriet,--when he will bring -her to the goodly town of Crawford, here to make up to her, by every -means in his power, for the trials and sacrifices, she has, for a series -of years, been called upon to make as the eldest sister in a large, and -not very prosperous family. - -Poor Emily, I wonder when she will laugh again, as she did when she -related that to me. I must go and see if she is awake. I have not heard -the least sound from her room all the time I have been writing. Ann -carried Pauline about the garden until she went to sleep, that the house -might be quiet. - - - - -CHAPTER VI. - - "Nought shall prevail against us, or disturb - Our cheerful faith, that all which we behold - Is full of blessings." WORDSWORTH. - - -_Tuesday, June 16th._ - -Last night when I sat writing busily, a hand was put upon my paper. -Starting up, I saw Frank with one of his very grave looks. I hastily -shut my desk. "How is Emily?" I asked quickly. - -"Emily is asleep; and I thought you were, long ago. I really must -restrict you to certain hours of writing. Do you know how late it is?" -He held his watch toward me, and to my amazement it was near midnight. - -"I took no note of time," I replied, "I was so absorbed in writing. It -is almost like talking with my own dear mother." - -"Well," said Frank, touched a little, I suppose, by my sad tone, "you -shall write as much as you please, only don't take the time from your -sleep." - - -_Tuesday Noon._ - -Dear, _dear_ father, mother and sisters, how happy you have made me by -writing so soon. Frank came home in the middle of the forenoon, and -beckoning me out of Emily's room into my own, stood with his hands -behind him, and asked, "How many kisses will you give me for something I -have brought you?" - -He looked so pleased and mysterious, I couldn't think for an instant -what it could be. When I did, I gave a bound behind him, and caught the -letters before he was aware. "But," he said, "I won't be cheated in that -way. I'll sue you." I told him, I would give him a thousand kisses -after I had read my letters. My hands trembled so much with joy and -excitement, that I had difficulty in tearing off the covering; when such -a dear packet presented itself, I almost danced with delight. - -Frank looked as pleased as I did. I made him sit down while I read dear -father's letter, the last in order; when I had finished, Frank said, "I -must tear myself away, and hear the rest after dinner. My patients will -wonder what has become of me."--"But," he added with a very demure look, -"can't you pay me part of my bill, and let me endorse it on the -account?" - -I sprang up, and with my arms around his neck, gave him such a shower of -kisses, as certainly he never had from me before; and I sat down quite -out of breath. - -"There, now, I've found out what you can do!" he said, laughing merrily, -"you have kept me on very short allowance heretofore; I never supposed -you capable of such exertions." He then slipped quietly into Emily's -room, and soon I heard him drive away. - -Isn't he a darling, mother? though I fear, it won't do to tell him so, -for he is getting really to think too much of himself. He used to be so -grateful for the least favor shown to him; and thought it such a -privilege to be allowed to kiss my hand. Now he grows more exacting in -his demands; and nobody knows what he'll expect after this. - -He heard of the arrival in New York of the packet ship "Eleanor," and -has been watching the mail for my letters.--Cæsar happened to-day to go -to the office before him; but Frank drove rapidly home to have the -pleasure himself of giving them to me. All this Cæsar was delighted to -tell me, while his eyes shone like two stars through a cloud. - -The whole family sympathize with me in my joy at hearing from my dear, -sweet home. Even Emily brightened up a little, as I read mother Lenox -part of Bell's letter. She lies quietly in bed, and says she is free -from pain; but she cannot make the least exertion without fainting. -Frank says, she has a slow fever. The cottage is shut up; and Ruth has -come over to aid Phebe while mother and sister are here. I feel very -glad that Emily's sickness occurred here. Mother says, it was all wisely -ordered. I know, she feels relieved at night by this arrangement. - - -_Tuesday evening._ - -Frank says, I may write half an hour, to pay for my liberality to him -this morning; and he will sit up and read his papers. This has been an -eventful day to me;--first my letters from home;--then I had a note from -Mr. Benson, informing me, that, situated as he was, (with regard to -Emily I suppose), he could not give proper attention to the duties of -his profession, and that as tutor and companion, he had accepted an -offer made him some months ago, but then declined, of going to Europe -with a young man. - -What will Emily say? _I_ shall not be the one to tell her. I read the -letter silently, and then passed it to my husband. He looked very, -_very_ grave, almost stern. - -"Cora," he asked after a long pause, "do you think, Emily has trifled -with the affections of this young man? Women seem to have an intuitive -perception on such subjects." - -"I think that she loves him far more than she will acknowledge; but I -don't believe, she ever gave much encouragement to his suit. When I have -been present, she has treated him with indifference, almost with -rudeness. Perhaps I ought not to express a mere suspicion; but I have -thought, Emily's conscience troubled her on account of the manner in -which she treated him. From her casual remarks, I fear, she dismissed -him rather haughtily." - -"Worse and worse," exclaimed Frank, with such severity, I was almost -frightened. "For one situated as she is, with regard to wealth, to -conduct herself in such a manner toward a gentleman of his worth and -education is really unpardonable. It would sting him to the quick; and I -respect him all the more for the course he has pursued. If she were -poor and friendless, it would not be half so censurable. But for her to -take advantage of her station to insult him--pshaw--I cannot bear to -think of it." - -"Oh, Frank! don't speak in such a severe tone. I was wrong to say what I -did." - -"Well," said he, hastily withdrawing his hand from mine, "I wish, she -were as ready to acknowledge her faults as you are." - -"But it may be all my suspicion. I may not have understood her aright." - -"What did she say?" - -I replied reluctantly, for he was already much excited. "She did not say -so in words. Only I received the impression, that she had given him to -understand, she was astonished, he should presume to think, she would be -the wife of a poor country clergyman." - -"Cora," exclaimed Frank, starting up and walking across the room.--I -burst into tears. I had never before seen him so excited; and I had no -idea, he could look, or speak, so severely. It makes me almost cry even -now to think of it. - -Frank just now says, "my love, you've exceeded your time;" so good -night, dear mother. - - -_Wednesday, June 17th._ - -My husband told me last night that a packet was advertised to sail for -Liverpool, and that probably it would need ballast, and therefore it -would be a good opportunity for me to send my journal. It amuses him -that I find so much to write about. He little imagines how much I write -respecting him, my lord and master. He has never asked to see it; he has -too much delicacy to do that. - -Emily had a comfortable night; and mother slept quite well, and feels -refreshed. I asked Frank, if Cæsar would be at liberty to take me to -ride this morning. - -"Certainly," he replied, "I hope you will call upon him whenever you -wish. He will be proud to drive you." So I dressed my little miss in her -best suit, and having taken her in for a morning call upon aunt Emily, -we started off in the cool of the day. I wanted to return before the -time for Pauline's "_siesta_." - -As we drove down the hill, I asked Cæsar if he knew where Caroline -Leighton lived. - -"Oh, yes Missus! I goes dere berry often for Mass'r Frank." - -"And do you know where Mr. Lewis lives?" - -"De man what's dying wid consumption?" - -"Yes." - -"Well den, I knows dat too. Where you go first, Missus?" - -"To see Caroline." As we rode on, I asked, "Can you spare the time from -your work to wait for me, and let Pauline sit in the carriage? I don't -like to be in a hurry when a person is sick." - -Good Cæsar's face fairly shone as if freshly anointed; and he replied, -"I 'spects so, Missus. Mass'r Frank told me, allus leave ebery ting, -when young Missus wants to go. Mass'r Frank sets mighty store by young -Missus." - -Just then we stopped at the gate; and I was prevented the necessity of -replying to the complimentary speech, which, however, being the -conviction of his large, honest heart, gave me more pleasure than almost -any one, I ever received. He let down the steps and lifted me out as if -I were a wax doll. I verily believe he wanted to take me in his arms and -carry me to the house, as he would Pauline. She wished to go with me; -but he sat in the carriage holding her in his arms, saying, "mammy come -back." - -I had brought with me two beautiful bouquets, one for each of my sick -friends. With Caroline's in my hand, I knocked gently at the door of her -apartment, though I could have entered, as the doors were open to admit -the fresh air. She turned her head at the sound, and was very much -pleased at my early call. She said, she would ring her little bell for -her mother; but I told her on no account. Indeed, I was glad, she was -alone. - -I laid off my bonnet, saying as I did so, "You see, I intend making a -long call." I then took a tumbler, and having filled it with water from -the pitcher on the table, I put the flowers in it and set them near her. - -She smiled, and seemed pleased that I made myself so much at home. I -drew a chair to the side of the bed, and taking her thin white hand in -mine, asked, "do you feel strong enough to talk with me a little?" She -bowed assent. - -"Does it not seem hard for one so young to be called to die? Do you feel -willing to give up this beautiful world, your mother and friends?" - -"Heaven is far more beautiful;" and she added, with a devout expression, -"my Saviour is there." - -"How long, dear Caroline, have you loved the Saviour?" - -With a deep sigh, and a look of profound sorrow, she replied, "Only a -few months. Oh, what a hard heart mine has been!--to turn for so long a -time from a loving Saviour." - -"Can you, without exerting yourself too much, tell me about the change -in your feelings?" - -"Hasn't the Doctor told you?" - -"No, he said perhaps you would do so." - -She closed her eyes for a moment, and then gave me the following -account. "I lived a life of gayety and pleasure. The world looked -bright; not only the things of nature, to which you referred, but gay -people, fashion and pleasure in every form. I suppose it will do no harm -for me to say now, that I was praised for my personal beauty, and for my -graceful manner. But I forgot that "we all do fade as a leaf." Yes, I -forgot it, though I had lost two sisters, since my remembrance. - -"In the unwearied pursuit of worldly enjoyment, all other things faded -from my mind. Yet there were times when conscience sounded an alarm, and -the thought that perhaps I too should be cut off, as my sisters had -been, in the morning of life, made the blood stagnate in my veins, and -my heart cease to beat. - -"I was a regular attendant at church, and one of the prominent members -of the choir. But I never listened to the sermons. I studiously avoided -hearing them; especially when they treated of death, the judgment, and -eternity. I have often sat in church, very devout in the eyes of those -about me, but engaged in making all my plans for the coming week; and -then quieted myself with the thought that I had not sinned half so much, -as if I had heard the sermon, and not profited by it. I was often -praised for my regular attendance. Alas! He who looks into the heart -knows I went to the sanctuary far more to exhibit myself, to hear people -say of me, 'how handsome! what a fine voice!' than to worship my Maker, -who had bestowed these gifts upon me. - -"About a year since, I took a violent cold upon my lungs. I had -previously felt languid and unwell, but would not acknowledge it to -mother, lest I should be kept from singing school, and places of -amusement. Soon after this, the Doctor was called, and never was there a -harder or more rebellious heart than mine, when he, in the kindest, most -fatherly manner, told me that the disease would probably prove fatal. It -was not in the power of man, he added, to effect a cure. He said that -possibly I might be better, and live for years; but the disease was upon -me and could not be shaken off. - -"That was the thought that twinged every nerve in my body. I hated my -Creator for making me sick. I hated my physician for telling me of it. I -hated my parents and every one who believed it. But oh! I hated myself -more than all, when I began to see a little into my own heart. - -"I had always been called amiable; and I believed myself to be so. But -now I was actually frightened at the tumult of hard and angry thoughts -in my awakened soul. In the night, I frequently awoke, trembling with -affright; an angry God seemed ready to consume me with his fierce wrath. -This state of mind continued with some abatement for several months; and -the conflict of my feelings operated injuriously upon my health. - -"One day your husband came in, when he could stop longer than usual. He -sat down by my bed and tried to talk with me. But I would not speak. I -pretended not to hear what he said. Some of his words, however, arrested -my attention, and without intending it, I turned my face toward him. He -understood the whole of my hardness and guilt. He asked me if I had ever -realized how great was the love of Jesus, who left the blessedness of -heaven, to suffer and die for us, and who having made atonement, now -endures neglect and reproach from the guilty souls, he came to save. It -is human, said he, when man offers a favor to his fellow, and is treated -with neglect and scorn, to withdraw the offer. But the Divine Lord who -endures indifference, ridicule and contempt, still says, 'Come unto me -all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.' - -"Oh, those blessed, _blessed_ words! I listened as if I had never heard -them before. Was I not weary with wrestling with the Almighty? Oh! was I -not heavily laden with sins, more than I could bear? Why may I not come? -For the first time, tears of real penitence filled my eyes, and with a -subdued voice, I said, 'Will you pray for me?' He did pray, as he had -done many times before; but I never heard till then. He wept as he -besought God earnestly in my behalf. God in mercy answered. - -"When he arose, Christ had taken my burden, and I was at rest. I had -never disbelieved the Bible. But now its truths came home to my heart, -and I was made free. - -"Oh!" she exclaimed, almost in rapture, "the goodness and long suffering -of God, to me a poor lost sinner." - -The excitement of speaking had carried her beyond her strength; and as -she lay with her hands clasped, and eyes closed, she looked so pale, I -feared she had fainted. But she presently opened her eyes, while a -heavenly smile played around her mouth. I kissed her forehead; but I -could not speak. - -Her mother, not hearing the bell for some time, looked into the room to -see if she were asleep; but perceiving me, she returned to her work. - -"Dear Mrs. Lenox," said the sweet girl, "you'll pray with me." I -hesitated. "For your husband's sake, please." - -I could not deny her, but saying I would return after a moment, I left -the room. I had seen from the window that Cæsar had difficulty in -keeping the horse quiet on account of the heat and flies. I told him to -ride on a short distance and call for me in about ten minutes. - -When I returned, and was about to close the door, Caroline said "no one -will disturb us, and the room is very warm." - -With my hand in hers, and my face on her pillow, I for the first time -addressed my Heavenly Father in presence of a fellow creature. But I was -not embarrassed. He who looks from above, put words in my mouth and was -near me. - -As I arose and stood by the bed, I was startled by the moving of a -shadow; and turning quickly to the door I saw my husband standing on the -steps with his face buried in his handkerchief. - -Passing through this part of the town to visit a patient, he had stopped -this morning instead of returning here this afternoon. I do not think he -heard me; and if he did, I ought not to feel ashamed, when I dared speak -in the presence of the High and Holy One. But I must confess it. I felt -for the first time in my life sorry to see him. - -"How came you here?" he asked in surprise. - -"You forgot you gave me permission to ride out." - -"And Cæsar, where is he?" - -"There," said I, pointing to the carriage, which was just stopping at -the gate. "You must not talk much with her," I said smiling. "But you -may talk a little _to_ her if she will be very quiet. I fear she has -already had too much company." Promising to visit her again as soon as -possible, I went with Frank to the carriage, when he returned to his -patient. I found Pauline struggling hard to keep her eyes open, and on -consulting my watch, concluded to postpone my call upon Mr. Lewis until -another day. So I merely left the flowers in passing, saying to his -wife that I would endeavor to make him an early call. - -"He has been lotting upon seeing you, maam. He says of the two, you -better understand his feelings, seeing you've had the same." We hastened -home, where the sleepy girl was glad to drink some milk and go to bed. - -And now, dear mother, with remembrances of affection to the dear -home-circle, I close this part of my journal, which I hope will interest -you. I intend writing to Bell and Nelly in answer to theirs just -received. - - -_Thursday, June 18th._ - -I gladly resume my journal; I feel lost without my writing. Emily -appears really better. Of course she knows nothing of Mr. Benson's -intended departure. I have not been able to learn when he sails. He only -says in his note, "as soon as his arrangements can be made." Emily seems -indifferent to every thing; and, when mother and I talk cheerfully, -turns her face away. But I have seen the tears trickle through her -fingers when she thought herself unnoticed. To-day, however, she is -brighter, and though not by any means as she once was, she appears to -have made her mind up to some course; and to feel better for her -decision. But this is mere suspicion. Time will show whether I am -correct. This afternoon she sat up in the easy chair more than an hour, -and amused herself with Pauline, who looked at her very seriously at -first, as if she did not quite understand all these changes. - -Early this morning, I begged a ride with Frank as far as Mr. Lewis's, -and told him my intention was to walk back. To the latter part of my -proposition, he very unwillingly consented, as it is half a mile, and -the heat is great. But with my parasol I thought I might venture. - -Mrs. Lewis came into the little entry to receive me, and told me in a -low tone, her husband was failing fast, and she thought, could not live -many days. "He will be right pleased to see you. He has set his heart -upon it." I then followed her up-stairs to the room. He is now wholly -confined to the bed. - -Every article of furniture, I observed, was scrupulously neat; and -something in the appearance and conversation of the family reminded me -forcibly of the household of the Dairyman, as described in Legh -Richmond's well known tract entitled "The Dairyman's Daughter." There -was an air of respectability, which is often felt, but which cannot -easily be described. - -Mr. Lewis was sitting bolstered up in bed. He could not breathe when -lying down; and could only speak in a broken whisper, with long -intervals between his words. Sitting with him was a married sister, who -had followed him to this country, and who had now come to remain with -him until after the closing scene. - -I took my seat near the bed, and begged Mrs. Lewis to allow me to pass -him the cordial with which he was constantly obliged to wet his lips. -With a courtesy she thanked me and resumed her sewing, while I addressed -a few words to the poor sufferer. - -"I am afraid you are too sick to hear me talk, you seem very ill this -morning." - -"All--peace--here," he whispered, laying his emaciated hand upon his -breast. - -I expressed very great pleasure that God had heard his prayer, and asked -whether he felt any of the fears with which he was troubled at my last -visit. - -He shook his head; and when I held the cup to his mouth said, -"I--can--trust--him. He--will--do--right." - -This, then, was the source of his peace. My eyes filled with tears as I -quoted the passage of Scripture which came into my mind. "Thou wilt keep -him in perfect peace whose soul is staid on Thee." I noticed that he -looked exceedingly faint, and motioned to his wife, who immediately held -some camphor to his nostrils, saying as she did so, that he could take -no nourishment. - -When he revived, I thought I had better retire; but he looked wistfully -first at me, then at his wife, who caught his meaning and said, "He -would like to have you read and pray with him as the Doctor does." - -I made no reply. What could I say? She arose and gave me an old, -well-preserved family Bible; and turning to the fourth of Hebrews, I was -just commencing to read about "the rest that remaineth to the people of -God," when a gentle knock at the outer door called Mrs. Lewis from the -room. I went on, however, in compliance with a wistful look from the -invalid, and read through the chapter, having in the mean time come to -the conclusion, that if the sister would leave the room, I would try to -comply with the dying man's request. Just as I closed the book, she -stepped softly behind me, and desired me to go below for a moment. -Explaining this in a word to Mr. Lewis, I complied with her wish. - -Entering the lower room, I found Mr. Munroe, who had been requested by -the Doctor to call. I was much interested in the account given by Mrs. -Lewis to her pastor; and which she narrated in language above her -station. I have often noticed that persons in humble life when speaking -upon religious topics, are elevated by their theme, and by their -familiarity with the language of scripture. - -Mr. Lewis was born of pious parents who early dedicated him to God, and -sought prayerfully to educate him in the fear of his Maker. He had lived -a perfectly moral and peaceful life, having been able to support his -family at least in comfort, until laid low by disease. When he was -unable longer to work, they had moved to Crawford, as a place where his -wife could find employment for her needle. - -They had three children, the girl and boy I mentioned, and one between -the ages of these two, who was at school. Mrs. Lewis felt that her -husband was a Christian, and had been, for many years. But he was of an -eminently timid spirit, distrustful of himself, and as he could not tell -the exact time of his conversion, not having been exercised in mind like -his wife, and many others whose experience he had heard or read, he had -been unwilling to make a public profession of religion. He had, however, -been in the daily habit of secret prayer, and of reading the scriptures; -had taught his children faithfully, not only the practical duties of -religion, but had endeavored to instil into their young minds the sacred -doctrines of the gospel, as he had been taught them by his parents. - -During the visit of the Doctor on Tuesday, the patient had given -evidence of a saving change; and he had urged the sick man to give glory -to God, and to hope in his mercy. This view of his case led the poor man -to a train of reflection, which ended in the calm but complete trust he -put in his Heavenly Father. - -He had none of the rapture with which Caroline was sometimes borne as on -angel wings, to heaven; but there were reasons to hope he was as truly a -monument of grace. At the Doctor's last call, he had humbly but -earnestly expressed a desire to unite himself to the people of God, and -to taste, at least, once on earth, of that feast of which our risen Lord -has said, "Do this in remembrance of me." - -The Doctor had requested our pastor to call and converse with him upon -this subject. I expressed my fear that the invalid was too much -fatigued; but Mr. Munroe said he should be very brief. - -I waited below for about ten minutes, when Mrs. Lewis invited me to go -up and join them in prayer. The regular season for the administration of -the ordinance here will be the first Sabbath in July, but as Mr. Lewis -will not probably live so long, it was concluded to have the service -privately administered to him next Sabbath afternoon. Mrs. Lewis invited -me to be present with the Doctor, which I promised to do, and left -accompanied by Mr. Munroe, whose house lay in the same direction. - -Mrs. Munroe has been absent ever since my arrival in Crawford, on a -visit to her father's. I told her husband, I anticipated much pleasure -in her acquaintance. - -He says, he is under great obligation to the Doctor, for informing him -of such cases as the one we had just witnessed. He is still so much of a -stranger in the place, he has not found out who are the members of his -parish. He enlarged particularly upon the great aid it was to a -clergyman, as well as upon the great advantage it was to the town, to -have a pious physician. He said it was often the case when physicians -were otherwise, that they were unwilling to have a pastor visit their -patients, vainly imagining that they might frighten and injure them. -Here he said, he everywhere met with evidence of the Doctor's -faithfulness to the souls as well as to the bodies of those to whom he -was called. - -This exactly accords with my own observation. I thank God that he has -made my dear Frank an instrument of good. - -As we were approaching Mr. Munroe's house, he said, "I have been much -surprised to hear that our neighbor Mr. Benson intends to leave his -people, and to go to Europe. He said nothing to me upon the subject," he -added, "when I met him on Sabbath morning. I should have supposed that -he would have wished to spend the last Sabbath among his own people. -There is some mystery about it." - -I made no reply; and after a pause, he inquired "Is he out of health?" - -"He certainly appeared so the day he preached," I replied. I did my best -to appear unembarrassed, but cannot say that I entirely succeeded. He -looked intently at me for a moment, but said no more. - -When I left him, he added, he should not be surprised if Mr. Lewis did -not live until the Sabbath, but he thought him prepared to die. - - - - -CHAPTER VII. - - "Give him not all his desire, so shalt thou strengthen him in hope; - Neither stop with indulgence the fountain of his tears, so shall he - fear thy firmness. - Above all things, graft on him subjection, yea in the veriest - trifle." TUPPER. - - -_Friday Evening, June 19th._ - -Emily continues convalescent, and her eye begins to have its former -lustre. She has sat in the chair nearly all the afternoon, while mother -and I were sewing and Pauline played with her toys upon the floor. I am -more than ever convinced that Emily's sickness is connected with her -mental trouble. - -I am likely to have full employment for my needle. Little girls need so -many changes, and Miss Pauline had none, on her arrival, however large -her wardrobe may have originally been. Mother wishes to assist me; but I -declined her kind offer. - -Poor little Pauline! she had a hard time this morning, and so did her -mamma. We had quite a controversy; but I will explain. Cæsar was going -to market in the village; and I told him if he would take the carriage, -I would ride with him, as I wished to make a few purchases. - -It is very warm; and I did not think it best for Pauline to accompany -me, as she had generally done of late. She thought this very hard, and -began to cry. I stepped back, and said, "Aunty sick; Pauline mustn't -cry," when she fairly screamed, and showed a very naughty temper. I saw -there was to be a contest; and I told Cæsar not to wait. "I must -postpone my ride until another time." Then taking her in my arms I -carried her to a room the farthest removed from Emily's, and laying off -my bonnet, attempted to take her into my lap. - -But no, she would not come to me. She ran across the room and threw -herself down on the floor, kicking and screaming. I was astonished, and -did not know what to do. I was afraid if she cried so, she would make -herself sick; at the same time I knew that she ought to be made to obey. -It was in my heart to take her up and coax her to be good; but this I -knew would injure her, and destroy my authority. In a low firm voice I -said, "Get up, Pauline, and come to mamma." She only kicked the more, -and screamed the louder. I had not supposed the child had half the -strength of limb or lungs. This was her first exhibition of temper. Till -now she had been uniformly yielding and mild, though to be sure, as -Frank says, this was the first time her wishes were ever crossed. - -I never was so perplexed; and if Frank had been in the house I should -have left her with him, and ran off where I couldn't hear her scream. I -kept repeating my commands; but she paid no attention, though I spoke as -gently and caressingly as I could, and asked her to be mamma's dear -little girl. She would stop screaming a moment and look at me; and when -I thought she was going to yield, she would begin afresh. - -I tried to think she did not understand me, and was thankful for any -excuse for her. But in this I soon found I was mistaken; for I told her -to pick up a block and put it in the chair. This she did readily; then -when I told her to come to me, she lay down and began to kick and scream -with all her might. - -I left her on the floor, and calling mother out of Emily's room, told -her in a whisper my trouble, and asked her what I could do. I even -begged her to go in, and try her skill. But she said that would not -answer the purpose; Pauline must be made to submit to me, as her parent. -She encouraged me by saying, "I once had just such a contest with Frank; -but when he yielded, it was for life." - -I therefore returned to the room, with a heavy heart, where the noise -had entirely subsided. Finding, however, that she was no more ready to -obey, but had stopped from sheer exhaustion, I kneeled by the chair, and -asked God to give me wisdom and strength for this emergency. And if -chastisement were necessary, I prayed that it might be administered in a -right spirit. - -I arose and took my seat. "Pauline," said I, "if you do not come to -mamma, she will have to punish you." She looked at me earnestly, -attracted by the tone of my voice, which was very decided; but she did -not seem to know what punishing meant. "Will you come?" I repeated. She -shook her head decidedly. I went to her and taking her hand struck it -with mine. Oh, dear, how it made my heart ache! Her lip quivered, and -then she burst out afresh. Both the command and the punishment, I had to -repeat five or six times; but at length, when I resumed my seat and -asked, "Now will my little Pauline come to mamma?" - -She ran and threw herself into my arms. The contest was over. I carried -her back two or three times, and then called her, when she readily -obeyed. Now I could act out the impulses of my heart; I kissed her, and -wept over her. Then I pressed her tightly in my arms, while I told her -mamma was sorry, her little girl had been so naughty. She took her apron -to wipe away my tears, and seeing me still weep, she sobbed aloud. - -When she became composed, I carried her to mother, where, though her lip -still quivered, she was Pauline again. She kissed them all, and told -them, "mamma sorry," which she repeated to papa, and Ann. My grief made -a great impression upon her tender heart. - -I know, dear mother, you will sympathize with me in this trial. I think, -however, it will do the child good. Frank remarked at dinner, that I -looked very pale, and I certainly felt worse for the excitement; but he, -and all the rest, rejoiced with me in the happy termination. Pauline -sobbed a long time after she was asleep; but this afternoon she has been -like a little lamb, coming every time she looked up from her play and -met my eye, to give me a sweet kiss. - - -_Saturday, June 20th._ - -This morning I went to the village, and though I trembled for my -daughter, lest the scene of yesterday should be repeated, she behaved -well; and I promised her a ride this afternoon with papa. Did I tell -you, I had taught her to say "Papa?" I had no idea of being her _only_ -parent. - -During the forenoon, I received a very pleasant call from Lucy Lee, the -daughter of Squire Lee, our richest citizen, who made his money, as I -have told you, by his distillery. She is a beautiful girl, modest and -sweet in her manners, but looked to-day very pale and careworn. My -thoughts recurred to what I had heard of her domestic trials. I was glad -she was unaccompanied by her brother, who is very disagreeable to me -with his talk of "_our_ place, _our_ horses, _our_ store." It seems -hardly possible that he can be her _own_ brother. - -Lucy is said to be like her mother, now deceased. Joseph is like his -father, and has been so much indulged, especially since his mother's -death, that he is now the master. Emily says the whole family are afraid -of him; and that Lucy, with whom she is intimate, lives a very sad life -in the midst of all their splendor. - -I invited the dear girl to come to tea next week, to which she -cheerfully consented. I hope, by that time Emily may be down stairs. - -This afternoon I persuaded mother to take my place with Frank for a -drive. She has confined herself closely for the last week. Pauline was -delighted to accompany them, though she did not like to leave mamma. I -took my sewing into sister's room, where we were soon busy in -conversation. After a little time, she interrupted me, as I was -beginning a remark, "Cora, I want to say something to you while mother -is gone. I wish your advice and assistance." - -"Well, dear Emily, it is very easy to give advice;" but while I spoke, -my heart began to beat very fast. I feared it would be something about -Mr. Benson, and then the truth concerning him would have to be told. - -Emily suddenly covered her face with her handkerchief, "I have treated -him shamefully." - -"Who?" - -She looked at me as if she wondered that I should not know of whom she -was speaking, and could not bear to mention his name. As I still looked -inquiringly, she added, "Mr. Benson," and blushed crimson. "He made -proposals of marriage to me the evening after our ride to Waverley, and -I indignantly refused him. I treated him as no lady should treat a -gentleman under such circumstances, even if she cannot love him. But I -_did_ love him! I _do_ love him _now_!" she repeated earnestly, again -hiding her face. - -"Then why, dearest Emily, did you treat him so cruelly? I think you were -very much in the wrong." - -"I know it, I confess it," she replied, beginning to weep. - -"I can't understand you, Emily. You loved him dearly?" She bowed her -head; "and yet refused him with scorn?" She bowed her head still lower. -"Why?" I again asked. - -"Because," she said passionately, "he seemed so certain I should make a -courtesy, and say 'Yes, sir, I thank you.' I suppose he expected I -should fall right into his arms the moment he gave me leave. I loved him -when he was away, yet there was something in his manner toward me which -roused all my pride, and more ugly feelings than I knew I possessed. He -showed his love too openly, as if he were sure of success." - -"I thought," said I with a smile, "that you wished the one you married -to be very loving and often assure you of his love." - -"Pooh!" said she, trying to laugh, "that was all my nonsense. I would -rather a dozen times, that he would be like Frank. Now he almost -worships you; but he is not always talking about it, and showing it in -such silly ways." I now began to blush in earnest. "But it is foolish to -talk of all this now. The die is cast, and I have no one but myself to -blame. I have been thinking it all over, and have brought down my pride -to asking his forgiveness for my haughty manner; mind, I say for the -_manner_ of my refusal. But it has cost me a hard struggle." - -"What made you treat him so the night he called when you were sick?" - -"I don't know," she replied, sadly; "I believe I was possessed with some -evil spirit. If he had come in an hour earlier, he would have found me -humble enough." - -"Did you expect him?" - -"I half expected he would call," covering her face to hide her blushes. -"But my mind was all worked up, and my head ached so, and--and I thought -he'd think I was mourning for him. But I've suffered enough for my -foolish pride." - -"Poor girl!" I thought; "if she knew what I do, she would suffer more." -"Emily," said I, rising and taking her hand, "I pity you sincerely; but -I cannot help telling you, I think you have been greatly to blame." - -"Well, I'm willing to hear that from you; and I have acknowledged it." - -"In the first place," I continued, "it was entirely your imagination -with regard to him. His manner, as far as I saw it, was uniformly -respectful and tender, perhaps too openly the latter to suit my taste; -but not the least bordering on undue confidence in your attachment. -Indeed, I thought he did not sufficiently respect himself, and was too -distrustful. Then I can't understand how you could love him, and yet -give him such pain. You saw how very pale he looked." - -"Oh, don't repeat it! I have thought of nothing else;" and the poor girl -wept bitterly. Suddenly she looked up, as she heard the carriage, and -trying to wipe away her tears, said quickly, "Not a word of all this for -the world. I want you to take charge of a note from me, and send it to -him." - -"When shall you write it?" - -"Some time next week," she answered, putting her finger on her lip, as -she heard mother at the door. - -I was glad to escape from the room; and ran down to take Pauline from -papa. My head was all in a whirl. I am glad I did not promise secrecy, -for I must tell Frank the first chance I get. He will know what to do. - - -_Sabbath Evening, June 21st._ - -I remained at home with sister this morning, while mother went to -church. It is a rainy day. I suppose we ought to be thankful, for the -earth was very dry and dusty; but I do love a pleasant Sabbath. This -afternoon I went with Frank to church, and from thence to the house of -Mr. Lewis. Mr. Munroe and Deacon Jackson rode with us, and after the -horse had been driven under a shed, we all proceeded to the sick room, -the deacon carrying with him a basket containing the sacred elements. - -One of the tenants of the house had opened her room opposite, for the -convenience of the company; and I was surprised as I passed up the -stairs to see that it was crowded with people; many of them, I suppose, -members of the church who came in to unite in the ordinance. - -A clean white linen cloth was spread over the table at the foot of the -bed, upon which Deacon Jackson placed two cups of wine and a plate of -bread, covering the whole with a napkin. In the midst of intense -feeling, I noticed all this, with pleasure, as evidence of the reverence -and awe with which he handled the elements which were to represent the -body and blood of our Lord. - -The poor dying man, in clean clothing, lay on his bed with everything -about him spotless and white as snow. Though he looked exceedingly pale, -yet there was an elevation and glory in his face, which showed that his -soul had communion with his Saviour, and that the gracious Spirit was -strengthening him for this solemn occasion. - -Though it rained very hard, yet the window near the bed was open to give -the poor man fresh air, while his wife stood near him with a fan. I was -affected to see that she had reserved two seats near the bed for the -Doctor and myself. Mr. Munroe occupied a place at the door that he might -be heard in both apartments. Frank gently moved one of the chairs toward -her, motioned her to sit in it, and stood by my side. - -The solemn service commenced with an invocation, after which the -covenant and creed of the church were read, and heartily responded to by -the invalid, if I may judge from his rapt attention; then a short prayer -consecrating the elements, which were distributed. The Doctor took the -cup from Deacon Jackson, and gently raising the sick man, held it to his -lips. There was truly a sublime expression on his countenance. With -uplifted hands, he whispered, -"Dear--_dear_--Jesus--died--for--me--glory--_immortal_--GLORY!!" - -In a moment the expression changed, and Frank, who was closely watching -him, stepped to Mr. Munroe, and told him he feared Mr. Lewis would -faint. The clergyman immediately pronounced the benediction, and -requested the friends quietly to withdraw. - -I stepped to the backside of the room, while the Doctor opened the other -windows for a moment to change the air, and with the help of strong -restoratives, the patient soon revived, and was able to swallow a little -of the wine and water the Doctor had prepared. I went toward the bed to -bid him farewell, doubting whether I should ever see him alive again. He -looked at me affectionately and gratefully, and pointed up, as if he -would ask me to meet him in heaven. I pressed his cold hand to my lips -and silently left the room. - -Mrs. Lewis followed us to the door, where she took Frank's hands in -both of hers, and burst into tears. The most ardent desire of her soul -for her poor dying husband had been realized; her prayers for years, -answered; and though he was to be taken from her, she trusted she should -meet him in a better world, to part no more. - -I was deeply solemnized and impressed by this scene. It is the first -time my dear husband and I have together tasted the memorials of our -Saviour's love. I think I shall not soon forget it. - - -_Monday Morning, June 22d._ - -Mr. Lewis breathed his last this morning soon after eight o'clock. The -Doctor reached there a few moments after, and made all the arrangements -for the funeral, which is to be on Wednesday afternoon in the chapel -near the church. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII. - - "Oh! 'tis the _heart_ that magnifies the life, - Making a truth and beauty of its own." WORDSWORTH. - - -_Monday Evening._ - -Emily is so much better, we think she can go down stairs to-morrow. As I -have had no suitable opportunity to talk with Frank, I have avoided, -when with her, the subject of our late interview. - -I went with my husband this afternoon to visit the most charming old -lady I have ever seen. I wish you could see her; she is over eighty, but -just as fair as a young girl, and from her being of full habit, she has -scarcely a wrinkle on her face. She has the most gentle, loving blue -eyes, and her gray hair is nicely combed down under a plain muslin cap. -Many a young girl might be envious of the beautiful peach bloom of her -cheeks. But these are not her greatest charms. It is her manner, her -heart overflowing with love to all. I believe everybody loves her, -because she loves everybody; and she doesn't hesitate to show it. She is -the mother of Mrs. Squire Wilson, to whom the Doctor was called for a -sprained ancle. I could soon understand why he was so pleased to take me -there with him. - -When she heard the carriage, Mrs. Low, or "Aunt Susy," as every one -calls her, came to the door, and shading her eyes from the sun with her -hand, stood looking until the Doctor alighted. - -"Well now, Dr. Frank, that's you," (she had known him from a baby,) "I -reckoned you'd be here before long." - -Frank led the horse to the steps and lifted me out. - -"Who's that, now, you've got with you?" she asked, looking at me. - -"Somebody else for you to love," said he laughing, for she had taken -possession of his hands. - -She started, and holding me by the shoulders in a most loving way, said, -"La, now, Doctor! this 'ere little thing don't b'long to you, does she? -Is she your wife, I heard tell about?" at the same time she gave me a -most hearty squeeze. - -Frank laughed as he bowed his assent. - -"I reckoned," she added, "you'd pick'd out one a proper sight older'n -this little gal, you was allus so stiff." - -As she continued to press me in her arms, and then push me off to look -again, my husband began to look as if he was afraid he never should get -me away again. All this time with a true delicacy, she had not kissed -me, as if she were not sure I would like to be kissed by so old a -person. But I soon relieved her on this point, and then we all walked -into the sitting-room where her daughter, who was evidently used to such -scenes, was patiently awaiting us. After being introduced to Mrs. -Wilson, whom I recognized, (as I had met her at mother's levee,) the -Doctor proceeded to examine her ancle. Aunt Susy and I took seats on the -little sofa which was covered with bright chintz. She sat very close to -me, and with a press of my hand which she held, she motioned with her -head toward the Doctor, saying in what she meant for a whisper, "he's a -real nice man to live with, I'll be bound." I only laughed and nodded. - -"Them stiddy ones, sometimes turns out the greatest rogues," she -continued in a comforting tone, "now I calculated, he'd court a prim, -proper kind of a woman, a reglar old maid, that'ud be company for his -mother; but there's no telling what people will do, times changes so, -since I was a gal." - -I was well convinced by the spasmodic motion about Dr. Frank's mouth, -that he was not so absorbed in the examination of Mrs. Wilson's foot -that he did not hear every word of this _confidential_ talk, I therefore -thought, I would try to change the subject of conversation. As I could -think of nothing else, I told her what a dear little girl I had found. -She was almost breathless with interest, and when I stopped she said:-- - -"Now I never heard the cap to that! Now do tell if you're gone to keep -her for your own, or if you're gone to kind o'make a servant of her?" - -"Oh, no indeed!" I answered quickly, "Frank loves her as well, or almost -as well as I do, and we have adopted her for our own." - -"And she's nothin to you, by blood I mean?" - -"Oh, no, we don't know whose child she is." - -"Well, that is the beater!" she exclaimed, and for the child's sake I -suppose, gave me another squeeze and kiss. - -"Betsey," said she to her daughter, "Did you ever hear tell what Dr. -Frank's been and done?" - -"No, mother." - -"Well, he'd no more'n got his little young wife safely housed, than he -was so impatient for a darter, that he went and picked up one out of the -streets, and gin to her to take care on." - -The Doctor and I laughed heartily at this curious exposition of our -domestic affairs, while she evidently thought she had stated the case -exactly. She ended with, "There now, I never was so beat. To think of -Dr. Frank starting off on sich a rig. However, I hope good luck'll come -on't, and mabby you'll soon find out who the child b'longs ter." - -"Oh! no," said I, interrupting her, "that is the only thing I'm afraid -of, I couldn't give her up." - -"Look there, now!" said Aunt Susy, turning in surprise to the Doctor, -"an't it mazin how these young critters takes to children." - -We both rose to go; but she just took my hands, and set me down again. -"Sit right there, till I bring you some luncheon." - -I told her I preferred not taking any; but she would hear no excuse. She -went out into the kitchen, and very soon brought a waiter, covered with -a clean napkin, holding two tumblers of rich milk, and some nice sponge -cake. It was really delicious. Mrs. Wilson addressed a few words to me; -but I was not at all drawn to her as to her mother. The Doctor says she -is a woman possessed of a very good mind, and has been a great reader, -but has never had children to develop her affection and modify her -character. - -When we had disposed of the lunch, and Frank had given his directions to -his patient, we prepared to take leave, receiving one or two extra -kisses, and a good squeeze of the Doctor's arm for his part. - -"Bring her here when you come again," said the old lady, pointing to me. -"She's a pootty critter." Aunt Susy is a little deaf, and seems to think -everybody else so. "I think so too," whispered Frank in her ear, loud -enough for others to have the full benefit, when, after receiving a -loving pat on his arm, he jumped into the carriage. - -I told the Doctor on our way home, how disappointed his old friend was, -that he had not married a more suitable person,--one that could be a -companion both for him and his mother. He laughed so heartily, that I -had to hush him several times, for fear some one would hear. - -"Yes," he said, when he could speak, "I know who the old lady wanted me -to have; but in the choice of a wife I intended to suit myself. So if -you are satisfied, I prophesy she will soon be reconciled." - -Now, my dear mother, if you have any idea from what I have written, that -Aunt Susy has anything coarse about her, I have not described her well -at all. She is truly refined in her feelings. I wish all the ladies I -have met in high life were as much so. She is a dear, old-fashioned, -warm-hearted woman; and it makes one's heart warm just to hear her name. -Mother says, her husband was one of the most highly respected men in the -state,--a justice of the peace, and lived independently on his farm, -where he was monarch of all he surveyed. Mrs. Low had considerable -property which she has made over to her daughter, who takes care of her. - - -_Tuesday, June 23d._ - -This has been a very warm day, and I have not been out of the house, -though I wished much to see Caroline Leighton. She is quite comfortable -again, and sits in her chair two or three hours at a time. - -Last night after we retired to our room, I told Frank I wanted to ask -his advice upon a very important subject. So we sat down in the bright -moonlight, while I told him about Emily. He said not a word, but heard -me with interest. I fancy he controlled his feelings, as he frightened -me so much the other night. "Now you see, Frank," I said, "you did Emily -injustice. She has acknowledged she did wrong; and she intends to -confess it to Mr. Benson." - -"Ahem!" was all the reply. - -"What can I do?" No answer. - -"After all," said he, starting up to walk across the room, "it is quite -a triumph for Emily to confess her error to him. She has her full share -of the Lenox pride; and we all have enough of it. It must have cost her -a great struggle. But that doesn't help the poor fellow. I should wish -no farther acquaintance with a lady who had treated me so rudely." - -Frank seemed to be soliloquizing, and I interrupted him by asking again, -"My dear _husband_, what shall I do?" - -"I can tell you, my love, what I shall do, very quickly," he replied, -coming and taking my hand, while he kissed me repeatedly. "I shall love -you with all my heart for calling me by so dear a name." I had never -before addressed him as my "husband." - -I felt very courageous in the moonlight, and said, "Why, Frank, I -understood you to say nearly a year ago, that you had lost your heart. -Have you found it again?" - -"Not exactly; but I've found the warmest, largest, most precious heart, -to put in its place." - -"But," said I after a moment, "to return to Emily. She intends writing a -note, which she wishes me to send." - -"I don't see how that can be done. We don't know where to direct. Did he -mention the name of the family he was going with?" - -"Yes, Mr. Karswell, a merchant in New York. Mr. Benson goes with his -son, who has just graduated, or is about to graduate." - -"Then I think we might reach him through his patron. Address it to the -care of C. M. Karswell--I know the firm. Charles does not leave college -until sometime next month. I suppose arrangements will be made for them -to sail soon after his graduation. I will confess to not a little -curiosity to read Emily's epistle. Will she show it to you?" - -"I think it doubtful," I replied. - - - - -CHAPTER IX. - - "He loved--loved keenly; and he could not bow - To what seemed tyranny, and so he sought - His wonted happiness, at least the bliss - Of mutual tears, and vows of tenderness, - Never to leave their loves, but always cling - To the fixed hope, that there should be a time, - When they could meet unfettered, and be blest - With the full happiness of certain love." PERCIVAL. - - -_Wednesday, June 24th._ - -I forgot to mention last night that the services of the Doctor had been -requested at the Nabob's mansion, or "Lee Hall," as Joseph styles it. In -other words, when Frank went to his office in the village yesterday -morning, he found the following request upon the tablet. "Will Dr. Lenox -call at Squire Lee's residence this forenoon, to afford medical advice -and relief?" This was written by Joseph in a bold flourishing hand. - -The Doctor called, and found Lucy was the patient. _Patient_, she -certainly was in one sense of the word, though not much sick. Frank -says, her trouble is beyond his reach. It is sorrow of heart. Lucy has -from a child been intimate with sister, and is of course well acquainted -with the Doctor. When he kindly enquired the symptoms of her complaint, -she did not speak, but just placed her hand upon her heart with a -sorrowful expression. He asked if there was nothing he could do for her -relief. She shook her head with such a woe begone look that he was -deeply moved. He could do nothing but recommend nourishing food, and -free exercise in the open air. He did not leave until she promised to -fulfil her engagement to take tea with us on the morrow, when he wishes -us, if possible, to cheer her spirits as the best means of restoring her -health. - - -_Thursday, June 25th._ - -Directly after breakfast I went with the Doctor to see Caroline, and -spent a delightful hour in reading to her, and in conversation on -religion. The Bible and subjects relating to it are her meat and drink. - -Directly after my return, I wrote a note to Lucy Lee, begging her to -come to us at an early hour; and in consequence of my invitation, she -made her appearance about three o'clock. We were all moved by the -expression of meek and patient endurance upon her lovely countenance. - -I purposely left her alone with Emily, for I thought that she might talk -more freely with her, and perhaps find relief from her sympathy and -affection. I had just returned from the cottage with Pauline, where -mother was occupied with Ruth in preparing for their return, when Emily -requested me to go into her room, to which she had invited Lucy, that -they might be free from interruption. - -I found Emily in a state of great excitement, and poor Lucy with her -handkerchief to her face silently weeping. - -"I say," exclaimed Emily passionately, "it's a disgrace to the town, for -such a system of persecution to go on, as has been, and is still pursued -toward her," pointing to Lucy, who had not looked up, "and not have it -inquired into and prevented." Emily had, for the time, forgotten her own -trials, in her indignation at the greater ones of her friend. - -I sat down by the weeping girl, putting my arm around her waist. She -thanked me by a press of the hand, while Emily, who sat in a -rocking-chair opposite, (she was too excited to keep still a moment,) -continued, "Only think, Cora, of that rascally fellow Joseph." Poor Lucy -looked imploringly. - -"Excuse me, poor girl; but much as I love you, I have always detested -your brother. He has nothing of the gentleman about him. But I never -could have believed he would have acted so cruelly." - -I had been waiting in vain to hear the occasion of this ebullition of -feeling; and I interrupted my indignant sister, by saying, "You forget, -Emily, that I know nothing of the circumstances." - -She then gave me, in substance, the following narrative: - -From a child, Lucy has been attached to Allen Mansfield. In fact, they -can hardly remember the time when they did not love each other. While -Mrs. Lee lived, all went on well; and although a very gentle, loving -woman, she exerted a considerable influence over her husband, and -persuaded him to consent to their early betrothal. Allen's father, Mr. -Mansfield, is a merchant in this place, carrying on a prosperous -business; and, at the time of their engagement, his son was considered, -in point of wealth, a suitable match for Lucy. Allen was everything her -mother desired; honorable, upright and virtuous, of generous heart, and -noble principles. More than all, he and his beloved were united in the -most enduring tie of Christian friendship, and had together made a -public profession of religion. - -Since that time, however, Squire Lee, by means of his horrible traffic -in ardent spirits, has added house to house and farm to farm, until he -has been easily persuaded by his son, that his only daughter ought to -look higher in her choice of a husband. Not that brotherly affection was -so strong in Joseph. Dislike to Allen was his ruling motive. They had -been schoolmates; and though from love to the gentle sister, Allen had -tried to show, at least, kindness to her brother, yet he could not -always conceal his displeasure at Joseph's conduct. A slight or neglect -this haughty young man never forgot. He only waited his time to make -sure his revenge. Since Allen's intimacy with the family, he had indeed -treated him with outward politeness; yet he hated him on account of his -strong, and oft expressed disapprobation of the course he was pursuing, -and the character of his companions. In this way he had gradually worked -his mind into such a state, that there was no calamity too great for him -to visit upon Allen, had it been in his power. - -Such was their relation, when it occurred to the poor drunken creature, -(for no less was he a drunkard because his wines were imported from -Europe at four dollars a bottle; and his Cogniac the best which could be -obtained,) to revenge himself upon Allen by depriving him of Lucy. He -neither thought, nor cared for the sorrow it would cause her loving -heart. He went to work with a zeal worthy of a better cause. By speaking -in a disparaging tone of him to his father, he gradually led him to view -the young man as no longer suitable in rank or station to be allied to a -daughter of their house. - -Poor Lucy! At first she gently tried to defend her lover from inuendoes, -and insinuations which her brother took care should be in such general -terms, they could not be met and refuted. Every one is aware how much -worse than an open accusation are implications like the following:--"If -I were to tell what I know, Allen Mansfield would be hooted out of good -society. He is called clever, but I wouldn't ensure his honor nor his -virtue." - -It was not strange that Squire Lee, who had long suffered himself to be -guided; nay, almost governed by his son, and who was much enfeebled in -mind by the free use of brandy, determined to break the match, nor that -he one day, when he had drunk so much that he could hardly stand, almost -broke her heart by commanding her to dismiss Allen, or he himself would -do it. - -The wretched girl had had many doubts and misgivings whereunto these -things would grow, and had shed many bitter tears in secret; but as she -had no idea of the extent of her brother's malice, nor of the strength -of his determination upon revenge, she had never conceived so dreadful a -result. - -For a week, she was obliged to keep her bed, being almost overwhelmed -with sorrow. Dear girl! the thought never entered her mind that it could -be possible to resist so unjust a sentence. Allen, however, was of -different temperament. Naturally gentle and kind, yet when his -indignation was roused, he had the courage of a lion. - -Having heard that Lucy was sick, he hastened to inquire for her. It so -happened that he went to the house when Squire Lee was alone, and more -than usually under the influence of reason. Though he forbid his -visiting Lucy, or having anything more to say to her, as he expressed -it, yet he did so in a less offensive manner than on the occasion of his -interview with his daughter. - -The consequence was that the young man did not feel called upon to obey -him, but in a day or two called again, having waited in vain for an -answer to several letters, he had written to Lucy. On this occasion, -however, his visit was not so well timed. Joseph was with his father, -who had not yet recovered from his heavy potations of wine and brandy at -dinner, and who, therefore, was easily strengthened by his son in his -cruel purpose. - -A dreadful scene ensued. Allen, whose heart-interest was at stake, -determined, for the sake of her whom he loved, to be respectful to her -father. But he was not prepared to withstand the perfect torrent of -wrath which burst upon him. When he entered and inquired for Lucy, -Joseph sneeringly said, "My sister shall never marry a mean scoundrel -like you." - -Paying no attention to this, which, however, made his blood boil, he -turned to the old gentleman, saying, "You surely cannot be in earnest in -trying to separate your daughter and myself. Your deceased wife was my -friend; and she as well as yourself gave a ready consent to our union." -In the midst of his wrath Squire Lee was a little softened by the tone -and manner of the young man, as well as by the mention of his wife, -whom he had loved next to himself. He was about to speak more kindly, -when Joseph, perceiving his intention, interrupted him. - -"Lucy Lee will be an heiress; no wonder you are loath to give up her -wealth." - -Allen turned deadly pale from suppressed emotion, but controlling his -feelings, said, "Squire Lee, I ask again the hand of your daughter. I -will gladly take her without one farthing of your hoarded wealth." - -Joseph whispered something in his father's ear, who replied, "all very -fine, young man--_very fine_ talk" (hiccough) "indeed; but you--can't -have her. You see" (hiccough) "we've," with a cunning look at Joseph, -"other views for her." - -Allen could contain himself no longer, and in a terrible voice denounced -both father and son as inhuman and brutal in their conduct. "The time -will surely come," he added, "when you will bitterly regret your cruelty -toward her, and your abuse of me." - -Were these prophetic words? - -Joseph, who was beside himself with rage, flew at Allen, and aimed a -violent blow at his head, which the young man dexterously warded off. - -Poor Lucy, who had been attracted by the noise below, sprang from her -bed, and having thrown on a loose robe, rushed wildly into the room. All -stood for one moment speechless with astonishment at her presence, and -frightful pallor. She threw herself at her father's feet, begging him -not to break her heart. She frantically invoked the spirit of her -departed mother to intercede for her, but alas! to no effect. Squire Lee -sat motionless while Joseph in a fury rang the bell, and said to the -porter, "turn that rascal out of the house." - -Allen, seeing there was no hope for him or his dearly beloved Lucy, -suddenly caught her in his arms, held her for one brief moment to his -breast, bade her farewell, and left the house. There was a sincerity in -his grief, a dignity in his manner, which made even the hard hearts of -both brother and father quail. - -Here at Emily's request, Lucy continued the narrative. "I cannot -remember what immediately followed; but when I recovered my -consciousness, I was in my own room. Mrs. Burns the house-keeper, almost -my only friend and confidant, stood bathing my hands and face. From that -time I gave up all hope of happiness with Allen, though he has never -ceased to write me the most tender letters, urging me not to despair, -but to hope on, and hope ever." - - - "Love in the earnest mind is not a dream, - To fade in sorrow, or grow dim by age, - But a most true outpouring of the soul; - A pledge of faith, that looking from the past, - And through the present--sees beyond it all - Hope unaffected by earth's weary change." - - -"I have never written in reply, but have sent messages of unchangeable -and undying love. I begged Mrs. Burns, through whom alone we could -communicate, to tell my dear Allen, that though I could not marry him in -defiance of my father's command; yet I would not marry another. He would -never cease to be dearer to me than life." - -The distressed girl wept so much, that Emily resumed. Weeks passed on, -and Joseph encouraged by her passive obedience, began to think he could -now bestow her hand to his own advantage. - -Among the vile acquaintances which he had formed in a neighboring city, -was Mr. William Arnold, a man about thirty years of age, of whose -elegant dress and accomplishments Joseph was never tired of talking. He -was often at the house, and Lucy from an instinctive feeling of dislike -avoided him as much as possible. She was obliged to meet him at the -table, and to treat him with civility as a guest. She says she has -sometimes questioned herself as to the ground of her prejudice against -him. He is tall, of an elegant figure, and very free, easy manners. He -converses well, and has rendered himself a favorite with the old -gentleman; but there is a look in his eye which she says cannot be -trusted. Then the fact of his being so intimate with her brother is -strongly against him. - -But when Mr. Arnold began to exhibit a fondness for her society, and -whispered soft nothings in her ear, she says "she absolutely loathed -him." - -"His passionate eye," exclaimed Lucy, starting from her seat in great -excitement, "actually makes all my bones to shake. I would willingly -have confined myself to my room; but this I was not allowed to do. My -father," she added with a deep sigh, "no doubt instigated to such a -course by my brother, commands me to appear, as he says whatever company -he chooses to invite to the house is only too good for me. I pined and -wept in secret, but was required to appear cheerful in the presence of -my now avowed admirer." - -With a look of horror, the wretched girl said "I had rather die than -marry him." She acknowledged, however, that she dared not openly resist -her brother's wishes. "When he has been drinking he is--" she checked -herself, "very unlike a brother," and she shuddered with fear at the -thought. - -"I am willing to give up Allen, though he is so _very_ dear to me; but -why need they force me to marry this vile man." She said when the Doctor -called she longed to ask his advice; but fear restrained her; and then -she knew it could do no good. This was said almost in a tone of despair. - -In her indignation, Emily was for sending a police officer to take -father and son and lock them up in jail. I was silent from astonishment; -I had known of cases in France where children were forced to marry -against their will; but can it be so, thought I, in this free country? -Why then this boast of liberty? I am so much interested in this sweet -girl that I have given you a full account of her trials, embracing what -was told me during this interview, and what I learned from mother and -Frank after her departure. I gave the poor girl all my sympathy, while -Emily was very free with her advice, some of which from Lucy's shake of -the head, I foresaw it would be difficult, if not impossible, for her to -follow. But we both urged her to be firm in refusing to give her hand to -one whom she did not respect, and therefore could not love. In this -advice we were joined by my husband and mother. - -After she left, we sat late talking about Squire Lee. I gathered from -what they said, that when the old gentleman first came to the village, -he was a poor boy, and was employed as a clerk in a grocer's store. -Being a shrewd, active lad, he had worked his way up to be a partner in -the firm. Then he married his partner's daughter, at which time they -increased their business, and built their distillery. This proved so -much more profitable than their grocery, that they sold out their store -and devoted themselves entirely to the manufacture of New England rum. - -When his father-in-law died, the whole manufactory and trade fell into -his hands; and now he is possessed of great wealth. It was certainly -known that many houses and farms had passed into his hands; and that a -large number of families had been reduced from independence and comfort -to beggary through their connection with this ruinous business; this -soul-killing establishment. - -Frank said his father had often remarked the deplorable effect this -traffic had upon the mind and character of his neighbor. From being -apparently a kind hearted man, he had gradually become hard, unfeeling -and inhuman. Mammon and Bacchus were his gods. Personal ease and -domestic tranquillity, neighbors and friends, family and home, his body -and his soul, he had sacrificed to these divinities. - - -_Friday, July 3d._ - -Great preparations are making for the celebration of the Fourth of -July, which is the anniversary of the national independence. - -I really think Lucy's visit has been of service to Emily by taking her -mind from herself. She gave me a sealed note to-day directed to Rev. -Frederic Benson, which Frank has enclosed in a wrapper to Mr. Karswell. - - -_Saturday, July 4th._ - -On many accounts this has been a trying day to me. I suppose I do not -yet feel patriotic enough to bear the noise patiently. This morning we -were awakened with the first streak of light, by the booming of cannons -on a neighboring height. My poor little Pauline screamed and cried. When -I took her from her crib into my bed, her teeth chattered from her -affright. I tried to talk with her and soothe her; but in truth I had as -much as I could do to calm myself. The continued roar made me tremble so -much that I could easily sympathize with the frightened girl. - -Doctor Frank expressed much sorrow for us, and would gladly have -prevented it, if possible; but he said there was no help for it but -patience. He comforted both Pauline and myself, by saying he would hurry -through his morning calls, as he has no very sick patients, and take us -all out into the country beyond the reach of the noise. - -After an early dinner we started to rid ourselves of the noise of -cannons and bells, which were to commence again their tumult at noon. We -had a delightful ride and picnic in a grove. We carried cold chicken, -ham and condiments in a basket, and spread them out on a cloth under the -trees. Pauline forgot all her troubles, and amused us much by her -gayety. She danced and tried to sing in her delight. - -When she was tired, she went to Frank and turned her back for him to -lift her up. He pretended not to know what she wanted, so as to have the -pleasure of hearing her say, "please, papa, take Pauline." It is really -amusing to watch them together. She goes quite as a matter of course to -him when he sits in the library, and asks him to "take her," waiting -patiently for half an hour, it may be, for him to finish reading his -paper. Then she is sure of a frolic. - -It often makes me laugh till the tears run down my cheeks, to see him -dancing about the room, with Pauline perched upon his shoulder, holding -tightly to his hair. It is fortunate for the young miss, it is curly, -else her hold would not be quite so firm. I wonder what Madame Le Row or -Mademoiselle Blanche would say to see Dr. Lenox, "the graceful, refined, -but rather too serious Dr. Lenox," capering about the room in that -style. - - - "He will not blush that hath a father's heart, - To take in childish plays a childish part." - - - - -CHAPTER X. - - "If a soul thou would'st redeem, - And lead a lost one back to God;-- - Would'st thou a guardian angel seem - To one who long in guilt hath trod,-- - Go kindly to him,--take his hand - With gentlest words within thine own, - And by his side a brother stand, - Till all the demons thou dethrone." MRS. C. M. SAWYER. - - -_Monday, July 6th._ - -This afternoon, I rode out with Frank to visit an elegant residence, -about three miles distant. The house stands on an elevation, and has a -beautiful lawn in front, descending toward a small lake or pond; on the -shore of which stands a neat but tasteful boat-house, with -accommodations for boating or fishing. - -I saw a young girl rowing herself in a light skiff. She appeared to me -to be about to upset every minute; but Frank told me it was an Indian -canoe, which, being very light, can be paddled about with great ease and -safety. - -On our return, a woman came to the door of her house and requested the -Doctor to call at Jones's, where a child was sick, intimating that she -wished to say something more, but did not like to do so in my presence. -I immediately proposed to alight from the carriage and proceed to the -house of the patient, which was but a few steps distant. - -Both the outer and inner doors were open, and nothing could be more -appalling than the sight presented to my view. The room itself was -capable of being made comfortable, if proper care had been bestowed -upon it. But at present poverty and filth ruled without restraint. - -The sick child lay upon a tottering bedstead, which was covered with -pieces of carpet, torn quilts, or anything which could be procured from -the floor or elsewhere. A part of an old rag-mat was fastened by two -forks to the window at the side of the bed, to serve the double purpose -of keeping out the wind and light, as there was hardly a whole pane of -glass. - -Chairs without backs, and a table under which a barrel had been pushed -to serve in the place of a missing leg, made up the inventory of the -furniture. On the floor, in the farther corner, lay the remnant of an -old straw bed, and upon it was stretched in brutal unconsciousness of -all around him the father of the family; the husband of the woman who -was weeping over the sick child. - -I announced myself as the wife of their physician, and was received by -her in a way which led me to suppose she had seen better days. I felt of -the little hand, lying over the side of the bed, and found it burning -with fever. The sufferer lay with her eyes and mouth partly open, and -her hair in a tangled mat about her face and neck. - -"How long has she been in this stupor?" I asked, as the child took no -notice of me. - -"Since early in the morning." - -"And have you given her no medicine?" - -"Oh, yes! I have tried to force down a little spirit; but her teeth -seemed set, so that she could not swallow." - -I was never more rejoiced than to see Frank enter, as he did at this -moment. He bid the woman get him a clean cloth, and some warm water. The -latter she procured from a neighbor's kitchen, while a part of an old -apron sufficed for the former. - -The Doctor then proceeded to bathe the face, neck, and arms of the -child. Afterwards he administered a cooling draught, which the poor, -parched mouth eagerly swallowed. He forbade Mrs. Jones to give her any -spirit, and left, promising to bring powders for the night. - -As we rode home, my heart was full of admiration of my husband, while -shame, that disgust had rendered me useless, and pity for the suffering -family, alternately occupied my mind. At length, sympathy prevailed, and -I said, "Frank, I shall watch with that sick child to night." - -"Not for the world!" he replied, quickly; and then continued, more -calmly, "The child will do well enough; or rather, she will not be the -one to require most attention. I wish she were away from there; but I -hardly think," he added, after a pause, "it will do to remove her." - -"What do you mean?" I asked. - -"Did you not see the man lying in the corner? He is a poor drunken -fellow; and, if I'm not mistaken, will require more care than the child. -I shall engage Mr. Ferris, a kind neighbor, to watch with them." - -Perceiving my interest, my husband gave me a short account of the -family, which he had known from childhood. "When Esther Holmes was -married, her father furnished everything necessary for comfortable -housekeeping. She had received a good common education, had been a few -terms to an academy, and every one thought her well and happily settled -in life. - -"Her husband, Thomas Jones, is the son of pious parents; a capable man -at his trade, and fully equal to supporting his family in comfort. He -earns, at times, a good deal of money; but it is all spent for rum. -Never was slave more under the influence of a tyrannical master, than he -is under the power of his incessant appetite for intoxicating drink. - -"In his Bacchanalian revels and fits of fury, he has broken and -destroyed the furniture until now scarcely a piece remains. Sometimes, -after an attack of delirium tremens, he endeavors to reform, and works -steadily for two or three months. But then he is again overcome, and -drinks worse than ever. His wife has gradually lost all hope, and seems -to give up and let everything go. I fear she does not try to make home -comfortable and pleasant to him, when he is himself. Everything is -filthy in the extreme. It is only as a matter of stern duty that I can -sit down in the house. - -"For a day or two Jones has been sick, but he drinks all the time, he is -awake; and I fear he will be wild to-night. It makes me sick at heart to -think of him. He has some noble traits; but rum, _rum_, has changed him -from a kind husband and a tender father into a creature worse than a -brute." - - -_Tuesday, July 7th._ - -About midnight a messenger came for the Doctor to hasten to Jones. The -watchers could do nothing with him. He raved and swore that devils were -at the foot of the bed, waiting to catch his soul, and carry it to hell. -Frank went at once and did not return until near daylight. At breakfast, -he relieved my anxiety for the sick child, by saying, she had been -removed to a room in the other part of the house, and was now much -better. But Thomas, he said, had passed a dreadful night. He had seemed -to suffer the torments of the lost. He enumerated his sins from his -childhood, disobedience to his parents, Sabbath breaking, profanity, -intemperance, and almost every form of iniquity. These came up to his -remembrance with the distinctness of the judgment. Then he told how he -had turned from the Saviour, refused His offers of mercy, quenched the -Spirit's influence, ruined his own soul, and the souls of his wife and -children, _all_, ALL _for_ RUM!! - -This he screamed out; and when those around tried to soothe him, he said -that he would scream so loud that every drunkard in town could hear. "If -ten thousand devils pursue me," shrieked the insane man, "I will warn -all to beware of RUM!!" - -His attendants listened in wonder, and even Frank was astonished, as he -had never heard him talk in this way before. Nor could he understand it -until this morning, when Mrs. Jones told him that they had been to hear -the new minister preach; and it appears their consciences had been -aroused by his faithful presentation of truth. - - -_Afternoon._ - -As Frank would not consent to my visiting little Susan, I contented -myself with making her some nice porridge which Ann carried to her. My -husband came in soon after, and told me two men could not hold Thomas in -bed; and they had been obliged to confine his arms. He knows no one but -his physician; and this afternoon appealed to him in a hoarse whisper, -"take them off," pointing to the men who stood at the side of the bed. -"Oh, hide me! _Hide me!_ they tear my soul!" - -The Doctor motioned them out of sight, and tried to soothe him. -"Thomas," said he in a calm voice, "do you remember when you and I went -to the Sabbath school?" - -"Yes, oh _yes_!" gasped the poor fellow. - -"Where did Mr. Goodrich tell us to flee for safety?" Thomas looked up -eagerly, but made no reply. - -"He told us to go to Christ. He would save us from all our enemies." - -"If he would but take me; but oh, he wont; _he wont_! I've been too -wicked ever to expect that," and hiding his head under the clothes, he -cried aloud. Frank succeeded in persuading him to take some medicine, -which the attendants could not do, because he thought they meant to -poison him. He was calmer before Frank left. - - -_Thursday, July 9th._ - -Last evening, my dear husband hurried through his calls, and took Mr. -Munroe with him to see poor Thomas. He found him so exhausted by the -violence of his fits, that, unless soon relieved, he cannot live long. -The agony of his mind makes him much worse than ever before. When they -went in, he had fallen asleep, and they sat down quietly to wait until -he awoke. Frank says, as he sat by the bed and looked at the miserable -man, so haggard and ghastly, he prayed that God would have mercy upon -his soul, even at the eleventh hour. - -When Jones awoke, he stared around him a moment, as if trying to -remember where he was, while the Doctor quietly liberated his right -hand, with which he immediately covered his face. After he had taken -some gruel, he sighed, but would not speak. - -Frank told him Mr. Munroe had come in as a friend to see him. He -suddenly pulled away the clothes, and said, "No, he'll mock me! He knows -how wicked I am! The last time I went to meeting he told over all my -sins. He knows I can't be saved, and he'll only mock me." Here the poor -creature burst into loud crying. - -Mr. Munroe moved nearer, and took Thomas's hand in his; "My poor -friend," said he, in a very gentle voice, "It would ill become me, a -sinful creature as well as yourself, to make a mock at one for whom -Christ died. I have come to remind you of his love, of his desire for -your salvation. He has knocked at the door of your heart again, and -again, and you have turned away from his pleading voice. Will you?--dare -you turn from him now? When the Holy Spirit is striving with you, will -you resist his gracious influence?" - -He was interrupted by loud sobs, and Mrs. Jones, whom they had not -perceived, hastened from the room, holding her apron to her face. Thomas -had not noticed the interruption, but was looking so intently at Mr. -Munroe that the Doctor almost feared the excitement, and placed his -fingers on the brawny wrist. - -But our good pastor perceived the workings of the spirit, and hoped and -prayed that peace and joy might take the place of the dark despair which -was killing body and soul. - -No one spoke, but still Thomas gazed. His whole mind was filled with -wonder. At length, he gasped, rather than spoke, "I will, _I will_ -receive Him as my Saviour, but oh, it is too late!" - -The last words were spoken in such a tone of utter wretchedness and -despair, that his hearers could not refrain from tears. - -"Thomas," asked Mr. Munroe, "Do you remember the thief on the cross? Up -to the moment of his conversion he had probably reviled his Lord. Take -care then that you do not limit the power of the Almighty, whose voice -of mercy saith 'He will save to the uttermost all that come unto Him.' -He also adds for your encouragement, 'though your sins be as scarlet, -they shall be white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall -be as wool.'" - -The poor man looked from one to the other, as if exhausted by the -dreadful conflict within him, and said in a broken voice, "you will not -deceive me with hope, when God has left me to despair." - -Frank said, "While there is life, there is mercy if you will believe;" -and not wishing to prolong the interview, they knelt in prayer. The poor -wife came in and threw herself down at the foot of the bed. Mr. Munroe -in a fervent manner commended them to God. - -He prayed that from eternity they might look back upon this hour as the -most blessed of their lives, as the hour when they had chosen Jesus for -their Saviour, and heaven for their everlasting home. Before he arose -from his knees, the poor humble penitent said, in a voice choking with -tears, "Lord, I believe. Have mercy upon my guilty soul!" Mrs. Jones -sobbed aloud. - - - From earth to heaven the tidings flew, - Two guilty souls are born anew. - - -_Friday, July 10th._ - -This morning Doctor Frank has been to see Thomas. I waited with no -little impatience for his return. He found his patient decidedly better, -though very weak. He had but one fit during the night, and that much -less severe in its character. He had a touching expression of humility -which made him look like a different man. He has most clear views of the -sinfulness of his own heart; and of the abounding grace of God in -providing a Redeemer for one so vile. - -Frank was much pleased with one expression he used; "I dare not hope -that God has accepted me; but I feel willing to be in his hands. He -knows what is best for me. I feel safe to trust him, and think when he -sees how strong my desire is to do right, he will help me." - -Oh, that Thomas may be able to withstand temptation, and to bring forth -fruits meet for repentance. I hope Christians will encourage him and -pray for him. I was grieved this morning to hear a professing Christian -speak distrustfully of the change in poor Thomas, and say, "persons in -delirium tremens, are often very pious, but when they recover, their -goodness vanishes like the morning cloud, and early dew." - -Surely it is infinite condescension in God to visit the abode of -drunkenness and filth with the rich blessings of salvation; but who can -doubt his ability, and willingness to do it? - - -_Monday, July 13th._ - -I have not been quite well for a day or two, and have only received -permission to write a few lines. Frank blames himself for allowing me to -do so much; but I have really done nothing which could injure my health. -The weather was very warm yesterday. I lay upon the bed the greater part -of the day. Frank insisted upon staying from church to nurse me in the -afternoon. He was obliged to visit his patients in the morning. It is -quite sickly now in the town, especially among children. May God -preserve our dear little Pauline! - -After her return from church in the afternoon, madam Phebe came to my -room to make inquiries about my health. - -"Well, Phebe," I asked, "Did you enjoy the sermon?" - -"Oh, yes, missus, ole Phebe hab blessed time. Mass'r Munroe quite undo -hisself dis yer day." - -"_Out do_ you mean," said I laughingly. - -"Laws missus! dere aint no kinder difference. He go long farder in the -broad road dan I eber heard him afore. I 'spects, I'se can stand de -meanin if I'se don't use de right words." - -"What was the text?" - -"Dere now, I'se can't jist tink ob de text all in a minit. It has popped -right off all in a suddent, but 'twas a blessed un, all bout God." - -"Well, Phebe, if you can't remember the text, you can tell me about the -sermon,--it pleased you so much." - -"Oh, yes, missus, pleased me berry much, powerful good discoors dat ar. -Wall now, how kinder curis dis yer chile, can't jist tink ob nothing, -only jist when don't want ter. Now I declar," said the perplexed woman, -putting her hand to her head, "when I'se getting de supper de hull -discoors 'ull come pouring into my ole brain, when I can't no way stop -to 'tend to it." - -"Can't you tell me the subject?" I asked, trying to repress my mirth. - -"Oh, laws, yes, missus, 'twas all bout piousness, and serousness, dat's -de idee. I'se glad," she added complacently, "I'se got some o' my senses -left, 'twas a blessed discoors dat ar." - - -_Tuesday, July 16th._ - -Dear Mother, I am up and dressed for the first time since Monday. I feel -a general prostration of the system. My husband ascribes it to over -excitement. Nothing could surpass the kindness of every one in the -house. I fear Frank will make himself sick from anxiety. He returns home -once or twice in the forenoon, runs to my chamber for a few minutes, and -then off again to another part of the town. Phebe does wonders in her -line, trying to make something "Missus will relish a bit." She complains -that I do not eat enough to keep a canary bird alive, and indeed I have -not much appetite. Frank would not allow me to arise until after dinner, -when Ann came in with a dish which would be very tempting to a person in -health. I readily recognized the kind hand which selected it for me. -The breast of a fat pigeon, with a nice slice of crisp toast, and an -excellent cup of tea. I almost relished it. - -While I sat in bed bolstered by pillows with the waiter before me, madam -Phebe came from the kitchen to pay me a visit. She wished to see with -her own eyes why I did not eat. - - - - -CHAPTER XI. - - Low at his feet his daughter lies; - Dear father, let me stay! - But no, the cruel wretch replies, - Away, begone, away! - - His heart was crusted o'er with years - Of guilt, and shame, and sin; - But still his wretched daughter cries - Oh! father, turn again! - - I'll give up all I've dearly loved, - On thee my cares bestow; - With scorn the gray-haired sire thus proved - His hate. Go, daughter, _go_! - - -_Friday, July 17th._ - -I feel a little stronger to-day. My husband came in yesterday while I -was writing, and put his lordly veto upon my penning another word. I -asked him if he had heard anything more from Lucy, or had received an -answer from Mr. Benson. - -He shook his head and said, "your first business is to get well." I -think Emily is disappointed in not hearing from him; and she must be -surprised that he does not write, as she supposes him to be only three -miles distant. She asked me in a whisper yesterday if I had sent her -letter. I told her, I sent it at once, and asked, "Has he replied?" - -She shook her head. - -"He may be away, and not have received it," I suggested. "I think," I -added with hesitation, "I remember to have heard he was going on a -journey." She brightened at once, and I turned away from fear lest she -should ask more. I am glad to have escaped her scrutiny. - - -_Friday, July 24th._ - -It is a week since I wrote you, dear mother. How I have longed to have -you with me! I shall soon begin to expect another packet of letters. I -desire to tell you about poor Emily; but my hand trembles so much, I -don't know that I ought to enter upon it. - -On Monday last I felt stronger than I had done for a week or two. Frank -lifted me in his arms, and carried me down stairs for a short drive. The -air was delightful, and I returned much refreshed, and invigorated. I -wanted to walk up stairs, for fear Frank would injure himself carrying -me. Cæsar stepped eagerly forward; but the Doctor only laughed, and -said, "No, Cæsar, I claim this privilege, I can carry her as easily as I -could carry a child." - -I felt quite an appetite for my dinner, and was resting in my easy chair -after it, when Emily came up to my room and walked toward me in such a -calm, unnatural manner, I looked at her in alarm. - -She seemed to be changed into marble, so colorless and rigid were her -features. She silently put an envelop in my hand. I did not recognize -the writing, but opened it, and took out a note, which, though written -almost illegibly, either from emotion or haste, I saw was from Mr. -Benson. It contained but few words, which were exactly these:-- - - - "Miss Lenox,[crossed through.--Transcriber.] - - "Beloved Emily,-- - - "I have this minute received your note, which has completely - unmanned me. - - "I am already on my way to Europe, where I shall probably stay - several years; and where, until the last few minutes, I had hoped - to spend the remainder of my life. It is only by the kindness of - Captain B---- I am permitted to detain the pilot, while I write - these few words. - - "We are already out of the channel. May God bless and forgive us - both! Dearest, _farewell_! - - "FREDERIC BENSON." - - -_Saturday, July 25th._ - -I must finish telling you about my dear sister. Frank told mother as he -came into my room, he should have thought that I was the one who had -received sad tidings; for I sat holding Emily's hand tightly in mine, -while the tears were streaming down my cheeks. Emily was calm and -unmoved. I don't know how she feels; but she appears to be petrified. -This appearance made such an impression upon me, that I had a dreadful -dream after it. I sprang out of bed with a horrible shriek, thinking my -distressed sister was insane, and I was trying to save her from some -impending danger. - -The next morning Frank looked very grave, and I heard his voice in the -next room conversing with mother. The result of which conversation is, -that she and Emily have gone for a few weeks to a town about a hundred -miles distant, to visit some relatives. - -In all the arrangements, sister was entirely passive, exhibiting neither -unwillingness, nor interest. I hardly thought she could have left me so -coldly. Not a muscle in her face moved as she kissed her farewell. Her -hand remained passive in mine, and was cold and clammy. I know her -brother is very anxious about her; and I expressed my fear that he had -sent her away on my account. - -"The journey will do her good," he replied. - - -_Monday, July 27th._ - -Pauline is taking nice care of me, while Ann is busy about her morning -work. The dear little thing is so proud to do anything for mamma. -Sometimes she tries to help too much. After Ann curled her hair this -morning, she accidentally left the brush on the dressing table. Pauline -soon espied it, and stepping softly across the room made herself look -like a fright. Her hair needs to be wet before it can be combed, and now -being brushed when dry, it stood out like a broom all over her head. I -told Ann not to laugh so much, lest the child should be encouraged to do -it again, and should give us great trouble. - -I asked Frank this morning, if he thought Lucy would come and sit with -me. I feel rather lonely without mother or Emily, as I can neither read -nor write but a few minutes at a time. He answered, "No!" decidedly. - -"I want to see somebody," I said. - -"How should you enjoy a visit from Aunt Susy?" - -I almost jumped from my chair. This made him decide at once that she -would not do. He said "You must rest, mind and body, in order to get -well." - - -_Tuesday, July 28th._ - -Yesterday afternoon I had arisen from my bed after a refreshing nap, and -was seated in my easy chair by the window, when Frank came up stairs -talking with some one whose voice I did not recognize, until she said, -"I had hoped ere this to see thee at our house. Thee must come before -Elizabeth goes;" and Friend Estes kindly advanced toward me, "I am truly -sorry to see thee ill, my dear." - -I tried to rise, and take her bonnet; but Frank said, she was his -company, and he would do the honors. He took the friendly "poke," and -carried it to the bed, where he spread a napkin carefully over it. - -I looked in surprise; but the good lady smiled as she said, "Thy husband -is well acquainted with friendly ways." - -"I am sorry to leave such good company," he said, "but I have work -enough for the afternoon." He was just leaving the room, when she -detained him a moment, to ask whether Thomas Jones had recovered, and -whether his family were in need of assistance. Frank replied that Thomas -would soon be able to go to his work; until then, they were supported by -charity. - -There is something composing and soothing in the very voice and manner -of the Friends. Certainly this is true with regard to my dear Friend -Estes. - -"Does thee like to have thy hair smoothed, my daughter? because I should -love to do it for thee." - -I said, I should like it very much, if she would let me sit before her, -as I used to sit before my dear mother. She brought me a cricket, and I -sat down and laid my head in her lap, where, for nearly an hour she -passed her smooth hand lovingly across my forehead and hair. At the same -time she discoursed so sweetly, that the afternoon passed too quickly -away. If her conversation had not been so interesting, I should -certainly have been lulled to sleep. - -She told me of her daughter Elizabeth, who is soon to be married to a -worthy young man every way approved by her parents, and the meeting. - -"Is she to marry a Quaker?" I asked. - -"Yes. He is now of our persuasion; but he was not educated so. He became -a Friend by 'convincement.' The wedding is to take place in P----." And -she invited us to be present, kindly offering me a seat in her carriage, -if Frank could not spare the time to accompany me. - -Before she went, she said something which sent the blood to my cheeks, -but which makes me so happy I must tell you about it. I was sitting with -my head in her lap, looking up into her kind face, when she remarked, -"Thee has a kind, loving husband." - -"O yes! I cannot think of one thing in which I should wish him to be -different." She smiled a moment, and then said, "I am pleased thou art -so well suited. Would thee like to hear what he said of thee?" - -"O, please tell me!" I said, before I thought, and then my cheeks -burned. I hid my face and added, "If you think it would be proper, and -he would like it." - -She laughed merrily at my embarrassment, as she said: "I presume, dear, -he has told thee the same, many times. He said, 'If I had searched the -world through, I couldn't have found one so exactly suited to my idea of -a true wife.' He concluded, being quite warmed with his subject, 'She is -a perfect little darling, and I thank God for her every day of my -life.'" - -O, mother, you can't tell how happy she made me. I couldn't lift up my -head for a long time, for fear she would see the blissful tears. She -kissed me tenderly, and when she left, my mind was fully determined on -one point,--if I ever am sick and need a nurse, I shall desire of all -others a Friend, if I can get one anything like her. - -I know, dear mother, you will be glad that your Cora has not so far, -disappointed the expectations of her husband. - - -_Friday, July 31st._ - -Miss Proctor is here, spending a few days with me. I enjoy her society -exceedingly. As we sat together in my room, I did not like to spend the -time in writing. This afternoon Cæsar has driven her in the carriage to -Lee Hall, and Pauline accompanied them. - -I sent Lucy a magnificent bouquet, which Cæsar made me for the occasion, -with a little note expressing my affection and sympathy. - -I had a call from Mrs. Jones this morning. Frank sent her here to see -Miss Proctor, who is making some clothes for the children. - -She appears truly humble and devout. Thomas has not tasted a drop of -spirit since he recovered, and is now beginning to work. She took Miss -Proctor's advice very kindly with regard to neatness and economy; that -her husband might feel that he had a respectable and decent home. She -said, "I have now more heart about him than I have had for many years, -because he distrusts himself and looks above for help and strength." - - -_Monday, August 3d._ - -Lucy Lee sent by Miss Proctor a note requesting me, if able, to call -upon her in the course of a few days; and if unable, begging me to ask -the Doctor to call. He went early this afternoon, when she showed him a -letter, she had received from Allen, and asked him what she should do. - -The letter stated that Allen, feeling a strong desire to know the -character of the man, rumor had affianced to his Lucy, had placed -himself in the way of one of Joseph's associates, an old schoolmate, who -had told him some astonishing facts. These, Frank only related to me in -brief, and, indeed, would have wholly kept from me if possible. - -When Mr. Arnold was first introduced to Lucy, it had not occurred to her -brother to force him upon her acquaintance. But when that gentleman told -him of his love for his beautiful sister, and solicited his cooperation -and influence in winning her hand, he had willingly consented, out of -hatred to Allen. While, however, Arnold's passion increased, her -aversion became every day more evident, until, in a fit of exasperation, -he had made a contract with her brother, that on the day she became his -wife, he, as her husband, would make over to him one half of his -property. This contract Allen's informant was called upon to witness. - -The reason of Joseph's cruel determination to force Lucy to a marriage -with his friend was now evident. Allen begged her to be firm in refusing -to be sold in so vile a manner. - -The Doctor requested to see Joseph, being determined to appeal to his -affection as a brother, and his honor as a gentleman, if, indeed, he had -any such feelings. But he was informed that he had gone with Mr. Arnold -to the city. Frank then advised her to embrace this favorable -opportunity to impart to her father her decided refusal to marry Mr. -Arnold. With this advice poor Lucy, with a shudder, promised to comply. -She is too fearful. - - -_Tuesday, August 4th._ - -I long to hear from Lee Hall. If I do not in a day or two, I will try to -persuade Frank to allow me to call there. - -To-day we received wedding cards from Dr. and Mrs. Clapp. I shall take -an early opportunity to visit them. We also received a letter from -mother, and can you believe it? Frank almost refused to let me read it. -I felt so hurt, I could only say, "Dear husband, would you like me to -conceal anything from you?" - -Without another word, he read it aloud. Emily remains exactly as she was -when they left; neither better nor worse; she talks, walks, and acts -like an automaton. - -Mother fears insanity. She says this state cannot last much longer,--a -reaction must take place. She closed with the kindest messages to me, -and particular inquiries about my health. - -"Frank," I said, when he had finished, "will you please to do me a great -favor?" - -"Certainly, my love, I shall be most happy to do so." - -"Well then, please write to mother at once, and ask her to bring Emily -home. I know she longs to do so; and I am almost well now." He hesitated -what to reply. "You have promised," I said. - -"Well, be it so," he answered, "but I am convinced that it is not safe -for a man to promise so blindly." - -"_Blindly!--a wife!_ oh, Frank! I would promise to do any thing in the -world, you might ask. I have such entire confidence in you, I _know_ you -would not ask me to do wrong." - -He looked very, _very_ much pleased and drew me to his side. "Dear Cora, -you have unconsciously given me the strongest proof of entire love; but -I do not deserve it, though I shall endeavor not to forfeit so precious -a token of your affection. This is the feeling, sweet wife, we should -cultivate toward our heavenly Father. He knows what is best for us; and -it is safe for us to confide in him. He sometimes leads us through -dangerous paths. Let us trust Him, though clouds gather and break over -our heads." - - -_Thursday, August 6th._ - -We were aroused from sleep last night by a thundering knock at the door. -Frank threw up the window, when a man called out, "Doctor, won't you -come as quick as you can to Squire Lee's. He's had a fit, and they think -he is dying." Frank dressed and was gone in a moment. I could not sleep, -but lay revolving in my mind Lucy's situation. I thought how I should -love to offer her a home, where Allen Mansfield could come to see her. I -went through all the marriage ceremony, thinking what a lovely bride -Lucy would make when the heavy cloud had passed away, and her heart was -free from sorrow or care. - -Frank did not return until after I was seated at the breakfast-table. He -looked very serious and only shook his head in answer to the question, -whether the old gentleman was better. "He will probably never be -better." I was shocked. "And Lucy?" I inquired. - -"She has passed from one fainting to another." - -"Horrible! But how is she now?" I really shuddered at the thought that -she might not be living. - -"She is conscious, but very much exhausted." After prayers he took my -hand as he sat by me on the sofa. "Cora," he asked, "can you control -your feelings?" - -I quickly answered that I could, and would. - -"Squire Lee received a letter from his son which so enraged him against -his poor innocent daughter, that he sent for a lawyer to his office and -disinherited her unless she would consent to marry Arnold, and that too -without delay. With this legal document in his hand he summoned her -into his presence, where with horrible oaths, he told her what he had -done. - -"She begged him to allow her to take care of him in his old age. She -would promise never to see her dear Allen; but she could not consent to -marry Arnold. She had rather die. She threw herself at his feet, when he -cursed her and spurned her from him with scorn. A heavy fall caused Mrs. -Burns to rush into the room. She had followed her dear young mistress to -the door and had heard all that passed. - -"The sweet girl was insensible. The kind woman rang for Jacob the -porter; and they lifted her gently, and carried her to her bed. Her -father soon after was seen going to his room. - -"About eleven o'clock, one of the servants was passing through the -apartment next that which he occupied, when she was startled by loud -snoring. She stopped to listen, when finding it continue, she hastily -called the housekeeper, and together they entered the room. The Squire -lay in what seemed to them a heavy slumber; but they could not arouse -him. The sound was like the snorting of a brute, more than like the -breathing of a human being. - -"By this time they were thoroughly frightened, and sent in haste for the -Doctor." - -Immediately after he had told me this, he returned to the wretched -house, _wretched_ in the midst of luxury and splendor! I waited in vain -for him to return to dinner, but received a note toward night, telling -me not to be alarmed, if he did not return until morning. Lucy was -rather better, but would not consent to his leaving the house, while her -father lived. He would probably not survive many hours. - -Dr. Clapp called in the evening, and told me he had received a hasty -note from the Doctor, requesting him to take the care of his other -patients, with a list of those upon whom it would be necessary to call. - - -_Friday, August 7th._ - -Contrary to the Doctor's expectations, Squire Lee is still living; and -there is slight hope that he may be better. Frank pursued the most -vigorous course of treatment; applying cups to the temples, and blisters -to the back of the neck. He left him in a natural sleep. - -Lucy has been carried to the room where she sits near the bed. She -wishes to be near him when he recovers his consciousness, hoping before -his death that he may revoke his dreadful curse. - - -_Tuesday, August 11th._ - -Mother and Emily returned last Saturday, and as mother feared, a -terrible reaction has taken place. Sister is now as excitable as she was -impassive. She laughs so merrily that the sound rings through the house. -Then with as little reason, she weeps violently. I led Pauline to the -cottage to try and amuse the poor girl; but the little creature was -afraid of her aunt, and clung convulsively to me, if Emily tried to -force her from my arms. There is a dreadful wildness in her eye, which -alarms me. - -Squire Lee is so much better, Frank is of opinion that, if he has no -relapse, he will soon be able to leave his bed. Lucy is with him -constantly; indeed he cannot bear her out of his sight a moment. -Sometimes he mistakes her for her mother, and calls her "_wife_," and -"_Mary_!" - -The Doctor has insisted that he shall have watchers, so that she may -have regular sleep; and that she shall take exercise in the open air, at -least an hour every day. Joseph returned Saturday, but as the Doctor -would not allow him to go into the sickroom, telling him he would not be -responsible for the consequences, the young man left again for the city -early Monday morning. - -Frank also told him, Lucy had informed her father of her determination -not to marry Arnold. Joseph swore dreadfully, that she would be the -death of her father yet. All his object now was to see if "the old -fellow," as he called him, had acted upon his suggestion. - -Mrs. Burns had picked up the paper which lay upon the floor, after the -dreadful interview between father and daughter, and having glanced at -its contents, and seen that he had indeed left every cent of his -property to Joseph, was strongly tempted to destroy it; but knowing she -had no right to do this, she carefully locked it in a private desk where -she had sometimes seen her master put his papers, and kept the key. She -told Frank of the fact, who strengthened her in the resolution to -restore it to no one but her master. - -After Joseph's departure on Monday, however, it was ascertained beyond a -doubt, that he had taken the desk with him. - - - - -CHAPTER XII. - - . . . . "No, I'll not weep; - I have full cause for weeping; but this heart - Shall break into a hundred thousand flaws, - Or ere I'll weep;--O fool, I shall go mad!" SHAKSPEARE. - - -_Thursday, August 13th._ - -DEAR MOTHER,--Yesterday was a fearfully exciting day. About noon mother -Lenox came over from the cottage to go back with Emily. - -I asked where sister had gone. She looked at me with fright and wonder. -"Emily," she exclaimed, "started for the house early this morning, -purposely, as she said, to see her brother before he went out upon his -calls." - -"She has not been here to my knowledge," I replied. We instantly went to -the kitchen to ascertain whether Phebe or Cæsar had seen her. Cæsar was -absent; but neither Ann nor Phebe had seen anything of their young -mistress. We were now really alarmed, and waited with impatience for -Frank's return, while the women searched the house and grounds. - -Cæsar was soon heard coming up the hill with the wagon, when his wife -ran to meet him. He stopped the horse to hear what she was in such a -hurry to say, but mother beckoned for him to come to the door. He said -"I'se heb seen missus 'bout seven or it might be nigh upon eight. She be -all dressed out for de walk, and was g'wine down de hill. I'se stopped -de wagon, and axed missus if I'se go back and take de carriage and carry -her where she was g'wine. But missus say no, she only g'wine on a piece -for ole missus. She 'peared in mighty hurry," ended the old man. - -Mother went back to the library, sat down in a chair, and covered her -face with her hands. "I will send Cæsar to find his master," said I, -earnestly. - -Phebe, however, had anticipated me, for when I heard Cæsar, as I -thought, drive to the barn, he had only turned back and gone to the -office in the village. In a very few moments, we heard Frank's welcome -voice. I sprang to meet him and led him to our distressed mother. - -"Emily is gone!" she repeated after me; but oh! I cannot describe the -mournfulness of the tone. - -"Dear mother, don't be alarmed," he said, in a cheerful voice, "I will -soon find the runaway and bring her back." I looked earnestly at him to -see if he really were so hopeful, but could detect nothing to make me -think otherwise, except that he was very pale about the mouth. He then -ascertained from Cæsar the direction she had taken, and rode hastily -away. - -In about two hours, which had seemed equal to a whole day, I received -the following hasty note by a messenger:-- - - - "DEAR CORA, - - "I regret to say that I have so far been unsuccessful in my search. - Let Cæsar procure men and horses from the village, and start off in - every direction. I am on my way to Waverley, where I have slight - encouragement to hope I may find her. A young woman was seen - hastily running in that direction, and was observed to look - frequently behind her, as if apprehending pursuit. - - "May God in mercy grant this to be our dear distracted sister. Pray - for us; but this I know you will do. I am stopping for ten minutes - to rest and water my horse. Sweet wife, take care of yourself and - our dear mother. - - "YOUR FRANK." - - -I instantly rang for Cæsar, and gave him his master's orders, directing -him to send in every other direction except that taken by the Doctor, -and make inquiries at every house. Mother was so distressed, I felt that -I must not give way to my feelings. So I walked the room holding Pauline -tightly in my arms, or leading her by my side. - -Not a tear did mother shed. She knelt by the sofa, with her face buried -in her hands, for half an hour at a time. At the least noise, she would -start up and look eagerly for a moment, and then relapse into her former -state. - -I tried to pray, but could not command my thoughts; I could only lift up -my heart, as I walked the room. "O God! restore unto us our dear, lost -one!" - -I cannot describe to you the intense grief of mother, as hour after hour -passed away, and we still heard nothing from the fugitive. By this time, -the whole village was aroused, and messengers were continually coming to -the house to report their want of success, or to make inquiries whether -the poor girl had been found. - -From the remark of one of them that they had been "_dragging the pond_," -I for the first time realized what must be the agony felt by my dear, -distracted mother, who with a low wail put her hand suddenly to her -heart. I sprang to her side, and clasping my arms around her neck, wept -bitterly. That dreadful thought had never before entered my mind. But it -was what had distracted her. - -Alas! what torment in that fear! I trembled at every sound. Dear, kind -Miss Proctor, who instantly came to us in our sorrow, begged us to go up -stairs, where we could be more retired. She promised to come to us with -the first intelligence. - -Ann came to put Pauline to bed, and brought tea on a waiter; but I -shook my head, I could not swallow. Mother seemed not to see or hear -her. - -It must have been nearly nine in the evening, when I heard a faint sound -in the distance. I listened eagerly, and then again I heard a shout. -This time it aroused mother, who looked at me with dreadful apprehension -and horror of the cause. - -"Hark!" said I, as the sound was again borne on the breeze, "what do -they say?" and now, as they approached nearer and nearer, we distinctly -heard the words, "_She's found!_ SHE'S FOUND!!" - -We stopped but for one convulsive embrace, and then started quickly to -go below; but the sudden relief was too great for mother's overborne -heart; and she fell prostrate upon the floor. Miss Proctor, with Ann's -assistance, raised her, and soon restored her to consciousness, having -motioned me to go below. - -The carriage stopped at the door. A boy was sitting on a cricket -driving, while Frank held his unconscious sister in his arms. With -Cæsar's assistance he carried her to her bed, from which I fear the poor -girl will not soon rise. She was very wild all night, during which her -devoted brother never left her. This morning he pronounces her suffering -from the worst form of brain fever. God only knows the result. - -Dear mother shared my room with me, and in compliance with Frank's -earnestly expressed wishes, forced herself to remain in bed. But I -hardly think she closed her eyes. This morning he has procured an -excellent nurse, and will himself remain most of the time with her. - -He will not allow me to be in the room, and says he has no desire to -multiply such patients. He confessed to me this morning that for many -hours yesterday he feared a more dreadful result; and added, "God only -knows what I suffered in the thought that she had rushed into eternity -unprepared." - -I will go now and see if I can prevail upon mother to eat something and -lie down. "For Emily's sake," is the only successful plea. - - -_Wednesday, August 19th._ - -This is truly a sad house. Scarcely a sound is to be heard in it from -morning to night. The door bells are muffled, and the outer gates are -barred; no carriage enters the enclosure, and even neighbors and -friends, who come to inquire, tread lightly as they pass round to the -back door. We meet and pass each other in the halls, or sit at table one -at a time, often in the vain attempt to eat; but we dare not trust -ourselves to speak, our hearts are too full. Each of us pour out in -secret the overflowings of a burdened heart. We cannot even meet around -the family altar. God, who reads our thoughts, knows our only hope is in -his rich mercy, and that, from morning till night, our desires go forth -to Him in whose hand life and death are. - -For several days our darling, precious sister has lain at the point of -death; and we have no well-grounded hope of her preparation to meet her -God. Oh, dreadful thought! It is this which makes our hearts sink within -us. Surely, "the sting of death is sin." If we could feel that Emily, -_dear Emily_, was prepared to die, I think I could say, "it is well;" -but my heart cries out with Esther, "How can I endure to see the -destruction of my kindred!" O, may God, in infinite compassion, restore -our darling to reason, ere she goes hence to be here no more! She has -lain for two days unconscious of all around her. I dare not ask Frank -whether there is hope. There is none in his pale, mournful face. - - -_Friday, August 21st._ - -Dearest mother, rejoice with us! We are permitted to hope. My own dear -Frank, who had not left the sick room for many weary hours, came -noiselessly out of it this morning; advanced toward mother and myself -who sat silently hand in hand, awaiting the long feared, and long -expected summons. - -"Can you command your feelings?" he asked in a hoarse whisper. We bowed -our assent. He led us to the bed-side of the pale sufferer, where, with -emotions of joy and gratitude which I cannot describe, we saw her, -ghastly and pale indeed, but in a calm and natural slumber. - -With a finger on his lip, Frank pointed to the sweet expression of the -mouth, and the calm serenity of the brow, which had taken the place of -the previous signs of intense suffering. Leaving the sympathizing nurse -with her, we stole softly from the room. I wanted to get into the air. -My heart was swelling within me, and the tears, which I had forced back, -were choking me. Frank accompanied us to the library, where we knelt -together to express our gratitude and praise. - -How easy now to feel submissive to the will of God! When we arose, -mother clasped her son's hands in hers, and burst into a flood of tears; -the first she has shed. I know they will relieve her poor bursting -heart. I feel that if Emily is restored to health and reason, I can -never again be unhappy. I love every body. I want to sing--I want to -scream for joy! I must have my sweet Pauline home, and relieve myself by -embracing her. She has been with Miss Proctor every day for a week, only -returning at night. - - -_Saturday, August 22d._ - -Emily recognizes us. We have been in one at a time. She looked at us -sweetly, and smiled. "O, Emily!" I even carried Pauline to her room, who -just pointed her little finger at aunty, but did not speak. - -The Doctor allows not a word of conversation. Now mother has been in, -she will not leave, though Frank tells her the nurse can do much better. -Her pale, anxious countenance will do his patient no good. - - -_Monday, August 24th._ - -Still encouraging prospects! For the first time since Emily's sickness, -Frank passed an undisturbed and quiet night. Strange as it may appear, -my mind has been so occupied with sister's immediate danger, I have -never thought to inquire of her brother where he found her. It now -appears that the young woman, he mentioned in his hurried note to me, -was in reality the insane wanderer. But he lost all trace of her after -dark, and was about to return home in despair of success in that -quarter, when he overheard two women talking earnestly at the door of a -house. His attention was arrested by hearing one of them say, "She is -every inch a lady." The reply was in a lower tone. - -"Well, I can't tell as to that," added the first speaker; "Here she is, -away from all her folks, and what is to be done with her?" - -Frank says, his heart sprang into his mouth as he rode up to them, and -asked if they had seen or heard anything of a lady who had escaped from -her friends in a sudden fit of insanity. - -"She is here! she is here!!" they both exclaimed. - -Frank speedily made arrangements for a driver, and for shawls to wrap -around the poor girl, who was alternately shivering with cold or -consumed with heat. - - -_Tuesday Morning, September 1st._ - -The nurse left us this morning. She was summoned to a family where she -had been previously engaged, and we could not detain her. Mother, Miss -Proctor, and I take her place. We succeed admirably. Each of us take our -turn in sleeping on a couch beside the bed. Frank wished to take my -place, but I decidedly refused. He is often called out during the night; -and though he says he is used to it, yet I know he needs sleep when he -can get it. - -Emily requires but little attention. Only toast-water or arrowroot once -in a while. She sleeps most of the time. - -I rode to-day with Frank to see Caroline, who fails very fast. I was -shocked to observe the alteration. She longs to depart, and wished the -Doctor, when he was about to pray, to ask God to give her patience to -wait her appointed time. Her mother appears deeply affected, and when -Frank addressed a few words of consolation to her, she wept aloud. Then, -after a short pause, "I am willing to give up my beloved daughter, if it -is God's will; but it comes so suddenly upon me, I am not prepared for -it." - -As we passed Squire Lee's, I begged my husband to stop and let me speak -to Lucy. Mrs. Burns came to the carriage and said if I would alight and -go into the parlor, she would take Lucy's place with her father, and -request her to come down. I imagined the dear girl looked happier than -she did when I saw her last. She said "Though my sad duty at home has -prevented my going to you in your trouble, yet I have constantly thought -of you." - -Joseph is still away, and the Squire continues about the same; but Lucy -hopes he will soon be better, as he takes neither wine, nor brandy. It -was melting to me to hear her speak of him with such affection. What a -dutiful heart he has trampled upon! - -When I returned to the carriage, I asked Frank what he thought of the -old gentleman's case. - -"If he abstains entirely from the use of stimulants," he replied, "he -may live for years. But his mind is very much enfeebled, and probably he -will not be able to transact any business, hardly to leave the house. -Any sudden excitement would terminate his life. This I have tried to -impress upon Lucy and the servants." - -"Dear girl," I replied, "she seems perfectly happy in devoting her life -to the comfort of her miserable father." - -"Yes," added the Doctor, "and God will reward her." - - - - -CHAPTER XIII. - - "The peace which passeth all understanding disclosed itself in all - her movements. It lay on her countenance like a steady unshadowed - moonlight." COLERIDGE. - - -_Thursday, September 3d._ - -We assisted Emily up into her chair to-day while Ann put fresh linen -upon the bed. How she has changed! What a softened, subdued look there -is about her! Mother was the first to notice it. Sister is very grateful -for every attention, and has asked us to forgive her for causing us so -much anxiety. Yesterday she called her brother to the bed, and asked him -in a low voice if it would be too much trouble to call the servants to -her room, and have prayers there. He was much affected during the -service, while Cæsar and Phebe sobbed audibly. She spoke to each one as -they passed out of the room in a most affectionate manner. - - -_Sabbath, September 6th._ - -I have been to church all day. I intended to remain with sister this -afternoon, but at her special request her brother staid with her, and I -went again with mother. A note was read requesting prayers for Caroline -Leighton, lying at the point of death; that she might have the presence -of her Saviour through the dark valley, and arrive safely at her -heavenly home. This was her own dictation. Such notes are common here, -and I think very appropriate and salutary. - -When I returned from church and was passing into Emily's room, Frank -came out and led me to my boudoir. His eyes were inflamed as if he had -been weeping. He sat down by me when I had laid off my bonnet, and said -softly, "I know, dear Cora, that you will join me in giving God the -praise, for salvation has come to this house." He then told me that soon -after we left, Emily requested him to bring the Bible to the side of the -bed, and read the parable of the prodigal son. He did so, and read in a -low tone until he came to the eighteenth verse, when she interrupted -him, and with her eyes closed, and her hands clasped as if in prayer, -she repeated the words, "I will arise and go to my father, and will say -unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and before thee, and am -no more worthy to be called thy child." She remained in the same -attitude for a few moments, when she put her hand into her brother's, -saying, "dear Frank, God, my Heavenly Father, has forgiven me." He sank -down by her side and buried his face in his hands. "Dear brother," she -whispered after a short pause, "will you ask God to enable me to -consecrate my life to his service?--My life, which has been heretofore -worse than wasted." It was some time before he could pray audibly, -though his whole soul was filled with gratitude and praise. He had -subsequently some delightful conversation with her, in the course of -which she exhibited evidence of a regenerate heart. - - -_Wednesday, September 9th._ - -I have been with my dear husband this afternoon to attend the funeral of -Caroline Leighton, who died on Monday evening full of peace and trust in -her Saviour. Her last words were uttered but half an hour before she -expired, and were, "For I know in whom I have believed, and am persuaded -that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against -that day." She had previously left messages of love for all her friends, -together with some little parting token of affection. She begged her -father to tell the Doctor what comfort and joy she had experienced in -her dying hour; and when he suggested that she should send her thanks -for all his attention both to her spiritual and temporal wants, she -looked up to him with a smile, and said, "tell him no thanks of mine -can repay him, but God will reward him." With a true refinement of -feeling she presented me with a little collection of hymns which Frank -had given her, and in which she had marked those which best expressed -her feelings. - - - "Oh, Death! - Youth and the opening rose - May look like things too glorious for decay, - And smile at thee--but thou art not of those - That wait the ripened bloom to seize their prey." - - -_Thursday, September 10th._ - -Frank is trying to arrange his business for a journey with me as soon as -he can leave Emily, who gains daily. A very free conversation passed -between her and mother, relative not only to the new feelings and hopes -which fill her soul; but also to her affection for Mr. Benson. On the -latter of these subjects, she has heretofore maintained the most rigid -reserve, excepting only the passionate expressions which I heard. Since -that interview a new tie seems to be formed between them. Mother no -longer feels obliged to restrain the outward manifestation of affection -for her child, while sister in her softened, subdued state heartily -reciprocates her feelings and expressions. - - -_Saturday, September 12th._ - -I went yesterday with the Doctor to make a call upon Mrs. Dr. Clapp. -From a variety of reasons I have been prevented from calling early, as I -intended; but with these reasons both the Doctor and his wife were well -acquainted. They have rented a little bird cage of a house, where the -young bride performs the offices of cook, house-keeper and chambermaid. -The proud husband, who is still so unfortunate as to have plenty of -leisure, showed us all their conveniences, and evidently thought himself -the happiest man, and his wife the dearest woman in the country. She is -obviously a keeper at home, shrinking like a sensitive plant from -contact with strangers, but unfolding and expanding in the congenial -atmosphere of home, and home friends. No doubt the grateful Doctor had -set forth in glowing terms "the unprecedented kindness of Dr. Lenox." -With many blushes she thanked me cordially for the kind interest we had -taken in his welfare. Frank made satisfactory arrangements with Dr. -Clapp, as to leaving his business with him during our short absence, and -when he began earnestly to express his thanks, my husband cut him short -by saying, "I regard myself altogether as the obliged party." We enjoyed -the visit much. After returning a few of the many calls made upon me, I -was glad to be at home again. "There is no place like home." - - -_Monday, September 14th._ - -We have decided to leave home on Wednesday morning, in order to take -P---- on our way, to be present at a Quaker wedding, when Elizabeth -Estes will become Elizabeth Nelson. We expect to go to B----, a -flourishing town in the western part of New York. I pleaded hard to take -Pauline with me, as Ann could well be spared for nurse; but the Doctor -was inexorable. When he is decided, one might as well undertake to -remove the mountains into the sea, as to change his determination. Yet I -must confess his decisions are generally wise. Respectful as he always -is to his mother, and ready to yield to her wishes, yet when she sees he -has fully made up his mind upon a point, she never tries to change his -decision. Pauline will remain under the care of mother and Emily. Frank -is determined that I shall reap great benefit from this journey, and so -I suppose I shall. In truth, my health is his great motive for going. I -have grown excessively nervous and low-spirited. I want to sit on a -cricket at your feet, and lay my head in your lap, dear mother, and have -you comfort and cheer me. I try to reason with myself that I have no -occasion to feel thus, but I cannot help it; the next morning I am as -bad as ever. Frank tries to comfort me by saying that it is owing to my -state of health and to my loss of appetite, and that I shall soon be -better. - - -_Tuesday, September 15th._ - -This morning Ann knocked at my door, and said Phebe begged I would go to -the kitchen. I went and found a little girl and boy hand in hand -awaiting me. The girl I should judge was six or seven years of age; the -boy was not more than four. He kept his eyes fixed upon me, with an -earnest, serious expression, while his sister explained her errand, as -if the business they came upon, was in their opinion of great importance -and magnitude. The little girl, in a singularly sweet voice, asked me -humbly if I had any work I wanted to have done. I smiled as I inquired, -"is the work for you or for your brother?" She understood the smile and -said quickly, "I can weed in a garden, or run of errands, or," turning -to Phebe with rather a doubtful look, "scour knives and wash dishes. -I'll be very careful not to break them, ma'am." - -"Where are your parents, Anna?" I asked when she had given me her name. - -"My mother is sick in bed," she replied sadly. - -"And your father, is he dead?" - -"No, ma'am," she answered, timidly dropping her eyes to the floor, while -a burning blush flashed over her pale wan countenance, extending even to -her very temples. Her little brother looked at her, and then at me. -Encouraged, I suppose, by my sympathy, he said, "Pa aint good. _Pa's a -bad man_, he licks ma when she's sick." - -I hastily inquired where they lived, and requesting Phebe to give them -some breakfast returned to my room, where Frank was shaving. I told him -what I had heard, when he interrupted me, "Ah, Reynolds has been having -another spree! I'm sorry for his poor wife and children. This man," said -he, turning from the mirror to look at me, "is another of Squire Lee's -hopeful _protegés_. Oh!" he continued after a moment's pause, while he -went on with his shaving, "the misery that distillery has caused in -this place, would if written down fill volumes." - -"What can I do for the poor children," I asked. "They want work." - -"Well, give them something to do, and pay them with a basket of food. -Mrs. Reynolds would hardly accept it as a gift. I will ride around that -way when I am out, and see what can be done." - -As I returned to the kitchen, I fairly taxed my ingenuity to find some -employment suited to their capacities; but in vain. So I determined to -appeal to Phebe. "My good Phebe," said I, "have you no work for these -children who are so anxious to be employed?" - -"Laws now missus!" answered Phebe, "It's no kinder use settin sich -babies to work. There's heaps on em comes here a beggin. If missus would -give em a cold bite now to carry to their sick ma, 'pears like dere'd be -some use in dat ar." - -I wish I could describe to you the anxious expression with which these -poor little creatures regarded Phebe as she replied, as if they would -implore her to answer more favorably. I saw that the good woman had no -idea of the real state of the case, and taking her into the hall I -explained to her that they had not been used to begging, and I did not -like to break down the independence and delicacy of feeling, I so much -admired. With a toss of her turban the truly kind-hearted woman -signified that she fully understood me, and when I told her farther that -her master was going out directly to the aid of their mother, she was -ready to do her full part in assisting them. She stood one moment to -think what she should set them about, as she expressed it, when her -countenance brightened as she exclaimed, "Wal now, if that ar aint kind -o' curus. There's me's been a tellin my ole man how desp't bad I wanted -de brush picked up clean out dar in de orchard fore cold wedder comes; -but laws, he never has no time for notting." When we returned to the -kitchen, the brother and sister had finished their breakfast, and sat -awaiting the important decision. I suggested that it would be well for -them to carry something previously to their mother, and obtain her -consent to remain through the day. She would thus be relieved from all -anxiety concerning them. - -As I committed the basket of food to the eager hand stretched out for -it, I was struck with the expression of the child's countenance. It -shone like that of an angel. Nor did I wonder at it, when gently pulling -my dress she reached up to speak to me, and said, "I felt sure, ma'am, -we should get some," glancing at the basket. - -"Why, my dear?" - -"Because this morning, I said, please God give me some bread for my poor -sick ma." - -"Were you sure, God would hear you?" I asked, wishing to hear farther. -Looking up in surprise, she answered, while her eyes grew bright, "why -you know ma'am, he says, 'ask and ye _shall_ receive.' Ma told me that -he says so in the Bible." - -What a beautiful lesson of trust! I kissed them both and let them go. -Phebe, whose sympathies were now thoroughly enlisted, followed them to -the door, saying, "tell your ma, she shan't want for vittles while -mass'r 'lows ole Phebe to save em for yees;" and then remembering what I -had told her, she added, "tell her thar's heaps o' work o' waiting for -yees." - - -_Afternoon._ - -As I have finished my packing, I will tell you that Phebe's _protegés_, -Anna and Willie, soon returned and went to work with such good will upon -the brush that madam was enthusiastic in their praise. They brought me -word that their mother was very much obliged to me for letting them earn -the food. The Doctor found her sick with a cold. In a fit of -intoxication her husband turned her out of the house, where she was -obliged to remain until chilled through. Frank advised her to complain -to the public authorities and have him confined for a time. "Oh, -Doctor!" she replied, "he's not himself when he treats me so ill. He -never would do it if it were not for rum. Oh, dear!" she continued, -beginning to cry, "we were so happy until he went to work in that horrid -distillery." - -How many poor distressed wives and children have said the same! Happy -indeed should we be if it were not for _rum_! I have become so much -interested in the family, that I would gladly postpone my journey -another day, for the sake of visiting her, were it not for my desire to -be present at Elizabeth's wedding. Mother Lenox needed no urging to -attend to the wants of the family while the Doctor is absent. I -requested Frank to give me the history of the Reynolds family; but he -smiled as he said, "you are so systematic a person I should be obliged -to begin at the beginning, and relate every fact in due order, which -would take more time than I can well spare." He promised, however, to -gratify my curiosity at another time. Dear little Pauline has no idea -that I am to leave her. But she will be taken good care of I doubt not. -Emily pets her rather too much. - - - - -CHAPTER XIV. - - "On thee, blest youth, a father's hand confers - The maid thy earliest, fondest wishes knew; - Each soft enchantment of the soul is hers; - Thine be the joys to firm attachment due." ROGERS. - - -_Monday, October 19th._ - -It is six months to day since I was married and left my beloved home. -What would you say to your daughter if she were to tell you that -sometimes she has been so unthankful for all her mercies as to wish she -had never left the shelter of the paternal roof or the warm embrace of -parents and sisters. But so it has been, and I have determined to -confess it to you. I think it will guard me from ever indulging again in -distrust or jealousy. But I forget that I have told you nothing of our -journey and return. I have enough to fill many pages of my journal. - -We started on a clear, bright morning in September, and in two or three -hours reached P----. We went directly to the house of Friend Shove, -where we met by appointment Friend Estes, her husband Jotham, and her -daughter Elizabeth. I suppose Jenny, our old nurse at home, would have -told me as she used sometimes to do when I was a child, that I had "got -out of bed wrong," for I felt cross all the morning. And when as we rode -on, (we were in our own carriage, and some of the wedding party were to -take it back,) Frank tried to cheer me, and said kindly, "You must -expect sometimes to feel a little out of tune," I only felt worse. When, -however, I saw the smooth, placid face of Friend Estes, and her bright, -smiling, blushing Lizzie, as she is affectionately called, I began to -think there were pleasant spots in the world after all. And when I had -sat down at a neat table covered with everything to tempt one's -appetite, and had taken a cup of delicious coffee, and a slice of ham, I -felt decidedly more reconciled to life. I could eat nothing before I -started. After waiting half an hour, we all walked to meeting, where, as -in England, among the same denomination, the males occupy one part of -the house and the females the other. Josiah Nelson and Elizabeth Estes -sat on the high seat in front of the audience, and in sight of all of -them. After sitting for some time without a word being spoken, Josiah -arose and took Elizabeth by the hand, saying, "In the presence of this -assembly, I take this my friend Elizabeth Estes to be my wife, promising -through divine assistance to be unto her a faithful and affectionate -husband until death shall separate us." - -Then Elizabeth in a sweet voice which she vainly tried to keep from -trembling, said, still holding her friend by the hand, "In the presence -of this assembly, I take this my friend Josiah Nelson to be my husband, -promising through divine assistance, to be unto him a faithful and -affectionate wife until death shall separate us." - -They then subscribed their names to the certificate, which was as -follows:--"Whereas, Josiah, son of Samuel and Hannah Nelson, and -Elizabeth, daughter of Jotham and Elizabeth Estes, have declared their -intentions of taking each other in marriage to P---- monthly meeting of -the Society of Friends held in P----, according to the good order used -among them; and their proceedings after due inquiry and deliberate -consideration thereof being allowed by the said meeting; they appearing -clear of all others, and having consent of parents, these are to certify -to all whom it may concern, that for the full accomplishment of their -said intention, this sixteenth day of the ninth month, in the year of -our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-five, they, the said -J. N. and E. E., appeared at a religious meeting of the aforesaid -society in P----, and did declare," etc. [See marriage contract as -above.] - -After this novel and interesting ceremony had concluded, we returned to -a most bountiful dinner with the hospitable family of Friend Shove; and -soon after bidding our friends "farewell," we proceeded on our journey. - - - - -CHAPTER XV. - - "Foul jealousy! that turnest love divine - To joyless dread, or mak'st the loving heart - With hateful thoughts to languish and to pine, - And feed itself with self-consuming smart; - Of all the passions in the mind thou vilest art." SPENSER. - - -_Evening, October 19th._ - -We reached B---- on Tuesday evening, September 22d, where we were -cordially welcomed by Mrs. Morgan, a sister of Frank's father. The -family consists of Mr. and Mrs. Morgan, and their son Joseph Lenox, -named for his uncle. There was also Mrs. Fidelia Schuyler, an orphan -niece of aunt Morgan, who had been married but a few months. She is a -child of aunt Morgan's brother, who has been deceased many years. As I -shall have much to say of her, I will describe her as she presented -herself to me at the time. She appeared to be about twenty years of age, -with very light flaxen hair, hanging in loose curls at the side of her -face. She had blue eyes, and a somewhat fair complexion. At the first -glance I thought her a very little like Emily in expression; but -afterwards wondered how I could have thought so. Emily's eyes are a -splendid gray, fringed with long, black lashes, and her hair is the -darkest shade of auburn, like Frank's. - -Fidelia received me cordially enough; as I was a stranger, I could not -expect she would be as glad to see me as she was to see her own cousin. -I felt almost hurt that Frank did not more fully reciprocate her joy at -their meeting. There was a perfect fascination to me about this young -bride. She was constantly changing like the colors and figures in a -kaleidoscope. Sometimes she would introduce conversation with the Doctor -upon politics, and really talk very sensibly, so that I felt ashamed -that I was ignorant of such subjects. Then she would talk of old times -in a manner I did not at all understand. I fancied once or twice that -Frank, to whom all this conversation was addressed, looked rather -annoyed, and supposed it was in consequence of my listening so closely; -I therefore turned to my cousin Joseph. He claimed me as such, before I -stepped from the carriage. He is a fine intelligent youth near my own -age I should imagine; and though he made many inquiries about his aunt -and Emily, which I was occupied in answering, yet I could not wholly -withdraw my attention from the cousin near me. Her voice would often -drop to so low a key that I could not distinguish the words; but its -intonation was soft and languishing, and her whole appearance, to say -the least, as she sat upon the sofa with Frank, was certainly -_peculiar_. Joseph observed my frequent glances in that direction, and -he whispered, "The greatest coquette," motioning with his head towards -his cousin, "in the known world." - -"Is she a widow then?" I asked eagerly, "I understood aunt she was -_Mrs._ Schuyler; if so, I should hardly think, she would waste her -energies on a _married_ man. _You_ would be a better subject." He -laughed so heartily that for a minute or so, he interrupted the -conversation on the sofa, when I heard Fidelia say to Frank, in a voice -hardly raised above a whisper, "Your wife seems very free and easy; I -suppose it results from her being educated in Paris. One would think -from her manner, she had been acquainted with Joseph a long time." - -I could hear no more, for at that moment Joseph commenced again. - -"My dear coz, how old do you take me to be?" - -"About as old as I am," I replied. - -"Ah! now, I shall have a fine chance to find your age. Doctor," said -he, breaking in upon their conversation, "will you favor me with the -exact age of your wife?" The Doctor looked as if he did not quite -understand. - -"She thinks," he continued, "that I am about as old as she is. Now to -ascertain the correctness of this judgment, I apply to you for the year, -month, and day, of her birth." - -"How vulgar," whispered Fidelia. - -I laughed at the mock gravity of his manner, and should have been -entirely deceived by it, had it not been for a merry glance from his -eye. "I could easily have answered the question," said I, "if you had -applied to me; I was born, as I have been informed, on the fourth day of -February, one thousand eight hundred and seventeen, and am therefore, at -the present time, eighteen years, seven months, and eighteen days." I -imitated his manner as I replied. He bowed almost to the floor, and -resumed his seat. - -"Astonishing!" murmured Fidelia, "she is very free to tell her age, now -she is _married_." - -Frank started to meet his aunt who was returning to the room after -having attended to her evening duties. He led her to a distance, where -they were soon absorbed in an interesting conversation, in which they -were joined by uncle Morgan, a thorough gentleman of the old school, -perhaps a little too formal in his extreme politeness, but a very -excellent husband and father. He is a lawyer, and a man of considerable -wealth. Fidelia often looked that way as if wishing to follow her -cousin, but at length left the sofa, and took a seat near us; but not -before Joseph had asked me in a hurried manner how old I thought she -was. - -"I will 'guess,'" said I, "she is nineteen or twenty." - -"Add ten to that," he replied quickly, as she approached. - -After half an hour, during which time Joseph did most of the talking, -aunt came to me remarking that I looked very tired and had better -retire. This I was glad to do, and she said she would accompany me; but -Fidelia begged so earnestly for the privilege, that I requested aunt to -remain with Frank. Contrary to my expectation, and indeed to my wish, -she entered my room, and remained so long I had no excuse for not -undressing; and at length was obliged to do so in the presence of an -entire stranger. She continued talking, however, in a most confidential -strain. "I suppose you don't wonder," she commenced, "that Frank, (the -rest of the family called him Doctor,) and I are so glad to see one -another, considering,"--she stopped. - -"Considering what?" I asked in surprise at her manner, which implied far -more than her words expressed. - -She hesitated, "why _considering_ that we were brought up together. Aunt -Lenox adopted me when mother died, and I always lived at your house. -What room do you occupy?" she asked. - -I answered reluctantly, though I could not tell why. There was something -very unpleasant about her conversation. It always, unintentionally -perhaps, left a sting. She went on to inform me in the strictest -confidence, that she and Frank had been fondly attached to one another. - -"Why," I asked, "was this friendship given up?" - -"_Friendship_," she repeated in a theatrical tone, "say rather ardent -_love_!" I could not prevent my voice from trembling a little as I -repeated my question. - -"Oh!" she replied with a mysterious air, "aunt Lenox--peculiar -reasons."--She suddenly started on hearing a step; and whispering, "not -a word of all this, my dear," hastily left me. - -I don't think I could have endured it a moment longer. I never felt so -thoroughly "worked up," as the Yankees say; and for five minutes I would -have given every thing I possessed, could I have been safely at home -under my own dear mother's roof. When Frank came up, I could only feign -sleep in order to conceal my new and strange emotions of distrust and -jealousy, Fidelia had awakened in my mind. I forced myself to be quiet -until Frank was asleep, when I could contain myself no longer. With my -face buried in the pillow to stifle my sobs, I wept until I could weep -no longer. I lay awake all night, revolving the dreadful deception which -I fancied had been practised upon me. I could well understand, I -thought, why mother Lenox had never even mentioned Fidelia's name in my -presence. Nor could I account for the fact that Frank had not, except -upon the supposition that what she had told me was true. Indeed the -truth of her story I did not for a moment doubt. - - -_Tuesday, October 20th._ - -When I awoke the next morning, which I did from a troubled nap after -day-break, I could not at first remember what had happened, such a heavy -weight was upon my spirits. If any one had told me then, that I was not -the most unhappy person in the world, I should have considered them very -unkind. - -Frank actually started when I tried to rise, and would have persuaded me -to lie down again; but I was determined to do as I chose, and persisted -until a sudden fit of faintness compelled me to return to my bed. I felt -so severely the effects of my night's excitement, that I began to be -really anxious about the result. If Frank spoke to me, I averted my -head. I could not endure to meet his eye; and when he kindly went below -and brought a cup of coffee to the bed, I refused to take it. I could -only sob and say, "I want to go home. I must see my own mother." - -The Doctor was now seriously alarmed, and went for aunt. With true -motherly kindness, she administered to me, persuaded me to drink the -coffee and eat a slice of dry toast. She then smoothed my pillow, -darkened the room and left me, after a promise that I would at least try -to sleep. She left a small bell upon the table, and said, "no one shall -come in until you ring." - -To my surprise, when I awoke, the sun was shining high in the heavens; -and on my consulting my watch, I found it was near noon. I arose quietly -and dressed, and not a little astonished the company sitting in the -parlor below, by my sudden entrance. It made me feel no better, -however, to perceive, as I did at a glance, that my husband and his -cousin occupied seats near each other on the sofa, as on the previous -evening. But the Doctor was busily engaged in reading, and did not -perceive me until I had advanced to the middle of the room. - -"There, Frank," exclaimed Fidelia, as he sprang up to give me his seat, -"I told you, you were unnecessarily alarmed. Now, sweet cousin," said -she, turning to look up in my face, and mincing her words, "confess you -were only shamming." - -"Fidelia," said my aunt, in a stern voice. I did not look to see what -Frank thought; I did not care. I covered my eyes to prevent the tears -from being seen. I wanted to keep them covered forever rather than to -see Fidelia's face again. In justice to myself, I ought to say, that -probably this state of mind, which was greatly aggravated by the -condition of my health, would soon have passed away, had it not been for -the continual suggestions and insinuations of Fidelia. Sometimes by a -word, sometimes by a significant shrug of the shoulders; then, again, by -a glance of the eye, she gave a false coloring to the most trivial words -or actions, and - - - "Trifles, light as air, - Are, to the jealous, confirmations strong - As proofs of holy writ." - - -All this time, the Doctor grew every day more and more grave, almost -stern. Now and then, when I looked up suddenly, I met his eye fixed upon -me in a serious, inquiring manner, as if he would read my very thoughts. -Though I felt that I was innocent of any wrong toward him, and that he -had deceived and wronged me, yet I could not help looking very much -confused. - -Joseph, good kind Joseph, was the life of the house. He devoted himself -to my comfort. He read to me, told me stories, and was never tired of -hearing me talk about my sweet little Pauline. Oh! how in imagination, I -hugged the little thing to my heart, as the only one on earth in whom I -could repose entire trust. Joseph wove many a tale out of her romantic -story, in which by turns she figured as a Countess, a Duchess, or, at -least, as Lady Pauline. I told him, I was entirely satisfied to have her -plain Pauline Lenox. Then the merry fellow asked me to educate her for a -wife for him. "That would be just the thing, and your desire could be -satisfied by having her name unchanged, I would merely add Morgan to it. - -"Now, Coz" said he one day, "I'm serious about this matter; I've been -looking about for a year or two; and I have seen no one whom I should -wish to honor with my name and title. I lay awake all last night -thinking what a fine thing it would be to have her educated for me." - -I could not help laughing as I replied, "I should shrink from so -responsible an employment." - -"Why, Coz," he said earnestly, unconsciously raising his voice, "Make -her like yourself. I ask no greater joy than to possess the hand of one -in every respect like yourself." - -At the last sentence, I noticed that Fidelia gave the Doctor a quick -glance to direct his attention to us; and I heard her say, "quite -sentimental." Frank started from his chair with a terrible look, such as -I had never seen but once before, and that was when I told him of -Emily's treatment of Mr. Benson. He walked quickly across the room, but -appearing to recollect himself, he took a book and resumed his seat. I -detected a smile of exultation on Fidelia's face which in vain I tried -to account for or understand. - -Joseph bent down over me, taking my hand as he did so, and while he -played with the rings on my fingers said, sinking his voice to the -lowest key, "What can the matter be? You may always be sure there is -mischief where Fidelia is." - -I started;--how true this had been in my case! I fell into a long -reverie; so long that Joseph took up a paper to read. I thought over all -she had told me from our first interview; looking at this subject and -that by the light of the new revelation, I had of her character. But -there were stern facts to be met. She had passed all the early part of -her life in the closest intimacy with my husband; they had loved each -other ardently; nay, she had hinted that at one time they were -affianced. And yet this had been sacredly kept from me, while he had -often told me I was the first object of his affection. Then I could not -shut my eyes to the fact that Frank was entirely different in his manner -toward me. I could hardly believe him to be the same man. As day after -day passed he grew more and more polite; but it was a _frigid_ -politeness, which chilled my very blood; and this, too, at a time when -my health demanded unusual tenderness. I sometimes wonder even now, how -all this could have happened, and Aunt Morgan not have noticed it more -particularly. But then I remember that she had not known her nephew -intimately for many years; and I was a perfect stranger to her. She knew -not that, until we arrived at her house, we had been all the world to -each other. - -On Saturday afternoon, Mr. Schuyler arrived. He is of German origin, -rather abrupt in manner, but possessing naturally, I should imagine, a -warm heart and capable of making a loving wife happy by the strength of -his affection. But I had not been in company with them many hours before -I saw that Mrs. Schuyler was recklessly throwing away her own happiness, -and that of her husband. By every means in her power, she contrived to -render him she had sworn to "love, honor and obey," uncomfortable, nay, -even _wretched_. He had some slight peculiarities of person to which she -referred in the presence of the family, in a manner so unbecoming and -unlady-like, that my cheeks burned with shame and indignation. I could -see that it was with difficulty that he refrained from giving her a tart -reply. - -But all other annoyances were slight compared with the one great desire -which had taken possession of her soul, which was to render her husband -jealous of the Doctor. To this one purpose she bent all her powers. I -cannot describe to you the variety of conflicting emotions struggling -for mastery during the hours of that never to be forgotten Sabbath. I -had slept little the night previous, but had lain awake revolving the -character of my cousin, and, for the first time, doubts of her -truthfulness began to intrude themselves into my mind. I acknowledged -her fascination, her great conversational powers, but I could not shut -my eyes to the fact that all these gifts were perverted to unlawful -purposes, such as would surely destroy not only her own, and her -husband's happiness, but the happiness of all with whom she associated. -Even in my troubled sleep she was before me, and appeared like the -serpents I had read of, who fascinate and charm but to destroy. - -On Sabbath morning, Fidelia appeared elaborately dressed and really -looked beautiful. Frank's eyes rested upon her with such a singular -expression that I looked at him with wonder. I had before thought her -free in manner with him, but now I was amazed. I had never even imagined -any person so artfully insinuating. Sometimes I determined to leave the -room, unable longer to endure the annoyance and excitement; but the next -moment I was restrained by a desire to see what would follow. - -Directly after family prayers, she availed herself of a seat near the -Doctor, and, leaning familiarly on the arm of his chair, said, "Dear -Frank, I've so often longed to talk with you upon some subjects -connected with my spiritual interests! You, dear cousin, always -understood my inner nature, my better feelings. Oh," said she, slightly -raising her voice, and sighing heavily as she glanced toward her -husband, "how I have longed for a congenial spirit--for some one who -could appreciate my aspirations after higher good. Dear cousin," she -added, laying her hand on his, and gazing up into his face with an -expression of languishing fondness, "those were blissful days when we -scarce called a thought or wish our own, until we had imparted it to -each other." - -Frank started from his seat, and I was sure there was a strong -expression of disgust upon his countenance. But the indignant husband -saw not this. He had caught his hat and rushed from the house. - -Fidelia remarked with a sneer, "it is a great grief to me that I have -never been able to prevail with Mr. Schuyler to keep in doors on the -Sabbath. It is really disgraceful to see any one so openly profane the -day." - -"Fidelia," said the Doctor, in a reproving tone, "The God of the Sabbath -requires not only an outward observance, but a regulation of the -thoughts and feelings of the heart. We may offend him as truly by -indulging in unkind thoughts or improper feelings, as by any outward -violation of the sanctity of the day." - -I expected Fidelia would be offended by the plainness of this speech; -but to my surprise she caught Frank's hand, and pressed it again and -again to her lips; and with her eyes, which were humid with tears fixed -lovingly upon his, she said in a sad tone, "Oh, Frank! if I could only -have had you near me to point out my faults kindly and tenderly, I might -have been happy and good. Don't blame your poor Fidelia, who, connected -with a man with whom she has not a single feeling of communion, is -indeed very miserable." - -The Doctor appeared much perplexed and annoyed, while Uncle Morgan -walked angrily out of the room. Joseph came and sat down by me, and -began in a low voice to talk of his wonder that the Doctor did not see -through and despise her hypocrisy. "I can endure anything else," said -he, while an expression of intense abhorrence passed over his -countenance; "but when she gets on to one of her _pious_ strains, I have -to call to mind all the consistent piety of my parents to keep me from -thinking religion a farce." - -"Dear Joseph," said I, "it distresses me to hear you speak so lightly -upon religious subjects. It is the want of religion your reason -disapproves. Believe me, true piety never repels in the way you -mention." I looked up to meet the eyes of my husband fixed upon me with -such sadness that the blood burned in my cheeks. I felt, from Fidelia's -looks, there was something wrong; but what, I could not imagine. The -Doctor left the room, and soon his cousin retired to dress for church. -Joseph wished to remain with me, but this I would by no means allow. I -intended to retire to my own apartment, and spend the time in a manner -befitting the sacredness of the day. - -When the church bell rang, the family assembled in the parlor; and as -Mr. Schuyler had not returned, Fidelia put her arm in Frank's before -they left the house. I could not resist the inclination to look at them -from the window. She hung heavily on his arm as she lovingly turned her -face to his. I pressed my hand to my heart to still a rising thought -prejudicial to my husband, and returned for a moment to my seat. Before -I had recovered myself sufficiently to go to my room, the outer door -burst open, and Mr. Schuyler entered, in no enviable frame of mind. He -had met his wife and Frank on their way to church, and had only needed -the look of unmistakable affection with which she regarded her companion -to raise his jealousy to the highest pitch. - -He appeared wholly unconscious of my presence, but walked with hasty -strides across the room, soliloquizing in an angry manner: "A pretty -life she leads me! She says, they were formerly engaged to be married. -Upon my soul, I believe it; though I've found out long ago she has no -more regard for the truth than that," vehemently snapping his fingers. -"Fool that I was to marry her--to be so taken in by a pretty face and -languishing looks! Bah! it makes me sick to see her fawning round the -Doctor." - -He walked to the mantel piece and stood for a moment looking into the -fire, when he commenced again, "I thought her an angel of goodness. If -it had been real she might have moulded me into what she pleased. Upon -my soul," with a half uttered oath between his teeth, "I believe she's -possessed of all the devils that were cast out of Mary Magdalene. I've -made up my mind what course to pursue." After a short pause, he added -with a sigh of relief, "Yes, I have it! She was poor--she married me for -my money,--well--yes, that will serve her right," and his hollow laugh -made me shudder. "And yet," he added, in a softened tone, while his good -spirit again seemed pleading, "how I loved her,--how happy we might have -been--well, we shall see,--_we shall see_!" - -Many times since the entrance of Mr. Schuyler, I had started from my -seat intending to say something to soothe his anger, but as often had -sunk back powerless. I was myself suffering, and what could I say? But -the agony he endured; the jealousy and desire for revenge exhibited by -him opened my eyes to the fearful brink upon which I stood, and I firmly -resolved by the help of God, to give no sleep to my eyes until I had -unburdened my heart to my husband, and besought a return of his -confidence and love. I saw plainly where I had sinned, in the coldness -and reserve which was creeping between us; and I said to myself, "_God -helping me, it shall be so no longer._" I arose silently and retired to -my room, where I prayed fervently for strength to tear up every root of -unkindness, distrust and jealousy which I had cherished toward my dear -husband. I was happier already. - -Long before I had begun to expect them, the family returned from morning -service. I heard the outer door open, and Frank, after ascertaining that -I was not in the parlor, hastened up stairs. I smiled as I held out my -hand to him, and said, "I did not expect you so soon." - -He did not return the smile, but pressed my hand against his heart, and -said with emotion, "Oh, _Cora_! CORA!!" - -At that moment the bell rang for dinner, and Frank putting my hand in -his arm led me below. Oh! how my heart bounded at this simple act of -tenderness! I felt strong to endure whatever insults Fidelia might -offer. "If I only have my husband's love," I said to myself, "I defy you -to injure me." - -When we were seated at dinner, Joseph said, "what have you been doing, -Cousin Cora? I never before saw you look so happy." All eyes were turned -toward me, and I caught one glance of love from my dear Frank which -certainly did not diminish my color. - -Fidelia noticed it, and looked at Frank as if she thought herself -personally aggrieved, while the next moment she cast a glance of -defiance at her husband in reply to the scornful sneer with which he -regarded her. The Doctor persisted in being silent, and kept his eyes -fixed on his plate, notwithstanding all his cousin's attempts to engage -him in conversation, while Joseph bit his lips to keep from laughing to -see her for once so completely foiled. - -The moment dinner was over, Frank turned to leave the room, after giving -me an imploring glance to accompany him; but not before his cousin had -stepped forward and laying her hand on his arm detained him while she -said something I could not hear. - -"Impossible!" he replied aloud, "I am otherwise engaged;" and he led me -from the room. A malignant scowl darkened her face; but I think Frank -did not see it. We entered our room, but had hardly closed the door when -some one knocked. With a gesture of impatience he opened it, when to my -surprise Mr. Schuyler stood in the passage pale and trembling from -suppressed excitement. - -"Can I speak one word with you, Doctor?" - -"Certainly, walk in." - -"Perhaps you will think me strange; but you will excuse my asking you if -you love my wife?" - -Frank started forward with the simple word, "Sir," in a tone which -implied that he considered the question an insult. - -"Yet," continued Mr. Schuyler, "My wife affirms that such is the case; -and that during the last few days you have repeatedly told her so." - -I had fallen back in my chair when Frank's looks arrested my attention. -There was not a particle of color in his face or lips, and for a moment -there was a terrible struggle to control his anger; but at length he -said, in a low, firm voice, "She has deceived you. I have never loved -her. From a boy I have loathed her character. God forgive me," he added -in a hoarse voice, "but I can hardly hear her name with patience. She -has even endeavored to"--with a quick glance of sorrow at me, he checked -himself, and then exclaimed, turning to the window to conceal his -feelings, "Oh, why did I believe her?" - -"Enough," said Mr. Schuyler, whose countenance had gradually assumed a -fixedness of expression dreadful to witness, "I see you are aware of the -intrinsic beauty, and loveliness of the character of the woman I have -the honor to call my wife." These words were said in a tone of bitter -irony which it is impossible to describe; but he immediately added, -lowering his voice, "Dr. Lenox, I have foolishly distrusted your honor. -I ask your forgiveness." - -Frank wrung his hand as he said, "Mr. Schuyler, from my very soul I pity -you." - -"I rather think, sir, you'll have a call for your pity in another -direction," pointing compassionately toward me; "mine eyes have not been -so blinded by my own misery, that I have not seen how your wife -suffered." - -Frank shook with emotion as he hastily bolted the door, and took a seat -near me. I had covered my face with my hands, and was trying to force -myself to be calm. - -"Cora," said he, in a voice which trembled in spite of himself, "won't -you look at me? Oh, Cora, you used to love me!" - -"Dear, _dear_ Frank," I said, throwing my arms around his neck, "I love -you now. I have always loved you." - -He pressed me silently to his heart. "Cora," he asked, turning my face -where he could look into my eyes, "tell me truly, do you not love Joseph -Morgan?" - -O, what a world of light that one question let into my soul! I sprang -joyfully to my feet, and looking him fully in the face, "My dear -husband," I answered, "as I love, honor and fear my Maker, I have not, -and never have had one thought or feeling toward him unfaithful to you -as my wedded companion, nor has he ever given me reason to suspect that -he felt toward me otherwise than as he would feel toward a dear sister, -or cousin. Oh, Frank! how could I, when I loved you so dearly?" I could -endure it no longer, but burst into tears. - -"Then, may God forgive me," murmured he with a convulsive sob. "But I -can never forgive myself." - -It was a long time before I was composed enough to hear him explain; and -he had hardly entered upon the subject, when he was seized with -giddiness, and in attempting to reach the table for some water, was -obliged to catch hold of the bed post to save himself from falling. I -forgot everything else in my anxiety for him. I knew that he had been -dangerously ill with attacks of this kind in former years, and after -assisting him to reach the bed, I ran below for Aunt Morgan. She and -Joseph immediately went to him. When they approached the bed the Doctor -held out his hand to Joseph, while with the other he pressed his -throbbing brow. "Cousin," he said humbly, "I have wronged you, greatly -wronged you." - -"In what?" asked Joseph in surprise. - -"I have been led to believe that you and Cora loved each other; loved as -you ought not. Can you forgive me?" - -The hoarse voice, and suppressed breathing showed cousin, that this was -no time for a joke, and he answered gravely, "truly and fully." - -"Thank you," replied the Doctor in a whisper. - -"Frank," I said, as his paleness every moment increased, "I shall send -for a physician, or can you prescribe for yourself?" He requested Joseph -to go across the street to the druggists and procure some medicine which -he named. He then said to aunt, "I used to have these turns long ago, -but have not for a year or two." - -When cousin returned with the phial I administered the medicine -according to his direction, when he told aunt, if it would not be giving -too much trouble, he should like some strong mustard draughts for his -feet. - -After half an hour, a fire had been made in the room, and the poultices -had begun to take effect. He felt his pulse, and asked me to administer -another dose of the medicine. Seeing that I looked very much troubled, -he said gently, "try, my love, to compose your feelings. It is true I am -very sick; but I tell you the truth when I say, there is probably no -danger, provided I keep perfectly free from excitement, and the medicine -operates favorably. I know exactly what to do." - -I was turning away to hide my tears when he drew me down to him and -whispered, "say once more, dear Cora, that you forgive me!" It was -almost more than I could bear; but I choked back my sobs, and assured -him again and again of my love and entire forgiveness. - -I had been moving quietly about the room preparing for the night, when -aunt came in, and said she or Joseph would watch with Frank. But I told -her nothing should induce me to leave him. This was said in a whisper, -but Frank heard it, and said, "let her stay. I am already relieved, and -shall need nothing. I shall rest far better if she is by my side." - -Aunt put her hand on his head. "Doctor, you are very ill, I shall send -for a physician immediately. Your head is burning up, and fairly throbs -with violence." - -Frank's face lit up almost into a smile, as he said, "It is easy to bear -that; the pain is all gone here," putting his hand to his heart. - -"Dear husband," said I, "don't think of that now; only remember that I -am your own Cora, and try to go to sleep." Dear aunt had to take off her -glasses and wipe them twice before she could see; and she would not be -contented until she had brought him some hot herb tea, which he -consented to take, as it might hasten the operation of the medicine. - - - - -CHAPTER XVI. - - "O, women, men's subduers! - Nature's extremes, no mean is to be had, - Excellent good or infinitely bad." DAVENPORT. - - - "O, jealousy! thou merciless destroyer, - More cruel than the grave! what ravages - Does thy wild war make in the noblest bosoms!" MALLET. - - -_Saturday, October 24th._ - -By half past eleven on the evening of this attack, Frank was so much -relieved, that I felt it safe to go to bed, and slept sweetly for the -first time for more than a week. The next morning he pronounced the -difficulty entirely removed, but confessed that the powerful medicine, -he had taken, made him very weak. I carried him some breakfast to the -bed, after which I took my work and sat by his side. I would not allow -him to talk, and was only too happy in the thought that all the coldness -and reserve which had caused each of us so much unhappiness had passed, -and now only appeared like a troubled dream. My heart was buoyant with -hope and happiness, and as I ever and anon looked up from my work and -met the eye of my husband fixed upon me with its former look of love, I -felt that my Heavenly Father had answered my prayers, and restored unto -me the heart, I feared, was estranged from me forever. - -Aunt came up and sat down on the foot of the bed. After Frank had -assured her that all the danger had passed, and that, with the exception -of being weak, he was as well as ever, she began to say something of -Fidelia. I had taken my breakfast late, and had not seen her since we -parted at the dinner table yesterday. Now I thought I recognized her -step in the entry, and looked with dread at the door. Aunt perceived my -agitation and asked me what was the matter. - -"I can't see Fidelia," I almost screamed, as I heard the latch move. -Aunt stepped to the door and locked it, while Frank said, "There is more -in this than I thought. There must have been some underhand work here." -He stopped suddenly at a quick look from aunt. - -"You will probably not see her again," she said gravely, "she has -returned home." - -"Would to God, she had never left it!" murmured Frank. - -"When did she go?" I asked joyfully. - -"About an hour since," was her reply. It was hard for me to conceal my -joy at her unexpected departure. - -About noon Frank arose and went below. Uncle and Joseph were very glad -to see him; and when my husband sat down by me and put his arm about me, -uncle said, "that is as husband and wife should be." He was obliged to -get up and go to the window to wipe his glasses, before he could go on -with his reading. - -Joseph did not let the Doctor off quite so easily. "Cousin Frank," said -he familiarly, "I've found out that if I don't want to be jealous of my -wife, I must be so attentive to her as to exclude all others. Now if you -had appeared like that all the time, why you see"--he hesitated--"I -should have lost all the fun." - -We all laughed at his comical manner, though I saw that Frank felt it -keenly. "We'll talk of that by and by," he said gravely. - -"Excuse me," resumed Joseph, "I really didn't mean anything, 'twas only -a foolish way I have of turning everything into a joke." - -"Yes, my son, you're very foolish," said aunt's voice; but her eyes -told a different story as she looked over her glasses with the most -tender affection upon her only child. - -"By the way," continued the young man, coming and occupying a seat on -the sofa near me, "have you plead my cause yet, Cora?" - -"What cause?" - -"Why in regard to the fair hand of your daughter Pauline." He then -begged the Doctor's consent, saying, "if it will make any essential -difference in the case, I will get on my knees before you; but if you -could excuse it, as my pants are new, I shall be under the greater -obligation." - -Uncle and aunt laughed till they cried as he went on in the most -ludicrous manner possible; sometimes standing before the mirror prinking -and talking to his own image; and then practising "courting" upon his -mother. Entirely forgetful of the newness of his pants he knelt before -her, and in heart-rending tones besought her to be gracious to his suit; -and when she nodded assent to his wishes, rapturously kissed her hands. -Then with a low bow to the company, while brushing his fingers through -his hair, he said in the gravest tone, "I find it necessary, ladies and -gentlemen, to practise occasionally. There is nothing in this business -like keeping one's hand in. Practice makes perfect." - -After dinner, Frank told uncle he was desirous of seeing the family -together at some convenient time, and uncle replied that he would -arrange his business so that he could spend the evening at home. - -Frank had told me before, that he wished to explain some things in his -conduct, and thought he ought to do so before the family, as they had -witnessed what had passed. During the afternoon he was so tender and -devoted to me that I more than half determined to tell him all Fidelia's -story to me, and have it settled at once, but before I had really -decided, we had taken tea, and having attended prayers were all seated -around the social hearth waiting for Frank to say what he wished. He -commenced with the remark, it was extremely painful to him to be obliged -to say anything unfavorable to the character of another; but, he -continued, "in order to explain, I do not say extenuate, my conduct -toward my wife, I must inform you that on the very first evening of my -arrival, Fidelia succeeded in planting a thorn in my heart, and from -that time until yesterday, she never ceased to suggest or hint at, ideas -which made me fear that the affection of my wife for me, if not her very -virtue, was endangered by her intimacy with her cousin." - -Joseph started upon his feet, and I covered my face; but Frank said, -"sit down, Joseph; you can well afford to hear; your conscience is at -rest, while mine"--he stopped, he had evidently schooled himself for the -interview. "After this," he continued, "it was astonishing how many -trivial events occurred which appeared at the time to corroborate her -story; and she failed not to make use of them. For instance, I saw you, -cousin, take Cora's hand in what to my inflamed imagination seemed too -familiar a manner; at another time I heard you say, you should wish a -wife in all respects like her, and various other things which I should -not condescend to name, were it not to show you that with her -whisperings and hints, these had grown to such a magnitude in my mind, -that I was prepared to believe anything." - -Joseph interrupted him and began to make some explanations, but Frank -would not allow a word to be said. "My dear cousin," he continued, "I -know you will not insult me by offering an explanation for what existed -only in my heated imagination, and which now that I have recovered my -reason, I loathe myself for indulging. I thought it over in the night, -and was astonished at my blindness; for you both were so perfectly open -in your conduct, I do not at all wonder that my little Cora feared me as -she did." - -"Ah," said I, determining bravely to tell my story, "there is another -side to that." They all looked at me in amazement, as I began at the -beginning and related all I had felt and suffered. I confessed all my -hard feelings toward Frank, and all my jealousy of Fidelia. It was now -the Doctor's turn to start up in awful indignation. I told him how I had -been led as in his case, to see everything through a false medium, and I -had feared that the affection, she told me they had formerly felt for -each other, had revived to such a degree as to make him regret that the -marriage of both prevented their union. - -The intensity of Joseph's feelings kept him silent. "Well," said uncle, -at length, "Fidelia is rightly punished for her fiendish plot in trying -to alienate your affections from each other." - -"How?" I eagerly inquired. - -He turned to aunt, who said, "I thought it best at the time to say -nothing about it. I merely told them she was gone." - -Uncle resumed his seat, and sitting very erect in his chair, said, "Mr. -Schuyler went out soon after you were taken sick, and has not yet -returned. His wife insisted that we should take no pains to bring him -back. She said she wasn't going to have him think, she would run after -him. But I could see, as hour after hour passed away, she grew anxious -and impatient for his return. This morning, when we were seated at -breakfast, a boy brought a note from him directed to me, in which he -said that before that letter reached us he should be on his way to -Germany, where he intended to pass the rest of his life. He enclosed -fifty dollars for his wife, which he said was all she should ever have -from him, and closed by saying it was her own fault that she had not a -happy home and a devoted husband; and that if she had been willing to -accede to his wishes, she would at least have been the owner of a -handsome estate. That was true," added uncle, "he wished to buy a -beautiful place on the Hudson which he offered to settle upon her, but -she would not consent to live in so retired a situation. I used all my -influence with her to no purpose." - -"Where is she now?" I asked. - -"When she received the note, or rather when I read it to her, and gave -her the money, she was at first very angry, and thought he only wrote it -to frighten her; but I soon convinced her that I thought otherwise, -when she suddenly started for New York, where they had been boarding -since their marriage, in the hope of detaining him." - -Frank looked very thoughtful, but said nothing; and we all sat for a few -moments thinking of the probabilities of her overtaking him, and of her -success in obtaining his forgiveness. I who knew more of his feelings -than any one present, doubted it, but I wisely concluded to keep my -knowledge to myself. - -At length Joseph jumped up, saying, "I should think we were in a Quaker -meeting; let's play 'button, button, who's got the button?'" - -"Wouldn't it be more pleasant," asked Frank, smiling, "to have Cora give -you an account of a Quaker wedding we attended on our way here?" - -"Yes, _yes_, that's just the thing; come let's act it out! Here, Cora, -take my arm, tell me what to say, and I'll repeat it off just like a -book. I believe they always kiss their lady first, don't they? Come, why -don't you stand up and begin. It's placing a bashful young fellow, like -me, in a very embarrassing situation, when his wife that is to be won't -stand with him at the altar." - -Though I could not help laughing, yet I would not consent to "act it -out," as he said, unless Frank would officiate as bridegroom, but as -uncle and aunt both joined in the request to see the ceremony, I -persuaded my husband to gratify them. When we were through, Joseph said, -we were so solemn about it, he felt just as thirsty as if he had been to -a real wedding, and asked if there were not some wine in the house. Aunt -shook her head, but he went out and soon brought in a waiter of wine -glasses, filled however, with lemonade, after which the conversation -passed naturally to other themes. - -The remainder of the week passed delightfully; I gained every day in -health; and the Doctor took me with him to many places of interest in -the vicinity. Fidelia's name had not been mentioned in the week which -had intervened since her departure, except in one remark Frank made to -me on the Monday evening previous. He said, "You probably noticed that I -gave no explanation of many of her statements; and though I deny ever -having felt any affection for her, such as she describes, and hardly -what the relationship warranted, yet I wish to defer any farther -conversation upon the subject until we arrive home." - -I told him, I should be glad to do so, but that I wanted him to promise -me one thing; I was proceeding to tell him what, when he said "Anything, -_everything_; I have the most entire confidence in you, my love." So we -promised each other, that the past should only be remembered as a -warning; we felt that our only security for happiness in the married -relation was, next to our God, in entire confidence in each other, and -we resolved never to lie down at night with one unkind thought treasured -up, which each had not given the other an opportunity to explain. - -On the day before we left aunt Morgan, a letter was received from Mrs. -Schuyler, in which she said, she found on her arrival in New York city, -that her husband had indeed taken passage for Europe, and that on the -whole she considered it the most fortunate thing which could have -happened for her, as his jealous disposition had always prevented her -having any enjoyment. In a postscript she added, that she had been -invited to go to the South and pass the winter with some delightful -acquaintances, she had formed, and that she anticipated great pleasure -in their society. She said, she now considered herself in every respect -as a widow, and hoped her friends would never mortify her by any -allusion to the man, she had called her husband. In a second postscript -she requested that her trunks should be sent to the care of William -Arnold, Esq. - -When aunt had finished reading, Frank and I exchanged glances. That was -the name of Lucy Lee's suitor, and we knew too much of him to expect she -would profit much by his society. - -We left our dear friends early on Tuesday morning, having obtained a -promise from Joseph to make us an early visit. A day or two after we -reached home, I noticed Frank in earnest conversation with mother; after -which he requested me to go to her in the library. I went reluctantly, -for indeed I was now so happy, I cared for no farther explanation. But -as I saw Frank attributed my unwillingness to a wrong cause, I took -Emily's arm and went at once to the library, where mother gave me the -following account. - -Fidelia Lenox was left an orphan at the age of fifteen, and was -immediately received into her uncle's family, and treated in all -respects as their own child. She was one year younger than Frank, and of -course they were constantly in each other's society. But it was not long -before mother perceived that from being willing and apparently pleased -to be with his cousin, Frank avoided her as much as possible, and often -refused positively to accompany her to parties of young people. Mother -did not at first pay much attention to the circumstance until her son's -conduct became so marked as to require a reproof, especially as she -could perceive nothing in the deportment of her niece to elicit such -dislike. She therefore appealed to him as a gentleman that it was in the -highest degree impolite and unkind to treat his cousin otherwise than he -would treat a sister. - -For a long time Frank refused to give any explanation of his conduct; -but at length told his mother that he would agree to treat her as a -sister, if she would be content with that. - -"What can she ask more?" inquired mother, in surprise. - -Frank, like any boy of sixteen, blushed crimson, as he replied, -impulsively: "She is altogether too sentimental for me. She can talk -about nothing but love, and such nonsense. When the time comes for me to -be married, I mean to do the courting myself." - -Mother was silent, from amazement, and tried to recall a single -circumstance to corroborate his statement. "I hardly know how to believe -it of Fidelia," she at length replied. - -"Mother," said Frank "if you do not believe me, enter suddenly and -unexpectedly into the library or anywhere we may chance to be left alone -a moment, and you will see enough." - -"What?" she asked, under her breath. - -"Why, she runs her fingers through my hair, and she sits by me and looks -up in my face in a fawning manner. Bah!" he continued, "it's too -disgusting. If she hears the least sound, she darts back to her seat, -and there she sits as demure and proper as any old maid. I often wish," -he added, half laughing, "she'd get caught at some of her fooleries." - -After this, mother kept a strict surveillance of the conduct of her -niece, and soon became convinced that she was a dangerous companion for -her son, especially as she paid not the slightest regard to truth. She -therefore sent her away to a family-school, where she was under the -constant watch of her teacher. But she could not prevent Frank meeting -her occasionally, as they both spent their holidays at home; and she -confessed to me that she should have shuddered for the virtue of her -son, had he not exhibited such a loathing for the character of his -cousin. The time came when she must leave school, and her conduct had -become so reprehensible that mother would not consent that Emily should -be under her influence; and she has resided, until her marriage, with a -distant relative in the State of New York. - -It was thus that Frank had not met her for several years, and as they -were both married, he had been willing to forget the past, and treat her -at least with kindness. But having had reason to know her want of -principle, he feels he had no excuse for giving heed to her cruel hints -and falsehoods. We have tacitly agreed to let her name be forgotten, and -I devoutly hope I shall never have occasion to remember it. - - -_Tuesday, October 27th._ - -My dear, _dear_ mother, now that I have told you all the sorrows, trials -and follies of the past month, I will turn to other and far more -pleasing themes. My dear little Pauline was almost wild with joy to see -papa and mamma at home again. I found her looking very chubby and rosy, -having gained in strength since the cool weather. - -This season is perfectly charming. It is called the Indian summer. I can -give you no just description of the gorgeousness of the forest trees -with which we are surrounded. As I was riding through a thick grove -yesterday, on my way to Waverley, I could almost imagine myself in fairy -land. The air was mild and balmy as in June, and there was a freshness -and dryness in the atmosphere which was perfectly exhilarating. - -I think I remarked to you near the commencement of my journal, that Mrs. -Munroe, the wife of our clergyman, was absent from town. She returned -while we were away. I called there yesterday, in company with Emily and -Pauline. Mrs. Munroe is rather above the medium height, with a very -intelligent, not handsome, countenance; and a splendid set of teeth. She -impressed me as a very superior lady; there is a dignity, a quiet repose -in her manner which I admire. - -After conversing a few moments, I expressed a wish to see her infant; -when she immediately went out and brought it to the parlor, accompanied -by a sister who is visiting her. I don't think Pauline ever saw a baby -before, and she looked at the little creature with a serious, thoughtful -expression, frequently sighing from the intensity of her feelings. We -all joined in a laugh at her expense. But when the baby began to cry, -poor Pauline started, and grew very red. I didn't like to have her feel -so, and I took the infant into my lap, and put its little soft hand in -hers. When she had felt the velvety flesh, and came to the conclusion -that it was really alive, she was pleased enough; and had to make a -great effort to keep from crying that I did not bring it home with me. - -I made early inquiries on my return as to the present situation of -Squire Lee's family; and was happy to learn that in many respects Lucy's -situation is far more comfortable than formerly. Her father still -continues feeble in body and mind, but he has grown so dependent on his -daughter, and is so pleased with her tender care, that he can hardly -bear her out of his sight. She reads newspapers to him, combs his hair, -and soothes him by the hour together. She hopes soon to interest him in -the Bible, by reading daily, delightful selections from it. I fear the -poor old gentleman has not enough sense to understand, as he often falls -asleep in his chair, lulled by the sound of her sweet voice. - -Joseph Lee has taken up his residence in the city, only returning -occasionally to obtain his father's signature to a check. He swears that -the house is just like a tomb ever since the "old fellow" was taken -sick. As he has the last will safe in his possession, he gives himself -no concern about Lucy. - -A few mornings after my return I requested Ann to build a fire in my -room, while I gave Pauline her morning bath; when she brought up a great -quantity of brush which would light quickly. The sight of this reminded -me of the children, Anna and Willie. I am ashamed to say, that with so -many other subjects to occupy my thoughts my _protegés_ had passed -entirely out of my mind. I inquired concerning them of mother, and -learned that they had made great advances in Phebe's good graces, by -having completely filled the wood shed with the brush, which Cæsar had -chopped early in the season, and had left in the orchard to dry. They -had come regularly day after day, had taken their dinner at the house, -and returned at night carrying a basket of food, or some useful article -to their mother. - -Frank and I are more delighted than we can express with the change in -Emily. To be sure, she never has such high spirits as formerly; but she -is cheerful and affectionate to mother and all of us. - -When I recall to mind the sad forebodings, I had while in B----, -thinking my happiness had gone forever, and then realize what a united, -happy family we are, my heart is ready to burst with gratitude. - -Our - - - "Home is the resort - Of love, of joy, of peace and plenty, where, - Supporting and supported, polished friends - And dear relations mingle into bliss." - - -_Saturday, October 31st._ - -Now that Frank knows my whole heart, I hope he will cease from -self-accusation for what passed at B----. I was sitting at my desk -writing when he came in. I looked up with a smile; but he only made a -faint attempt to return it. I instantly shut my desk, and went unbidden -to sit upon his knee. He put his arm about me, but did not speak. To -divert his thoughts, I asked him about his patients. - -"Cora, my dear wife," said he interrupting me, "I would give all I -possess," ('including _me_,' I whispered,) "if you could open your heart -to me as you do to your mother in that journal." - -"Why, Frank, I will tell you all you would like to know. I can't think -of anything I wish to conceal from you." - -"Isn't there," he asked in an agitated voice, and hiding his face behind -me, "Isn't there, away down at the bottom of your heart a feeling, which -if brought out to the light, would read, 'I think I have been cruelly -insulted by my husband, and I can never love and respect him as I once -did?'" - -"Frank," I exclaimed, starting to my feet, "let me feel your pulse. I -will order draughts for your feet. You surely have had a return of your -giddiness, or you would not insult your wife by such suspicions. When -you are sufficiently recovered to bear it, you shall take the said -journal of which you are so jealous, and retiring to the privacy of the -library, you shall then and there learn all that your wife thinks of -you." - -"Dearest," he replied, "you will do me the greatest favor by allowing me -to peruse that part of it relating to ----." I put my hand to his mouth, -which he held there. Then I went to my desk, and separating the sheets -containing the account of our visit to B----, I put them into his hand. -When he had left the room, I could not help smiling at the look with -which he took the papers. It was something like that of a boy who -anticipates a pretty severe whipping. I began to feel sorry, I had -written so much about jealousy, and feared he would think that I -attached more importance to it than I do; for indeed I love my husband, -if possible, better than ever. - -It was four or five hours before I saw him again, and I started to go to -him, when I heard Cæsar knock repeatedly at the library door without -receiving an answer. I therefore waited with great impatience. At length -my husband came to my room, where Pauline was playing about the floor, -and I knew by his looks, he had been much agitated. I sprang to meet -him, when he clasped me in his arms, saying, "Dearest and best of wives, -tell me again, that you forgive me. How very inhuman I have been!" - -"Are you sorry you read it," I asked? - -"No, _no_!" he replied eagerly, "I thank you more than I can express." - -"Well, then, will you promise never to think of it more?" - -"Yes, except as a powerful motive to be a better, and kinder husband to -the most affectionate and forgiving of wives." He added, "I have prayed, -with the record of your sufferings before me, for pardon and strength -for the future." - -"Dear Frank, did you pray for me too?" - -"Yes, love, I prayed that we might be spared many years; and that each -year we might be increasingly happy in each other, and useful to our -fellow creatures." Then lowering his voice to a whisper, he added, "I -prayed too for one who endeavored to injure us, that she might find -space for repentance." - - - - -CHAPTER XVII. - - "Such a house broke! - So noble a master fallen! all gone! and not - One friend, to take his fortune by the arm, - And go along with him." SHAKSPEARE. - - -_Wednesday, November 4th._ - -I have been to the little hut occupied by William Reynolds and family, -to see what had become of the children. Frank thinks it would be well to -put them to school. It shall be my care to provide them suitable -clothing. This, I can depend upon Miss Proctor to assist me in making -up. - -We found the poor woman seated in an old rocking-chair, and looking very -miserable. Her husband beat her badly a few nights since, for -interfering, when he was, as he said, administering proper chastisement -to Willie. Since that time, she can hardly turn her head or see out of -one eye. Her nearest neighbor, hearing a great noise, ran to the house, -and secured William. The next day the same man brought a complaint -against the inebriate for abuse of wife and children, and for refusing -to provide for their support. He is now in the county jail, from which -he is to be carried to the House of Correction for three months. - -In the midst of their poverty, the children are really uncommonly -prepossessing and intelligent. It is easy to see what they would have -been if nurtured in a home of competence and comfort. At the time we -entered, Anna was standing on an old stool behind her mother's chair, -trying to smoother out the long auburn tresses, and twist them under the -cap. I felt no repugnance to the act when I took the broken comb from -her hand, and made a beautiful knot at the back of her mother's head. I -then bathed her poor bruised temple; and promising to do something for -her immediate relief, we left her. - -I have become much interested in the history of this unfortunate family. -Anna, the mother of my _protegés_, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. -Ryland who lived in Waverley. Anna was the elder of four children, two -of whom died in infancy, leaving only the subject of this sketch and -Edward her younger brother to crown the hopes of their afflicted -parents. Mr. Ryland was in the possession of a valuable farm, part of -which was left him by his parents; but which he had greatly enlarged and -improved by his own exertions. A new house had been erected on the site -of the old one, and everything in and about it exhibited the appearance -so common among the farmers of New England, of independence, comfort and -respectability. - -Anna and her brother had been educated with care, and after enjoying and -improving the school advantages of the place, they had been sent in turn -to academies at a distance. - -Early in life Anna had become attached and affianced to William -Reynolds, son of a neighboring farmer who was regarded as one of the -most intelligent and enterprising young men in Waverley. Certainly his -noble figure, and bright handsome face, made him a welcome guest, not -only at the Ryland farm, but in every place where he chose to visit. - -Mr. and Mrs. Ryland looked upon William with no little pride as the -betrothed of their daughter, while she was at the same time the -admiration and envy of the young people of her acquaintance. William -Reynolds waited only long enough to be able to erect a neat comfortable -cottage upon a spot of ground in Crawford, which had been his -inheritance from his father's estate before he brought his Anna to be -its presiding genius. - -With Anna, there came to Rose Cottage, as the young bride styled her new -home, wagon loads of the neatest of furniture purchased by her father. -From the neatly finished attic to the well stored cellar, each -apartment received its appropriate part of the new goods. White fringed -curtains nicely looped aside with ribbon, were hung in her spare -chamber, or the one set aside for company, while a gay carpet covered -the floor of the parlor. Beside these two rooms on the lower floor, -there was also a spacious kitchen, and a bed-room opening from it, which -they intended for their own use, while beyond was a large shed -connecting the house and barn. This, the neat housewife secretly -determined, should, at least in summer, serve them for a kitchen, so -that that apartment could be kept more tidy for the eating and sitting -room. - -As soon as they were settled, Anna's brother Edward was to constitute a -part of their family. Not at all desirous to pursue the calling of his -father, Mr. Ryland wisely concluded to allow him to follow the bent of -his inclinations, justly supposing he would rise to greater usefulness -by so doing. It must be supposed, however, that it was no small -sacrifice for these excellent parents to part with their son from under -the parental roof when he obtained a situation in Crawford, even though -he would be under the care and influence of his sister. - -Time passed on. The roses which had been transplanted from the old -place, and which had given the name to their home, grew as if by magic. -In his leisure hours, William under the direction of his tasteful wife, -had made trellises a few feet from the window; and now the luxurious -roses and vines almost reached the top. But within this sweet abode, in -a cradle which had rocked her own infancy, there was indeed a new blown -rose, unfolding its sweetness amidst the most tender care and love. - -William, ever active and industrious, was accounted one of the most -thriving farmers in the place; while Anna by her neatness, and good -housewifery, had so won upon the good will of their employers, that -whoever else returned from market, heavily laden as they went, with -their own produce, William never failed to find customers, eager to -purchase at an advanced price Anna's butter and cheese. - -But about this time a little cloud arose in their horizon. Edward, who -had been rapidly gaining upon the esteem and confidence of his -employers, was by the sudden death of the head of the firm, thrown out -of employment. His services however were eagerly sought as accountant, -and book-keeper, in the great warehouse connected with the distillery, -and belonging to Squire Lee. For a time nothing could be said but in -praise of the new clerk; and the old gentleman, warned by the early -dissipation of Joseph, that he could expect no aid from him, often -hinted to Edward the promise of rapid advancement. But after a few -months, Squire Lee noticed that Edward never tasted spirit of any kind; -and he vowed to himself that he would get rid of a fellow whose conduct -was a standing reproach to his own intemperance and to his business. - -In fact, Ryland would have preferred a different situation, and had -inwardly determined never to be a partner in an employment he could not -approve. At that time, he did not realize as he did afterward, the curse -that would surely follow those who engaged in the manufacture and sale -of ardent spirits for unrighteous purposes. A great press of business -about this period, postponed both in master and clerk, the separation -contemplated. - -Late one Saturday evening, Squire Lee visited his counting-room, where -Edward was busily employed in making up the accounts for the week, that -he might leave them in a state proper for inspection. - -"That's a fine fellow!" said the Squire, clapping his clerk upon the -shoulder, after he had watched him turning over the journal and ledger, -and transferring accounts from one to another with great neatness and -despatch. "That's something like, now!" - -Edward made a passing remark about the amount of business the past week, -and went on with his work. - -"Yes," resumed the Squire, "that's exactly what I came to see you -about. We've engaged a large amount of rum, our very best, to go out -Monday morning; and as we shall make a great profit on it, I mustn't -disappoint the man. He wants it for a new tavern somewhere down in -----." - -Edward looked from his work a moment, as the old gentleman continued, "I -know you like to go home and spend Sunday with the old folks. Some -bright eyes watching for you, I suppose," said he, with a leering -expression, and trying to be facetious, "but the fact is," bringing his -heavy fist down on the desk, "them bills of sale have got to be made -out; and you must give up going home this once, and take an extra day or -so another time to give your gal a ride." - -Young Ryland quietly laid the books upon the table, and turning round to -look his employer full in the face, he said in a firm but respectful -tone, "Squire Lee, I will remain here until midnight, and return at the -same hour to-morrow night; but I have been taught to fear God and keep -his commandments; and nothing could induce me to violate the Sabbath in -the way you mention." - -"Very well, sir," replied the Squire, in a voice of suppressed rage, "we -shall soon see how that is. Don't the Bible teach young men to obey -their masters?" he asked in a sneering tone. "Your parents had better -have taught you _that_ before they sent you here." - -Edward stood perfectly calm and unmoved. - -"If you don't recant, young fellow, and pretty quick too, you've earnt -the last dollar you'll ever earn in my store;" and with a horrible oath -he brought down his fist again upon the desk. - -"In that respect, sir, I can never change," said young Ryland; "I have -endeavored faithfully to do my duty since I have been in your employ. -But, sir, to tell you the truth, I have stretched my conscience in your -service by consenting to be employed in an establishment where liquors -are manufactured; and it will be no disappointment to me to leave at -this time." - -Squire Lee in a frenzy, turned upon Edward with uplifted arm to strike -him to the floor; but there was something in the expression of the young -man's eye, which had not for a moment quailed, that restrained him; and -he contented himself by pouring upon him a volley of abuse, intermingled -with oaths and curses, such as it made Edward shudder to hear. He calmly -turned, closed the books, placed them in the safe, passed the key to the -old gentleman, saying, "In a few moments the business for the week would -have been accounted for. I think you will find all correct, as far as I -had gone." He took his hat and left, before the Squire had recovered his -breath. - -Whether the bills of sale were rendered in due season, or what he -thought of Edward's conduct at that time is not known; but it is certain -that after having in vain tried to fill Edward's place to his liking, -the Squire took pains to ride out to Rose Cottage. He inquired his -whereabouts, expressing a strong desire to get him back. "He was rather -too fanatical about his religion, and all that sort of stuff, but a -smarter, more faithful or accurate book-keeper I never had." - -Mrs. Reynolds informed him that her brother, after leaving his store, -had obtained recommendations from individuals acquainted with him while -in the employ of the other firm, and had gone directly to New York, -where he had speedily procured employment. - -Squire Lee was so much disappointed, that Mrs. Reynolds added, that she -would write to her brother whom it would be very pleasant to her to have -again in her family. - -"Tell him," resumed the Squire, "that I will make his salary just what -he says." - -This visit was the small cloud which gradually overspread the whole -horizon of the gentle Anna Reynolds. That night when her husband -returned home more than usually fatigued from his work, she communicated -to him the purpose of the Squire in his call, expressing at the same -time her conviction that her brother would never consent to return to -his employ. - -"Why couldn't I get the situation?" flashed through William's mind, but -he said nothing to his wife until he had finished his out door work; and -Anna had soothed her baby to sleep, laid it in the cradle--swept the -hearth, and sat down to her sewing, with her foot upon the rocker. - -"What are you thinking of, Willie?" she asked playfully. "You seem to be -looking as earnestly into the fire, as if you were expecting your new -cart and oxen to come walking out of it into the room." - -William smiled as he turned to look at her; and after a moment's -hesitation said, "Wife, I've been thinking it all over, about what -Squire Lee said, and I've about come to the conclusion, to apply for the -situation myself. That is," he continued, seeing her look of -astonishment, "if Edward does not choose to come back." - -Anna gazed intently at him for a moment, and then exclaimed, "William -Reynolds, I really believe you are going mad. Aren't you well?" she -asked, changing her tone. - -William made a faint attempt to laugh as he said, "I expected you'd be -astonished at first; but the fact is, you know I haven't felt well -lately." Anna looked anxious, as this was the first intimation she had -received of his sickness. "And to tell the truth, I always thought it -was a foolish move in Edward to give up such a good place for so -trifling a matter, and it was so pleasant having him here." - -"It was, indeed," replied Anna with a sigh. - -"If the whole must be known," resumed William, "when I went to market, -and had been hawing and geeing all day, and called at the Squire's and -saw Edward sitting there so cozy and comfortable with nothing to do, but -just to write from morning till night; his salary sure, rain or shine, -crops good or bad; I almost envied him." - -"But what could you do with the farm?" interrupted Anna. - -"I could get a man to take care of it. There's Joe Clark would take it -to the halves, and be glad of the chance. I heard him talking so to a -man not more'n a week ago." - -Anna, however, was not easily convinced of the wisdom of this new -movement; and it required all her husband's arguments to induce her to -consent to his making the trial, in case he succeeded in obtaining the -situation. He had when a boy, been at the head of the school in -book-keeping, and had often assisted Edward in his accounts when obliged -to be up late in the employment of the other firm. In representing to -his wife, all the inducements to quit the farm for the counting-room, he -did not mention the fact, that the hands employed by the firm, were -allowed free access to the barrels of New England rum and whisky, piled -up against the walls around the building. Indeed there were generally -kept kegs especially for their use; and for them to treat those who came -in upon business. It was during the frequent calls he had made upon -Edward, that he had imbibed a taste for ardent spirits. Perhaps he -thought this argument would not have much weight with his wife. Perhaps -he was not himself aware of its power over himself, nor of the strength -of his appetite. - -True, it is, that having received a note from his brother-in-law, -positively declining the offer of the Squire, accompanied by a note -recommending him as competent to fill the place, and also a -recommendation from the teacher of the school where he learned the art, -Reynolds sallied forth in quest of Squire Lee. He did not think it -necessary to exhibit to that gentleman, neither did he intend to show -his wife, a kind note from Edward accompanying the other, begging him, -by every motive he could urge, to avoid a place so fraught with danger. -In the most brotherly manner, Edward told him that he had noticed with -fearful anticipations the relish with which, on occasions of his calls -at the distillery, he had accepted invitations to a glass from the -workmen. He also added, that since he had been in New York, he had -ascertained that public sentiment was farther advanced upon the subject -of intemperance than he had supposed, and that the distiller was -beginning to be regarded as an enemy to his brother man. - -"If," he added at the close, "Squire Lee had proposed to take me as an -equal partner into the firm, instead of the offer he made, I would not -for an instant think of accepting it." - -"All this was no doubt well meant in Edward," soliloquized William, as -he walked to the counting room; "but I always knew he was too stiff in -such matters; even Anna says that." But he could not help acknowledging -that his wife, and her parents would view the matter in the same light -as the writer, should they read the letter. So he considered it more -prudent to say nothing about it, as he had made up his mind to take the -situation if he could obtain it. - -Unfortunately for him, and for all connected with him, he did obtain it, -and entered at once upon his new duties; Joe Clark taking his place on -the farm. - -"Somehow," said Anna, "from the very first, everything seemed to go -behind hand. Joe was not so much interested, or at home on the farm as -my William; and then his pay had to come out of the produce, whether we -made little or much; and though my husband satisfied his employers, and -received a good salary, yet I didn't realize much help from it at the -cottage. It also weaned him from home, and got him in a way of staying -out very late at night; and at length _all was gone_; and he mortgaged -our beautiful home to the Squire, when Willie was a baby, telling me he -should soon work and get it back again. But every thing went and _went_, -until I and my babes moved to this old shanty, with little more of my -nice furniture than the bed on which I lie. Even this, I could have -borne, had my husband been left to me. I could work, I would do anything -for them; but I _have no husband_. A man calling himself William -Reynolds lives here; that is, when he is not off on a drunken frolic; -but he is not THE _William Reynolds_ I married." - -It will be readily seen that though William and his wife were, at the -time of their living in Rose Cottage, moral, and upright in their -characters; yet they were not actuated by the religious principles which -were the governing motives of their brother's conduct. But it is to be -hoped, that the death of her parents, together with the sad change in -her own circumstances, had been blessed to the afflicted woman. -Certainly she has been most careful to instil religious principles into -the minds of her children. - -"But where," I asked, "is Edward, her brother?" - -"He has never been to Crawford since the death of his parents. William -was very angry at his brother's interference, as he termed it, in -matters which did not concern him; and Anna has not heard from him for -several years." - - - - -CHAPTER XVIII. - - "There are smiles and tears in the mother's eyes, - For her new born babe beside her lies; - Oh, heaven of bliss! when the heart o'erflows - With the rapture a _mother_ only knows." HENRY WARE, JR. - - -_Tuesday, April 19th, 1836._ - -DEAREST MOTHER,--Though it has been many a long month since I have had -the heart to write in my journal, I cannot let the anniversary of my -marriage and departure from home pass away, without at least a few words -to the dear family at home. My breath comes quickly, and my tears blind -me when I think, they may be _my last_. Often my heart sinks, and my -spirit faints, as I look forward with an undefined sense of dread to the -future. Sometimes I am enabled to look up with trust and confidence to -"Him who doeth all things well;" and by faith to take hold of the -precious promises peculiarly addressed to me. - -I am blessed with a devoted husband; a watchful and tender mother, and -an affectionate sister. When I think of these mercies, I can only say, -"surely my cup runneth over." - -Dear mother, I need not ask your prayers for your daughter. I know that -I am remembered whenever you approach the throne of grace---- - -My pen dropped from my hand. I was with you in spirit at the hour of -family prayer. I saw again my own loved and honored father in his arm -chair, near the table, where open before him lies the sacred page. Near -by sit my dear mother and sisters, while on the opposite side of the -room, are our faithful Jennie and her associates, waiting for the daily -instruction, they are in the habit of receiving. When all is still, a -chapter is read. Isabel strikes softly the notes of the organ, while all -join in a hymn of praise; then my dear father in a simple, trustful -manner, lays the wants of each one of the bowed circle before our -Heavenly Father. - - - "The voices of my home! I hear them still! - They have been with me through the dreamy night-- - The blessed household voices, wont to fill - My heart's clear depths with unalloy'd delight." - - -Ah! beloved mother, my spirit melts as I feel assured that I am not -forgotten; the dear child who has gone out from the shelter of the -parental roof, who lives beyond the mighty waters; for her and her -husband, are invoked the choicest of heaven's blessings; strength, -support, and comfort, for every hour of need. Thus let me feel, your -prayers ever ascend. Father, mother, sisters, _farewell_! - - - "_Crawford, May 2d, 1836._ - - "HONORED PARENTS, - - "I am most happy to inform you that after a protracted, and - somewhat dangerous illness, my dear wife gave birth to a fine boy, - at half past six this morning. My heart is full of gratitude for - the mercy which has spared the life of my beloved Cora, and given - us so precious a treasure. - - "Dutifully and affectionately your son, - - "FRANK LENOX." - - "_P.S., May 6th_,--Mother and child are doing well. Cora looks very - smiling, as she lies gazing at her sleeping babe. She says, tell - them I am very, _very_ happy." - - -_Thursday, November 10th._ - -Beloved mother, how I long to exhibit to you and to all at home, my -beautiful boy, my chubby, rosy Walter. He is everything a mother's heart -could desire, gifted with every faculty of body and mind, to make him a -useful member of society. Yet when I realize that I have given birth to -one whose soul can never die, I shrink from the fearful responsibility. -Yet I am not alone. There is a fountain of wisdom and knowledge from -which I am permitted freely to draw. - -I am almost too happy. I have a dear husband whose steps become more -quick and elastic; whose eye grows more bright whenever he approaches -his home, his wife, his sweet little daughter Pauline, and his darling, -frolicsome _boy_-baby. Walter knows his father's step right well, and -almost springs out of my arms as he opens the door and advances to take -him from me. - -Nothing can be more tender than Pauline's fondness for her little -brother. Without a word, she yields her choicest toys, or stands for him -to pull her curls. This is master Lenox's richest sport. It is sport, -however, which I have forbidden. He must learn, even thus early in life, -to respect the rights of his yielding sister, or he will tyrannize over -her. I prophesy no small trouble from this source, for not only is she -willing to be deprived of whatever she has in her hand, but if I say -"_No_, Walter, that is sister's," the affectionate child, in her rich -musical voice, pleads, "Please, mamma, let Pauline give brother. Pauline -don't want now." - -Mother, and sister, are very proud of the young Lenox, who, they fondly -imagine, will add much to the honor of their name. Indeed he is a true -Lenox, and already asserts his authority over every one of the family, -most of whom yield obedience to him far too readily. - - -_Friday, December 30th._ - -For a few days Pauline has not been well. I feel quite anxious; she has -heretofore enjoyed uniform health. She coughed very hard last night. Her -father thinks she has taken a cold which will soon pass away. I have -allowed Ann to take most of the care of Walter, so that I can devote -myself to my little girl. - -Walter has gained a great victory over Ann, of which he does not fail to -make the most. He now appears to realize that she is completely under -his control, and insists upon having his own way whenever with her. I -wish she were more decided with him. She would have far less trouble. -When his wishes conflict with mine, he yields at once. Instead of the -loud crying, and throwing his head back, which so frightens his nurse, -he looks in my face to see if I am in earnest, and then pleasantly turns -to something else. I have been telling Frank, it is high time for him to -assert his authority; but he begs off. He drives into the yard, springs -up the stairs to the nursery, catches up his boy and gives him a ride -upon his shoulder, or upon his back, gets him into a great frolic, and -then he is off. Sometimes it takes me half an hour to restore quiet. -Frank says his mother always managed him, and he thinks such duties -belong to the mother. - -I told him, I really believed he dared not make the attempt for fear he -could not carry it out. He only laughed and went out of the room, saying -he would try his skill on Pauline. Dear child, she loves her father so -dearly that the thought of displeasing or disobeying him, would never -enter her heart. She is now quietly sleeping, and I hope will awake -refreshed. - - - - -CHAPTER XIX. - - "Kindness has resistless charms, - All things else but weakly move; - Fiercest anger it disarms, - And clips the wings of flying love." ROCHESTER. - - -_Saturday, December 31st._ - -DEAR MOTHER,--I must not forget to tell you that I received a call in -the parlor yesterday from Mrs. Thomas Jones. She was dressed so -differently that at first I hardly knew her. Thomas and his wife after a -suitable time for examination and trial, made a public profession of -religion in our church; and have since conducted themselves and their -household in such a manner as to give the strongest evidence of the -sincerity of their profession. - -Mrs. Jones called to see me with reference to William Reynolds, for whom -both she and her husband feel a lively interest; and from her I received -these incidents. Mrs. Reynolds with her interesting children, was long -ago removed to a decent tenement in the village, where she has supported -herself comfortably by her skill as a tailoress. During the past year -she has seen nothing of her husband, who wandered away when released -from his confinement. - -Now he has returned, pale and haggard, worn out in body and mind. He -loitered around the streets all one day, not daring to ask for his -family. At length, Thomas met him and took him to his own home. - -"I could not but think," said the kind-hearted woman with tears starting -to her eyes, "of the time when my husband used to return from a drunken -frolic, looking pretty near as forlorn as he. But Thomas brushed him -up, and we made him look as smart as we could, though we couldn't -restore the ruddy cheeks, or the bright eyes he used to have; and then I -jest stepped over to Anna Reynolds's. She was a sitting so kind o' -comfortable hearing her little girl read a nice book, she got from -Sabbath-school, while Willie was whittling into a basket, that I -couldn't help feeling kind o' guilty, to think how soon the errand, I'd -come on might destroy all her peace. For you know, her husband had been -gone so long she'd got settled like to have him away. But I knew who was -waiting at home, and so I made bold to walk in. - -"'Good evening, Miss Reynolds,' I says. - -"She looked up as pleasant as could be, and says she,'good evening, Miss -Jones,' and then she got up and set me a chair by the fire. I allus said -she was a born lady, and so is her little Anna. After all I didn't know -how to bring in my message, and I begun to wish I hadn't come, for fear -she'd faint away or something. She looked up from her work while I was -trying to think how I could begin, and says she, 'can't you stop and -spend the evening?' - -"'Oh! no,' says I, 'I'm expected home. Miss Reynolds,' says I, my heart -beating so I was feared she'd hear it, 'who do you think's over to our -house?' - -"'I can't say indeed,' says she. Then she smiled and asked, 'has Samuel -returned?' - -"'No' says I, 'but your husband has' and with that I burst right out a -crying, I couldn't help it, I'd tried to keep in so long. Miss Reynolds -turned jest as white as a sheet; and her work fell out of her lap to the -floor. 'Oh, dear!' says I, 'I didn't mean to tell you of it so sudden.' - -"'Is it true?' says she, whispering with her white lips; her voice was -clean gone. - -"'Yes, 'tis true,' says I, 'Thomas brought him home when he came from -work,' and then I was jest a going to tell her that he was a sitting -with one of Thomas's coats on a waiting to see her; but somehow I -thought that wouldn't be just the thing. - -"'Is he himself?' she asked. - -"'He's all right,' says I, meaning here, raising her hand to her head,' -but he isn't very well.' - -"She started right up, and took her bonnet and shawl down from a nail, -and said, 'come' before I could hardly think what to do next. She almost -flew across the road and up the lane. I had to run all the way to keep -up. She stopped a minute in the entry to kind o' prepare herself, and -then I opened the door; and them two sprang right into each other's -arms. I declare, I acted like a fool, and stood behind the door crying -as hard as ever I could, I was so astonished. She started and pushed him -off a little to see if it was really her own husband, and then she -hugged him tighter'n ever. - -"'Anna,' says William, when he could speak, wiping his eyes with an old -rag of an handkercher, 'can you forgive me all?' - -"'Yes, _all_,' says she, 'if you'll only be my own William again,' and -then she took his hand to lead him home. 'You'll hardly know the -children,' says she. - -"He put on the old slouched thing, he called a hat, when he suddenly -bethought himself he'd got on Thomas's best coat, almost bran new; and -with that he begun to pull it right off. But Thomas wouldn't let him. -'Reynolds,' says he, 'if you'll promise to be a good husband to her, as -I know you will be, if you'll let rum alone, I'll make you welcome to -it.' - -"William snatched hold of his hands as if he was going to cry, and says -he, 'I don't dare to promise, oh, how I wish I could!' - -"'Well, _well_,' says Thomas, 'I'll see you again,' for he thought -'twa'n't just the time to say more. I couldn't help feelin proud o' my -man, then, though I'm 'fraid 'twas kind o' wicked.'" - -Kind Mrs. Jones! she was obliged to stop and find her -pocket-handkerchief. The tears were streaming down her honest face, and -I must confess, I wept with her. She resumed, "The next morning Anna -came in and brought the coat all wrapped up in a towel, and says she, 'I -thank your kind husband, Miss Jones, but William will soon be able to -earn himself a coat with my help.' - -"I urged her to keep it, and told her we both made her welcome to it, -for I know what it is to want help and to _have_ it too. But no, she -wouldn't take it, and with that I asked her to wait a minute, and I ran -up garret where Thomas had a good warm overcoat a little too small, and -I'd laid it by to make Samuel one out of it. 'Here, Miss Reynolds,' says -I, 'is a coat,'tain't no kind o' use to Thomas, 'cause it's too small; -and I want the nail desprit bad, where it hung, so I'll be behoven to -you, if you'll give it house room.' - -"'Oh, Miss Jones,' says she, 'I can see through your kindness, and I -shall be very grateful for the coat,' and so she took it and went home. -Now Thomas and I have been putting our heads together to get some work -for Reynolds, so he wont have to go to the distillery for it. And at -last we concluded to ask the Doctor's advice." - - -_Monday, March 6th, 1837._ - -How little I thought when I wrote last that so long a time would pass -before I should write again. I should hardly prove a very good -correspondent, did not Frank fill up and make amends for all my -deficiencies. - -The sickness of Pauline, which, I think, I mentioned in my last, and -which probably reached you more than a month since, proved to be the -worst kind of measles. We were very much alarmed for a time, as they did -not come out; and the poor child was burning up with fever. - -I kept Walter over at mother's for more than a fortnight, while Emily -remained here to assist me in the care of the little sufferer. Even when -her face was so much swollen as to close her eyes, she was patient and -gentle as a lamb. "Dear mamma," she would say, "will God let me see my -little brother again? Please ask God to make me well quick; this don't -make Pauline's face feel nice." - -When she had repeatedly begged that Walter might be brought to the bed -where she could hear his voice, I explained to her that we feared, if he -came, he would be sick too, and his eyes just like hers. After this, the -patient sufferer with true self-denial, said, "Mamma, won't you be sick -too? I will try to lie still if you can't come. I want to get well to -see my brother, but he mustn't come here, because he will take the sick -too," she repeated to every one after this. - -Frank began to grow seriously alarmed, as week after week passed away, -and she had nearly recovered from the effects of the measles, to find -that her cough still continued. He feared lest her lungs might be -affected. From being a very plump, rosy child, she had become extremely -pale and thin. Her eyes looked unnaturally large and thoughtful. Her -complexion which in health is the richest brunette, was almost sallow. I -felt that she was growing too mature. Her questions were so serious and -showed so much thought, that I would often catch her in my arms, and -feel that I could not give her up. I saw that Frank watched her very -closely, and administered to her with the tenderest care. But I dared -not ask him what he thought. - -"Mamma," said Pauline one day, "will you please teach me a little hymn?" - -"Why, my love!" I asked, struck by the expression of her countenance. - -"I want more hymns to say in the night. I have said 'Mary had a little -lamb,' and 'I knew a little cottage girl,' and all my other hymns, and -then I say 'Now I lay me' a great many times over, because that's so -short, and I want to learn more." - -"But, Pauline, why don't you shut your eyes, and go to sleep?" - -"I do shut my eyes, mamma; but they won't stay shut, and the moon looks -so bright, I like to see it. Then I say, 'God made the sky that looks -so blue.' Is there a hymn, mamma, about the moon?" - -I taught her "twinkle, twinkle little star," but with a sad weight at my -heart. That night I took Frank alone, and asked him if he knew Pauline -lay awake at night repeating hymns. - -He tried to turn away as he replied that he had often heard her -whispering to herself. - -"Frank," said I, detaining him, "tell me, do you think her dangerously -ill?" - -"Oh, no, not now!" - -But I insisted upon knowing the worst, and seeing my fears were fully -aroused, he confessed that he had been anxious about her cough. "I would -give a good deal to know," said he, as if speaking to himself; "whether -her family were consumptive." - -"Husband," said I, catching hold of his arm, "I had really forgotten -that the child was not my own;" and then the word _consumptive_ struck -like a fearful knell upon my heart. - -"Cora," said the Doctor, "you take it too seriously. Pauline has always -appeared to have an excellent constitution; I really am not at all sure -that this is not the remains of the measles, only aggravated from other -causes. I intend to take her out in the open air, just as soon as these -bleak winds have gone." On the whole I felt relieved by this -conversation. - - -_Tuesday, March 7th._ - -Joseph Morgan has come to make the long promised visit. He has become -very much attached to his cousin Emily, and seems to feel that as he -must have fun with somebody, it will be safer to take one who has no -husband to call him to account. Sister, I will venture to say, has not -laughed so much for a long, _long_ time. He has evidently indulged no -small curiosity to see Pauline; but though he will not of course say -anything to wound my feelings, yet it was plain enough to see, he -thought much more of a lively game at romps with Walter, than he did of -trying to draw out Pauline, timid and retiring, as she always appears -before strangers. - -The little fellow will not allow his cousin one moment's peace when in -the house. He creeps across the floor in a twinkling, climbs up to -Joseph's knee, and by expressive pulls and gestures, signifies his wish -that his cousin should instantly get down upon the carpet for a play. If -this goes on, I shall soon be obliged to have new furniture. Chairs and -lounges tumble over, and my work-basket has received a terrible wound in -the side, through which I am constantly losing scissors, thimble, and -cotton. Joseph expresses great sorrow, but in ten minutes does the same -again. I try to look grave, and call Ann to put the room in order; but -before I am aware, I am laughing until the tears roll down my cheeks. - - -_Monday, March 20th._ - -Pauline has become quite free with her cousin, and goes directly to him -when he calls her to sit on his knee. It is amusing to hear him talk -with her. While with every one else he will have his joke, so that Cæsar -opens his mouth to its fullest extent in anticipation, yet with Pauline -he is grave and gentle, and never makes fun of what she says. He told me -once, when she was absent from the room, that he must mind his ps and -qs, for he heard her telling Phebe part of a foolish story, he had told -Emily in her hearing. Phebe laughed as if she did not believe it, when -Pauline said earnestly, "You mustn't laugh, Phebe, my cousin said so." - -Phebe said, "Oh! misse, he's only fooling." - -Pauline didn't understand that, and turning around saw him. "Here he -is!" she exclaimed triumphantly, "will you please tell Phebe, you did -say that." - -Joseph confessed he was decidedly confused. "She looked so earnest and -solemn with those large eyes of hers. I wouldn't like her to catch me -fibbing. I couldn't look her in the face for a month. By the way, coz, -have you ever found out her parentage? She speaks when occasion -requires, like a princess. You should have heard her reprove Phebe for -laughing." - -I hinted to Joseph that I disliked to hear any allusion to Pauline's -parentage. - -"It is a great wonder," said he, "that I did not blab it right out." - - -_Tuesday, March 21st._ - -To-day has been mild and pleasant as summer. Joseph, who is a skilful -equestrian, rode up to the door, waiting for Cæsar to bring the riding -whip. Pauline stood with her little face pressed close to the window, at -the imminent hazard of flattening her nose. Joseph motioned to me to -throw up the sash. I did so, setting down the child from the chair. - -"Let Pauline come," said he. - -I shook my head. - -"It will do her good; the day is delightful; dress her warm, and let her -come. I'll bring her back safely." - -I turned in doubt to the child, when she put her hand in mine, while a -bright flush passed over her face. "Please, mamma," she said, "I should -like to go with my cousin." - -This decided me, and nodding assent from the window, I hastened to -prepare her for the ride. Cæsar took her in his arms and gave her to -Joseph; but he was not yet ready. He asked Cæsar, if there were not -somewhere about the premises, a soft cushion suitable for a princess to -ride upon. - -Pauline gave him a quick look from under her long lashes. - -"Well," said he, correcting himself--"for a nice little girl." He gently -placed her before him, held her tightly with one arm, and nodding adieu, -they rode away. But Joseph forgot himself again before he reached the -gate, and shouted back, "You need not expect us till night." - -"Oh! please cousin don't stay so long, mamma would be very anxious," -and she looked distressed. - -Joseph turned the horse at once, rode back to the door where we still -stood looking after them, and motioning me to come to the step, said, -"We shall probably be absent about half an hour." - -I smiled. - -"Dear coz," he resumed, "I hope you'll have something warm for me when I -return. I fancy, I shall be black and blue inside here, trying to -conform my conversation to my companion's strict sense of propriety." - -It was nearly an hour, however, before they returned, and Pauline's eyes -were so bright, her cheeks and lips so red that I gazed at her with -admiration. When in answer to my question, whether she had enjoyed -herself, she replied that she had had a beautiful time, and that her -cousin "talked to her so good." He said with a bow, "I am more than -repaid for all my efforts at self-control." - - -_Thursday, March 23d._ - -Another beautiful day, and another ride for Pauline. Her father is much -encouraged already. She ate with more appetite yesterday than since her -sickness. We have elected Joseph assistant physician to the Doctor, and -he is to take the patients to ride when that is prescribed. - -He said, "I always knew that sometime or other, the right kind of -employment would come to me, if I only had patience to wait for it. Now -duty and inclination point the same way, my course is clear." Instead of -a sign, Joseph is to take Pauline upon the horse, and ride back and -forth through the town, when he has no doubt applications will flow in -upon him like a flood. - -Though this dear cousin is to appearance such a harum-scarum sort of a -fellow, yet I feel assured he is not without his serious moments, when -he realizes that it is "not all of life to live." How can it be -otherwise, educated as he has been. From his birth, daily prayer has -been offered in his behalf. I am well convinced, that he often puts on -this kind of foolery, as he calls it, for a cover to deeper feelings. I -told him to-day that Pauline, (who always frames her own petitions,) had -prayed for him, and thanked God for giving her such a nice cousin, and -letting her take such beautiful rides. I told him I sometimes heard her -whispering to herself when she took a tiny chair her father gave her, -"thank you God for my pretty chair." - -Joseph looked very serious and said, "I should value her prayers far -more than those of many professing Christians I could name. Why, coz," -he added after a pause, "I never saw such a little matter of fact thing -in my life. If she goes on so, I prophesy people around her will have to -walk straight. I thought at first that she was tame; but she has plenty -of spirit, only that she keeps it under control. Yes," he added, warming -with the subject, "I have seen her eye flash, and her cheeks burn for an -instant, and then it would all be over, and she would speak in the -gentlest, sweetest voice imaginable. It sounds like Italian music." - - -_Friday, March 24th._ - -This morning after prayers, cousin came to the nursery door and knocked. -I was hearing Pauline repeat her letters, after which I often tell her a -Bible story. He sat down quietly until I had finished. "Cousin Cora," -said he, "I don't believe I shall ever be good; I've tried, and tried, -since I have been here; I resolve every night I will be better, but I go -on just the same." - -I confess that for a moment, I did not know what reply to make. Pauline -had not left my side; she opened wide her large eyes, and looked first -at me and then at her cousin. After a moment, she walked across to the -place where he sat and put her hand in his. "Dear cousin, if you pray to -God, he will tell you how to be good, and mamma will pray for you." - -The tears started to Joseph's eyes, as he kissed the little hand in his, -and went quickly out of the room. - -An hour or two afterward, two young gentlemen from the village called -to invite him to join them in an excursion to the lake. I was much -pleased with this attention to my cousin, and accepted their invitation -in his name. But to my astonishment Joseph, when sent for from the -cottage, declined the courtesy with many thanks, upon the plea of a -previous engagement. I looked at him for an explanation, little thinking -the promise of a ride he had made Pauline, would be in his mind a -sufficient excuse. - -He read my look. "You know, Cora," he said, turning to me, "it would be -awkward for me to be sued for a breach of promise." - -The young gentlemen soon departed to join their party, and he turned to -leave the room. "I cannot bear to have you give up so pleasant an -excursion," said I, detaining him, "especially on Pauline's account. I -had just before you came in, told them you would be delighted to -accompany them." - -"I should be far more delighted," he answered, "to give my sweet little -cousin pleasure, and I had promised her the ride." No more was said at -the time. Cæsar led the horse around to the door, ready saddled and -cushioned; and the child was almost in an ecstasy of delight. She had -really begun to look like her former self, and my hopes rose high for -her permanent recovery. She looked really brilliant as she stood -equipped waiting for Joseph; her eyes danced with joy, and her whole -face was radiant with happiness. - -"Am I not well paid, coz?" said the young man glancing at the little -figure before him. - -"You are very kind," I replied, "I shall not soon forget it." - -A shade passed over his face, and he turned back as if about to speak, -but checked himself, and taking Pauline in his arms, placed her on the -horse, then with a light bound sprang to her side and rode away. The -weather is still mild and warm, and as Ann was busy, I took Walter in -his wagon, and drew him around the garden, calling at grandmamma's. The -young lad began to be very sleepy, and I was about returning to the -house, when the equestrians returned. Joseph left Pauline inside the -door, and Cæsar coming forward to lead the horse, he hastened to meet -me. - -Quietly taking the handle of the carriage he said gravely, "Cousin Cora, -I fear you will despise me for what I am going to say, but I can't help -it. I sha'n't feel right until I've made a clean breast of it." - -As I looked inquiringly, but made no reply he went on, "I deceived you -this morning by allowing you to suppose that I was so careful to redeem -my promise to Pauline, that I denied myself the pleasure of an excursion -upon the lake. Now, I suppose if I had felt inclined to go, I should not -have hesitated a moment on that account. But to tell you the truth, I -was heartily glad of an excuse." - -"But why? I should have supposed that you of all others would have -entered into such a frolic." - -For a few moments he made no reply, and we reached the door. He -intimated that he would like to go the round again; and putting my arm -in his, we walked silently on, as master Walter was soundly sleeping. - -"Cora," said he at length, "for a few days I have been more miserable -than I can tell you. I want to begin life anew; but I don't know how. -All connected with this dear family are usefully and happily employed -while I have only lived heretofore to please myself. Though I resolve, -and _re_-resolve, I am no better. Even little Pauline has a principle -and strength within her to which I am a stranger. Can't you help me, -Cora?" - -I had never seen Joseph so earnest, and I lifted up my heart for wisdom -to direct me, that I might speak a "word in season." I then endeavored -in my feeble, imperfect way, to direct my inquiring cousin to the -fountain of all strength. I told him while he depended upon himself to -keep the resolutions, he formed, he would necessarily fail. But aware as -he expressed himself to be of his inability to help himself, if he -would humbly and earnestly beseech God for Christ's sake to help him, -God would certainly answer his prayer. - -"I have tried to pray," he replied, much agitated. "I have always been -taught to repeat prayers, but last night I could not sleep, and I got up -and tried to pray, but I found no answer. Nothing assured me that I was -heard." - -"Do not despair, dear cousin. Pray again. I wish you would talk with the -Doctor. He would direct you so much better than I can." This, I said, as -I saw Frank approaching, having looked in vain through the house for us. - -"As you please," he replied with a deep sigh, "but I fear it will do no -good." I left him with the carriage, and approaching my husband told him -in a few words the substance of our conversation, and requested him to -invite Joseph to the library. I then ran forward to call Ann to take -Walter up to his crib. - -Joseph looked very much embarrassed for a moment; but I knew the Doctor -would deal very tenderly with him, and at the same time that he would go -to the root of the matter, and I anticipated much good from the -interview. - -Frank came to my room but for a moment, before he rode away. I saw that -the time had not passed without strong emotion on his part. I have as -yet had no opportunity to ask him about it. - - -_Monday, March 27th._ - -Yesterday I was glad to notice the unusual solemnity of Joseph's manner -at church. He is a dear, noble-hearted fellow, and I cannot but hope the -prayers of his pious parents in his behalf will be answered. I must -confess, I have sometimes thought they were too indulgent in their -training, and allowed him altogether too much money. Considering how -entirely he has been for many years his own master, and how much he has -been petted at home, I think he is wonderfully free from faults, -especially from that selfishness, prodigality, and disregard of the -wishes of others which is too often the result of such training. - - -_Tuesday, April 4th._ - -Our dear cousin Joseph has this morning left us. I trust his visit here -will be of permanent use to him. He expressed his determination to enter -at once into some useful employment, saying be had idled away quite too -many years of his life. I was struck with the difference between Pauline -and Walter in expressing their sorrow at his leaving. The latter -screamed as loud as his lungs would allow, and would hardly leave his -cousin to come to me. Pauline with a tearful eye, and flushed cheek, -stood quietly by until he kissed her farewell, when her lip quivered, -but she made no noisy demonstration of her sorrow. I saw that this -silent grief went straight to Joseph's heart. He turned back, pressed -her tightly in his arms for a moment, said something to her in a low -voice and was gone. - - - - -CHAPTER XX. - - "The feeling of a parent never dies - But with our moral nature; all in vain. - The wretch by cold and cruel spurning tries - To change that love to hate." PERCIVAL. - - -_Afternoon._ - -Emily received to-day a hastily written note from Lucy Lee, requesting -her to call as soon as possible. I long to know what has happened. The -Doctor visits the old gentleman once in a few weeks. Perhaps I have not -told you that he has several times met Allen there. I am afraid Joseph -has come home, and found out that he has renewed his visits. - - -_Wednesday, April 5th._ - -I was entirely wrong in my fears about Lucy. She had received a letter -from a physician in the city who was called to Joseph, and who says he -is now so ill, that he deemed it advisable to notify his family. Lucy -inferred from the account, which was rather guarded, that it was an -attack of the delirium tremens, brought on by his late excesses, -hastened perhaps by the fact of his leaving home the last week extremely -angry because his father refused to advance him any more money. Joseph -ascribed it to Lucy's influence over the old man, and vowed revenge. - -The forgiving sister no sooner heard of the dangerous illness of her -brother, than she wished to go to him. She could not endure the thought -of his being left alone in his sickness. Emily encouraged her to go at -once, and offered to remain with her father, to which her friend -gratefully acceded. - -The Doctor whom they consulted, advised them to tell the Squire frankly -where she was going, as if it resulted as they feared, he must then be -told. - -During the long, _long_ months of his confinement, Frank had observed a -gradual softening of the old gentleman's feelings, not only toward his -daughter, but upon religious subjects. He thinks that the daily reading -of the Scriptures by Lucy and also witnessing in her every-day life the -religion of Jesus so beautifully exemplified, has produced a good effect -on the heart so long hard and obdurate. Frank readily undertook to -prepare his patient for the temporary absence of his daughter, while -Emily assisted her in making arrangements for her immediate departure. - -Nor was the Doctor disappointed. Squire Lee was indeed shocked at the -dangerous condition of his son and heir; but he instantly sent for Lucy, -and desired her to consult her own feelings and sense of duty relative -to joining him. She took a most affectionate leave of her father, whose -sorrow at parting with her might seem uncalled for, were it not -remembered that the dear girl had been for a long time his sole -companion, his nurse, daughter, friend and comforter. Her couch occupies -a room where she is within the sound of his voice; and it is not at all -unusual for her to arise at midnight to administer to him or to read a -few soothing words to allay the restlessness which is almost invariably -an accompaniment of a complaint like his. - - -_Thursday, April 6th._ - -Mother will remain with me during Emily's absence. Pauline continues to -gain in health and strength. I was very much affected last night at her -tenderness of feeling. She was kneeling by my side to say her prayers -before retiring, when all at once she stopped and began to sob. - -"My dear little daughter, why do you cry?" - -"Dear Mamma," she replied, still sobbing, "my cousin told me when he was -going away, that I must pray every night, that God would help him to -become a good man; and when I was going to ask God, I remembered that -Joseph had gone, and it made me cry." She looked very earnestly at me as -she inquired, "Isn't my cousin good, mamma?" - -"I hope he is, my love," I answered, as I thought of his parting request -to the dear child. - -I was making a few purchases in the village this morning, when I felt -some one slightly pulling my dress. I turned around and saw the sweet -face of Anna Reynolds, lighted up with such a joyous expression, that it -sent a warm gush of feeling through my heart. - -"Please, Mrs. Lenox, excuse me," said she in a low tone and with far -more than all the grace of a lady of the court. "I saw you here, and I -desired to tell you how very happy we all are at home. My father has -come back;" and she reached up to whisper, "he never drinks rum now, and -we all go to church together. Mother says, who knows but Willie and I -may live in Rose Cottage yet? You know that was once our home." - -I requested her to wait a moment while I paid for my purchases, and then -I took her hand and walked part of the way with her. - -From her simple story, I learned in addition to what I already knew, -that through the kindness of Thomas Jones, her father had procured -steady employment for the summer with a farmer in the neighborhood, -where he was entirely free from temptation. I warmly sympathized with -Anna's delight at having a father. She had never before known the -happiness. - -I came home and told Frank the good news of the happiness of the -Reynolds family. When I informed him that Thomas Jones had procured him -work away from temptation, and had given him a whole suit of clothes so -that he could go to meeting, he was very busy reading; but he looked up -in a minute as if he had heard all, and with a queer look, said he was -glad I knew how to rejoice with those that rejoiced, as well as to weep -with those that weep. - - -_Saturday, April 8th._ - -Lucy Lee returned rather unexpectedly last evening. Her brother Joseph -did not know her; and the physician thought it not safe for her to be -there. To say the least, it was exceedingly unpleasant to the dear girl. -There were no women to be seen in the establishment. It required the -strength of two men to manage him during his fits of frenzy. Lucy wept -as she confessed she could have submitted to every inconvenience to be -with him, were it not for his horribly profane and lewd conversation. He -seemed living over again midnight scenes of debauchery. "Oh! _Oh!!_" -exclaimed the poor weeping girl, "I never imagined anything half so -awful." She only saw her brother twice, once on the morning and again in -the afternoon of the day of her arrival. She said, even the attendants -who were used to such scenes, confessed that they had never witnessed -one half so bad. - -Emily came home early this morning, and has interested us much in her -account of Squire Lee. She says, it is hard for her to realize that he -is the same man who so cruelly spurned his innocent, trembling daughter -from his feet, so lovingly does he now speak to her. - -At the usual hour for him to hear reading, Emily brought out the Bible -and began the story of Christ's sufferings and death. Chapter after -chapter was called for and listened to with breathless interest. When -Emily closed the book, he looked around as if missing something, and -sister saw his eye rest on a book of prayer. She arose and brought it to -him, not exactly understanding what was expected. He shook his head. - -"Would you like to hear a prayer?" He bowed his assent, and turning to -the prayer for the day of the week, and kneeling near him, she read -aloud. - -His right hand supported his head, and when sister arose, the tears were -trickling through his fingers and down upon his cheeks. Several times, -she heard him say, "poor Joseph, soul and body--lost by rum--God -forgive me." Many similar expressions fell from his lips. - -Allen came in every day during Lucy's absence, and Emily thought that -the old gentleman received pleasure from his visits. He was a great -assistance to her in changing the position of the sufferer, whose left -side is so paralyzed as to render it impossible for him to raise himself -from the easy chair in which he sits. - -One incident which occurred I must not omit. Squire Lee made a remark to -which Emily naturally replied, "from what I remember of Mrs. Lee, Lucy -very much resembles her mother." - -This led to the mention of the portrait in the parlor. The old gentleman -sighed, for he remembered how touchingly his kneeling daughter had -appealed to it when he was last below. "I should think," said Emily, -"Lucy would have it hung there, where you can see it from your chair," -pointing to a vacant place on the wall. - -After a moment's pause, he replied, "since it has been changed to the -new frame I have not thought it as natural." Joseph had purchased and -brought from the city some years since massive and heavy frames, and the -sweet face so subdued and tender looked out of keeping with its -surroundings. - -After a few moments, Emily called the attendants to remain with her -patient, and hastening to Mrs. Burns, asked if the old frames to the -portraits were in existence. Together they ascended to the garret, found -the very article for which they were searching, packed away with old -rubbish. Almost trembling at her own daring, she carried it below, -removed the picture from its massive frame with the ready assistance of -the house-keeper, and soon had it replaced in its old case. The question -now was how to get it into the room. - -Mrs. Burns said, "Lucy would never dare to propose the thing to her -father. She has been trodden upon so long, she has no will of her own." -Determined to carry out her plan, now that she had gone so far, Emily -arranged the cord and tassel so that she could hang it up in an instant, -and setting it down at the door of the room, returned to her charge. -She playfully suggested to him the idea of a look from the window, and -wheeled the chair around for that purpose, when quickly catching the -frame from its hiding place, she suspended it from the nail before the -sick man had noticed her absence from his side. She stood by him combing -his thin, gray locks until her heart began to beat more freely, and then -wheeling the chair back to its usual place, awaited with no little -trembling, the result of her project. She now magnified in her own mind -the oft repeated necessity for perfect quiet and freedom from -excitement. - -She took a book, and sat down, when she saw her patient give a start -that almost threw him out of his chair, saying in a half frightened, -though joyful tone, "My wife! _my wife!!_ my own dear Mary, do forgive -me!" - -Emily hastened to reassure the old gentleman who did not attempt to -speak again for some minutes; but when she playfully told him of the -pleasant surprise, she intended, he confessed that for a moment he -thought his wife had appeared to him to upbraid him for his cruel -treatment of her daughter. But now nothing could induce him to have her -portrait removed. - - - - -CHAPTER XXI. - - * * * * * "Thy natal day, - Love bids it welcome, the love which hath smiled, - Ever around thee, my gentle child! - Watching thy footsteps and guarding thy bed, - And pouring out joy on thy sunny head. - Roses may vanish, but this will stay,-- - Happy and bright is thy natal day." MRS. HEMANS. - - -_Tuesday, April 11th._ - -Walter has to-day taken his first exercise in walking alone. He is very -proud of his achievement, but no more so than his little sister who -stands at a short distance with outstretched arms and utters the -encouraging words, "Come, dear brother; _come_ to sister!" - -He makes the attempt, but is so elated that he does not regard the good -old-fashioned precept, "Let him that thinketh he standeth, take heed -lest he fall," and straightway he lies prostrate on the floor. But -sister is not discouraged, and amidst shouts of delight on his part, and -sweet musical tones on hers, he is placed against the wall and prepares -for a new triumph. Pauline is not satisfied that there should be so few -present to witness the astonishing feat. She runs to the library for her -father. "Oh! papa, come quick, and see what Walter can do!" She soon -assembled the whole household. Papa looked on with the most complacent -of smiles, hardly knowing which to admire more, the new use to which his -first-born son was determined to put his understanding, or the -unselfish triumph of his little daughter. Cæsar, Phebe and Ann loudly -applauded the little fellow. This, as is often the case with persons of -riper years, only made him top-heavy and brought him sooner down to his -proper level. But nothing daunted, he started again, rendered almost -wild by the hearty cheers of those around him. At last, mamma came to -the rescue. The young hope of the house must rest for a season, in -anticipation of new trials and new victories. - - -_Evening._ - -Emily called to hear the last advices from Joseph Lee. The latest -intelligence was quite encouraging. The patient is much more calm and -sleeps well under the influence of powerful anodynes, and if nothing new -occurs, bids fair to recover. If he were the most affectionate of -brothers, Lucy could not feel more grateful. She wrote to his physician -to spare no expense for the comfort of her brother, who would ere long, -she hoped, be able to return home. - - -_Wednesday, April 19th._ - -This is the second anniversary of my wedding. How much happiness has -fallen to my lot! My own Frank grows every day more dear to me. How -fervently he prayed this morning for me and for himself, giving thanks -to God for our happy union and the various blessings with which divine -mercy has crowned it, and seeking for us still larger supplies of grace, -that increased fidelity to its duties may perpetuate and multiply our -joys. May God give me grace to prove myself a worthy help-meet! I often -fear that I am too much engrossed with my earthly treasures. My husband, -children and friends occupy too much of my time and thoughts, while I am -liable to forget the Giver of these rich mercies. Oh, that I may not in -this way bring upon myself his chastening rod! Oh, that all my earthly -affections may be so sanctified as to be acceptable to my Father in -heaven! - - -_Tuesday, May 2d._ - -This is my dear Walter's birth-day. Through how many scenes have I -passed in one year! This was indeed the hour of nature's trial. But oh! -how richly is the agony of the mother repaid by her joy at the sound of -the sweet voice so soon calling her _mamma_! Next to _home_, the -embodiment of all earthly joys, this is to me the sweetest word in all -our language. From the bottom of my heart I pity the Stoic who cannot -comprehend the full and precious import of the word _home_. - - -_Evening._ - -We have had quite a little fête in honor of our young Lenox. Phebe -exercised all her skill in the preparation of a birthday cake, which was -however intended for the guests, the children being perfectly content -with a piece of the frosting. - -Pauline's tiny set of china was brought in requisition. This was a -present from her father on her own birth-day, which we celebrate on the -sixth of June, the day on which we received her as a precious boon from -heaven. The dear girl, with Ann for an assistant, arranged the table in -the dining-room, and issued the invitations in behalf of her brother; -and when her feast was ready went round from room to room to lead in her -guests. - -None of the household were omitted, though Ruth was obliged to excuse -herself as she had been previously invited to officiate as bridemaid in -the village. Papa and mamma were permitted to occupy seats together on -one side of the table, a privilege which the gentleman acknowledged by a -low bow. Grandmamma and aunt Emily sat opposite. Master Lenox was in his -high chair at the head of the table, with good Cæsar and Phebe beside -him. Pauline took the seat which I usually occupied, with Ann by her -side. - -Our sable friends had joined in the birth-day sports of Mass'r Frank and -Misse Emily, and felt no embarrassment in sitting with us on such an -occasion, in honor of which Phebe had donned a new turban of brilliant -hues, and Cæsar had given his face, eyes, and teeth an extra shine. But -Ann felt it necessary to apologize for the liberty, and said "Miss -Pauline would have it so." - -The Doctor replied pleasantly, "All's right, Ann, Pauline knows what is -proper." As for the child, her duties became rather onerous. She flew -around the table, moving one here and another there, until at length her -guests were arranged to her satisfaction. Then she resumed her own seat. - -Thinking that he had waited quite long enough, Walter, with a quick -motion jumped up in his chair, and helped himself to a large piece of -the sugared cake which stood before him. Pauline was shocked, and said -"Please, brother, don't do so, I was just going to ask papa to say -grace." But her papa was laughing so much that he declined to officiate -as chaplain, and advised her to distribute her treat at once. - -To tell the whole truth, the young gentleman, in honor of whom the -invitation was given, did not get to himself much credit by his conduct -on the occasion. He upset everything within his reach, and was only -appeased when his obliging friend at his side allowed him the free use -of his curly head for a plaything, when he soon had his little fingers -so tangled in the wool as to allow the rest of the company an -opportunity to enjoy themselves in peace. - -If all the truth must be told, the grave Doctor, from whom we should -least have expected trouble, did not certainly distinguish himself by -sobriety. Indeed I was obliged to request his mother to dismiss him from -the table, unless he could control his risibles. - -Never was matron more perplexed and annoyed by the conduct of guests -than was our hostess. Flushed with excitement, her brow knit with -anxiety lest some one should be overlooked, she flew around, and then -remembering that this was not mamma's manner, she returned to her seat -and there tried to do the honors in the most approved style. - - -_Friday, May 12th._ - -Lucy has received a letter from Joseph in reply to one from her, urging -him to come home. In it he manifests the most horrible disregard of his -own state, just arising from what appeared to be his death-bed, and also -of the gradually dying condition of his father, and refuses ever to go -beneath "the accursed roof while the old man lives." The deeply -afflicted sister is horrified beyond measure, but of course will conceal -the letter from her father. - -Squire Lee has often asked, if Joseph is not coming home, and feels -grieved that his son left him in anger. He confessed to the Doctor, a -few days ago, that the sins of Joseph lay heavily upon his conscience, -at the same time repeating a quotation from the morning reading in which -the woe was pronounced upon Eli and his house "because his sons made -themselves vile, and he restrained them not." - - -_Saturday, May 13th._ - -I called at Squire Lee's to-day, and happening to have Pauline with me, -I took her up into the old gentleman's room. He appeared extremely -feeble, and after I had said a few words to him, and was turning to take -a seat, Lucy led Pauline toward the bed. With a look of horror upon his -countenance, he screamed, "Who is she? _Who is she?_ I don't want her -here. Oh, let her go away!" - -The poor child began to cry, and I hastily led her from the room, -wondering why the sight of her should cause such unusual agitation. Lucy -sent a servant to beg me to go into the parlor, where she would soon -meet me. I took Pauline in my lap, but it was some time before I could -succeed in soothing her. She said, "the sick man makes dreadful faces at -me." - -Lucy said, her father wished her to apologize to me, and to say, that -the child resembled so strongly a lady he had known when in Europe, that -for a moment he thought her standing before him. "But when I told him," -she added, "it was your little girl, he was relieved at once. I think," -continued she, with slight agitation, "father must have had some -unpleasant associations, connected with the lady, he mentioned, for he -was laboring under strong excitement, while the perspiration stood in -drops upon his brow." - -On my return, I related to Frank what had happened; he said I had better -avoid taking Pauline there again, since such excitements might prove -fatal to his patient. I don't remember that the old gentleman ever saw -her before. - - - - -CHAPTER XXII. - - * * * * "'Tis with our souls - As with our eyes, that, after a long darkness, - Are dazzled at th' sudden approach of light; - When in th' midst of fears we are surpris'd - With unexpected happiness; the first - Degrees of joy are mere astonishment." DENHAM. - - -_Saturday, May 20th._ - -I have been to-day with Emily and Pauline to make some calls. On our -return, we drove to the small tenement occupied by the Reynolds family. -We found the contented, happy wife busy in the performance of her -household duties. She said, she wanted to sing for joy at the -reformation of her husband. He was well with the exception of a dreadful -faintness at his stomach, the consequence of leaving off the stimulus to -which he has been so long accustomed. She said, she had sometimes -thought of applying to the Doctor for a remedy; "but," she added with -emotion, "after all he has done for us, I do not wish to trouble him." - -I answered, "he will take pleasure in rendering your husband relief." - -"Oh yes, indeed, we are all aware of that. William would not have had -the employment which enables him to support his family, had your husband -not gone to Mr. Hunter and presented the case to him. Then it would have -been a long time before he could have earned clothes suitable to go to -church." - -"Mr. Jones knows well how to sympathize with him in his efforts to -reform." - -"Yes," and a curious look passed over her face. "But he told William at -last that he could not keep it from him any longer. Thomas did indeed go -with him to the tailor's, and order the garments, but it was by -direction of your good husband, who paid the bill." - -"Oh! Frank," said I to myself, "you've begun to have secrets and to keep -them from me." Yet I was quite delighted that my husband's - - - "Charity ever - Finds in the act reward, and needs no trumpet - In the receiver." - - -As we were leaving, Mrs. Reynolds said, "I walked last evening to our -old home, and it made my heart ache to see how neglected the place -appeared. But my husband has a purpose, and if God prospers us with -health and strength, we shall accomplish it. This is to purchase back -the cottage. Do you think," she eagerly asked, "the Squire would refuse -to sell?" - -Emily fell into such a reverie that I could get no answer to my numerous -questions until we reached home. Then she directed Cæsar to drive her to -Squire Lee's. - - -_Monday, May 29th._ - -For a number of days some mysterious project has been going forward. -Emily spends half her time with Lucy Lee. The Doctor is implicated in -it, as I perceive from sundry whisperings and signs, which are instantly -hushed at my approach. Yesterday I came upon them unawares, and heard -distinctly mention made of a lawyer, legal instruments, witnesses and -the like. I can easily imagine that Lucy is to be married to Allen; and -that the Doctor and a lawyer are advising the old gentleman about his -will. How astonished they will be at my shrewdness, when I tell them, I -was well aware of their secret all the time. - - -_Tuesday. May 30th._ - -How true it is that life is made up of sun and shade. I was never more -impressed with this idea than I have been to-day. A short time since I -called, as I mentioned, upon Mrs. Reynolds, and found her in comfort, -with her husband restored to her and to his family, and looking forward -with joyous anticipation to the time when they should be the proprietors -of their once beautiful home. - -Alas! how soon these hopes were dashed! The poor woman came to me this -morning, weeping bitterly. It has been their custom when the father -returned from his work, and when the labor of the day was completed, for -all the now united and happy family to take a stroll for pleasure. -Almost invariably their steps have been directed to the place rendered -dear by pleasant associations. Last evening when they were approaching -it, they were greatly astonished to see that something unusual was going -forward, and hastening their steps, they found to their dismay that the -occupants had received notice to vacate the premises, as the place was -sold. Vain were all their endeavors to learn the name of the purchaser. -The tenants neither knew nor cared, for they were perplexed at being -obliged to leave their comfortable quarters, though they acknowledged -that one month's rent had been given them by the purchaser, in -consideration of their consenting to leave at once. - -Hardly conscious of what she did, Mrs. Reynolds followed her husband -from room to room, rendered desolate by the removal of the furniture -while harder and harder grew the face of the bowed man, until at length -he sunk upon the steps of the door, and cried aloud. "I didn't know -until then," she added, "how much he had set his heart upon having the -old place. True it has been our constant conversation whenever he has -been at home; and so sure did he feel of going back, that he had -promised each of the children a flower-garden equal to any their mother -ever had." - -I could not keep back my tears at witnessing the unrestrained grief of -the afflicted woman. "I could bear it myself," she continued, sobbing, -"but William has given up, and says, it is no use now, trying to be -anything." - -Though I feared, it would be in vain, I did all I could to encourage -her and told her the Doctor would inquire about it, and see if the -purchaser could not be bought off. "At any rate," I said, "William can -put up a cottage like it. You must not allow your husband to despond." -She went away with her heart somewhat lightened. When Frank came in, I -related her story to him, and was greatly encouraged by his hopeful view -of the subject. - -He said, "I will see Reynolds immediately." I am often astonished that -my dear husband with so large a practice finds time to render so many -acts of kindness to those around him. - - -_Tuesday, June 6th._ - -My dear mother, I have so much to tell you, I scarcely know where to -begin. Frank has hinted to me a number of times, that he intended to -celebrate Pauline's birth-day in good style, as the poor girl had taken -such a burden upon herself at the celebration of her brother's -birth-day. But when I inquired for farther particulars, he always turned -it off with a laugh. When I went this morning to the kitchen, I found -Phebe in her element, saying. "Mass'r Frank gib orders for cake and -pies, for twenty people, and Ruth say ole missus is g'wine to make bread -and boil meat." - -What can all this mean! I walked straight to the cottage to learn what I -could from mother. My rising wrath at being kept so entirely in the dark -was somewhat mollified by finding her as ignorant as myself. She was, -however, busy in preparing dishes for a bountiful supper, according to -the wish of Emily. My dear, artless mother did not deceive me, when she -pretended not to hear as I eagerly asked, "have you no idea of the -meaning of all this secrecy?" I said no more, but walked back, -soliloquizing whether it would be wiser for me to insist upon knowing -without farther delay, or to allow matters to approach the crisis. I had -concluded upon the latter course when I saw Frank drive into the yard. I -did not stop, however, for I intended to keep up my dignity, and to -appear perfectly indifferent. So I went to my room and gave Pauline her -lesson; but Frank peeped in and beckoned me away. - -I put on a very serious air and followed him. "Come now," said he, -kissing me, "you can't make me believe you are angry; I see your mouth -twitch; I've some good news for you." - -In my curiosity, I threw away my reserve, and listened eagerly to his -story, which I must go back a little to render intelligible. It appears -that Emily's large heart was swelling with "a purpose" when she so -suddenly started for Squire Lee's, on our return from visiting the -humble abode of Mrs. Reynolds. Undefined, at first, she confessed it -was; but a vague idea was flitting through her mind, of persuading the -owner to give back Rose Cottage to its former occupants. Sometimes her -hopes rose high, and then she was tempted to abandon her project. The -thought of expecting "the hardened old man" (as the Squire had -universally been called until his sickness,) the thought of asking such -a man to give away what he valued at ten or twelve hundred dollars, -merely to encourage the reformation of his inferior who had been ruined -in his employment, seemed hopeless and absurd. But the image of the -patient sufferer, eagerly listening to her praises of his daughter, gave -her courage to proceed, and she tapped gently at the door of his room, -where she was sure to find Lucy. - -After talking pleasantly with the old gentleman for a few moments, Lucy -in obedience to a motion from Emily, retired with her to the inner -apartment. There she made bold to divulge her plans and wishes, to which -there was no want of attention on the part of the listener. She, -however, made no reply until Emily had finished, when she took her hand, -saying, "Come and tell father." - -From this, even the courageous Emily shrank, saying "No, Lucy, you will -do the business far better." - -But Lucy only smiled, and pulled her forward, saying, "Tell him just as -you have told me. He won't be displeased." - -So Emily sat down at his feet and told him all her heart. He listened -with a pleased attention; and when she described the patient suffering -of the gentle Anna, the beautiful children cursed with a drunken father, -his breast heaved with emotion. Emily grew warm with her subject, and -remembering that she was asking more than he had ever done in his life, -she burst out, "Dear sir, if you should make this family happy, it would -be so delightful for you to reflect upon as you sit here day after day. -You would become so interested for them, and Lucy would so rejoice to -hear their generous praise of their kind benefactor." - -He shook his head while a few tears silently coursed down his furrowed -cheek. "You forget that I _made_ them miserable." - -"Well, then," she continued, "now you have an opportunity to turn their -grief into joy, and to render them very happy;" and looking at the -portrait opposite, upon which the sun was shining, "how happy she would -have been to have you perform so generous an act." - -There appeared to be a dreadful conflict between his incrusted -covetousness and the benevolence which by the grace of God was springing -up in his soul. Lucy came and kneeled by Emily's side holding her -father's hand caressingly in hers. "Well, daughter," said he -affectionately, "Rose farm is yours, give it to whom you please." - -The young advocates were overjoyed at their success, and Lucy kissed her -father repeatedly, while Emily warmly pressed his hand. In the peace and -joy which filled his breast, Squire Lee for the first time realized the -truth of the inspired declaration, "It is more blessed to give than to -receive." - -Lucy readily promised to keep the whole transaction a profound secret -until the proper moment should arrive for the denouement. Emily also -promised with the assistance of her brother to arrange all the business. - - -_Wednesday, June 7th._ - -I had not time last evening to finish Emily's story. Her frequent -conversations with Frank were connected with the legal transfer of the -estate. How wise I thought myself in having seen through their plot! - -At length, all was concluded. The legal instruments were prepared and -executed, conveying the property from the Squire to his daughter, and -from her to Mrs. Reynolds and her children, reserving the use thereof to -Mr. Reynolds, provided he remained true to his pledge of entire -abstinence from intoxicating drinks. But in the event of his violating -his pledge, the same was to revert to his wife and children. - -The family occupying the house, were the next morning notified to leave, -as Emily had determined to restore it to its original beauty. The -Doctor, however, insisted that I should have the pleasure of giving the -furniture, and he put money into her hand for that purpose. - -The important day had now arrived for the removal of William and Anna -Reynolds to their sweet home, while as yet they knew nothing of the -great happiness in store for them. It was for the purpose of carrying me -to invite them to Pauline's birth-day party, that Frank had returned. He -had left Emily and Lucy busily engaged in setting up the furniture which -Cæsar had yesterday carried there. I rode with him to their humble -abode, and found Anna sitting at her sewing in rather a disconsolate -mood, on account of the continued grief of her husband, at the supposed -loss of the cottage. - -But she very gladly accepted Miss Pauline's invitation and promised to -keep her children from school and to be ready when Cæsar should call for -them. Such a bustle of preparation as now went forward, I have hardly -seen. The good Cæsar was constantly coming and going, laden with baskets -of provisions, crockery and other household utensils. As he passed the -door, he stopped the horse, and drawing himself up, said in a -consequential tone, "Cæsar knows Misse Emily no do widout dis chile on -dis great 'casion. Mass'r Lenox allus powerful good to sich kind. Dis -de gemman allus 'prove mass'r plans." - -At length, the hour arrived, and Pauline was arranged in a white dress -with pink sash and bows to her sleeves. I left her at Rose Cottage with -the assembled company, and as requested returned with Cæsar to bring the -new proprietors to their abode. - -They were all in readiness, William arrayed in his new suit, and -evidently striving to appear cheerful; Mrs. Reynolds, Anna and Willie -were neatly dressed for the occasion. When we were seated in the -carriage, I told Cæsar, I had an errand at the west part of the town; -and if Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds would excuse us, we would go there first. -Cæsar showed his white teeth so much that I feared, they would suspect -something. As we approached our destination, I saw white dresses here -and there flitting by the windows, and a little head peeping from the -attic to watch for us. - -William covered his face with his hands. He could not bear to witness -the improvements which he had already planned for himself. Mrs. Reynolds -held her husband's hand in silence, while the children eagerly looked, -expecting that we should drive past. But when we stopped, and first -Lucy, then Emily, followed by mother, the Doctor and Pauline came to the -door and bid them welcome to Rose Cottage, it was too much. William -sprang upon his feet, and stood with a vacant look, first at one, and -then at another, and finally sank back on the cushion weeping aloud. -Mrs. Reynolds turned very red and pale by turns, while the children -shouted for joy, as they were helped from the carriage into the newly -painted hall. - -It was not, however, till assisted by the Doctor (for his trembling -knees would scarce support him) that Mr. Reynolds could speak. When he -with his wife were seated in the neatly furnished parlor, Lucy with -moistened eyes presented him with a document, when he exclaimed, "I -can't! _Oh! I can't take it!_" - -Frank saw that he was laboring under some mistake, though _what_ it was -he could hardly conceive, and fearing lest the joy would be too much for -him, he took the document from the donor, and said kindly, "My good -friends, this young lady is the owner of the cottage, and she has -invited us here to partake of a little feast in honor of Pauline's -birth-day. As this was formerly your home, we thought it would be -pleasant for you to meet us here." - -"Oh! _no!_ NO!! I can't stay," cried the poor man sobbing aloud, and -wiping his eyes with the sleeve of his coat. - -"But," persisted Frank, "I thought you were very anxious to see the new -owner, in order to ascertain whether you could at some future time -purchase it yourself." - -"Yes, so I was, and so I am, but not _here_." He soon, however, became -more composed. - -Mrs. Reynolds appeared to suffer almost as much as her husband; but long -sorrow had given her more control over her feelings. "William," she said -in a low voice, "our friends who have done so much for us invited us -here to give us pleasure. Let us try to enjoy it. They could not know," -she continued with a sigh, "how very sad we should feel." - -I stood near them, and almost without a thought, asked, "How can you -bear to live here then when you have purchased it?" - -"Oh! that would be very different," replied Anna. "But will her father -allow her to sell?" she inquired, looking most earnestly at Lucy. -William also aroused at this question, and with open mouth awaited the -reply. - -I looked at Lucy with a smile, and she said, "it is with his consent and -permission that I now make over to you the right and title to Rose -Cottage. Henceforth it is yours." - -For one instant, they both seemed stupefied; and then as if actuated by -one heart, they sunk upon their knees. Amid tears of joy, we all -followed their example, when Frank in a most appropriate prayer thanked -God in their behalf and dedicated the happy abode to "_temperance_, -_union_ and _love_." - -When we arose, our hearts were somewhat relieved. Mr. Reynolds pressed -his wife to his heart, and thanked God for such a treasure. When he -became more composed, he said, "I am well aware that it is the purity -and goodness of my Anna which have thus met their reward; but I hope and -believe, this gift will stimulate me to imitate her example." - -I cannot describe to you the astonishment as well as delight of the now -happy pair as they went from room to room, and beheld the well filled -closets, and every convenience for house-keeping. They could not realize -such a change in the Squire as that he should voluntarily give up this -property. When we sat at the well furnished board, Emily, who presided, -playfully asked Mrs. Reynolds to excuse her for taking the head of the -table. But that lady could not reply except by a tearful smile. We -hurried through supper in order to leave the family alone and give them -an opportunity to recover from their excited feelings. As we did so, -Lucy put into Mrs. Reynolds's hand the document, her husband had -refused. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIII. - - "Habitual evils change not on a sudden, - But many days must pass, and many sorrows; - Conscious remorse, and anguish must be felt, - To curb desire, to break the stubborn will, - And work a second nature in the soul, - Ere virtue can resume the place she lost." ROWE. - - -_Wednesday, August 23d._ - -The Doctor received a hasty note from Lucy, requesting him to call this -morning at his earliest convenience. He did so, and found his patient -agitated and trembling, who immediately requested to be left alone with -Frank. - -"Dr. Lenox," said he, "I have sent for you to receive a confession from -me, which I little thought would ever pass my lips." He tried to wipe -the moisture which was gathering on his face, but his hand shook so much -that he was unable. Frank took a seat near him and performed that -office, when he continued, "I have been a great sinner, Doctor, as you -well know; but there is one crime lying upon my conscience, which I -would gladly give all I am possessed of to be free from. Oh, dear!" He -gasped convulsively. "You don't know, you have never felt the agony of -remorse!" - -Frank tried to soothe his patient, and pointed him to the Saviour as one -ready to bear all our sins. "I've tried to think so Doctor; sometimes -the devil tempts me to believe that there can be no forgiveness of sins -like mine. In addition to all my drunkenness and profanity, all my -abuse of widows and orphans, and all my grinding the face of the poor, I -have been--Oh!--_Oh, dear!_--I am a MURDERER!" - -Frank started involuntarily. But Squire Lee cried aloud, while the -Doctor bathed his temples, and endeavored to quiet him, but reluctantly -allowed him to proceed. Making a great effort to control himself, the -distressed invalid proceeded to say, that while abroad many years ago, -he had met a lady who interested him more than any one he had ever seen. -Though his wife was still living at home, he had fallen in love with -her, and had made the most disgraceful proposals to her, which she -repelled with scorn. "She told me," he exclaimed, "her husband was in -India, and that it was well for me that such were the case, for he would -revenge to the death such an insult to his wife. Her indignation only -added to her beauty; and I was almost beside myself that I could not -accomplish my purpose. But I determined to have my revenge. I wrote -anonymously to her husband, at first only hinting at her unfaithfulness -to him, but subsequently stating the facts more fully. There was a -gentleman who spent much of his time in her society and in the education -of her child. It was this man to whom I referred in my letter to her -husband, though I had abundant reason to know that her character was -above suspicion. Sometime later, when my wicked passion had had time to -cool, I again passed through the place, and to my horror learned that my -letters had been the means of recalling her husband from abroad, and of -the death of--of both--of them! Yes, Colonel Shirley killed his friend, -and his wife died of a broken heart, leaving her husband to suppose her -the guilty woman whom I had falsely represented." - -Squire Lee here groaned heavily and was overcome by his emotions. -"Doctor," said the agonized man when he revived, "a word more; you -cannot realize what a relief this will be here," laying his hand upon -his breast, Frank bowed assent. The sick man then earnestly begged the -Doctor to take the name of Colonel Shirley, and to use every means in -his power to ascertain whether that gentleman were living; and if he -should ever see or hear of him, to communicate to him the fact of his -wife's innocence, and of the fiendish revenge which prompted the writer -of those letters. - - -_Thursday, September 7th._ - -The Doctor was hastily summoned yesterday to Squire Lee, who has had -another shock of paralysis. But it proved to be slight compared with the -first. It was occasioned by his receipt of a bank notice from the city -of New York, of a note left there for collection, and signed by his son -Joseph as agent for his father, and requesting the immediate payment -thereof. The bank notified the father instead of the son, who had -falsely assumed to act as his agent, and who was reported to have left -the country. - -At first the Squire was very angry, and said to Lucy, "I must pay this -note, but it is the last he shall ever have from my estate." - - -_Monday, October 2d._ - -I think Squire Lee supposes himself to be near his end. A few weeks -since, he requested his daughter to leave him alone with Allen, when he -asked the young man, "Do you still love Lucy?" - -"I have never ceased to love her," was the reply. - -"Then," said the old gentleman, in a very affecting manner, "my daughter -is a good girl, and I should like to see her happily married before I -die." He also added, "if you marry her, you will not have a portionless -bride." - - -_Monday, October 9th._ - -Emily has just consented to go to the city to make some purchases for -the intended bride, as Lucy cannot think of leaving her father, who is -very feeble. He told her in the presence of Allen, that he did not wish -their marriage to be delayed. - -The ardent lover persuaded Lucy to name an early day; and the nineteenth -of this month is decided upon. It will be strictly a private wedding. -The service is to be performed in the chamber of the invalid, with only -our family as witnesses. Lucy wished Emily to be her bridemaid; but as -there was no one intimate enough in the family with whom it would be -pleasant for her to stand, sister easily persuaded her to dispense with -this part of the ceremony. - - -_Thursday, October 19th._ - -To-day I accompanied the Doctor and Emily to Squire Lee's. He is -exceedingly feeble, and Frank almost feared, lest the excitement of the -occasion would be too much for him. But the service was very short and -informal. When we were seated, Allen and Lucy came in from the adjoining -room, a short prayer was offered by the Rev. Mr. Munroe, the covenant of -marriage was administered and received, by which the parties pledged -themselves to a faithful performance of the duties of husband and wife, -as set forth in the holy scriptures, the benediction was pronounced, and -our dear friend was Lucy Lee no longer, but _Mrs. Lucy Mansfield_. In -this new character, she stepped forward quickly to her father and kissed -his pale brow, while we silently retired from the room, the Doctor alone -remaining with the patient. And he joined us in a few moments, leaving -the sick man far less fatigued than we had feared. - -Frank says, he would give a great deal to know whether Squire Lee has -made provision for his daughter. After we all left the room, Lucy sat on -a cricket chafing his poor withered hand. He looked at her with melting -tenderness, as he said to Frank, who had returned to him, "Doctor, she -is a good girl." - - -_Friday, October 20th._ - -The Doctor called yesterday to see whether his patient had suffered from -the excitement of the previous day. Lucy was requested by her father to -leave the room, when he asked Frank to tell him plainly how long he -should probably live. The Doctor replied that he might linger some -weeks; but it would not surprise him, if he did not live many days, and -he advised him to set his house and his soul in order to meet the solemn -event. Squire Lee thanked him, and said, "I have much to do; I must -delay no longer." - -Encouraged by his calmness, Frank had a very interesting conversation -with him, and was rejoiced to find him in a humble, penitent frame of -mind, with a trembling hope of forgiveness through the blood of Christ. - - - "He wept; he trembled; cast his eyes around, - To find a worse than he; but none he found. - He felt his sins, and wonder'd, he _should_ feel, - Grace made the wound, and grace alone could heal." - - -When the Doctor called again to see his patient, Mrs. Burns said that -the Squire had sent the porter out for a man who was then engaged with -him, and that she believed them to be making a will, as she had answered -the bell, and had taken into the chamber paper, pens and other apparatus -for writing; and when doing so she had heard her master, in a feeble -voice say something in which she clearly distinguished the words "legal -instrument." - -The Doctor told her not to interrupt them, and assured her that he would -call again. Not long after, Jacob, the porter, came in haste for him to -go back, saying that he had been twice to the office in the village to -find him. - -Frank met him on the road and instantly returned with him. On the way, -he was told a lawyer had been sent for who soon went out and returned -with two other men. After they all retired, Lucy hastened to the room, -fearing the effect of this unusual excitement upon her father. But as he -lay perfectly quiet, she supposed him to be sleeping. She sat by his -side, when perceiving that he remained for a long time in exactly the -same position, she became alarmed and began to chafe his temples and -hands. But as he still remained unconscious, she called Allen and sent -for the Doctor. When Frank entered the chamber, he found him slightly -revived, but unable to speak. He will not probably survive many hours. -Lucy is very anxious for the Doctor to remain through the night, and he -sent me word that he had consented to do so. - - -_Tuesday, October 24th._ - -My dear husband did not return home until near noon, as he has many -patients whom he was obliged to visit after leaving Squire Lee's. He -remained by the bed of the dying man the entire night. Poor old man! It -was really affecting to see how hard he tried to speak. He is very -anxious to make Lucy comprehend something, but she cannot get the least -clew to it. The feeble invalid wept that they could not understand him. -At length, Frank put a pencil into his hand and held the paper before -him; but in vain. He could not hold the pencil, and shook his head in -despair. - -About eight o'clock this morning, the Doctor was called from the room by -Mrs. Burns, who said to him, "Mr. Colby, the lawyer, is below; and when -informed that you were in the house, he requested to see you." - -Before they entered the parlor, Mrs. Burns in a low but agitated voice, -said, "Dr. Lenox, do ask him if Mr. Lee was making his will yesterday. I -know, the dear old man meant to do right by Lucy." - -As Frank opened the door, Mr. Colby arose, and bowed, saying, "I have -been told by the house-keeper that Squire Lee is suffering from another -attack of paralysis; and I wish the opinion of his physician whether he -is in a sound and disposing mind, and is capable of finishing some -business transactions." - -The Doctor replied, "he is not." - -"I hold in my hand," continued the lawyer, looking over a document, "a -deed of gift of a small house and a piece of land. It is in favor of a -widow by the name of Churchill, whose prospects have been ruined by her -husband while in Squire Lee's employ. The language of the deed is a -little singular for a man of his character. It reads as follows: 'Deeply -regretting in the sight of God, before whom I am soon to appear, the -various wrongs of which I have been guilty toward Otis Churchill and -through him toward his family, and in consideration of his long and -valuable services the receipt of which I hereby acknowledge, I do give, -grant and convey unto his wife, Mrs. Hepsibah Churchill, her heirs and -assigns a certain lot of land with the house thereon, it being the same -which I took from her husband in execution of a mortgage thereon, -situated and bounded thus--.'" - -While Frank was rejoiced that his dying patient had felt disposed to do -something to restore the widow and orphan to the happiness which had -been destroyed by his influence, he could not help sighing as he feared -lest a suitable provision for his daughter had been too long postponed, -if not wholly neglected. Mr. Colby was exceedingly interested and -anxious to ascertain how long it was after he took leave of him on the -preceding day, when the old gentleman was seized with this attack. He -asked if it were indeed true, as the house-keeper had informed him, that -the old gentleman had not spoken since he left. - -Learning from the Doctor that the patient was now in a dying condition, -he departed, expressing great regret that the state of the invalid -should render it impossible for him to transact the legal business -contemplated. - - -_Wednesday, October 25th._ - -Emily has just returned from Squire Lee's, where she has been since -yesterday. The servants are in dreadful excitement for fear Joseph -should be left in possession of all the property, since it cannot be -ascertained that a new will has been made. They vehemently declare that -they will leave the house when their dear young mistress does. It -appears very clear that the father intended to make a new will from what -he said to Allen, and also from what Mrs. Burns heard him say to his -daughter the morning after the wedding, when she was preparing him to -receive the lawyer. Lucy was then smoothing his gray hair, and -affectionately kissed his pale cheek, when, holding her hand he said, -"you must try to forgive your poor old father for all his cruel -treatment of you. You can take pleasure in thinking that by your -affectionate care, you have made my last years the happiest of my life." -Then after a short pause, during which Lucy could not command her voice -to speak, he continued, "I mean to give you this estate and Allen -shall--" Here a fit of coughing interrupted him, and he never after -renewed the subject. - -Emily says, "the dear girl is so affected at the thought of losing her -father, that she does not seem to realize that by his death she is to be -cut off from everything. Allen, however, is in a prosperous business, -and I do not doubt she will be happy." - -Mr. Colby called again last evening; but of course no business could be -transacted. Allen asked him, if he had transacted business for the -Squire heretofore, and thought him slightly embarrassed as he replied -that he had done so, but principally through the son. Allen farther -asked, if he knew where Joseph was at present, and ascertained that he -was on the eve of departure for Europe. Mr. Colby farther stated that a -document had formerly been put into his hand which he supposed to be a -will. - - -_Thursday, October 26th._ - -Lucy is very anxious to have her brother come home if possible to see -her father once more; and Allen wrote a note to Mr. Colby begging him -to go to New York and detain Joseph from his voyage until after the -funeral. - -This morning Squire Lee revived from the dreadful stupor in which he has -been lying for nearly twenty-four hours, and was able to swallow a few -tea-spoonfuls of wine and water. - -He again tried to make them understand something. He pointed with his -hand to Lucy, then to the articles of furniture, then back to her. The -cold clammy sweat stood in drops upon his forehead from his violent -attempts to articulate. - -"Dear, _dear_ father," said the weeping girl, unable to bear it longer, -"don't try to speak." - -He pointed again. - -"Do you wish me to understand that I am to have them?" - -His countenance brightened at once. - -"Thank you, dear father, all will be right." - -He fixed his eyes for a long time upon the lovely countenance suspended -from the wall, and then closed them. - -Lucy asked in a low voice, "can you trust your Saviour? He has promised -to save you if you will but trust him." - -The dying man slowly opened his eyes, a bright smile passed over his -features, and his spirit took its flight. That glorious smile of triumph -through the Beloved still lingers. No doubt his eternity will be spent -in singing the abounding grace of God. - - -_Friday, October 27th._ - -A dreadful accident happened in the village to-day. Mr. Stone, a -respectable mechanic, fell from the top of a house where he was at work -upon the chimney. The staging gave way, and he was precipitated to the -ground, a distance of over thirty feet. He has no family, and has not -long been a resident in the place; nevertheless there is great sympathy -manifested at his sudden death. The Doctor reached him about twenty -minutes after he fell, but found him dying; and thinks that he knew -nothing after he struck the ground. He immediately wrote his parents to -ascertain their wishes with regard to the body of their unfortunate son. - -How true it is that in the midst of life, we are in death; one moment in -time; the next in eternity. The family where Mr. Stone boarded, and -where Frank obtained the address of his parents, describe him as a very -moral, upright young man who attended church regularly on the Sabbath, -and who seldom left the house after he came in from his work in the -evening. His landlady was very much affected when the Doctor carried her -the intelligence; but said she thought him prepared to die. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIV. - - "This fond attachment to the well known place - Whence first we started into life's long race, - Maintains its hold with such unfailing sway, - We feel it even in age, and at our dying day." COWPER. - - -_Saturday, October 28th._ - -The funeral services of Squire Lee are to take place on Monday -afternoon. Joseph has not yet arrived. Allen is not at all sure that he -did not immediately leave the country as they heard, for fear his father -would refuse to pay the note he had forged under the false signature of -agent of the firm. But Lucy feels sure he would not be willing to leave -until their father died, and the estate was settled. Poor girl! she has -wept until she can weep no longer. She now begins to realize the trial -of leaving her dear home, and all the associations connected with her -mother and father. - -Mr. Mansfield, Allen's father, has expressed his earnest desire to have -them leave the house directly after the funeral, and make their home -with him. But Lucy will not consent to leave until Joseph arrives, or -until she is forced to do so. Emily thinks she secretly hopes that her -brother will wish to share the estate with her, when he knows his -father's dying wishes. Her husband has no idea of this kind, and says he -is only too happy in the possession of such a treasure as his Lucy. He -is now in business with his father; and though not able to live in the -splendor she did before her father's sickness, yet he can give her -every comfort, and he is sure he can make her happy. - - -_Monday, October 30th._ - -I was exceedingly disappointed in not being able to attend the funeral, -but I will give you Emily's account of the services. Mother accompanied -Frank and sister to the house of mourning. Being the members of the -family of the attending physician, they were shown into the room with -the relatives. This is the common usage here. The adjoining rooms, hall, -and stair way, were filled to overflowing with neighbors and friends. -Our pastor commenced the solemn services of the occasion by reading a -few select, and very appropriate passages of Scripture. These were -followed by remarks, in which he alluded to the change in the character -of the deceased, and to his peaceful death. He stated, that during the -past year, he had enjoyed many conversations with him upon the subject -of personal religion. He had always exhibited at such times, a humble, -penitent spirit, and a deep sense of gratitude to a long suffering God, -who had not cut him off in the midst of his sins; but had allowed him -space for repentance. He then closed with an appropriate and impressive -prayer. - -When he had concluded, an opportunity was afforded for all who desired -to take their last look at the marble countenance of the departed. After -this a long procession followed his remains to the place of sepulchral -rest. - -During all this mournful scene, Joseph, who had arrived an hour before -the obsequies, exhibited the most astonishing indifference. Not a tear -evinced sorrow at the loss of his only parent; though his affectionate -sister was bitterly weeping at his side. He sat a loathsome, bloated -form, gazing abstractedly about the room, or yawning as if already weary -of this last poor respect to the memory of his deceased father. - -In compliance with the request of Allen and Lucy, the Doctor and Emily -returned to Lee Hall, to be present at the reading of the will. As -Joseph, the executor, had but just arrived, he was not in possession of -the document, and sent Jacob to Mr. Colby to procure it. He soon -returned, and after Lucy had summoned Mrs. Burns to the room, Joseph -proceeded to read it. This legal document, you will remember, was dated -on the very day Lucy refused to marry William Arnold, and had no doubt -long been keenly regretted by the testator. By this unrighteous -instrument, his affectionate daughter was cut off from any portion of -her father's estate, which was all bequeathed to his son Joseph Lee, Jr. - -This brought so vividly to the remembrance of the weeping daughter the -trials which had long been forgotten, or thought of but as a troubled -dream, that she could scarcely support herself. Emily besought her to be -comforted, reminding her of the words of a favorite poet, - - - "The darkest day, - Live till to-morrow, will have passed away." - - -The Doctor had long determined, if an opportunity presented itself, to -tell Joseph what he knew to be the wishes of his father; and to state -his conviction that he had intended to provide for his daughter in a -later will. This he now did, and appealed to him as a son and brother to -perform the oft repeated wish of his father toward his sister. He was -proceeding to say that Mrs. Burns, who had been present on some of these -occasions, could corroborate this testimony when he was interrupted by -Joseph, who had waited with ill-concealed impatience for him to finish. - -"It's of no use wasting words in this matter," said he, trying to -control his angry feelings, "If she whom you call my sister, had acceded -to the wishes of her father, (whom she now pretends to mourn) in the -choice of a husband, this will would never have been executed. If she -had remained single, I, as the executor, and only heir, should have set -it aside, and shared the property equally with her. But as she has -chosen her path, so she must walk in it; as she has married a mean -rascal," (for the first time letting his eye rest upon Allen, and with -the look of a fiend,) "she must take the consequences." - -At the first mention of his wife in this insulting manner, Allen had -started to his feet; but the Doctor put his hand gently upon his arm, -and he sank back into his seat. - -Poor Lucy was spared the pain of hearing his insolent mention of her -husband; she had fainted in Emily's arms. - -All was now confusion. Mrs. Burns was flying for restoratives. Emily and -Allen chafing her cold hands, while the servants alarmed at the noise -were running in from every direction. Joseph walked deliberately into -another room, slamming the door after him. The Doctor proposed taking -the unconscious bride to her own apartment. Emily indignantly refused, -and said, "I will not leave her in the house another moment." But -neither her husband nor her physician would consent to have her leave in -that condition. Beside the latter, determined to leave nothing undone, -meant secretly to make one more appeal to Joseph in his sister's behalf. - -After a few moments, the sufferer drew a long sigh, and becoming -conscious, stared wildly about the room, and then burst into a -passionate fit of weeping. - -The Doctor, who knew this scene ought not to be prolonged, sat down by -her side, and gently tried to soothe her. He soon drew from her the fact -of her strong desire to carry with her the portraits of her parents. - -Emily began to urge her afflicted friend to hasten her departure. In -truth she says that she feared every moment a fresh outrage; and Lucy -left the room feebly, as if the weight of years had fallen upon her. She -wished to go through the house and take a sorrowful leave of the home of -her childhood, and more especially of the apartment where she had spent -two years in the society and care of her father; now hallowed by the -remembrance of his peaceful death. Mrs. Burns supported her on one side, -and Emily on the other, while she thus took her sad farewell of places -and objects so dear to her heart. - -It was not the thought of leaving the gorgeously furnished parlors, -where the brilliant-hued carpets gave back no echo of the -foot-step--where were mirrors the height of the rooms--chandeliers where -the light was caught and reflected from innumerable hanging -crystals--crimson velvet lounges and divans whose outstretched arms -invited repose; it was not the thought of leaving these which -overpowered her. No; it was the nursery of her childhood,--the cradle of -her infancy--the closet, in which kneeling by her gentle mother, she had -first learned to pray--the private sitting-room where her willing ears -first drank in vows of affection from her Allen--the chamber in which -both father and mother had breathed out their souls to God. These were -the places and objects over which she yearned in agony of spirit as she -gazed her long _farewell_. - -Then came her separation from the old servants who had many of them -remained for years solely out of affection for her. And who, when her -sorrow for herself was changed to care for her stricken father, had -shared her duties and attentions to him during the long period of his -sickness. She assured them she should never forget their faithfulness or -affection. Mrs. Burns, who had long been regarded as a friend and -companion, was to accompany her, and for the present to remain in the -house of her father-in-law. The rest crowded around her and wept aloud. - -In the mean time the Doctor had taken advantage of their absence to -venture into the presence of Joseph; when he asked him if it was indeed -his intention to drive his only sister from her home. - -The unnatural brother coldly replied, "she must leave, and the sooner -the better for all concerned." - -Frank then begged for her the portraits of her parents. - -"No, not an article shall she--" but seeing an awful look of -indignation on the Doctor's face he checked himself, and said, "well, I -won't object to that; they're no use to me. You may tell her she may -take them,--and stay," he added as Frank was leaving the room, "tell her -that she may send a servant for all her gewgaws and finery; I shall want -them out of the way." - -His indignant hearer deigned not a word of reply, but left the room, and -told Allen to take the portraits, which with a few articles for -immediate use were put into the carriage, and with grateful, though sad -adieus to their sympathizing friends they drove away. - -Emily would not remain a moment longer. "Get me away! I can't breathe -here!" she exclaimed to her brother, as they were waiting for the -carriage. - - -_Tuesday, October 31st._ - -Mrs. Burns returned to-day to Lee Hall, and found it indeed desolate. -Not a servant remained but the porter; and he had only been detained for -a few days, by a promise of great wages. While Mrs. Burns was packing, -he came stealthily to her room, and told her what had taken place after -she left. Shutting himself in his own apartment to avoid the -disagreeable scenes around him, the new owner of this princely mansion -hastened out when all was quiet to order brandy and cigars to be brought -in with supper. He rang the bell. There was no response. He rang again. -He then walked angrily to the kitchen, but all was deserted. He stamped -and swore until the maid servants clung together in their affright, and -only wished themselves safely out of the house. Each one of them would -far sooner have given up the wages due them, than to have ventured into -the presence of this monster in human form. - -At length he was heard coming up stairs, and Jacob came out of his room -dressed to leave; when really pitying his frightened companions, he -determined to turn Joseph's anger against himself. After hearing the -most abusive language unmoved, Jacob told his master, he would follow -him to the parlor, and there receive his directions. - -Joseph appeared to remember that he was compromising his dignity by -condescending to follow a servant to his room, and he went below. - -With a whispered word to his companions to leave their effects with him, -and depart, the kind hearted Jacob waited upon his _master_, though he -will not call him such; and there was persuaded to remain a short time -as mentioned above. - -Mrs. Burns told the good man that she would see that every cent of their -wages was paid to them, and then with his assistance loaded the wagon -with the trunks, and took her leave of the place where she had passed -nearly twenty years. - - -_Saturday, November 18th._ - -We have heard nothing from the proprietor of Lee Hall, except the fact -from Jacob, that Mr. Colby has completely domesticated himself in the -family; and the new servants brought from the city, have all given -notice of their intention to leave. Two of the girls were indignant at -their employer on account of his insulting familiarity. - -Jacob says the house is seldom quiet until long after midnight; and that -alarmed by the uproarious noise in the parlors, he has sometimes -ventured below and heard violent altercations between Joseph and the -lawyer. But the next morning, when they had slept off the effects of -their wine, they appeared as friendly as ever. - -Sister Emily went with Allen and Lucy to-day to look at a pretty -cottage, with a view to house-keeping. The distance from Allen's -business was the only objection, as they do not intend to keep a -carriage. The bride has not yet recovered from the effects of the -excitement and sorrow through which she has passed. We all think the -novelty of furnishing her house will occupy her attention and be of use -to her. - - -_Thursday, November 23d._ - -After breakfast this morning Frank showed me the following notice in the -Crawford Advertiser. - - - "PROBATE COURT NOTICE." - - "At a court of Probate held in the town of Crawford, county of - ----, and commonwealth of Massachusetts, November 22d, 1837, - whereas there and then appeared Joseph Lee, gentleman, to set up - what he claimed to be the last will and testament of one Joseph - Lee, deceased, and whereas objections were filed with this court by - his brother-in-law, Allen Mansfield, against this instrument from a - belief that it was not the _last_ will and testament of the - testator, therefore notice is hereby given to all parties and - persons interested to appear before me at 10 o'clock, A. M., - Thursday, the 30th of this month, and show cause if any there be, - why said will should not be set up and executed. - - ---- ----, _Judge of Probate._ - - _November 22d._" - - -_Monday, November 27th._ - -The Doctor was notified to-day to appear before the Probate Court as a -witness for Allen Mansfield against Joseph Lee. His sympathies are of -course with Lucy and Allen, and he will testify to what he is sure were -the intentions of the father. But he feels quite confident that there is -no legal testimony in the case, sufficient to prove that he ever did -make a will according to his intentions. It appears extremely improbable -that if such a document had been in existence previous to the marriage -of his daughter, that he should not have mentioned the fact to Allen. -But he only said, "You will not have a portionless bride." That such a -document did not then exist is almost certain from the fact it could -not have been made without the knowledge of some one in the house, since -though the old gentleman was perhaps capable of drawing up a legal -document, and had the perfect use of his right hand, yet such document -being drawn up, would not be admitted in court without witnesses. - -Then if executed the day after the marriage took place as was at first -hoped, where is it? What motive could there be for concealing it? and -for allowing one of former date to be presented and set up? - - -_Friday, December 1st._ - -Yesterday the Doctor attended the Probate Court. Mr. Willard appeared -for Allen Mansfield. After the will had been read, and proved by the -witnesses, to be both genuine and authentic, Mr. Willard asked leave to -call for the witnesses to the deed of gift to widow Churchill; and -endeavored in vain to prove by them that a subsequent will had been -made. - -One of the witnesses to the latter instrument was not living, being the -young man who was so suddenly killed. The other testified that no -farther business, except signing the deed was transacted in his -presence. - -Lawyer Colby corroborated this testimony, while Joseph Lee after being -sworn, testified that although Mr. Willard's statements might be true as -to his father's intention to make a second will, he had yet to learn -that such a will had actually been made. - -For want of proof of the existence of a second will, the one then before -the court was set up and Joseph Lee duly appointed executor upon his -deceased father's estate. - - - - -CHAPTER XXV. - - "How may the mother's heart - Dwell on her son, and dare to hope again? - The Spring's rich promise hath been given in vain, - The lovely must depart! - Is _he_ not gone, our brightest and our best? - Come near! and bear the early-called to rest! - - "Ye weep, and it is well! - For tears befit earth's partings! Yesterday - Song was upon the lips of this pale clay, - And sunshine seemed to dwell - Where'er he moved--the welcome and the blessed! - Now gaze and bear the silent unto rest!" MRS. HEMANS. - - -_Friday, March 16th, 1838._ - -My dearly loved mother,--With a heart borne down with sorrow, I take my -pen to communicate the sad intelligence which even as I write my heart -refuses to believe. My sweet little Walter, my first-born son; your only -grandchild, is, alas! no more on earth! - - -_Evening._ - -I could go no farther this morning; the dreadful reality overwhelmed me; -and I could only weep afresh. My dear, doubly _dear_ husband came and -wept with me. Then he took that precious book which contains so many -words of comfort to poor broken hearts, and read passage after passage. -We knelt together, and told Jesus all our sorrow and grief at the loss -of our darling; that our hearts were like to burst that we should see -his face no more,--no more hear his merry laugh, or his shout of -delight. And Jesus, our elder brother, seemed to stand by us, and weep -with us as he did with Mary and Martha of olden time. But at length he -pointed to the beautiful azure sky above, while his tender notes fell -like low sweet music upon our ears, hushing into peace the waves of -sorrow which were roaring and dashing over us. "Beyond those bright -aerial regions is the throne of the eternal. Before him are a multitude -whom no man can number, of little ones who were early transplanted from -this cold and sinful earth to the pure air of heaven. While sinful -nations in affright hide their faces from the searching glance of him -who sitteth upon the throne, yet upon these little ones he lifts the -light of his countenance, and bestows his constant smiles. Your child -washed in my blood, purified and sanctified by my spirit, is among them -swelling with his infant voice the choir who are ever singing, 'worthy -the lamb that was slain for our sins.'" - -Those gracious words from our sympathizing Saviour, soothed our grief, -and were balm to our wounded hearts. When we arose from our knees, we -felt a new attraction to our home beyond the skies. We were the parents -of an angel. - - -_Saturday, March 17th._ - -I feel a painful pleasure in thinking over every circumstance connected -with the sickness and death of my sweet child. While I write, my little -Pauline, who has wept herself sick at the loss of her dear brother, is -sitting on a cricket at my feet with her head resting in my lap. She is -trying to restrain the sobs which ever and anon burst out afresh, from -her tender, affectionate heart. - -"Mamma," says the trembling voice, "will you please tell me more about -that happy place where my brother has gone? Is he playing on his harp -now?" I have quieted her by the promise that when I have written a -letter to her grandmamma in England, I will read it to her. - -On Thursday, the eighth of this month, our beautiful boy appeared -perfectly well. The weather, which had been very windy and bleak, was -unusually mild, and the children could hardly contain their joy at being -able to be out of doors. Walter was warmly clad and placed in his wagon, -while Pauline was only too happy in helping Ann to draw him round the -garden. About ten o'clock the sun was so warm that the walks became damp -from the melting of the frost, and I called them in. Walter was put into -his crib for his nap, which was undisturbed. When he awoke I gazed at -him with pride. His eyes were perfectly brilliant with beauty, his lips -were red as coral and his cheeks rivalled the blush of the rose. As I -held him in my arms and pushed back the curls from his broad, noble -brow, so like his father's, my heart said, "what a beautiful boy, and he -is my own." I was astonished to find him so ready to sit quietly in my -lap while Pauline, by every art of which she was capable, was trying to -decoy him away. He laughed aloud at her antics as she danced about the -room, hiding behind the door, and then with a merry shout bursting out -upon him; but when she said "brother, hide now," he would lay his head -on my breast, and lisp, "tay with mamma." He sat thus nearly an hour, -which was so unusual that I began to feel a little alarm. Frank laughed -at me for indulging such a feeling, merely because he was quiet; and -certainly one could hardly realize danger as they looked upon his face, -which was the very picture of health and beauty. - -After dinner Ann brought him to me in her arms, saying "he wants to lie -quiet, and will not eat his bread and milk." Frank then felt his pulse, -and said it was too quick. He gave me a powder for Walter to take if he -was no better; but in the course of the afternoon, he slid from my lap, -and played an hour or two with his sister. He was not as boisterous as -usual, and seemed disposed to yield in everything to Pauline's wishes. - -When I was putting him into bed she said several times, "Isn't brother a -nice boy, mamma?" - -When my husband came home, he went directly to the crib, and found him -in a gentle perspiration, but still with a feverish pulse. I told him I -had bathed his feet in warm water, which he approved, but thought it -best to give the powder. When I retired he appeared no worse, and -feeling more easy about him, I soon fell asleep. - -I was awakened by a loud, shrill noise from the crib, such as I had -never before heard. With one bound I was at his side, screaming "Frank, -Oh, _Frank_! what can that noise be?" - -Alas, no Frank answered! He had been called away. Whether I had -forgotten it or never knew it until that moment I cannot tell. But -another sound came, more horrible than the first. I ran to Ann's room -and told her to ring for Cæsar and Phebe. Then I flew back to my boy, my -darling boy. He seemed to be suffocated. I caught him in my arms, and -tossed him to catch his breath. Oh! how frightened he looked. Soon Ann -and all came rushing into the room. - -"Oh, Cæsar!" I cried, "where is your master?" - -Without another word he went in search of him. Ann ran for mother and -sister, while Phebe hurried to the kitchen, and brought some olive oil -which she succeeded in pouring down his throat. - -"Don't be scare missus, it's de croup. Mass'r Frank cures heaps o' -chilen sick wid it. Ole Phebe knows God not send for dis chile yet." - -I wrung my hands. Before Cæsar could have had time to harness I began to -expect him back. - -Mother soon came in and took my boy from me, telling me to dress. I -forgot that I had only thrown on a wrapper. Mother was so calm I began -to hope it was not so bad as I feared. She had already sent Phebe for -hot water; telling Emily to go to the medicine chest, and procure a -bottle of antimonial wine. This she gave at once, and with his little -feet and limbs in very warm water, while he was wrapped in blankets, he -appeared better. But he looked at me with such an imploring expression -as he said "mamma," that the tone stirred the deepest fountains of my -heart. - -"Oh, my darling!" I cried, "mamma would help you if she could!" Oh, how -the little breast heaved; and he grew worse again,--every minute he grew -worse. Mother said not a word, but kept administering to him. - -"Where can Cæsar be?" she said at length, and I knew from her looks she -feared the worst. - -Then I heard a horse come dashing up to the door, and Frank almost flew -into the room. - -"Thank God!" was all that mother could say. The poor father knelt before -his boy. His mother told him in a word what she had done. Oh! the look -of indescribable agony that passed over his face as he found he was -_too_ late! - -_Our boy was dying!_ - -Frank would not give up even then, but said "while there is life there -is hope." But the breast heaved more feebly--the shrill sound gradually -ceased--until lying in the arms of his grandmother, with his father and -mother kneeling before him--his precious hand encircling my finger, he -gave one last, lingering look at each of the group standing around him, -and without a struggle or a sigh--only a slight shudder, he fell sweetly -asleep. - -After a few moments, so calm, so untroubled was that beautiful brow, so -sweetly smiled those ruby lips, that as I gazed, I could not believe the -spirit had fled. I could hardly refrain from catching him in my arms. - -"Walter! oh, _Walter_!!" I cried, "can't you speak once more to poor -mamma?" I passionately kissed his brow, his eyes, his beautiful -lips!--oh, how proud I had been of those pouting, red lips; but they -would never speak again. - -I felt a strong arm put around me, and a kind voice told me I must not -stay. My dear husband led me to the library, while mother, with Emily -and Ann, performed the last offices for the dearly loved one. - -"Oh, Frank!" said I, "why, _why_ were you gone?" - -He hid his face in his hands, and his bosom heaved convulsively. It is -dreadful to see a man weep. I put my arms around his neck, and we wept -long and bitterly. It was so sudden, the blow staggered me. It was now -morning. Only yesterday morning, and my Walter was well; now, where is -he? - -I started. "Oh! what will Pauline say?" - -Frank went softly up stairs, and found her quietly sleeping, and he did -not awake her. How I dreaded her awaking! When I looked up, as Frank -came into the room, I was shocked at the pallor of his countenance; his -lips were closely shut, and I started to my feet, almost fearing he were -about to fall. He pressed me tightly in his arms for a moment, and then -we silently lifted up our hearts to God for strength to say, "Thy will -be done." - -After this, I was, myself, astonished at the calmness which stole over -me. I went to my chamber, though he would have detained me; and there I -saw my little one more beautiful than ever. The impress of heaven was -upon his brow! - -By his side stood Pauline in her night dress; her long curls hanging -carelessly down her back, her eyes distended, her lips parted as if to -speak. With one hand she touched the little fingers laid together upon -the breast, then started back, awed by the marble coldness. I sprang -toward her and caught her in my arms. So quietly had she stepped from -her low bed in the adjoining room, and come to see if her brother was -awake, that mother and sister who sat weeping at the farther end of the -apartment, had not noticed her until I entered. - -"Mamma," asked the frightened voice, "what is the matter with my -brother? his hands are very cold." - -I put a shawl around her, sat down with her in my lap, and began to tell -her, but burst into tears. She heard sobbing, and looked from one to -another frightened, and wondering. - -Emily came and tried to tell her that her dear little brother had gone -to God. - -She pointed to the crib, as if to say he was there. - -Emily said, "his soul has gone to God." - -"And has papa's soul gone too?" she asked quickly, "my brother couldn't -go alone; he was too little." - -Oh, how my tears burst forth afresh! - -"Pauline," said Emily, "the angels came from heaven to take dear little -Walter's soul up to God. Jesus wanted him there." - -"How long will he have to stay there?" - -"Oh, Pauline!" I exclaimed, "he will never, _never_ come back, we shall -never see him again." - -The poor stricken child sobbed aloud. Mother took her from me. "Go to -Frank," she whispered, "and I will try to soothe her." - -I went below, and softly entered the library, where my dear husband -knelt by the sofa, with his face buried in his hands. I went gently to -his side, when he put his arm around me. I whispered, "pray for me too." -And in a broken voice, interrupted by convulsive sobs, he did pray that -we might not murmur at this stroke of our father's rod. - -After a while, I heard a gentle knock at the door, and Cæsar's voice -asking if mass'r Frank would please eat some breakfast. When he saw me, -the poor man cried aloud. Oh! what an idol he had made of his young -master! His large faithful heart was swelling with grief, which he had -in vain tried to control. I gave him my hand, and found a world of -comfort in his sympathizing tears. - -"Oh, missus Lenox!" said he sobbing, "I 'spects 'twas God's will." - -"Yes, Cæsar, but it's hard for my poor heart to say 'Thy will be done.' -You must pray for me, Cæsar." - -"Oh, missus!" said he, "we'se all got to pray for dat." - -I left Frank walking the room, and went up stairs where mother was -dressing Pauline. Ann I found sitting on a trunk in her chamber, with -her head upon the bed, weeping bitterly. - -"My good Ann," I said, "will you come in and stay by the side of the -crib while we are below?" I tried to compose myself, but broke down -again. - -"I can't, oh, I can't!" she cried, "don't ask me. I can't see him yet." -Finding her in such a condition, I left her, and begged mother to allow -me to remain with my boy; but she said, it was my duty to go below to my -husband. It was in vain for us to try to eat. Pauline sobbed so -violently, that her father was obliged to hold her in his arms to soothe -her. I severely blamed myself for saying what I said to the sensitive -child. - -"My little daughter," said Frank in a most touching tone, "when you say -your prayers, do not you ask God to make you a good child, so that you -can go to heaven? And then you prayed God last night to make your little -brother good, so that he could go; did you not ask this?" - -She could hardly speak, but she sobbed out, "I didn't ask God to take -him so soon, I wanted us to go together." - -Her father could but press her to his heart. How often had we prayed -that they might be fitted for heaven; but alas! had not dreamed of such -a sudden separation. - - -_Tuesday, March 20th._ - -Our little one lies buried in a shady knoll at the end of the garden, -and there, when I have done with time, I hope to be laid beside him. -Many times in the day do we bend our steps to the quiet retreat, and -weep over the little grave. Pauline weeps less, and by the deep -spiritual light in her eyes, I think she begins to understand something -of the glory and purity of that world where her beloved brother has -gone. - -Our good friends Cæsar, Phebe, Ann, and Ruth, have shared so truly in -our grief, that I feel as if they were related to us. Poor Ann is -almost unfitted for everything. Whenever she sees his clothes or toys -she weeps afresh. - -With regard to myself, I feel at times a submission to the divine will, -and even can realize the blessedness of my child in being with his -Saviour, freed from sin and temptation to do evil; and then I am calm. -But the merest trifle unnerves me. I have not had the heart to put away -his clothes, and his little cap and cloak have hung in the hall as -heretofore. A day or two since, I missed the cap from the hook, and -going into the library I found my dear husband in an agony of grief over -it. I was thankful that I was now able to be the comforter. - - -_Thursday, June 7th._ - -I suppose ere this you have received the sad intelligence in my last, -together with one of later date from Frank. - -I have but just arrived at home from a journey to B---- and some other -places. I was exceedingly unwilling to leave my husband, whose duty -detained him at home. But both on my own account and Pauline's, he -thought it best to change the scene. - -If it were not for the night, I could control my feelings; but I dream -of my boy, and awake to find myself childless. Often he seems to stand -by me or float before me in the air, and that dreadful, agonized "mamma" -he uttered, rings in my ears, and awakes me in affright. - -Of late, however, I have been less disturbed, and my dreams of him are -delightful. Frank is unwilling to have me dwell so much upon my sorrow, -and when I see him, though pale and suffering, going on quietly with his -round of duties, I feel reproved. - -I commenced writing of our journey. We went directly to B---- after -receiving a very kind invitation from uncle and aunt Morgan. Mother came -over to the house to be with her son, and Emily accompanied me. Our -journey was shorter than the former one, being all the way by railroad. -We found our thoughtful cousin waiting for us at the station. The sight -of his smiling face brought my little Walter so forcibly to mind, that I -was completely overcome. Poor fellow! he was much distressed, and tried -to soothe me. Pauline was delighted to see him, and put her hand in his, -as confidingly as of old. - -Uncle and aunt received us with parental tenderness. I was glad to hear -from them so good an account of their son. He has gone into business in -B----, and bids fair not only to be a wealthy, but a useful man. He went -unknown to his parents and collected a Sabbath-school in the outskirts -of the town, and in a place where the inhabitants had heretofore been -regarded as too abandoned to be reclaimed. Here for a year past he has -spent all the time he could command from other duties, during the week, -as well as on the Sabbath, and now it is called the "Morgan parish." - -Many who have known Joseph from babyhood, shook their heads when he -commenced this labor of love; and thought, he only intended it for a new -frolic,--that the novelty would soon pass away, and he would tire of the -confinement. But as they see him more and more interested in his school, -comprising now not only children, but parents, they feel a great respect -for the young man. - -I am quite amused at the way he treats Pauline, a little maiden of five -years. He never plays with her, as it would be natural for him to do -with a child of her age, but appears to regard her as something sacred; -and is as delicate in his attentions as if she had numbered four times -five years. - -But cousin has not lost his character for fun. He would not be Joseph if -he had; but he is very careful in his jokes not to wound the feelings of -others. Then his manner of treating his parents is so much more -respectful than formerly. Dear uncle and aunt! With what pride do they -look upon his fine manly form and his bright happy face. Then they know -this is a sure index of his heart. I found out his age while we were -there, which was less than I had supposed. But I will keep his secret. - -After a delightful visit at B---- we returned by a somewhat circuitous -route to visit other relatives, to whom I was not an entire stranger, -having met them at mother's. Pauline was very much delighted with -travelling, and Emily took pains to point out to her every object of -interest. - -I must not omit to mention a circumstance which occurred before we left -B----. Joseph was reading various items from a New York paper while we -sat around the breakfast table to which we all listened with interest, -when he came upon the following. "We learn that the Honorable Mr. -Karswell, and family, of the firm of C. M. Karswell and brothers, are -about to leave by the packet ship Cambria for Liverpool, where he is to -meet his son, who has been travelling for a number of years in company -with a distinguished clergyman, formerly settled in Waverley, -Massachusetts, when they intend to make the tour of Europe and to visit -the Holy Land. Mr. Karswell considers himself very fortunate in having -been able to avail himself of the company of Mr. Benson in their -travels; he being familiar with the languages of the countries through -which they pass; and every way a great acquisition." - -I could not tell how Emily looked, for I took particular pains to be -occupied with Pauline, but I am sure my own face burned. - -"Well," said uncle, "pass on to the next," little aware what an interest -that small item had to some of the hearers. Emily soon made an excuse to -leave the room, and I thought it best not to revert to the subject. In -the course of the day I looked over the paper to see if any part of this -communication had been omitted in the reading; when to my astonishment -it was nicely cut out. - -Aunt looked up at my expression of surprise and said, "O! Emily asked if -we had done with the paper, she wanted to cut out a pattern of -something." I had my own thoughts, but of course said nothing, and so -the subject passed. I may as well say here that on my return, I asked -Frank what family Mr. Karswell had, and learned that there were two -accomplished daughters. He has been a widower many years, and the eldest -daughter has kept house for him. The younger one, Gertrude, Frank says, -gave promise of great beauty. - -Frank was a little troubled about the cutting out of that "pattern" from -the paper, especially as Emily did it so secretly. "If she loves him -yet," said he, "she has had a severe punishment for her proud -dissimulation." - -On our return from New York, and when we were within thirty miles of -home, the cars were full, and Emily was separated from us by two seats, -Pauline and I being together. A gentleman who was a stranger to me took -the vacant seat by sister. He was very much browned, as if he had come -from a foreign clime, but altogether a noble specimen of man. After a -few moments I was astonished to see them in the full tide of -conversation, Emily being more interested than I had seen her for many a -day. The burden of the conversation at length devolved upon her, while -he grew more and more taciturn, until I saw that he put his handkerchief -to his eyes and was much overcome by what she said. As she turned a -little toward her companion, I saw that her own eyes were humid with -tears; and I wondered at the meaning of this emotion. Fortunately for my -curiosity, we soon reached a station, and the persons sitting in front -of us left. Emily and her companion immediately arose and availed -themselves of this seat. - -I was not a little surprised, as well as pleased, when Emily said to me, -"Do you remember, Cora, I told you about Edward Ryland, brother to your -little Anna's mother?" - -"Yes, perfectly." - -"Well, this is he, just returned from India. He has not heard from his -sister for many years. I have been giving him a sketch of her history." - -I cordially gave him my hand, which he grasped so warmly, that I did not -recover from the pressure during the remainder of our ride. He begged -for all the news, saying, "I am absolutely famished for intelligence -from home friends." He was very much affected at hearing of the -reformation and peaceful death of Squire Lee; and shocked though not -much astonished at the conduct of Joseph. From his frequent inquiries -concerning families in Waverley, I more than suspected there was some -one in that place whom the thought of meeting thrilled his soul with the -sentiment, - - - "My heart's so full of joy, - That I shall do some wild extravagance - Of love in public; and the foolish world, - Which knows not tenderness, will think me mad." - - -We were so much engaged in talking as to be unaware of our near approach -to Crawford, and sprang hastily to our feet as the conductor called out -the familiar name. Inviting Mr. Ryland to make us an early call, we took -a carriage and drove home, where we had no reason to complain of our -reception. I went into the house very gently, and pushing open the -library door, I saw my own dear Frank sitting, reading with his back to -the entrance. I crept softly across the room, and put my arms around his -neck. He sprang to his feet letting his book fall, and caught me in his -arms. - -"My wife, mine own, I will never let you leave me again. If you go, I -shall follow. I am good for nothing without you.-- - - "Thinkest thou - That I could live, and let thee go, - Who art my life itself?--no--no." - -We then went to find mother and all the dear family. I had been dreading -the return for fear my grief would overpower me; but I was graciously -supported. Frank was very kind, and kept us busily talking. I believe -Emily told every circumstance which had happened during our absence, -(which I omitted I mean) except the one unimportant fact of her begging -and saving as a choice article, an inch of waste paper. - - -_Monday, September 10th._ - -Allen Mansfield and Lucy are very pleasantly settled near us. Mrs. -Burns, and one of the chambermaids from Lee Hall form their -establishment, together with a little stranger a week old, who has -already received the name of Emily Lenox. Frank says, Lucy is -exceedingly happy and grateful for the sweet treasure. - -There is one event connected with this family, however, which has cast a -gloom over the whole town, at least the sober part of it. The -distillery, which was closed very soon after Squire Lee was taken sick, -has been started again, and is now in full tide of operation under the -energetic management of an agent procured by Joseph. He is absent and -Lee Hall is closed. Report says, he has gone abroad in company with his -inseparable companion, Mr. Colby. It is really saddening to think of a -young man of good talents, as Mr. Colby appeared to be, so entirely led -away and ruined by bad company. For many months before they went away, -his office was closed, and he made no pretensions to business. He had -his home entirely with Joseph, if home it could be called, where there -was drinking and fighting both in the parlors and in the kitchen. Many -times the man who professedly kept up the establishment, had to call in -help to separate Mr. Colby and Joseph. When drunk, they tried to kill -each other; but when sober, or partly so, were apparently the best of -friends. - - - - -CHAPTER XXVI. - - "LOVE!--what a volume in a word, an ocean in a tear!" TUPPER. - - -_Wednesday, June 10th, 1840._ - -DEAREST MOTHER,--It is a week since sister Nelly sailed for home. I am -so lost without her, that I have determined to resume my journal which -has been interrupted for nearly two years. - -I can never sufficiently thank you for sparing her to me so long. I sent -many messages by her which I could not find time to write. If you are as -much interested in my friends as she was, she will give you the latest -intelligence from them. She would not be contented until she had -received an introduction in person. Many of them exceedingly regret her -departure. - -The family of Mrs. Reynolds, she liked much, though she could not see -Anna, as she was adopted by her uncle Edward soon after his marriage, -and lives in New York. My suspicions were very soon confirmed with -regard to him, by an invitation to a wedding at his sister's, where I -was introduced to a Miss Grant, who in a few moments became Mrs. Edward -Ryland. - -Miss Grant had waited patiently for her lover all these years; with a -woman's true heart refusing to listen for a moment to other proposals of -marriage. Even her own parents were not aware of the state of her -affections, and had often urged her to give a reason for not wishing to -settle in life. All the reason the poor girl could give, was that she -did not love the suitor. But her faithfulness is now rewarded, and Mr. -Ryland hastened with his bride to New York to become a partner in the -firm for which he went to India. - -Mrs. Reynolds was very unwilling to part with Anna, more especially on -account of her husband's health, who would, she feared, miss the lovely -child. At that time William was very feeble, and it was feared that his -exposures in his wanderings from home in former years might bring on -consumption. But for a year past he has enjoyed perfect health. I -suppose, Nelly will tell you that a little miss has come to take Anna's -place, and that she is called Cora Lenox Reynolds. I never liked the -name better than when I have seen the little creature come shyly up to -me, turning her head one side and the other, and looking out from under -her curls to take something I had carried; and heard her lisp out her -name, "Cowa Lenox." The Doctor makes a great pet of her, and is so much -delighted with her name that it would be no wonder to me, if by and by -there should be quite a regiment of Cora Lenoxes among his patients. In -that case I should find it cheaper to import a quantity of silver cups -than to purchase them here. - -I have no doubt much as Nelly desired to see the dear home friends, that -long ere this she has wished herself back for one more frolic with her -little namesake. When I say to the darling, "Baby want to see Aunt -Nelly?" she crows and screams with delight. We all think her very like -sister; the same deep blue eyes, and fair complexion, so different from -her beautiful brother who looked far more like a Lenox. I sometimes -smile as strangers notice the striking resemblance of Pauline to her -father. I used to fancy the same thing myself when she was a baby. - -I long for the return of our dear friends Allen and Lucy, who took -sister in charge as far as New York, and saw her safely on board ship. -They enclosed me a short note from her, with her last farewell just -before she sailed. Emily says, "it seems as if half Crawford were gone." -We are all lonely without the lively girl. - -Miss Nelly calls and I must obey. Frank says, I am not half as strict -with her as I was with Pauline or Walter; and it may be true; I feel so -uncertain of her life, since our sweet boy was taken away so suddenly. - - -_Thursday, June 18th._ - -Allen and Lucy returned yesterday, and we all went in to spend the -evening with them. Miss Emily Mansfield was allowed to sit up to welcome -her mamma, and could not be persuaded to leave her for a moment. Sister -is very proud of her little namesake. - -We had been talking of sister Nelly and other topics in a lively manner, -when Lucy suddenly started, saying, "Bye the bye, Emily, who do you -think we saw on our way to Philadelphia?" and without waiting for a -reply, "Mr. Benson, who used to be settled in Waverley. I thought at one -time that he was a flame of yours; but he is married now; and to one of -the most beautiful creatures I ever saw. She was leaning on his arm and -looking up in his face with the most wife-like fondness." - -Lucy talked so rapidly, and was so rejoiced to be the first to tell the -news, that she did not appear to notice the effect it had on her -hearers. If I had done _anything_, I should have burst out crying. I had -woven so many pretty romances about his coming home faithful to sister, -and all that, and finding out she did love him. - -As no one spoke, Frank said with the utmost calmness, "he married Miss -Karswell, I suppose, sister of the young man with whom he has been -travelling." - -"No, not sister," replied Lucy, "but a cousin, who accompanied his -sisters. Our informant who knew the family well, told me that Charles -was not altogether pleased, as he wished to marry his cousin himself. -She is a Southerner; and they were on their way to the south. He is so -much altered that I should hardly have known him, if it were not for his -mouth and voice. I stood near them in the boat, and heard him say, he -wished her parents were to meet them in Philadelphia instead of -Charleston, for it would be extremely warm there at this season. She -replied, 'it shall be my endeavor to make it so delightful to you, that -you will forget the heat.'" - -"Didn't you speak to them?" I asked, recovering my voice. - -"Yes, but it was just as we were leaving. He seemed really annoyed that -I had not made myself known at once. I told him I was not sure for some -time whether it were really he." - -"'Am I then so much altered?' said he sadly; but at the same time a -beautiful smile played for one instant around his mouth, and vanished." - -"Then you were not introduced to his lady?" - -"No, though she kept tight hold of his arm, and seemed almost impatient -that he stopped even that short space. Altogether he was the most -distinguished gentleman on board the boat, always excepting my own -husband," she added, with a merry glance at him. - -When the conversation turned to another theme, I ventured to look at -Emily. To my astonishment, she appeared to be wholly engrossed in a new -book, she had taken from the table; but on looking a moment I perceived -a deadly pallor about her mouth; and suddenly remembered that we were -making a very long call upon persons just returned. - -When we were at home, I merely ran to take a peep into the nursery, and -finding all quiet, I begged Frank to excuse me for a few moments. - -"Where is Emily?" I asked of mother. - -"She went to her room to lay aside her bonnet." - -I followed, and found the poor girl in the very abandonment of grief. -She had tossed her bonnet into a chair, and was kneeling by the bed, -with her arms thrown over her head, which was buried in the pillow. - -I knelt by her side, putting my arms around her. "Dear sister," I said, -"don't weep so. Do let me comfort you." But I stopped; what could I say? - -After a few moments, she arose and sat by me. "Oh, Emily!" I said, "if -you look so, you will break my heart." - -"I believe," she replied in a mournful tone, putting her hand to her -side, "that mine is broken. I thought I had schooled myself to hear -this. I ought to have expected it; but oh! I have deceived myself." - -I was never more embarrassed for words to express sympathy, and was -awkwardly silent. - -"Cora," said she, looking at me, "there is no human being but yourself -whom I would allow to witness my"--she hesitated, "my grief at this -intelligence. My poor mother would be so pained, if she knew her -daughter loved another woman's husband." This last sentence was spoken -in her old bitter tone, and carried me back to past years. "And it shall -not be. To-morrow you will see me the same as ever. Please, dear -sister," she added, in a softened tone, "never allude to my grief. It -will soon be over." - -It was only when she spoke of herself that her voice was harsh and -severe. I looked with admiration at her as she drew up her form, and -revealed the Lenox will, Frank sometimes refers to. - -Mother looked very happy as her daughter came in smiling and talking of -Lucy's improved appearance since her return. My face was by far the -sadder of the two. I have never been able to conceal my feelings. "Dear -mother," I thought as I bid her good night, "you would not sleep much if -you knew what an aching heart lay beneath that smiling face." - - -_Saturday, June 20th._ - -Cæsar carried me and my smaller treasures this afternoon to see Aunt -Susy, who has been rather failing in health this summer. Pauline has -been with me several times, and is always delighted to accompany me -there. But now I was going to introduce my little Nelly, though not -without some fears that the squeezing she would get, would frighten the -timid little thing. Aunt Susy is no longer able to watch at the door to -see who goes by; but her heart has not grown cold while sitting in her -easy chair. I stepped into the entry and knocked at the inner door. - -"Walk right in!" In obedience to this invitation, I opened the door, and -with Nelly in my arms, went up to the old lady. She looked over her -glasses for a moment as if she did not recognize me with my baby, and -before she could say anything, I laid the little miss in her lap. - -"Bless its little soul," said Aunt Susy, carefully laying aside her -knitting where the needles couldn't hurt the child. "Well Miss Lenox, if -that don't beat all. I never know'd you'd got another;" and to pay for -being kept in ignorance, she began in good earnest to squeeze it to her -large warm heart. The baby crowed with delight, and as oft as she had a -kiss, would give a snatch for the glasses. All this time Pauline and her -mother stood by unnoticed, while the dear child had her little red lips -made up for a kiss. - -"Here, Aunt Susy," I said, "give me the baby, this young lady is waiting -her turn." - -The good woman went into the business fundamentally, and now that she -undertook with Pauline, she was in no haste to get through. When they -stopped to take breath she looked in Pauline's face. "La! it beats all -natur how she grows like her pa." - -The dear soul had forgotten the fact which interested her so much years -ago, and really supposed the child to be our own. - -"There's--what do you call her?" - -"Ellen," I answered. - -"There's Ellen now, looks more like you, while Pauline is clear father. -I'll venture he sets a sight by her." - -Pauline laughed, though she didn't know exactly the meaning of the -latter phrase. - -"Blessed little soul," she resumed with another squeeze, "what made you -think o' that?" - -"Because," said Pauline, "you are so kind." - -I looked inquiringly at the whisperer. - -"La!" said Aunt Susy wiping her eyes, "the dear little cretur says she -loves me, and I don't know what it's for, if 'taint that I loved your pa -long enough afore you was born; and I used to hold him on my lap, and -sing 'Ride a jack horse to Banbury cross,' and he'd laugh as hearty as -the baby did just now." - -At this very moment Mrs. Wilson returned from the garden, when her -mother called out, "Darter, did you ever hear tell that Doctor Frank had -had another baby?" - -"Oh, yes, mother!" she answered, shaking hands with me, "and you knew it -too at the time, but you've forgotten." - -"Well, p'r'aps I did," she said with a sigh, "my memory's grown very -poor; but I haven't forgotten where my Saviour is," she added, her -countenance brightening, "nor he wont forget me; though sometimes I'm -almost tempted to fear he don't altogether remember how long I've been -expecting he'd send for me to go home. Every morning I ask him if it's -God's will to take me before night; and every night I pray to go before -the sun rises. But he knows best, and I try not to feel impatient o' -waiting for him." - -I cannot describe the holy expression of the dear old lady as she said -this. - - -_Thursday, June 25th._ - -How little I thought when I wrote the last sentence, that I should never -more feel that warm embrace; never meet those eyes beaming with love. -The dear blessed woman is now where she so longed and prayed to be. Her -Saviour had not forgotten her, but came during the silent watches of the -night and took her home. - -So silently did she resign her spirit to her beloved Lord, that not even -her daughter, whose room joins hers, and who heard her whispering her -prayers and hymns after she retired, knew aught of the solemn visitor. -But he was not unexpected, or unwelcome to the sleeper. She was so -impatient to answer the summons, she could not stop to bid farewell to -her earthly friends. Her Saviour called, and she hastened to obey. - -In the morning Mrs. Wilson, after waiting beyond the usual time, stepped -softly to the bed side of her mother. Struck dumb by the gloriously -joyous expression, she went back to the sitting room and beckoned her -husband to look before she awoke the sleeper, then leaning forward, -said, "mother, _mother_!" - -"Oh! wonder not, motherless daughter, that she is deaf to your call. Her -ears are listening to notes of heavenly music which ravish her soul. Her -eyes are feasting on her Saviour, and she is satisfied, now that she -beholds his face in glory!" - -I could not resist the wish to see that beautiful countenance once more -before it was forever buried from sight; and my dear Frank went with me -to the chamber of death. I felt very sad as we approached the house; but -when I entered the room where I had always seen her, and looked beneath -the linen cloth which covered her from view, I could not weep. I felt as -if I had caught a glimpse of heaven. - -"Surely," said I, "that wonderful smile is not of earth." - -"Perhaps," said Frank, "it was the smile of welcome to the messenger who -summoned her home. Death was a welcome guest to her." - -As we gazed we could follow her rapt spirit to the mansions of the -blessed, and behold her heart ever more expanding with love to her -Saviour and her God. - - - "Thy face - Is all at once spread over with a calm - More beautiful than sleep, or mirth, or joy." - - -_Wednesday, July 29th._ - -We have heard that there are great preparations making in Waverley for -the welcome of their former pastor. It is now more than a year since Mr. -Tyler left them for another field of labor; and when the parish heard -that Mr. Benson had returned, they gave him a unanimous call to -resettle with them. They have not received a regular answer to their -call; but only that he will be with them, providence permitting, the -second Sabbath in August. They seem to feel sure, however, that he will -prefer to settle with the people of his first love. And they are ready -to offer him a better support than they were able to do formerly. The -young men are fitting up the grounds about the parsonage, and the whole -village is alive with interest. I can't tell whether to be glad or -sorry. Perhaps if Emily were to see him often, she would the sooner -conquer any remaining interest she may feel for him. - -Since that first night, if she is indulging grief, she deceives even me. -Indeed, I told Frank to-day, after she left the room, that I considered -her uncommonly cheerful. But he thought otherwise, and gravely shook his -head. - - -_Thursday, July 30th._ - -The parish committee in Waverley have received a communication from Mr. -Benson, that he hopes to be with them on Thursday, the sixth day of -August, and should be happy to meet any of his old people in the vestry -or at any place they may appoint. No sooner did they hear this than they -determined that it should be a feast of welcome. They are perfectly -enthusiastic in their love for him. I only hope his wife may be a -suitable help-meet. - -Mr. and Mrs. Munroe called here to-day to invite us in behalf of the -managing committee to be present on the occasion; I answered vaguely, -"that if the Doctor were at liberty," etc., etc. - - -_Friday, July 31st._ - -I am astonished at Emily--here she has been planning a journey to C---- -and has never let us know it until to-day. I went in this morning to -give her and mother the invitation left by Mr. Munroe. She answered -gayly, "I should be happy to go, but I shall be far away before that -time." - -"Where?" I asked in surprise. - -"Oh, somewhere among the Catskill Mountains; but," she continued, "Ruth -and I have made a nice loaf of cake. It is bride's cake," she added, -laughing gayly, as she brought from the closet a large loaf beautifully -frosted. I forgot to mention, that cake, fruits, and flowers had been -solicited for the occasion. - -"Cæsar," said Emily, "has promised me two bouquets made in his best -style; and remember, Mr. Benson is to hold one and his wife the other." -Then, with a low courtesy in acknowledgment of my profound amazement, -she deposited the cake in the closet again. - -"Emily," said I, as mother answered a summons from the room, "I do -believe you're getting crazed." - -"Why?" - -"Because you laugh so much, and act so strangely." - -"Well, dear sister," said she, growing very grave, "if crying will suit -you any better, I can easily do that," and leaning her head upon the -table, with her arms for her pillow, she gave way to a passionate burst -of grief. - - - "And sorrow too finds some relief - In tears which wait upon our grief." - - -I stood in the middle of the room perfectly confounded, and was -hesitating whether I ought not to run home for Frank, when hearing a -distant door shut she started up, throwing her arms around my neck, and -said hurriedly, "Dear sister, don't look so very sad. It has been a hard -struggle; but it is almost over. I seldom give way as I have done now; -that is too great a luxury to be indulged in often." - - - "At times e'en bitter tears yield sweet relief." - - -She turned to leave me; but I persisted in following her to her room. -We sat down after I had closed the door. Turning from our late subject, -she began to say something in a careless tone. - -"Don't, Emily, don't speak so, that makes me feel worse than anything." - -"Cora," she exclaimed in an excited tone, as unlike the other, as if she -were a different person, "_Cora_, what do you think you should do, if -after all the years you've loved Frank, you should suddenly find out -some day, you were committing sin every moment you continued to love -him? Supposing you should some day find out he had another wife?" - -"Oh! sister," I answered, "I should die, I couldn't help loving Frank." - -"No, that would be too easy; I'll tell you what you should do," drawing -herself up to her full height, and looking almost like a queen. "You -must tear up your love by the roots; you must never allow one tender -thought of him. Drive them out. _Drive them away!_ You must keep saying -to yourself, '_It is sin against God! It is sin against my own soul!_' -Night and day you must do this." - -"Dear, darling sister," said I, weeping upon her neck, "Is this the way -you have to do?" I stood back and gazed at her with admiration. Never -had she seemed more beautiful. Her whole countenance was brilliant with -excitement; and she looked like one whose mind was made up to conquer or -to die. But as I stood, she put her arm lovingly around me. "Dearest -sister, I have done wrong to pain you thus; and for my own sake I must -avoid such scenes. I must struggle and conquer alone. No, not alone," -she added in a subdued voice, "my Saviour will aid me." - -I took my leave, wondering if Mr. Benson had ever known a pang like -hers. I acknowledged to myself a rising prejudice against the man for -loving another. - - -_Saturday, August 1st._ - -Emily is not quite well, and has postponed her journey until the first -of the week. How entirely mother is deceived by her calmness. She spoke -to me of it with tears in her eyes, and said she was so thankful that -the dear girl was quiet in her feelings. How little we know of the -misery that is passing before our eyes! But Emily is a noble hearted -woman; and she will not allow her grief, which she always remembers is -the effect of her own insincerity, to trouble her friends. I have no -doubt, I should sink under such a blow. My heart aches when I think my -tender-hearted, sensitive Pauline may be destined to such a trial. But -if she has not the Lenox blood in her, she certainly has a great deal of -character, and never will make a tame woman. I wonder what her little -sister will be? - - -_Wednesday, August 5th._ - -If I can steady my hand sufficiently to hold a pen I will tell you some -news. I went this afternoon to the village on an errand for Emily, who -is still suffering from an attack of her old complaint, the nervous -head-ache. In company with Pauline, I was walking home slowly, as it is -very warm, when a gentleman passed me on horse-back. I did not recognize -him; but when I addressed some remark to Pauline, he turned, sprang from -his horse, and was by my side in a moment. - -"Mr. Benson!" I exclaimed in a glad voice, for at the time I only felt -my old respect for him. His manner was very cordial; and I could not but -acknowledge that he was greatly improved by his travels. But as he grew -more free, I became more embarrassed, and as he walked by my side -leading his horse, I began to wonder what I should do with him. He took -great notice of Pauline, in whom he was formerly much interested. He had -not yet inquired for sister, and I determined to give him no chance. "I -am surprised," I said, "to see you on horse-back." - -"I was always fond of the exercise, and I have almost lived on the -backs of horses, or rather mules and camels for the last five years." - -"But _now_," said I, hesitating, meaning without his wife. - -His countenance brightened with a smile, as he said, "You will find me -very little changed in my tastes. I am just the same man." - -I blushed with indignation, and wanted to say, "no, you are very much -altered, for you are a married man." "Where is your wife?" I asked, -after a pause. - -He started and looked me full in the face. Seeing I still waited for an -answer, he said, "I did not understand you." - -"Where is _Mrs._ Benson?" I repeated. - -For an instant he looked terribly stern. Then recovering himself, and -evidently forcing a laugh, said, "that is a question far easier to ask -than to answer." - -I made no reply, but looked at him in astonishment. - -Seeing me very serious, he said, "I fear you are laboring under a -mistake, and are giving me more than is my due. I have not the happiness -to be a married man." - -I'm sure, I can't tell whether I screamed, or not; I know I felt like -it. "And aren't you about to be married to Miss Karswell, from the -South?" I asked eagerly. - -He bit his lips as he smiled and looked down, but presently said, "I -have not even that honor." - -"And not to"--I checked myself in much confusion. - -"Dear Mrs. Lenox," said he, taking my hand, "I see you are the same kind -friend as ever," and bowing adieu he sprang upon his horse and rode -away, looking back to send his regards to my husband. I had not time or -presence of mind to invite him to call. But as soon as we were in our -own grounds, I flew along the walks, up the steps into the library, -hoping Frank had returned. I must tell somebody. Fortunately he was -there. I ran across the room, and began to caress him so convulsively -that he started up to see what could have happened. - -"Why, Cora, you're all in a heat. What excites you so?" - -"Wait till I can get my breath," said I, "Oh, Frank! I'm so glad! Mr. -Benson isn't married!" - -"But where is Miss Karswell from the South?" said he sternly. - -"You need not look so grave, I _don't care_ where she is; only I know he -is neither married nor engaged to her." - -"How do you know?" he inquired in a doubting tone. - -"Because I asked him, and he told me so." - -Frank now began to be as much astonished, and as eager for news as I -wished. I commenced at the beginning and related all the conversation. -"Now Frank," said I, when I had finished, "Emily mustn't go to C----. -Even if I had not seen Mr. Benson, and found out the mistake under which -we were laboring, she is not really well enough to undertake the journey -alone; and I feel confident that her only object in going was to avoid -meeting him at present." - -"I grant all this, my dear, and love you for your enthusiastic interest -in your sister; but you are going too fast; and jumping at a conclusion -which may be far from true, that because he is not engaged to be married -to one particular lady at the South, it necessarily follows that he must -be in love with and wishing to marry a lady who haughtily refused him -five years ago. I can't say, my dear, I think logic is exactly your -forte." - -"I don't wish any logic applied to my love nor to that of those with -whom I have to do. I want nothing but the outbursting of a full heart -which overleaps all the deductions of logic. I shouldn't think much of -any man's love, much less of a woman's," said I proudly, "who stopped to -reason and calculate." - -Frank smiled, as he saw me working myself up into such an excitement. -"Well," said he, "I think I can name one man who reasoned and -calculated, as you so indignantly express it, and who, being well -convinced that reason justified and approved his love, he then -calculated his chance of success, and finding that a pair of bright eyes -grew brighter at his approach, and that notwithstanding all the owner's -efforts to prevent it, the blushes burned upon her cheeks, he continued, - - - "'You know, you must have known, - I long have lov'd--lov'd you alone, - But cannot know how dearly.' - - 'He told her if his hopes were cross'd, - His every aim in life was lost. - She knew he spoke sincerely.'" - - -"Then encouraged by her downcast looks, he allowed his heart free vent, -and soon found himself the fortunate owner of the most true, and loving -heart that ever man was blessed with." - -I was completely overcome, though I tried to conceal it. "Oh!" said I, -"if the lords of creation were only not so vain. There might be ten -thousand things to make one blush beside"--but I felt my own cheeks -burn, and I concluded to return to the original subject. Frank advised -me certainly to tell Emily what I had intended, but by no means to -encourage in her the idea that Mr. Benson wished to renew his addresses -to her. - -"You don't know, Emily," I said, "as well as I do. She has as proud a -spirit as your own; and I think, she would die rather than to allow any -one to suppose, she were sitting meekly waiting his affection." - - -_Thursday, August 6th._ - -After the conversation yesterday afternoon, I was obliged to own to -myself that I had been too hasty in my conclusions; and I determined to -be very careful of what I said to sister. I _walked_ over to the -cottage, therefore, instead of running, as I felt inclined, and found -mother alone in the parlor completing a dress for Emily. - -"Where is sister?" I asked. - -"She is in her room, packing. I wish you would persuade her to give up -this journey, or at least to postpone it. She really is not well." - -"That is just my errand. Frank is decided against it." - -"Well then, go and talk with the child, and I wish you success." - -I peeped into the room, and saw her on her knees at the trunk, while -Ruth was passing articles to her young mistress from the drawers, -closets, etc. I said, "Ruth, I will take your place," and she went -below. Now I had prepared a kind of speech for the occasion; but at the -time I couldn't think of a word of it. "Emily," said I, sitting down -instead of assisting her, "I have come to ask a great favor of you. Will -you grant it?" - -"Certainly, my love, why should you doubt it?" - -"Well then, Frank, mother and I, are very unhappy to have you leave in -your present state of health, and we ask you to please defer your visit -to C---- until another time." - -Emily looked much troubled, as she rose and stood before me. "You mean -kindly; but believe me, dear sister, it would be far better and easier -for me to be away. My head-ache is better, and is only occasioned by the -heat." - -"Well, darling, will you, to please me, postpone it for one week?" - -She stood a full minute, as if calculating her own strength to endure; -and then said, "I will, from such a motive, and for so short a time." - -"Then," said I, joyfully, "one subject is disposed of. You've granted me -one favor,--I want another." - -"You're fortunate," she replied, smiling, "in finding me in good humor. -However, you're not very troublesome in that way. I think I can venture -to promise." - -"Well," said I, casting down my eyes, (I could not for my life meet -hers,) "I want that beautiful bride's cake." - -"Why, Cora," she replied, as I glanced up and met a very mischievous -look, "I didn't know you were so fond of cake. I'll make you half a -dozen loaves." - -"No, but I want _that_ one." - -"Why?" - -"Because," I answered, my heart leaping into my mouth, "there will be no -bride there to need it." - -Emily started, and then said calmly, "that makes no difference." - -"But," said I, eagerly, "he has no bride. Mr. Benson is _not_ married. -The report was false." - -Poor girl! she fairly shook with emotion, and her face turned deadly -pale. She gazed at me for one instant, and then threw herself down by -the side of the bed. "My God, I thank thee for removing the awful load -of guilt from my heart," was all that I could hear, though she continued -a long time in that attitude. When she arose, I put my arm around her, -as she sat shading her face with her hand. - -"Sister, you will be happier now." - -"Yes, dear," she answered quietly, "you have removed a great load of -guilt from my soul, and I shall, I must feel happier." - -After a pause, I whispered, "you will not object to meet Mr. Benson -now." - -She started to her feet with such a world of meaning in her tone as she -said, "Cora!" - -"I mean," said I, hesitating, "he is to be our neighbor again; and it -would be so much pleasanter, and better every way, to be on terms of -friendship with him." - -She looked so proudly as she stood before me, and said, "that is hardly -possible; certainly not at all probable. He would not wish it." - -"Oh, I am sure he would!" I exclaimed eagerly. "I have seen him, and he -says he is just the same man; that his tastes are not changed." - -Oh! what a beautiful rosy blush spread all over her cheeks and brow; a -bright light danced for one moment in her eye, and leading me to the -door, she said in a low tone, "you have made me very happy. Please go -and tell mother. I must be alone." She put her hand to her heart to -still the new and strange feeling of hope that was springing up there. - - - - -CHAPTER XXVII. - - "The first fresh love - Dies never wholly; it lives on through pain - And disappointment; often when the heart - Is crushed, and all its sympathies pressed out, - This lingers, and awakens, and shines bright." PERCIVAL. - - -_Friday, August 7th._ - -The visit of welcome passed off delightfully. The guests assembled in a -spacious hall which was tastefully decorated for the occasion. The -tables were loaded with fruits and flowers, intermingled with -substantial viands for such as preferred them. It was Emily's desire -that mother should accompany us; and we entered early to witness the -reception of the pastor. Mr. Benson had requested that there should be -as little formality as possible. The services opened by an appropriate -original hymn. By whom do you think it was written? By Mrs. Anna -Reynolds, who was a native of Waverley. Mr. Munroe invoked a blessing, -and then all went forward to shake hands with their beloved pastor, and -express their joy at his return. - -After allowing his own people their first claim to his notice, Frank -walked up with mother and myself. A great crowd had pressed around the -traveller, but when the Doctor's tall form approached, he darted -forward, eager to express his welcome to us; not, however, without a -quick glance behind us, as if missing an absent member of our family. - -"We have come," replied the Doctor, "to welcome _you_, though I think my -wife has already had that pleasure." - -He bowed over my hand, and expressed his delight at the honor we had -done him. Amidst all the claims upon his attention,--and he had a kind -word and smile for every one,--he soon made an opportunity to approach -the place where our little party stood, and suggesting to the Doctor the -awkwardness of a gentleman being without a companion, begged me to take -his arm. "I have not had an opportunity," he said, smiling, "to ask -after the health of your sweet little girl, Pauline, I think is her -name." - -"She is quite well," I replied. - -"That does not, I think, embrace all of your family." - -"Oh, no! there is a darling little Nelly at home; sister is with her -this evening, as she wished mother to have the pleasure of being here." - -He looked at me earnestly for a moment, as if he would fain have asked a -question, but dared not. For want of something better to do, he picked -up a flower which had dropped from a vase, and began to analyze it, but -seeing an arch smile upon my face which I could not repress, he hastily -threw it aside. - -"You must not infer," I said at length, pitying his embarrassment, -"because sister and Pauline are not here, that they do not wish you a -hearty welcome; but Emily has had her trunk packed for a number of days -to go a journey, and she only postponed it as an accommodation to me." - -Just then he was called away; but turned back to go with me to my -husband, saying in a low voice, "have I your permission to make you an -early call?" - -"I should have invited you the other day," I answered, "if you had not -been in such a hurry." - -He had a queer look as he smiled and said, "your questions had somewhat -confused me, I acknowledge. I must ask an explanation at some future -time." - -"Ah," said I, "I rather think you will be the one who will be required -to give an explanation." - -We had been slowly making our way through the crowd to the other end of -the hall, where mother and the Doctor awaited us, for the entertainment -to commence; but Mr. Benson seemed not to notice the signs of impatience -from the young people, and replied in an impressive manner, "I shall -only be too happy to answer any questions you may wish to ask." - -While waiting for the company to be quiet, Frank touched my burning -cheek, and whispered archly, "I hope Emily is not of a jealous -disposition." - -"She is a Lenox," I replied gravely. - -It took some time for the company to form themselves around the table; -when the pastor's voice was heard in prayer for the first time since his -return, thanking the Author of all our blessings, for the kind care -which had watched over us during our long separation, and brought -pastor, people and friends together under such delightful circumstances. -The prayer was short, but very tender and appropriate. Many wept for joy -at their beloved teacher's return; but soon all were engaged in the -business of the hour, and nothing was heard for some time but the -clatter of plates and spoons, and the eager voices asking to be helped. -It was quite enough for me to watch the others. I smiled as I saw Mr. -Benson standing with his eyes fixed abstractedly upon his plate, while -his thoughts were evidently far away. - -I must pass quickly over the speeches, singing, etc., which occurred -when "all had eaten, and were full." We had intended to excuse ourselves -early, and return home, but found no opportunity to do so. Frank made a -short speech of welcome, which if I am a judge was as acceptable to the -traveller as any other. Then all were requested to join in a closing -hymn, when we withdrew to our homes. - -Frank said to Mr. Benson at parting, that as an old friend, he would -always be welcome at our house, and mother reiterated the same. I -fancied Frank was slightly embarrassed. "Good night, Mr. Benson," I -said, shaking hands from the carriage. "Remember your promise to call -soon and renew your acquaintance with--with my little _Pauline_." - -He bowed low to conceal a smile, and we started for home by a most -serene but bright moonlight. - - -_Saturday, August 8th._ - -This morning Emily came over to the house as usual to see and frolic -with the baby. As Ann was carrying on a great business in the nursery, -in the way of cleaning, we took the young ladies to the parlor. Nelly -was so noisy that we could not hear ourselves speak. I laughed until I -cried at sister, as she threw the baby high over her head, and then -tossed her back into her lap. A slight sound made me turn, and there I -beheld the elegant, distinguished traveller, whose praise was in every -mouth, standing in the door-way with the most complacent of smiles. I -sprang up. "_Emily_," said I quickly; but it was too late. Miss was -safely perched on her head again, her tiny feet kicking, and her -delighted shout ringing through the room. - -In exactly this position was my refined sister when her wondering eyes -caught the first glimpse of the intruder. Quick as lightning the -aspiring child was brought down from her high position, and set upon the -carpet, while Emily looked for an instant as if she were meditating a -rapid descent through the floor. But it was too ludicrous. We looked at -one another and burst into a hearty laugh. I have my doubts if any -foreign ambassador was ever more relieved at the termination of a -troublesome embassy, than was our friend Mr. Benson, at this favorable -opportunity for renewing past friendship. - - - "They met-- - Whose hands, not souls, had long been parted, - To smile--and in that smile forget - All in the feeling--We have _met_!" - - -Emily, like a noble girl as she really is, advanced frankly toward our -visitor; and though her hair was dressed in rather an odd style by baby; -and her cheeks were rather too rosy from her violent exercise; yet the -clergyman did not appear to like her the less on that account. He fixed -his deep penetrating eyes for one moment on hers; but I don't know -whether he gleaned anything very satisfactory from them, as hers were -quickly dropped, and her long black lashes were an effectual shield. -Emily had too much good sense to apologize for her dishabille; and I am -sure she needed no apology, for though in a simple white wrapper, -fastened to the throat by a cameo brooch, and a black silk apron; yet I -thought again and again as I looked, that there was a beauty about her -which I had never witnessed before. There was a kind of consciousness or -shyness which was very bewitching. I am quite sure there was one beside -myself of similar opinion, for he improved well the opportunity her -downcast eyes afforded to gaze unreproved. Nelly, however, was by no -means satisfied at the sudden termination of her frolic, and was -constantly climbing to her aunt's knee, to recommence the play. She -appeared perfectly astonished at the unwonted neglect she received; but -finding at length that she could not accomplish her object, crept -quietly away to her toys. - -Pauline now came in, having accomplished her self-imposed task of -reading aloud to Phebe in the kitchen. It may be doubted whether the -faithful woman gained much instruction from information received under -such unfavorable auspices. But Pauline was full of zeal; and though -Phebe walked heavily from pantry to sink, and from sink to closet in the -performance of her duties, yet as she refrained from talking, the dear -child never doubted but she was much interested. With her open book in -her hand, she came running into the room, and at a call from Mr. Benson, -advanced gracefully toward him. - -He took her book, and talked with her of its contents. As I looked at -them, I could hardly identify him as the same man who had formerly been -nearly as much an object of pity, as of respect. He was now a thoroughly -polished gentleman, who had been received at almost every court in -Europe, and who had, for the last two years, been travelling in close -companionship with one of the most cultivated families in New York. I -longed to ask about the Misses Karswell, but knew that the present was -not a suitable time. - -Emily had now recovered herself, and the conversation became general. We -conversed regarding places of interest in England and France, and found -during the two hours he remained, that in whatever else he had failed, -he certainly had acquired the art of conversation. Perhaps he might have -been more than usually inspired on the present occasion, for he rendered -himself a most delightful companion. Sister usually claims for herself a -good share of the talking; but at this time was so obliging as to be a -willing listener. When Mr. Benson arose, I invited him to remain and -dine with us; but he politely declined, saying he must be in his study -as he had not completed his preparation for the Sabbath. But he added -that he should be happy to pay his respects to mother before he took -leave. - -"Emily will accompany you to the cottage," I said, wholly unmindful of -her imploring glance. She put on her hat, and with a shake of her head -at me, she walked with him across the garden, he having secured -permission to repeat his call at an early day. - -When Frank came home we had a hearty laugh over our morning adventures. -"I should have liked to have been present," said he, "and to have seen -Emily caught in that way." - -Soon after, Frank left; it was about three o'clock, I think, I went over -to the cottage to laugh at sister, or, with her, just as she felt -inclined, when on opening the parlor door, there sat the gentleman as -unmoved, as though two sermons were not lying on his study table waiting -to be completed. When he saw me, I solemnly declare the man blushed, and -no wonder, when he had declined so polite an invitation at our house. I -felt inclined to joke him. "I am very glad, sister," I said, "that you -persuaded Mr. Benson to remain and _prepare his sermons here_, where he -will not be liable to the interruptions incident to his first arrival at -home." - -He sprang up and took my hand, saying, "spare me, dear Mrs. Lenox; but I -must indeed be gone," and he hastily bid us adieu. - -Mother was at a loss to account for his sudden flight, until I told -her, he had come in here in order to obtain assistance in preparing for -the duties of the Sabbath. - - -_Friday, August 14th._ - -Last evening we were invited to a select party at Allen Mansfield's. The -Doctor, Emily, and I accepted the invitation. Among the first guests -came Mr. Benson, whose unexpected entrance brought a bright blush to -Emily's cheek. He was quite the lion of the evening, and all seemed -interested and profited by the conversation between him and Frank, who -had taken nearly the same tour of Europe. But he paid sister very little -attention, though I could see that he watched her closely as her lovely -countenance varied with her emotion. "Ah," said I to myself, as the -evening closed without his having addressed a single remark directly to -Emily, "if you are making love, you have considerably changed your -tactics during your absence." - -Emily was just taking her brother's arm to walk home, as it was but a -short distance, when the young clergyman joined us, saying, "I am sure, -Doctor, you are far too generous to monopolize more than your share," -and he offered his arm to sister. I suppose it is not an uncommon habit -for gentlemen of the cloth to be - - - "Like Isaac with a mind applied - To serious thoughts at eventide," - - -and Emily was far too good a girl to interrupt such _pious_ meditations. - - -_Thursday, September 3d._ - -Mr. Benson called to-day with young Karswell, who is about twenty-four -years of age. Mother and sister were passing the day here. The young man -came on to make his friend a visit; and told us he had lived with him so -many years, he could not well live without him. I saw that he was very -much pleased with Emily, and engaged her attention almost wholly, while -Mr. Benson directed all his conversation to mother, and hardly appeared -to notice that she was in the room. For the last few times he has -called, especially if any stranger is present, he is extremely reserved. -Even so intimate a friend as the one to-day, rendered him very unlike -_the_ Mr. Benson when first returned. They made quite a long call, and -Mr. Karswell managed to procure an invitation to return, saying that he -must see the Doctor, as his father had often spoken of him. I should -judge him to be a frank, open hearted fellow; but with nothing very -marked in his character. He is rather pretty, than handsome, with -features delicate enough for a girl, and somewhat effeminate in manner. - - -_Friday, September 4th._ - -Young Karswell came again to-day and alone, saying, "it is dreadfully -dull at Waverley, and as Mr. Benson was not inclined for a ride, I -thought I would take one myself and say nothing about it." He asked for -sister, and said he thought her handsomer than any lady he had seen when -abroad, because there was so much variety in her expression. I -accompanied him to the cottage, where in a few moments he appeared to -feel as much at home, as if in his mother's parlor. I never knew one, so -entirely a stranger, talk so freely of himself, and his friends. He made -quite a confident of Emily, telling her that his cousin Virginia, who -accompanied them in their travels, "was dead in love with Mr. Benson." - -"We heard," said I, joining them, "that he was married to your cousin -from the South." - -He laughed heartily, as he said, "it is not Virginia's fault that the -report is not true, for she would gladly have given herself and her -fortune into the bargain. I have often wondered why he did not take her, -instead of settling down in such a tame place as Waverley." - -Emily's eyes sparkled as she replied, "Mr. Benson is a clergyman, and -no place is tame to him where there are souls to be saved." - -Young Karswell gazed at her with admiration, as if he would willingly -make her angry to see her light up so again. But he only said, "Mr. -Benson is not a marrying man. I don't believe he has it in him to fall -in love. During all our travels, though we met with scores of beautiful -ladies, I never saw him pay them anything beyond the attention -politeness required." - -Emily involuntarily let her work fall from her hands, but instantly -recovered herself, and redoubled her diligence. - -"By the way," continued Mr. Karswell, "is Mr. Benson always as cheerful -as he was yesterday?" - -I thought he was speaking in irony, and made no reply. - -"Because," he added, "he is generally the most reserved man I ever met. -I used to think myself very witty if I could succeed in making him -laugh; but when he did, it was just like lightning in a thunder cloud. -Sister Gertrude was always raving about his beautiful mouth." - -I left Emily to entertain the gentleman and returned to my babies. It -was a full hour before I saw him riding out of the yard. - - -_Tuesday, September 8th._ - -Quite a laughable scene took place here this afternoon. Mr. Karswell has -been over every day this week; and Emily has become so tired of hearing -him talk, that for the last day or two she has invited him to the house -with her, for me to help entertain him. I believe the fellow is really -in love, or else he is silly, I can't tell which. To-day she came in, -having warned me beforehand that she should certainly plead other -engagements, and leave him with me. We were hardly seated before Cæsar -opened the hall door for Mr. Benson, who had not called since he first -introduced him. No sooner did Mr. Karswell hear his voice than he jumped -from his seat, and tried to escape from the room; but not being able, -he had only time to secrete himself behind the door before his friend -entered with a remarkably grave face. Now you well know how next to -impossible it is sometimes to keep from laughing when you ought. And -though I bit my lips and tried my utmost, yet the motion had been so -unexpected, that I could hardly refrain from being rude. I advanced to -the gentleman and told him with a broad laugh on my face, that it was a -very long time since he had called. Emily would not look up, but kept -her hat which she held in her hand before her face. I could well -understand Mr. Karswell's allusion to the thunder cloud, for I never saw -a man put on a more terrible frown. I felt matters were going too far; -and was determined to get the young man from his concealment, when -Pauline ran in, and shut the door after her. Then the cause of my -merriment stood revealed. Seeing there was no help for it, he walked out -cooly and shook hands with his friend. I was now very earnest to -explain, and to do the young man justice; he was willing to take his -full share of the joke. Mr. Benson had not yet been seated, and I feared -he would leave under a false impression. - -Mr. Karswell thought of nothing but appeasing Emily, whom he feared he -had offended. He sat down by her in quite too familiar a manner, which I -was glad to see she instantly resented. She rose from her chair, and -though her countenance was very pale, said, "your friend unintentionally -placed us all in a very awkward situation. Please excuse it." - -I looked my thanks at her, and we resumed our seats. Mr. Benson turned -the conversation by asking Emily if she were fond of riding on -horseback. - -"I used to be very fond of it," she replied, "but I have not been -accustomed to the exercise of late." - -He asked her to accompany him this evening; with a heightened color she -assented. Mr. Karswell at length rose to go, and Mr. Benson soon -followed, though I urged him to stay. - - -_Saturday, September 26th._ - -Mr. Karswell was called home the very day after his unsuccessful attempt -to conceal himself. I was not at all sorry; and I don't believe Mr. -Benson mourns very much. - -Emily came in this morning with such a conscious manner, that I knew -_something had happened_. She whispered to me to send Pauline away for a -moment, when she hid her face in my neck and whispered "Cora, I am very -happy." - -I was curious and inquisitive; but she would only tell me a word, and -that with a great deal of blushing. It seems that yesterday Mr. Benson -called when mother was here; and after sitting a few moments perfectly -quiet, while she was engaged with her sewing, he took a seat by her -side, and taking a note from his pocket-book, which she perceived at a -glance was the one she had written him before he went abroad, he said, -"Miss Emily, (it was always Miss Lenox before) will you tell me with -your usual frankness, if you have ever regretted more than the _manner_ -of your decision on a former occasion?" - -With the thought of all the suffering caused by her want of frankness, -she replied nobly, though with downcast eyes, "I have always regretted -the _decision_, as well as the manner of it." She says, she was really -frightened at the effect her words had upon him. For one instant he -pressed her hand convulsively, and then walked back and forth through -the room. She thought, she had been too free and hasty in answering; and -a hundred other conjectures came to her mind; but she will not tell how -they were solved. She says, if I am so curious, I must apply to head -quarters. But this she will say, that she is satisfied, and _very_ -happy. - -"Well then," I said, "will you please to give me the extract about Mr. -Benson, which you cut out of aunt Morgan's paper? I suppose you have -done with it." - -Emily looked very rosy. "You deserve to be whipped, Cora," she said, -laughing to hide her vexation at my discovery. "You must look out how -you behave now, for I have a champion as well as you." - - - - -CHAPTER XXVIII. - - "What is there in the vale of life - Half so delightful as a wife; - When friendship, love and peace combine - To stamp the marriage bond divine?" COWPER. - - -_Wednesday, November 4th._ - -Emily was married this morning, and has gone to Waverley. The cottage is -closed, and mother will spend the winter with us. Emily and I have had -our first quarrel, on the question who shall have mother. I think, -however, though she will make visits to Emily, that she will live here, -because this has for so long a time been her home. - - -_Tuesday, November 10th._ - -Mrs. Benson and her husband have changed characters since I first -introduced them to you. Emily is very frank and free with her husband; -and does not hesitate to show him that she loves him, while he is quite -reserved, though exceedingly tender in his attachment to her. She is -perfectly satisfied that he has given her his whole heart, and a very -warm one. - -Cæsar drove mother, Pauline, Nelly and myself over to the parsonage this -afternoon. I could hardly realize that we were not at the cottage, -everything looked so natural. Perhaps I did not tell you that the -furniture was removed from that place to their new home; and sister has -been very anxious to make it look as much like the old one as possible. - -Waverley people have very generously presented their pastor with a -handsome buggy, (he already owned a horse,) that he might have no excuse -for not bringing his wife when he comes to see them. - -There are nearly two acres of land belonging to the parsonage; and Mr. -Benson has promised sister a fine flower-garden next summer. - -I must not forget to tell you the appropriate gifts they have received -from Mr. Karswell's family. Enclosed in a kind, fatherly note from Mr. -Karswell, Sen., was a bank-bill of one hundred dollars to replenish Mr. -Benson's library, with an addition of fifty from the son for book-cases, -pleasantly remarking, that he had noticed there were none in the study. -A large box accompanied the note, with a handsome service of plate for -the young housekeeper. The latter was from the Misses Karswell. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIX. - - "Domestic happiness, thou only bliss - Of paradise, that hast survived the fall!" COWPER. - - -_Friday, August 9th, 1844._ - -Since the receipt of your last letter, I have had serious thoughts of -taking a trip to England. From what you say of father's health, I fear -he is failing fast, and my heart yearns to see him once more. My dear -husband sympathizes fully with me in this desire, and were my own health -confirmed, he would urge me to go; but since the birth of my little -Frank, my health has been very delicate, and he fears the voyage with -the children would be too much for me. He did once suggest my leaving -Pauline and Nelly, and taking only the baby with Ann. But I was decided -in refusing to leave them. Franky is now six months old, and appears to -be a very healthy child. I think, he will resemble his father more than -even our dear little Walter did. Mother Lenox has now five -grand-children, three of mine and two little ones at the parsonage. The -Doctor brought the news of the arrival of the little stranger only two -days ago. I sent Emily word this morning, that the baby must be named -for me. The eldest is Susy, or Susan, for mother. Mr. Benson is very -proud of his babies, and thoroughly appreciates the noble qualities of -his wife. He was quite pleased this morning with the name, I had -proposed for the little one, but said, he always accorded to Emily the -privilege of naming her babies. - -Mother has been with sister since June, and will probably remain until -cold weather. Frank is not willing to have her away in winter, as she -has of late years been subject to a cough. I wish sister Nelly could now -see Pauline. The dear child is within an inch or two of my own height, -and was eleven years of age last June. Never was a mother blessed with a -more dutiful daughter. She has a most delightful influence over her -sister, and indeed in her quiet way over the whole household. Phebe, -(who has become very "weighty," as she expresses it,) often quotes Miss -Pauline's remarks as testimony which no one would dare to question. A -few days since she went to the village on an errand in company with -Nelly, and on her return I saw her leading a poor, ragged, dirty child, -while the woman whom I supposed to be the mother followed a few steps -behind. - -Leaving her little charge at the kitchen door, she flew up to her room, -and then into the nursery; "mamma," said she in an animated tone, "are -you willing I should give my birth-day money to a poor little girl who -was crying in the street. She has no clothes, and she is very poor. May -I, mamma?" - -I arose and went below to ascertain the cause of the poor woman's -poverty. Pauline followed, whispering, "Mamma, I had much rather give my -five dollars to her, than to buy the work-box, because my old one is -very good." I found the woman was a Canadian, and belonged to a company -of beggars, who go about with a wagon, once every year or two, -collecting clothes and money, while they procure their daily food from -house to house. I directed Phebe to give them a comfortable meal, but -was sorry to be obliged to refuse my dear Pauline the luxury of clothing -the destitute child. I was so much touched by witnessing her tears of -disappointment, that I called her to her room, and selected a calico -dress, apron and shoes from her wardrobe and allowed her to present them -to the child. She hastily thrust her purse of money into my hand, and -ran below, where beckoning the poor beggar into the shed, she soon -transformed her into a neatly dressed girl. I endeavored to improve -this opportunity to explain to my daughter the necessity of -discrimination between the really necessitous, and impostors. It was -very hard for her to believe that any mother could be so depraved as to -permit her child to appear so ragged and dirty if she could possibly -avoid it. - - -_Saturday, August 16th._ - -During school hours this morning, the thought of the Canadian girl so -troubled Pauline, that I was obliged to give her the lesson to review, -as it was so imperfectly recited, which is a very unusual event. She is -generally very prompt in her recitations, and already is a proficient in -music, both vocal and instrumental, for which she has a fine ear. I -prophesy that she will by and by far surpass her teacher. - -This afternoon I was reading in the library, when she came running in -from her walk, in a state of great excitement. "Oh! mamma," said she, -bursting into tears, "I have seen the little girl again, and now I'm -sure she has a bad mother, for her nice clothes were taken off, and she -wore the same dirty, ragged ones as she did before. I don't think," she -continued, "that the little girl is wicked, because she hung down her -head and was ashamed to see me; but her mother came out of a house with -a large bundle under her arm, and pulled her angrily away." As I saw -this had made a great impression upon Pauline's mind, I determined to -say no more at the time, but take her with me more frequently than I had -done of late in my visits to the poor and distressed. - - -_Wednesday, August 21st._ - -The Doctor requested me this morning to prepare a basket of food for one -of his patients; and I determined to take Pauline with me, and deliver -it in person to the family. I knew nothing of their circumstances, only -their name, and a description of the small house which they occupy. - -Cæsar readily found the place. Mrs. Fuller, the wife of the sick man, -was washing out a few clothes in an open shed back of the building, -while two children, of about five and three years of age, played in the -dirt before the door. The eldest stopped her play to gaze at the -carriage as we drove up, and ran to call her mother. We entered the -dilapidated building, where a man lay sick of a fever. He was moaning -sadly when we entered, and seemed hardly conscious; but his wife assured -us he was so, and that he kept moaning and muttering something to -himself all the time. - -From the wife's account I found that Mr. Fuller, at the time she married -him, was a mechanic in good business, and that they lived comfortably -for two or three years, though her husband did not seem happy as at -first. He gradually grew more and more idle, neglected his business, and -would sit moping in the house from morning till night. - -"Was he intemperate?" I inquired. "None to speak of," she replied. "He -never took to drink." After conversing with her for a short time at the -door, I gave her the basket of provisions, and asked her if she were at -present in special need of anything. She was very grateful, and said the -Doctor had provided all that was necessary, and I took my leave, -promising if she would send for it, to supply her with milk for the -children. - - -_Friday, August 30th._ - -The Doctor says Mr. Fuller is much worse, and that he has something upon -his mind which troubles him. He is not at all inclined to answer -questions, but to-day when Frank went silently in, and bent over him, -thinking him to be sleeping, the poor fellow said, "that's all I -remember, there's no hurt in that, and if there is, I'm not answerable, -'twas nothing to me." - -Frank put his fingers upon the pulse, when the sick man turned upon him -with a terrible oath, and said wildly, "What did you hear? I said -nothing. You can't take me up for that." - -Frank soothed him by saying he had heard nothing of consequence, and -feeling much interested for the sufferer, who appeared struggling with -remorse of conscience for some crime, he sat long by him, endeavoring to -point him to the Saviour, who can deliver from all sin. - -Mr. Fuller listened as if for his life, and muttered two or three times, -"If I could only believe it! _If I could but think so!!_" The Doctor -prayed with him before he left. When he called Mrs. Fuller to the door, -and related to her what he had heard, she burst into tears, and told him -that for years past, he had at times said over and over the same words, -to which she could attach no meaning; but she clasped her hands in -agony, "Oh, dear," she said, "I am afraid he has been guilty of some -dreadful crime, and that's what harrows him up so!" - - - "The cause is conscience;--Conscience oft - Her tale of guilt renews! - Her voice is terrible, though soft, - And dread of death ensues." - - - - -CHAPTER XXX. - - "For God unfolds, by slow degrees, - The purport of his deep decrees; - Sheds every hour a clearer light - In aid of our defective sight; - And spreads, at length, before the soul - A beautiful and perfect whole, - Which busy man's inventive brain - Toils to anticipate in vain." COWPER. - - -_Wednesday, September 4th._ - -How true is the old adage, "Murder will out." It has certainly been -verified in our village. But I will not anticipate. It was hardly light -this morning, when the Doctor was summoned from bed to Mr. Fuller, who -was dying, and had been calling for Dr. Lenox all night. At length, he -became very urgent, and said, he could not die in peace till he had -confessed the great sin that troubled his conscience. I waited with no -little impatience for Frank's return; but nine o'clock came and there -had only been a messenger for Cæsar to drive the buggy to the office. - -It was long past the usual dinner hour when Frank returned. When he did -so, I saw that something very unusual had taken place, for he hardly -spoke, but frequently ceased eating, though he had taken no breakfast, -and sat resting his head upon his hand. - -Leaving the dining-room hurriedly, he said, "Cora, will you come to me -in the library as soon as possible." I left Pauline with the little -ones in the nursery, and followed him directly. He silently beckoned me -to a seat near him, when he related as follows the scenes of the -morning. - -"Cora, do you remember the account I gave you years ago, of the setting -up of the will of Joseph Lee, before the Probate Court?" - -"Perfectly," I replied. - -"Well, Fuller, who died this morning, was a witness, who testified that -the business transacted by the lawyer, was merely a deed of gift to a -poor widow. By his dying confession, however, he has unfolded a horrid -plot of villany. Squire Lee at that very time made a _second_ will, -which no doubt was in Lucy's favor. He did indeed convey away the -cottage at the same interview; but that was only a secondary part of the -business." I sprang to my feet, and clapped my hands in an ecstasy. - -"But what possible motive could he have had for perjuring himself?" I -asked eagerly. - -"He was hired to do so by the lawyer. I immediately sent a neighbor who -was watching with my patient to a magistrate, and he took down the poor -man's confession, together with many circumstances relating to the -subject which will throw light on the villany. A writ was at once made -out and served upon Joseph Lee and Oscar Colby, for conspiracy, and -before nine o'clock, they were before the justice, by whom they were -committed to jail to await their trial at the next term of the Criminal -Court." - -When the sheriff went to arrest them, Joseph was sleeping off the -effects of his intoxication; and when dragged from his bed, and made to -understand that he was arrested, he swore and raved so shockingly, that -the sheriff told him, he would put him in irons if he was not quiet. Mr. -Colby was different; he looked ghastly pale, while his eyes rolled from -side to side; but he made no resistance. - -Poor Lucy! Little reason as she has to love her brother, this will be a -terrible blow to her affectionate heart. Although Joseph has been -living at the Hall since last spring, yet he has never taken the least -notice of her or her family, and even seems to have forgotten that he -has a sister. The dear girl thought all her trials were over, she has -been so contented and happy with her little family. She has a beautiful -pair of twin boys. Emily is six years old. Frank says, it was a painful -duty to inform her of the arrest of her brother, which he did this -morning. - -He was very much affected by her first words after he had told her of -Mr. Fuller's confession. "Then my dear father did remember me;" and she -burst into tears. - - -_Thursday, September 5th._ - -Allen Mansfield called here this morning to consult with the Doctor, -after having in vain sought him at the office. Nothing for years has -caused such an excitement in the town; and corroborative testimony is -constantly related by one and another, as to the certainty of a will. -But _where_ is it? That it was destroyed at the time is the current -opinion. The vile character of the prisoners--the virtue of young -Mansfield's family--the probable result of the trial--the length of -imprisonment for such crimes--the motives which influenced Mr. Colby to -such an act, are the universal themes of conversation. - -Groups of men stand in the streets discussing the latest intelligence of -the affair, while Lucy and her husband from being among the most quiet -citizens of the place have been suddenly transformed into the lions of -the day. Their every word and look is eagerly repeated from one to -another. One benefit has already resulted from all this. Public -attention and sympathy have been turned to the family of widow Fuller, -and she has help flowing in from all quarters. In return, she has only -to repeat some two or three dozen times a day the sad confession of her -husband's crime. "I had it from the lips of the widow," is enough to -draw a crowd of listeners eager for something to fan their already -over-excited imaginations. - -Even the Doctor is not without his share of attention, from being the -one to whom the confession was originally made, and from being a -particular friend of the Mansfields. - - -_Monday, September 9th._ - -The excitement in town is constantly on the increase. Poor Lucy is -almost as much a prisoner as her brother. She was riding out with her -children a day or two since, when some one shouted, "there goes Mrs. -Mansfield, sister to the prisoner," and a whole posse of boys ran -shouting after the carriage. Such notoriety is by no means pleasing to -her, and she is determined to avoid it in future. Mr. Willard, the -District Attorney, who will manage the case for Allen, in behalf of the -government, has grown very fast in public esteem for a few years, and is -considered an uncommonly shrewd lawyer and an excellent advocate. Report -says that Joseph has secured the services of an able and far famed -lawyer from the city, and means to spare no expense to procure his -acquittal at the coming trial, which does not take place until the -fore-part of November. Mr. Willard, being on the spot, has every -advantage of circumstantial testimony. He has already obtained a warrant -to search the premises, and in company with a man appointed keeper by -the sheriff, who served a writ attaching the whole for damages in behalf -of Allen, went from room to room, examining every private drawer, desk, -shelf, or crevice where such a document could be secreted. But it was -all in vain; yet a more thorough search will be made to-morrow. - -Joseph is in a shocking condition, caused by the involuntary and sudden -cessation of his excess in drinking. His eyes seem ready to start from -their sockets; and he is so violent in his demands for brandy, and so -furious because he cannot obtain it that the jailor has been obliged to -put him in irons. Mr. Colby is in a dreadful state of nervous -excitement, and walks from morning till night back and forth in the -small cell where he is confined. Upon one or two occasions, when Mr. -Willard, in company with a sheriff, visited him, he would not deign a -reply to any question they put to him. - - -_Tuesday, September 10th._ - -Nothing whatever was found reflecting light upon this dark plot, on the -most rigid examination of the whole premises. While Allen was there, a -messenger came from the jailer to the sheriff for some clothes for Mr. -Colby, who complained of the dampness of his cell. - -The sheriff proceeded to the room which had been occupied by him, where -various articles of apparel were thrown upon the chairs and around the -room just as he left them the night previous to his arrest. Having fully -examined a dressing gown and cloak, and ascertained that nothing was -concealed in them, he gave them to the messenger. - - -_Friday, September 20th._ - -Nothing of importance has transpired to throw light upon the -all-engrossing topic. A slight suspicion was awakened in the mind of Mr. -Willard by the increasing demand for clothes by Mr. Colby, and Hon. Mr. -Marshall, the Attorney General, specially retained, gave orders that no -more be sent him. Upon a re-examination, of every article of apparel in -his room and wardrobe at the Hall, he has found nothing to justify such -a suspicion. - -But he is ever on the alert, and determined, if possible, to ferret out -all the iniquitous proceedings. The daily papers are full of the most -exaggerated accounts of these transactions, report of which has spread -the excitement through the country. - -Persons may be seen at all hours of the day walking past Lee Hall, -wondering what room the prisoners occupied before their arrest, where -the keeper remains, and making inquiries on these and a thousand other -points of those of the neighbors and inhabitants whom they happen to -meet. - - -_Tuesday, November 5th._ - -Half past seven o'clock, A. M. The all-important day has at length -arrived. Even at this early hour carriage after carriage from the -adjoining towns rolls by toward the court House. Men and women are seen -hurrying in the same direction, all eager to gain admission to the court -room. For many years, no case has excited such deep and universal -interest. The vast estate involved--the great respect for the family of -Mr. Mansfield--the daring plot of Joseph and Colby--the horrible cruelty -of the former toward his sister, driving her from the home of her -childhood, have raised the excitement to the highest pitch. My hand -trembles, and my heart goes "pit-a-pat" as I think of being present at -the trial. The Doctor has kindly procured a permit for me to be there as -a companion of Lucy, whose heart, poor girl, is ready to faint within -her. I shall endeavor to take notes that I may give you and father an -account of an American trial. - - -_Thursday, November 7th._ - -On Tuesday morning, at half past eight, the Doctor came for me to go to -the court. My hands were numb from excitement, and for a moment I felt -inclined to remain at home; but summoning all my resolution, I stepped -into the carriage, when Cæsar drove to Mr. Mansfield's, took in Lucy, -who looked more as if she were to be tried as a criminal, than as if she -were about to inherit an estate worth a million of dollars. - -When the Doctor assisted us from the carriage, and I witnessed the -immense crowd standing around the ponderous doors of the court-room, my -limbs trembled beneath me, and I clung convulsively to my husband's arm. - -"All filled up two hours ago!"--"No room!"--"You can't get in!" were -shouted by men and boys on every side. Even the constables standing with -a pole at the foot of the stairs told us, we could not proceed. But the -Doctor paid no sort of heed to all this. With the air and bearing of a -Lenox, he walked majestically on, merely bowing to the officer and -pronouncing the word "witness;" when he stood one side to allow us to -pass and to get through the crowd as best we could. I can hardly tell -you how we were able to make our way up the stone steps to the room -above. Sometimes the Doctor was recognized. At others, Lucy's pale face -caused the eager crowd to stand yet a little closer and to allow us to -press along. - -At the inner door, near the head of the stairs, stood a sheriff, who on -recognizing the Doctor opened the door, and we stood within the room. -Another deputy sheriff came forward and gave us a seat with the -witnesses. Here my husband pointed out to me the seats of the judge, and -the jury, the boxes for the criminals and the other parts of this temple -of justice. - -I will describe them to you. The Court-room is large; I should judge, -about fifty feet by sixty. On one end of the Hall is a raised platform -called the bench, and occupied by the Judges, with private entrances on -each side for the convenience of the court. In front of the bench and on -an elevation about half as high, is a space enclosed with a railing -within which are tables for the Clerk, District Attorney and Attorney -General. Before this railing is a table for the reporters, at which are -seated a goodly number with pen in hand, eager to catch every word of -this terrible trial, and to send the report thereof by the dailies and -by bulletins all over the country. - -Running along on each side of the room are three banks of seats, -resembling long slips or pews, and occupied by the witnesses and jury. A -walk or aisle runs along at the foot of these seats. The large open area -in front of the reporters and of this aisle, is circled with a railing -within which are seats and small desks for members of the bar. Just -beyond the railing and opposite to the Judge are boxes for the criminals -with sharp iron pickets on the top. All the rest of the unoccupied space -was crowded on this occasion with a dense mass of spectators, some of -whom had been standing ever since the opening of the Court-room.--Over -the end of the Hall was a gallery densely crowded. One by one, the -Jurors, Clerk, Lawyers, District Attorney, Attorney General and Judge -entered and took their seats. As the large clock in the room struck -nine, officers appeared leading in the prisoners. - -I was obliged to put my arm around my distressed friend. She looked -ready to faint; but holding strong volatile salts to her nose, she -endeavored to control her feelings. Frank and myself regretted extremely -that the Attorney General thought it necessary to summon her as a -witness. - -The court opened. The Clerk read the Docket, from which it appeared that -the Grand Jury had found three bills against the prisoners at the bar; -for conspiracy in obtaining property under false pretences--for wilful -perjury--and for fraud. - -On motion of the Attorney General, it was ordered that they should be -tried upon the first of these, as it related to the primary, and -principal crime. The Clerk called upon the prisoners to arise and attend -to the indictment on which they were arraigned. - - - "COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS. - - _"County of ----. At the Court of Common Pleas, begun and holden in - Crawford, within the County of ----, on the first Monday, being the - fourth day of November, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight - hundred and forty-four._ - - "The Grand Jurors for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, upon their - oath present that Joseph Lee, and Oscar Colby, gentlemen, of the - town of Crawford, in the county of ----, not having the fear of God - before their eyes, and being moved by an evil heart, and seduced by - the instigations of the devil, on or about the first day of - November, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and - thirty-seven, in the town, county and commonwealth aforesaid, did - wilfully and maliciously conspire together to secrete or destroy - the last will and testament of one Joseph Lee deceased, of said - town, county and commonwealth aforesaid. And did thereby - feloniously and wilfully arrest the course of justice in the - settlement of the estate of the deceased Joseph Lee, by setting - up, and subsequently executing as his last will and testament, a - will prior to his last, and thereby defrauding his legal heir or - heirs, and so the Jurors upon their oath aforesaid do say that the - said Joseph Lee, and Oscar Colby then and there, in the manner - aforesaid, did commit the crime of conspiracy as aforesaid, against - the peace of the Commonwealth aforesaid, and the laws in such cases - made and provided. - - _A true bill._ - - James Frothingham, Foreman. - - John Marshall, Attorney General." - - -To this indictment the prisoners plead "_not guilty_." The Clerk then -proceeded to impanel the jury. - -Moses Willard, District Attorney, appeared and took his seat. The -counsellors for the defendants were Edgar Burke, and Sylvanus Curtiss. - -_Clerk of the Court._ "Gentlemen of the Jury, hearken to the indictment -found against Joseph Lee, and Oscar Colby." - -Here the Clerk read the indictment to the Jury, when he continued: "To -this indictment, the defendants have plead not guilty, and have put -themselves on the country, which country you are, and you are now sworn -to try the issue." - -_District Attorney._ "You perceive, Gentlemen of the Jury, by the -indictment that has been read to you that Joseph Lee and Oscar Colby are -charged by the Grand Jury of the body of this county with conspiracy to -defraud, a crime punishable with the severest penalties of the law, and -alleged by the indictment to have been committed by them feloniously, -wilfully and maliciously. I need not portray to you the sad consequences -which have already resulted from this villany. - -"We intend to prove that the prisoners at the bar did at the time and -place specified in the indictment, conspire together to destroy the last -will and testament of one Joseph Lee deceased, and to set up as his last -will and testament, a will prior to his last, and did thereby deprive -his dutiful daughter of her patrimony,--a daughter who had for years -administered to her sick father's necessities, smoothing by her -affectionate care his passage to the grave; and that they drove her from -the home of her childhood and youth on the very eve of her deceased -father's burial, rendering her houseless, and shelterless, but for the -protecting arm of her newly wedded companion. - -"We intend to prove the sad consequences of this crime to the prisoners -themselves." - -_Mr. Curtiss._ "Your Honor, I must object to this appeal to personal -sympathy, and personal prejudice." - -_District Attorney._ "Your Honor, I beg not to be interrupted. I was -only stating what the prosecution intend to prove. I was specifying the -consequences of crime to the prisoners at the bar; but I forbear. The -bloated face, and blood-shot eyes of the one, and the ghastly pallor of -the other, speak far more than any words I could utter. - -"Gentlemen of the Jury, I have no need to caution you against -participating in the popular indignation at this crime, or not to fear -the consequences of a faithful discharge of your whole duty. Your oath -requires you to decide the question of the guilt or innocence of the -prisoners according to law and evidence. - -"The indictment charges them with Conspiracy. But, gentlemen, I will not -detain you farther, except to cite authorities respecting the nature of -this crime, the laws and penalties pertaining thereunto, and also to -remark on the confidence to be placed in the confession of a dying man, -which will soon be submitted to you." - -He then proceeded to read from Roscoe on Criminal evidence, Chitty's -Criminal Law, Archbold, etc., etc. After which, he concluded by saying, -"This charge we expect to prove by the confession of Hugh Fuller on his -death bed, where we naturally expect the utmost sincerity, and where -there could be no motive for self-accusation, and a confession of that -which must forever tarnish the fair fame of the confessor,--no motive -falsely to criminate his fellow men. His testimony is entitled to the -highest consideration, supported as it will be by an array of -circumstantial evidence, amounting almost to a moral demonstration." - -He then called George Wilson, Justice of the peace, who after being -sworn read the Affidavit, as he took it from the lips of the dying man. - - - AFFIDAVIT. - - "COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS. - - "County of ----ss. Hugh Fuller of Crawford, in said county, yeoman, - personally before me, and lying upon his death-bed, on oath - declared that he affixed his name as witness to the last will and - testament of the late Joseph Lee of said town and county, then - lying on his death-bed, on the twenty-third of October, one - thousand eight hundred and thirty-seven. And also at the same time - and place affixed his signature to a deed by the said Joseph Lee, - conveying property from him to widow Churchill. - - "And the deponent farther declares, that the other witnesses of - these documents were Oscar Colby, and Edward Stone. - - "The deponent also solemnly declares that the papers were then - delivered by said Joseph Lee to said Oscar Colby with instructions - that the first document should be retained by him, Oscar Colby, - until after the testator's decease, and that the second should be - immediately conveyed by said Colby to the aforesaid Widow - Churchill. - - "The deponent still farther declares that the said Oscar Colby - enjoined upon him and Edward Stone, now deceased, profound secrecy - in respect to the first of these transactions; and that immediately - upon the death of the late Joseph Lee, the said Colby came to him - renewing the injunction with a proffer of money, as reward for so - doing; and that both he and Joseph Lee, son of the deceased Joseph - Lee, subsequently came to him to instruct him how to appear, and - what to say, if cited before the Probate Court; and at the same - time paid him certain sums of money in consideration of his - maintaining such secrecy. - - "And the deponent also declares that his abetting of this crime - has ever since lain heavily upon his conscience, and has at times - harrowed his soul with the most dreadful remorse; and that he - cannot die in peace until he has made a frank, and full confession - of this sin, and implored forgiveness of God, and his fellow men; - more particularly of those whom he has thus injured. - - "All this, the deponent declares to be true in the presence of that - God before whom he expects in a few moments to appear; and the same - was subscribed and sworn to on this fourth day of September, in the - year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty-four. - - HUGH FULLER. - - "Before me, George Wilson, Justice of the peace. - _In the presence of_ - Frank Lenox, } - Martha Fuller, } Witnesses. - Phebe Andrews, } - Benjamin Hardy, } - - _Crawford, September 4th, 1844._" - - -In corroboration of this testimony, the following witnesses were called -and sworn: - -Frank Lenox, Allen Mansfield, Lucy Lee Mansfield, Susan Burns, Jacob -Strong, who bore testimony similar to that given by them before the -Probate Court, and showing the oft declared intention of the late Joseph -Lee to revoke his first will, and to make a second. - -They also testified that up to the time of the alleged crime, the -prisoners were comparative strangers, and that from that period, they -had been leagued together in the closest alliance; first in the house of -the late Joseph Lee immediately after his funeral, then in the execution -of the will, and subsequently in a voyage to Europe, from which they -lately returned together after an absence of some years; and finally -that they were together up to the time of their arrest. - -To reveal the nature of their intercourse when together, Jacob Strong, -steward of the late Joseph Lee, testified, that on the evening after -the funeral of his master, his son Joseph, and Lawyer Colby were -together in the back parlor of his master's residence, where they called -for wines, brandy and cigars, and where they spent most of the night in -drunkenness. - -And he farther testified that at sundry times during the succeeding -month, he had been often awaked at late hours of the night, by their -midnight carousals; and alarmed by their abuse of each other. And that -he had often interposed to separate and quiet them. - -Here the prosecution closed the presentation of the case in behalf of -the government, reserving the right to introduce rebutting testimony. - -It being past twelve o'clock, the court adjourned till two P. M. - - -_Two o'clock, P. M. Tuesday afternoon._ The Court met pursuant to -adjournment. - -The defence opened. Mr. Curtiss arose. "Hay it please your Honor, and -you, Gentlemen of the Jury, I arise under no small embarrassment to -plead the cause of my clients in this important trial,--an embarrassment -which arises from the overwhelming tide of public indignation, which in -its mighty current, and irresistible force threatens to carry away every -barrier of public justice, and public safety. - -"Upon the alleged confession of Hugh Fuller this tide deluged the -surrounding country, as when the dam of a great river is carried away, -and the pent up waters are let loose, bearing down all before them. - -"We, Witnesses, Counsellors, and Jurors are in no small danger of being -carried away as float-wood whither the mighty torrent shall bear us. - -"I cannot resist the conviction that the District Attorney, by his quick -sympathies, has so far participated in this popular feeling, that he has -not in this case sustained his deservedly high reputation for equity, -and impartiality. My great esteem for him as an advocate led me to -expect that he would devote to this exciting trial, his characteristic -calmness, and discrimination, that he would carefully weigh the -evidence, and avoid all appeals to passion or prejudice. Judge then of -my surprise that in the very beginning of his speech, he should appeal -to your sympathy in behalf of the daughter of the late Joseph Lee. - -"Gentlemen of the Jury, you are here for the exercise, not of sympathy, -but of justice. And my astonishment was increased by his attempt to -awaken your prejudices against my clients, by reference to any -peculiarities in their personal appearance. What honest citizen; nay, -what one of you could be suddenly dragged from your bed at night, and -committed to prison on such a charge; be brought from your cell -handcuffed and strongly guarded, and here locked up in the felon's box -in the presence of so large and respectable an assembly of your fellow -citizens without some emotion blanching your countenance, or flushing it -with indignation. - -"But my astonishment reached its highest pitch, when having waited hour -after hour in painful expectation of that circumstantial testimony, -which was to amount to "a moral demonstration" of my clients' guilt, and -waiving in apprehension of it my right to cross examine his witnesses, I -heard him acknowledge to the court that the evidence for the prosecution -was in, and the case was submitted to the defence. - -"His citations from legal authors, and his exposition of the laws -pertaining to the crime for which my clients are arraigned meet my most -cordial approbation, and supersede the necessity of any additional -comments on the part of the defence. Of the three crimes charged in -these indictments, the two latter are subordinate to, and dependent on -the first. If there was no conspiracy, there surely could have been no -wilful perjury, no suborning of witnesses in pursuance of that -conspiracy. - -"Setting aside the confession, what proof has been adduced to support -the charge of conspiracy? None that would justify any honest citizen in -cherishing a suspicion of his neighbor; none that would not blast the -fairest character as with the breath of calumny. Your verdict, if you -find my clients guilty, must depend almost entirely upon the credibility -of a deceased witness, upon the affidavit of Hugh Fuller. - -"The authorities already submitted to you by my legal friend, teach you -that the testimony of a dying man should be received, if at all, with -great caution. At best it is _only hearsay evidence_, and this is almost -the only form of that species of testimony which is admissible at the -bar. Before you attach to it any importance, you are bound to know that -the witness at the date of the affidavit was in a sound mind, free from -intellectual aberrations, and from bias of judgment. - -"Has the prosecution relieved your minds from all doubt on these points? -Nay, gentlemen. It has submitted no substantial proof of even the sanity -of that witness. I am now prepared to prove by testimony clear and -abundant that this affidavit contains nothing more than the -hallucination of an insane man. This being established, I shall submit -the case, after the argument of my associate, for your decision." - -During the speech of Mr. Curtiss, the vast audience hung in breathless -silence upon his lips; and when he resumed his seat, it was very evident -that the tide of public feeling had begun to turn. - -The prisoners, inspired with hope, rose from their seats, and stood -leaning over the pickets of their boxes. Such was the eagerness to catch -every word that the sheriff was obliged several times to rap with his -pole and call "_order!_ ORDER!!" - -The witnesses for the defence were next called, and sworn, and examined. -First, Frank Lenox. - -_Mr. Curtiss._ "What is your profession?" - -"I am a physician." - -"How long have you been in practice?" - -"About thirteen years." - -"Was Hugh Fuller your patient?" - -"He was." - -"What was his disease?" - -"Typhoid fever." - -"Have you been familiar with that fever in your practice?" - -"I have had many cases every year." - -"How have you commonly found the reason affected by this disease?" - -"The mind is frequently subject to aberration, but more frequently in -the typhus, than in the typhoid fever." - -"Had you any reason to think the mind of Mr. Fuller was thus affected by -his disease?" - -"At times his language was strange, and his thoughts incoherent. But he -was more free from aberration than patients generally in that fever." - -"How near the date of his alleged confession, do you remember to have -witnessed any such wanderings?" - -"I think his mind was rather wandering on the previous morning." - -_Mr. Burke._ "Had you given him medicine from which unnatural excitement -could result?" - -"I had not." - -Cross examination by Mr. Willard. - -"Did you consider him of sound mind and memory on the night of his -confession?" - -"I did." - -"How did he appear after the confession?" - -"Very much relieved.--calm and peaceful." - -"Are you confident that his mental aberrations resulted from his -disease?" - -"I considered them in a great measure the result of a troubled -conscience." - -Mr. Curtiss sprang to his feet, and said, "May it please your Honor, I -must object to that question. It calls forth a reply not legitimate to -the profession of the witness. Cases of conscience belong to the -Clergy." - -_Judge._ "The witness will proceed, confining himself to facts -pertaining to the case." - -Mr. Marshall, the Attorney General, asked, "was there any particular -subject on which his mind seemed to be dwelling in what you supposed -mental aberrations?" - -Mr. Burke arose under considerable excitement. "Your Honor, I must -protest against the introduction of testimony going to show the subject -of a crazy man's thoughts." - -Mr. Marshall stood waiting to reply. "Your Honor will consider the -special importance of this testimony as showing the state of the -confessor's mind, and the subject which principally occupied his -thoughts." - -After a prolonged discussion of the admissibility of this testimony by -the learned counsellors, the Judge decided the question in order, and -directed the witness to proceed. - -"He often repeated the words, 'that's all I remember; they can't take me -up for that. And if they do, I'm not answerable; they that hired me will -have to bear the blame,' and so much more of the same general import -that I was led to suspect,"-- - -"Your Honor," exclaimed both the lawyers for the defence. The Junior -waived, however, in favor of the Senior. "I hope your Honor will remind -the witness that he is here not to relate _suspicions_, but facts." - -_Judge._ "The witness may proceed and restrict himself to facts, or to -such professional opinions, as are material to the case. He is to give -his honest views frankly and fully." - -"I was saying that I _suspected_, he was laboring under remorse of -conscience, and I urged him, if such were the fact, to seek relief by -confession." - -_Mr. Willard._ "What was the date of this conversation?" - -"At several different times. The one to which I particularly referred, -took place two days before his death." - -Dr. Clapp, partner of Dr. Lenox, was called, whose testimony -corroborated that of the preceding witness. - -Mrs. Martha Fuller was next called. - -_Mr. Curtiss._ "What was your relation to Hugh Fuller?" - -"His wife." - -"Did you discover anything during your husband's sickness which led you -to think him insane?" - -"I did." - -"At what part of it more particularly?" - -"The latter part." - -"What did he say that led you to infer that he was crazy?" - -"Sometimes he did not know me, called me by another name, talked wildly, -and was frequently wandering in his sleep." - -"How near the time of this alleged confession did you notice any signs -of insanity?" - -"On the night and day preceding his death." - -Cross examination by Mr. Willard. - -"Did you hear your husband's confession?" - -"I did." - -"Did you consider him crazy at that time?" - -Hesitating. "I did not." - -"What reasons had you for not considering him so?" - -"He called us all by name, and talked rationally about other things, and -gave me directions about the children." - -"Had he frequently talked with you in this way during his sickness?" - -"He had not." - -"But during his sickness, had there not been days, or longer seasons, -when he appeared rational?" - -"There were." - -"You have said he was often wild and wandering. Do you mean he was so -most of the time, or only now and then?" - -"Only now and then." - -"Had he ever appeared so before this sickness?" - -Witness bursts into tears. - -_Mr. Curtiss._ "Your Honor, I claim the protection of the Court in -behalf of this witness." - -_Mr. Marshall._ "Your Honor, we have no disposition to impose upon the -witness, who certainly has our tenderest sympathy in these trying -circumstances. But the question of my worthy colleague was designed to -elicit from the witness, the fact whether or not her lamented husband -previous to his last sickness, had ever exhibited signs of insanity?" - -_Mr. Burke._ "Your Honor, I object to the question as irrelevant." - -_Judge._ "The question is pertinent and the witness will answer -according to her best recollections." - -_Witness._ "I cannot say that he did." - -_Mr. Willard._ "Did he ever appear depressed in spirits?" - -"He did." - -"Can you recollect what he used to say at such times?" - -She weeps. - -"Take your time, my good woman." The sheriff at a motion from Mr. -Willard brings her a chair. "Try to recollect what he said at such -times." - -"He used to fear we should come to poverty and disgrace." - -"Did he ever explain the ground of those fears?" - -"He did not, when awake." - -"What do you mean to imply by that?" - -"He sometimes talked about it in his sleep; but I couldn't always make -out what he said." - -"Did the drift of his conversation at such times correspond with that -when he was wild and wandering during his sickness?" - -"I think it did." - -The Court was then adjourned until nine o'clock the next morning. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXI. - - "As lawyers o'er a doubt - Which, puzzling long, at last, they puzzle out." COWPER. - - -_Wednesday, November 6th._ - -_Nine o'clock._ The Court met pursuant to adjournment. The excitement -has much increased. The court-room is crowded to its utmost capacity, -and the most intense interest manifested as to the decision. - -Mr. Andrews was called and sworn. - -_Mr. Curtiss._ "Did you frequently see Hugh Fuller during his sickness?" - -"I watched with him twice." - -"Have you often watched with persons in this fever?" - -"I have." - -"How were their minds affected?" - -"They were generally deranged." - -"Did you witness any appearance of insanity in Mr. Fuller?" - -"I did." - -"How was it manifested?" - -"He once imagined I was his mother, and that I was instructing him. -Another time he thought he was building a house, and called out to his -workmen about the work." - -Before the cross examination, I noticed Mr. Willard speaking in a low -voice to Mr. Marshall, when he took his hat and retired from the -court-room. - -_Mr. Marshall._ "Do you mean to convey the idea that Mr. Fuller was not -rational during any part of the nights that you watched with him?" - -"By no means, sir. I mean that he was a little out of his head." - -"Did he recognize you?" - -"He did, and often called me by name, and told me what medicine he was -to take." - -"When he thought you were his mother, what did he say?" - -"He said he remembered my instructing him to tell the truth, and how -much happier he should have been if he had regarded my instructions." - -Mrs. Andrews was called. - -_Mr. Curtiss._ "Did you see Mr. Fuller during his sickness?" - -"I watched with him the night before he died." - -"How did he appear at that time?" - -"The first part of the night, he took me to be his wife, and talked with -me about the children." - -"Relate all you remember of his wanderings." - -"He was very much excited and wanted to get out of bed and go to see Dr. -Lenox--Said he must go, and we had great difficulty in pacifying him." - -Cross examination. - -_Mr. Marshall._ "Do you remember what he said to you about the -children?" - -"He charged me never to let the girls marry a man who had perjured -himself." - -This reply produced great sensation, and the sheriff again thundered -"_order!_ ORDER!!" - -"Did he appear more calm toward morning?" - -"Oh, no! He grew more and more excited until we promised to send for the -Doctor." - -"Did that wholly pacify him?" - -"He seemed so relieved and rational that I staid alone with him while -Mr. Hardy went for the Doctor, and he hardly spoke during his absence." - -"How did he appear during that time?" - -"He lay with his eyes closed, and once I thought I heard the words. 'Oh, -God!--Oh, Jesus, forgive me!'" - -_Mr. Curtiss_ called Mr. Hardy. "Did you discover any signs of insanity -in Mr. Fuller on the night preceding his death?" - -"I did." - -"What were they?" - -"Substantially those already testified to by Mrs. Andrews. He called -incessantly for the Doctor, saying he could not die till he had seen -him." - -_Mr. Curtiss_, under excitement, interrupted the witness, saying, "you -need not repeat the testimony of other witnesses." - -Cross-examination by _Mr. Marshall_. "Did he tell you why he wished to -see the Doctor?" - -"He said, he had something of great importance to confess to him, and he -could not die with it upon his conscience." - -"How did he appear when you returned with the Doctor?" - -"Perfectly calm and rational." - -"Who were then present?" - -"Dr. Lenox, Mrs. Fuller, Mrs. Andrews, and myself." - -"Relate what occurred." - -"The Doctor went directly to the bed. When Mr. Fuller saw him, he said -audibly, 'thank God!' He then added, that he had committed a great crime -which he wished to confess before he died, and that it related to the -last will of the late Joseph Lee. Dr. Lenox immediately requested me to -go for the nearest magistrate. When I returned with Justice Wilson, the -Doctor was praying with the sick man. Fuller's wife holding her husband -and weeping, stood the other side of the bed with Mrs. Andrews. Prayer -being closed, the Doctor informed Justice Wilson of the wish of Hugh -Fuller to make a confession which it was important to take in a legal -form. The Justice then took the sick man's confession in our presence in -the form of an affidavit." - -Mr. Balch was next called, and as he took the stand Mr. Willard, with a -hasty and agitated step, returned to the court room and resumed his -seat. Every eye was turned toward him, as he appeared to be under great -excitement which he in vain endeavored to conceal. He hastily whispered -to Mr. Marshall, who started in surprise, and seemed fully to -participate in his feelings. - -_Mr. Curtiss to Mr. Balch._ "Were you acquainted with Mr. Fuller?" - -"Intimately; I lived next door to him, and we frequently worked -together. I saw him almost daily before his death." - -"Did you see him often during his sickness?" - -"I was at his house every day to inquire after him, and I watched with -him several nights." - -"Did you discover signs of insanity in him?" - -"I did." - -"Relate to the court what you recollect of them." - -"He frequently talked with me about business that he had no connection -with, and about all sorts of things that he never talked about in -health." - -"When did you see him last?" - -"On the day before his death." - -"How did he then appear?" - -"He was as wild as a hawk, and kept trying to get off the bed, and -pulling the clothes." - -"What did he talk about?" - -"He spoke of houses, and farms, and cattle, and workmen, and all sorts -of things, and run from one to another without any connection." - -Here Mr. Curtis rose with an air of triumph and exultation and said, -"Your Honor, unless the counsel for the prosecution wish to -cross-examine this witness, we shall here close the direct testimony for -the defence." - -Mr. Willard, who had been sitting during the examination of the last -witness, with his face concealed by a book, now rose and said, "Your -Honor, and you, Gentlemen of the Jury, we shall waive the privilege of -cross-examining the last witness for the defence, that we may hasten to -introduce a few items of rebutting testimony at this stage of the -trial." - -This was said in so low a voice as scarcely to be heard, while he -actually trembled with the effort to suppress his emotions. "For this -purpose," he continued, "I recall Mrs. Martha Fuller." - -_Mr. Curtiss objects._ "She has been already on the stand." - -_Mr. Willard._ "Your Honor, I recall her to elicit new testimony, not -known at that time." - -Mrs. Fuller having presented herself, he asked leave of the court to -inquire, if any one here present were acquainted with the hand writing -of Oscar Colby, of Edward Stone, of Hugh Fuller, or of the late Joseph -Lee. - -Many voices responded to the call; a number of persons came forward, and -having taken the oath, Mr. Willard advanced toward them, and slowly -drawing out his large pocket-book, proceeded to take from thence two -yellow and time-worn documents. He partially unfolded them, when each of -the signatures were identified, with the exception of that of Edward -Stone. - -While this was going on the prisoners started suddenly from their seats, -lawyers and reporters dropped their pens in their eagerness to witness -what was to follow; even the counsellors for the defence seemed to hang -in breathless suspense upon the issue of the moment. - -Then unfolding the larger document, he said, "May it please your Honor, -and you, Gentlemen of the Jury: The names of Oscar Colby, Edward Stone, -and Hugh Fuller, here appear as witnesses to the last will and testament -of the late Joseph Lee, bearing his characteristic signature, and seal, -drawn up in the hand-writing of the said Oscar Colby, and bearing even -date with the deed before referred to, to wit:--Crawford, October -twenty-third, one thousand eight hundred and thirty-seven." - -Here Joseph Lee in a frenzy of rage attempted to spring over his own -box into that of his companion, and screamed out, as he met the iron -railing, "Perjured wretch, you swore to me it was destroyed." - -The sheriff rapped and thundered "_order in court_." Still he raved and -swore like a maniac, and the sheriff could not control him. - -Though he was heavily ironed, it required the full strength of several -constables to keep him quiet. - -Order being restored, Mr. Willard said, "I will here introduce two items -of written testimony to rebut the charge of insanity against the author -of the affidavit, the principal witness for the prosecution, and to -confirm other testimony for the government already before the court. It -was not known that these items existed, when we concluded the -presentation of the case in behalf of the Commonwealth. I put in as -written testimony, first, the last will and testament of Joseph Lee, -deceased, which is as follows: - - - "'In the name of God, Amen. I, Joseph Lee Senior, of Crawford, in - the County of ----, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, gentleman, being - on my sick bed, and in the near prospect of death, but of sound and - disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will - and testament, hereby revoking a former will made by me, and signed - and sealed on the fifth day of August, one thousand eight hundred - and thirty-five. - - _First._ I hereby constitute and appoint my beloved son-in-law, - Allen Mansfield, to be sole executor of this my last will, - directing him to pay all my just debts and funeral charges out of - my personal estate, as soon after my decease, as shall by him be - found convenient. - - _Second._ I give and bequeath to my beloved daughter, Lucy Lee - Mansfield, all the real estate of which I may die possessed. - - _Third._ I give and bequeath to my faithful steward, Jacob Strong, - and to my faithful house-keeper, Susan Burns, each the sum of one - thousand dollars. - - _Fourth._ I also give and bequeath to each of my faithful - servants, Samuel Dane, Sarah Brown, and Maria Keys, the sum of five - hundred dollars. - - _Fifth._ I give and bequeath the sum of ten thousand dollars as a - fund to the Pastor, Rev. Asa Munroe, and Deacon Simon Crocker, and - Deacon Josiah Hanscomb, of the first Congregational church in this - place, to be held in trust by them and their successors in office - forever, subject to the advice of said church. The annual income - thereof is to be by them expended for the relief of the poor, and - for objects of charity; a preference being always given among the - poor to those impoverished by intemperance; and among objects of - charity to those more immediately under their observation. - - _Sixth._ I give and bequeath all the residue of my personal - property to my son-in-law, Allen Mansfield, Frank Lenox and John - Marshall, and their successors whom they shall appoint, to be by - them held in trust, and at their discretion used for the support, - and personal comfort of my son, Joseph Lee, and to his heirs after - him; or in the event of his death without legitimate offspring, the - same shall after his decease revert to my daughter Lucy Lee - Mansfield, her heirs and assigns forever. - - In testimony whereof, I, the said Joseph Lee, have to this my last - will and testament, set my hand and seal, this twenty-third day of - October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and - thirty-seven. - - JOSEPH LEE. [L. S.] - - Signed, sealed, published, and declared by the said Joseph Lee, as - and for his last will and testament, in the presence of us, who at - his request, and in his presence, and in the presence of each - other, have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto. - - Oscar Colby, - - Edward Stone, - - Hugh Fuller.'" - - -After he had carefully folded the tattered document and replaced it in -his pocket-book, Mr. Willard read the other item of documentary -testimony, which proved to be this note of hand. - - - "For value received, I promise to pay Oscar Colby or order, five - thousand dollars annually, on the first day of January, in each - year, during the term of his natural life. - - Signed, Joseph Lee." - - Crawford, November 23, 1837. - - -On the back of this note were seven annual endorsements of five thousand -dollars each; amounting to thirty-five thousand dollars. - -Turning to the Judge, he then said, "May it please your Honor, and you, -Gentlemen of the Jury, I am instructed by my colleague, the Attorney -General, to submit the case in behalf of the Government without argument -or comment. This we do from a conviction that after such disclosures, -and this array of testimony, a closing argument would be not only a -superfluity, but almost an insult to your understanding." - -When he had resumed his seat, Mr. Burke for the defence arose, and said, -"May it please your Honor, and you Gentlemen of the Jury, no persons can -be taken by greater surprise at these remarkable disclosures, than the -counsellors for the defence. And cordially concurring in the remarks of -the learned counsel for the prosecution, we have concluded to follow his -worthy example, and submit the case without argument, merely invoking -for our clients as large a share of commiseration, as may consist with -your sense of justice, and with the laws pertaining to their cause." - -The Judge arose from the Bench, and in slow, and grave accents, -commended the counsellors, both for the prosecution and the defence for -the brief and direct manner in which they had mutually yielded the case -to the court. "The same considerations," he added, "which have in their -judgment superseded all demand for a closing argument, lead me, -Gentlemen of the Jury, to feel that there can be no occasion for my -giving you a prolonged charge. The nature of the crime for which the -prisoners are arraigned and the penalties which it incurs, have been so -properly and ably expounded to you by the counsellors as to supersede -the necessity of additional comment thereon by the Bench. The trial has -been protracted, and your minds must have been perplexed with doubts -respecting the importance to be attached to the confession of Hugh -Fuller until the introduction of the documentary testimony just -submitted, which pours a flood of light upon the case, which of itself -would seem sufficient to establish their guilt, and which, taken as a -corroboration of the direct and circumstantial testimony previously -before the court, amounts to an array of evidence seldom presented. If -this evidence has convinced your judgment of the guilt of the prisoners, -you will render your verdict accordingly." - -The Jury retired, and after a few moments returned. The foreman arose -and said, "We have made up our verdict." - -By order of the court Joseph Lee was remanded to the prisoner's box to -hear the verdict. - -_Clerk._ "Do you find the prisoners guilty, or not guilty?" - -Reply. "_Guilty._" - -_Judge._ "The Court will postpone the proclamation of the sentence until -the morning session." - -The Court then adjourned till Thursday morning at nine o'clock, it being -already past two o'clock, P. M. - - -_Thursday Morning, November 7th._ The court met pursuant to adjournment. -At nine o'clock the sheriff and his attendants came into the Court, but -without the prisoners. Great excitement was manifested. He communicated -with the Judge, who exhibited strong emotion, and who, when the sheriff -had opened the Court, announced the death by suicide of Joseph Lee, and -the dangerous illness of Oscar Colby. - - -_Monday, November 11th._ - -So ended this horrible tragedy. I intended to have taken notes, but my -all-absorbing interest in the trial prevented me. Indeed I forgot even -my intention to do so. The night of Tuesday, I could not close my eyes -in sleep; but lived over and over again the exciting scenes of the day, -while the loathsome, purple face of Joseph and the haggard visage of his -companion were ever before me. - -My dear Lucy was seriously indisposed when we called for her, on our way -to the trial, and was glad to remain at home. Allen too bore the marks -of the excitement and suffering of the day before, and said he would not -willingly go through another such day for all the property in Crawford. -But he was destined to a far greater trial during the day on which he -had entered. - -I have copied from the daily papers a full account of the trial, merely -adding to it from my own memory. But now I shall endeavor to explain -some circumstances connected with it which have not yet been made -public. You will remember that in the report of Wednesday morning, Mr. -Willard abruptly left the court-room, after requesting Mr. Marshall to -cross-examine the witnesses. The following statement he made to Allen -Mansfield, the Doctor, myself and some others after the trial. I will -relate it nearly in his own words. - -"It would hardly be supposed," he said, "that I could sleep much at that -stage of this exciting trial. I tossed from side to side during the -night, and as I reviewed the testimony, came almost to the conclusion -that the counsel for the defence would destroy the affidavit in the -minds of the Jury and get the case. I thought, if I could only find the -second will or some clue to it, this would relieve my embarrassment. I -became so much excited by the new train of thought, that I arose from my -bed, dressed, and commenced a vigorous walk across my room. - -"Plan after plan for obtaining it or some trace of it was thought of and -rejected. Morning dawned; and the duties of the day left me no time for -farther speculation. But my midnight thoughts prepared me for what -followed, and when I went into Court, a light dawned upon me. It was -connected with a circumstance with which you are already acquainted; -namely, with the anxiety which Colby had manifested to have his clothes -brought to him in the jail. - -"During the examination of one of the first witnesses, it suddenly -occurred to me to inquire of the jailer whether he had ever mentioned -any garment in particular. I left the court-room for that purpose, and -was soon at the jail. I began cautiously by asking whether the prisoners -had been rendered comfortable during their confinement. To this, the -jailer replied, 'far more comfortable than they deserved. They are -ungrateful rascals. Notwithstanding the pains I have taken with Joseph's -meals, in consequence of the wishes of his brother Mansfield, yet he was -always cursing and swearing in the most shocking manner.'" - -"And how was it with Colby? I asked. - -"I can't say that he did precisely the same. I've nothing to say against -him except that he was always complaining of cold and sending for more -clothes. I have sent twice, and I told him that I wouldn't be bothered -with sending again; so I gave him a shawl to put over him.' - -"Did he ever mention any particular garment which he wished?" - -"'Yes indeed. It's vests he asks for. The first time, the man forgot -about the vest, and brought an overcoat or something of that sort; but -the next time he got one.' - -"Well," said I, trembling with a mere suspicion that I had got a clue -that might lead to the discovery. The jailer seeing me much interested, -went on. - -"'The very next day, he wanted another vest; and I refused downright to -send again.' - -"Did he specify any one in particular?" - -"'Yes; he said he wanted a new checked satin one, hanging in his -wardrobe.' - -"I had heard enough; and bidding the jailer good morning, I stopped at -the court-room only long enough to take a sheriff, and proceeded to Lee -Hall. Without imparting my suspicions to my companion or to the keeper -of the house, I merely told them that I wished once more to examine the -room occupied by Mr. Colby; and notwithstanding the doubt of finding -anything new, expressed by the keeper, I walked straight to the -wardrobe, and took down every vest hanging there. - -"After laying them upon the bed, I proceeded, (not very deliberately, I -confess) to examine the pockets and to see if I could discover any inner -pockets. But no, the keeper standing by said, as I laid one down after -another, 'them are clothes has all undergone a thorough _castigation_, -and there ha'n't nothing been found in 'em.' - -"Hardly knowing why, I took up again the thick black satin vest, and -walked to the window. My heart almost stopped beating, as I saw that a -slit had been cut in the lining, and carefully sewed up again. Quick as -lightning, I cut the thread, put in my fingers, drew out the very -document of which I was in search, and the note of hand within it. I -sprang full two feet from the floor, as I discovered the treasure, and -my companions echoed and reechoed my shout of delight. I hastened to the -court-room with my important rebutting testimony," said he with a smile, -"and you know the result." - -Allen Mansfield was so excited during this relation that he had to sit -down two or three times, and then forgetting himself he started from his -seat. When Mr. Willard had finished his remarkable story, he found that -his circle of hearers had greatly increased since the commencement of -his narrative. Not only Mr. Marshall, the Attorney General, the -Counsellors for the defence, and a score of Reporters but the Judge from -the bench had pressed around him to learn how so important a mystery had -been revealed. He then received the warm congratulations of all his -associates at the bar, for his success, and at the favorable termination -of the suit. - -Mr. Mansfield begged the Doctor and myself to communicate the result of -the trial to Lucy. We did so, but found her suffering so severely from -nervous excitement, that my husband judged it wiser to avoid -particulars, and merely to inform her that the suit had resulted in her -favor. A deep sigh, with the words, "Oh! my poor brother Joseph!" were -all her reply. - -It was now past three o'clock, and I hastened to my babies, and -communicated the sad story to mother. In consequence of losing my sleep -the previous night, I did not rise till quite late on Thursday morning. -When I went below, a man was just leaving the hall; and as Frank shut -the door after him, I heard him say, "Oh! how shocking!" He immediately -prepared to go out. - -"My dear husband," I said, "something dreadful has happened, I perceive -by your looks. Don't be afraid to tell me. I fear Lucy"-- - -"No! _No!!_" said he, interrupting me, "I have heard nothing from her. -Don't be alarmed. I shall soon be back." - -He had been gone nearly an hour, when a messenger came in great haste -for him to go to Mr. Mansfield's--Lucy was in a dreadful swoon. I ran -down to inquire more particularly, and to direct him to go to the office -for the Doctor, when he told me the horrid catastrophe. Joseph Lee had -been found dead in his cell, having hung himself from a large hook -driven into the wall and used to hang up a coat or a hat. - -With mother's advice, I proceeded immediately to Mr. Mansfield's, where -I found every thing in the utmost confusion. Servants were running to -and fro; some crying, some trying to soothe others, while Emily and her -sweet little brothers were the only ones who remained calm. I stopped a -moment to speak to them in the nursery, when the dear girl said, "I'm -trying to keep my brothers quiet, because mamma is very sick." - -I hastened to their mother's chamber, where my husband was leaning over -his patient, applying the most powerful restoratives, while her agitated -husband and Mrs. Burns were putting stimulants to her hands and feet. -Not a pulse throbbed--no sign of life appeared. The Doctor repeatedly -held a small mirror before her face, but was unable to discover the -least breath. But at length, with a deep sigh from her over-burdened -heart, she very gradually recovered her consciousness. - -All stood back from her view except her physician. Poor Allen, with -tears streaming down his cheeks, dared not show himself. The sufferer -was soon able to take a little camphor and water, and without letting -her see me, I returned to the children. Summoning the nurse, I told her -if she would dress her young charge, I would send for them to pass the -day with my little ones; and not waiting for my husband, I returned -home. - -That was on Thursday morning, the time appointed by the Judge, for the -prisoners to receive their sentence. When the jailer went to carry them -their breakfast, he ascertained that one of them was beyond the reach of -any earthly tribunal. He had rushed unbidden, into the presence of his -great Judge. Hastening to the other cell, and almost fearing to enter, -lest he should find him in a similar condition, he ascertained that he -was raving incoherently from a fever, and hastily sent for the Doctor. -His disease proved to be a violent congestion of the brain; and it still -remains very doubtful whether he will recover. - -A coroner's jury was called to sit on the body of Joseph, and rendered a -verdict of death by suicide. The Doctor says he cannot see how he could -have succeeded in his attempt. He had hooked his cloak around his neck, -and then hung it upon the hook on the wall by one of the eyes which -fastened it together. He had been dead some hours, and probably -terminated his life soon after dark, though from the examination it -appeared that he must have been a long time in the agonies of death. His -face was almost black, and his hands tightly clenched. _So died Joseph -Lee!_ The vast wealth of which he had so unrighteously possessed -himself, what now was that to him? It would only fill his soul with -enduring agony and remorse. - - -_Friday, November 22d._ - -Emily Lenox Mansfield, with her twin brothers Charlie and Harry, have -this morning left us to go home. I feel quite lonely without them. Emily -is a most engaging child of six years of age. Her eyes filled with tears -as she parted with Pauline, who has been extremely kind and obliging to -her little visitors. I promised that she should soon spend a day with -them, now that their mother is getting stronger. Mrs. Mansfield was very -ill for several days after hearing of her brother's dreadful end. She -recovered from one fainting fit only to fall into another. I think Frank -became really alarmed at last; but she is now much better, and able to -sit up two or three hours in a day. - -She has never asked a question about the result of the trial, and is -still unacquainted with the shocking detail. The Doctor fearing lest she -should hear of it suddenly, told her yesterday of the death of Oscar -Colby, which occurred night before last. My husband has visited him -twice every day in his cell, hoping to find an opportunity, if his -reason should return, to point him to his crucified Saviour. But alas! -no such season presented itself. The poor man never appeared to be -conscious, not even for a moment, after he was found so ill the day -after the trial. - -One fact will interest you much. _The distillery is closed for ever._ -Mr. Mansfield intends to convert it into a large warehouse. - -Lee Hall is undergoing repairs, and early in the spring, I suppose we -shall lose our loved neighbors, who will go to the old homestead. Jacob -Strong and Sarah Brown will go back with them. Mrs. Burns and Maria -Keyes have always remained in the family. I believe I express the -feelings of the whole community when I say, that I am delighted that -such persons as Mr. and Mrs. Mansfield have come into the possession of -so valuable an estate. I know, they feel themselves to be but stewards, -and that they will hereafter be called to render an account of their -stewardship. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXI. - - "All is not here of our belov'd and blessed,-- - Leave ye the sleeper with his God to rest!" MRS. HEMANS. - - -_Wednesday, October 15th, 1845._ - -My dearly loved mother,--How can I express words of sympathy to you, -when my heart is so full of grief on my own account, from such a loss as -I can never experience but once, _the loss of a father_. - -To lose a parent under any circumstances is a heavy affliction; but to -lose such a father, and to be unable to administer to his comfort, by -his sick bed; to receive and treasure the words of love and wisdom which -fall from his lips,--to hear his last prayer, and receive his last -blessing, is indeed a sorrow heavy to be borne. You, my dear my only -surviving parent, have one source of comfort, which though it may at -present aggravate the loss you have sustained, will yet be an -unspeakable blessing to you; and that is in the precious memories of -your dear husband. These remembrances of the past, how will you live in -them after the first poignancy of your grief has abated; how greatly -will they sustain you. - -I can truly say, that not one unpleasant word, not one unholy expression -comes up to disturb the hallowed remembrance of my dearly loved father. -On the contrary, every hard feeling is softened, every unkind thought -subdued, when I think of his meek, loving spirit, and recollect his -words of love toward all mankind. "Dear, _dear_ father! And shall I -never see thee more? never more gaze into thy mild blue eyes, and see -the looks of parental fondness beaming there--never more feel thy warm -embrace, or hear thy gentle voice say, 'my daughter!'" - - - Ah! in the midnight hour I see _thee_ oft, - And hear thy voice-- - Thy mingled words of love and tenderness. - And thou dost point me to the promis'd land, - Where now thou dwell'st-- - The better land of never ending bliss. - - -My dear mother, if anything earthly could alleviate a sorrow like mine, -it is the hope, though yet faint, that I shall ere long look upon your -dear face and from your own lips hear the answer to the many questions -my heart yearns to ask. Do not disappoint me. Have I not a claim upon -you for a few years? I can anticipate one objection you will feel in -leaving the spot consecrated as the resting place of your beloved -husband. But, dear mother, _he_ is not there. He is with his Saviour, -and the throne of grace is as near us in America as in England. - -My dear Frank is almost as earnest in this request as I am, and will -meet you in New York, if Isabel or Nelly will go with you to Liverpool -and put you in charge of some one coming direct to that place. I long to -show you my treasures. Pauline you will love as if she were your own; -and Nelly's face is wreathed in smiles at the name of grand-mamma -Gordon. Franky is a merry, joyous little fellow, who wins his way to -every heart. He holds out his arms to any one who comes in, and never -was the old adage, "love begets love," more true than in his case; for -many persons who are not in the habit of noticing children, are so well -pleased at the readiness with which the child concludes them to be -friends, that they are never weary of praising him. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXII. - - "In the joy of a well ordered home, be warned that this is not your - rest; - For the substance to come may be forgotten in the present beauty of - the shadow." TUPPER. - - -_Tuesday, August 6th, 1850._ - -We were rejoiced, dear mother, to hear of your safe arrival at home, and -the hearty welcome you received from your children and grand-children. - -With Isabel's four, and Nelly's two little ones, you really have quite a -flock. I wish they could all be together once. I long to have my -children acquainted with their English cousins. - -Pauline is quite inclined to commence a correspondence with Isabel's -Ernest. You were so much pleased with her perfect simplicity and -artlessness of character, I will relate a little incident which occurred -since you left. The Doctor and myself were invited to a small party at -Mr. Mansfield's, and as has often occurred of late, Pauline was included -in the invitation. - -She met there quite a number of young ladies of her own age, as well as -many older persons. In the course of the evening music was called for, -and some of the young ladies were requested to play upon the piano or -harp. Misses upon whom hundreds of dollars had been expended for -instruction in music, and who had been daily practising for many years, -now refused to gratify their parents, or friends, by an effort to play. - -One young lady "couldn't think of it," and with a great affectation of -modesty, "never could play if any one was by." This same young lady in -the course of the evening, not only _did_ play, after being sufficiently -urged to do so, but laughed so loud that her rudeness arrested the -attention of all present. Another young miss had a "very bad cold;" the -cold however subsided after sufficient pleading to sing from a young -gentleman near her. - -But I was intending to speak of my simple-hearted Pauline. She appeared -much astonished at the unwillingness to oblige, which these young girls -manifested; and when one of the company said, "here is a young lady, -who, I think, will give us some music," she very gracefully walked to -the piano-forte, pleasantly saying, "I shall be very happy to oblige -you." She played, by her own selection, some simple pieces which she -accompanied with her sweet voice. - -The lady was moved to tears, while the young people crowded around her, -eagerly asking for more. She willingly complied, and played one piece -after another as they were selected for her, and with such beauty of -expression and even brilliancy in the execution, that I was not only -delighted by her sweet manner, but proud of the success of my first -pupil. - -Mrs. Marshall sat near me, and said with tears in her eyes, "My dear -Mrs. Lenox, you have a great treasure in that lovely girl," (and so -indeed I have.) "I hope," she continued, "that the young ladies will -endeavor to imitate so worthy an example." - - -_Wednesday, August 7th._ - -I have given the children a holiday, on account of the intense heat. I -am richly repaid for all my care in the education of Pauline, by the aid -she is to me in the care of her sister and brother. - -Franky loves her as a teacher, even better than he does me. I fear, he -sometimes imposes upon her good nature and her great love for him, by -his inattention and restlessness during school-hours. But I really -cannot blame them such a day as this, with the thermometer at ninety -degrees in the shade. - -There is a great deal of sickness in the town, and the Doctor has a -number of cases of typhus fever. I think such cases have occurred every -year about this season. He now realizes the benefit of so efficient a -partner as he finds in Doctor Clapp, whose days of leisure have been -long ago forgotten, or only remembered to be sighed for. He has removed -to a pleasant residence down in town, and his good wife finds ample -employment in the training of her numerous little flock, leaving her -culinary department, in which she was so skilful, to the aid which her -husband's abundant means enable him to provide. - - -_Thursday, August 8th._ - -The heat still continues unabated. I should be inclined to call myself -sick, if it were not for my anxiety for the Doctor, who appears to me to -be quite unwell, though he will not allow it to be anything of -importance, but only the effect of riding in the heat. I do believe -physicians make the very worst patients, and dread the taking of -medicine more than any other class of persons. - - -_Saturday, August 10th._ - -We have had a most refreshing shower, which has cooled the heated air. -But it does not appear to have revived my poor husband, who though still -suffering from a most violent head-ache, yet persisted in going to visit -a few of his sickest patients. I am really very anxious, and will set up -my authority when he returns. We have long ago settled the vexed -question of _obedience_; I am to obey him when he is well, and he is to -obey me when he is sick. - - -_Sabbath, August 11th._ - -My authority was unnecessary. Dear Frank came home at noon, pale as a -ghost, and went willingly to bed. I sent for Dr. Clapp without -consulting him, and a powder which he administered has somewhat relieved -the pain, so that he is now asleep, while I sit by him. - - -_Monday, September 2d._ - -Oh! how much of fear, anxiety and engrossing care has been crowded into -the few days which have intervened since I wrote the above. - -I have taken my pen, as I sit by the couch of my husband, to relieve my -swelling heart. The night succeeding the first call of Dr. Clapp, Frank -was perfectly wild with delirium. I was obliged to call Cæsar to help me -keep him in bed. He did not know us, and supposed we were trying to keep -him from getting home. Oh! how my heart ached, as he entreated to be -allowed to go home, saying again and again, "my wife will be so -anxious." - -Sometimes for a minute, he seemed to recognize mother, and then would -talk to her in the strangest manner, thinking her a patient or somebody -else. Notwithstanding all the skill of his physician, the unceasing -watchfulness of friends, or the action of medicine, my dear, _dear_ -husband rapidly grew worse. Indeed Dr. Clapp said, he must have had a -settled fever for a week before he took his bed. Early on Monday -morning, the twelfth ultimo, our kind Doctor sent to the city for Dr. -J----, an eminent physician, to come to Crawford for a consultation. - -He arrived by the next train of cars. I watched their looks, and hung -upon their words, as if they had the power of life and death in their -hands. I knew that Dr. Clapp considered my dear husband a very sick man; -but oh! I did not realize till then, that there was hardly a hope of his -recovery. Dr. J---- looked very grave, and when his brother physician in -a low voice, pointed out some of the symptoms, he shook his head. - -I went silently from the room; I could contain myself no longer. They -soon retired to consult upon the case, after which I begged them to -tell me exactly what they thought of their patient. Dr. Clapp turned -hastily away, while Dr. J---- pressed my hand, saying, "My dear madam, -we are all in the hands of God." - -I almost gasped for breath, as I tried to say, "but you think he will -live, oh! say that he will live." - -The kind Doctor put his handkerchief to his eyes, as he answered, "while -there is life, there is hope, but I ought not to deceive you." - -"Oh!" said I, while weeping bitter tears, "I can't hear you say that I -may not hope." - -Dr. Clapp wrung my hand, and wept aloud, "I shall lose the best friend I -ever had," said he, while I sank back almost fainting into a chair. Dr. -J---- sat down by me, and tried to compose my feelings, saying that I -should be ill myself, and that my dear husband had lived a useful life, -and was prepared to enter upon his glorious inheritance; but every word -cut deeper and deeper into my heart, convincing me that they had given -up all hope. I pressed my hand to my head which seemed to be flying off, -and rushed from the room. I flew to the farther end of the house, to a -room the most remote from that where lay my sick, and as they thought, -my dying husband. I threw myself upon the bed and wept aloud. My heart -was in a dreadful state of rebellion against my Maker. The most awful -thoughts came into my mind; but I drove them hence; "Why should I lose -my husband? I do not wish to live without him. I cannot give him up," -was the language of my unsubmissive heart. But all at once the thought -of my horrible ingratitude to my heavenly Father, who had bestowed upon -me such a companion, and who had allowed us to live together so many -years, struck me dumb. I arose from my bed, threw myself upon my knees, -and plead earnestly for pardon, and for a submissive spirit. I knew, I -felt, I confessed that I had made an idol of my dear Frank, and I cried -fervently for a spirit to say, - - - "The dearest idol I have known, - Whate'er that idol be, - Help me to tear it from thy throne, - And worship only thee." - - -Long and severe was the struggle with my hard and undutiful feelings. -But the answer came at length, and with tears which were no longer -bitter, I arose and was enabled by divine grace to say, "The Lord gave -and the Lord taketh away, blessed be the name of the Lord." I felt a -sweet peace in giving him, whom I best loved to my Saviour, and it -seemed but a very short time before I should go to him and dwell with -him, where there would be no more sorrow, and no more parting, but where -all tears would be wiped from our eyes. - -When I went back to the sick room, however, and saw the pale, haggard -countenance, the sunken eyes, and heard the labored breath, my heart -sunk within me, as I realized that he would soon pass from my sight, -without one parting word, one farewell kiss. As I stood gazing at him, -the inspired passage occurred to me, "In whose hands our breath is, and -whose are all our ways." I then remembered that God had power to restore -the emaciated form before me, to new life and vigor. The thought that it -might be his will to give my husband back to me, even from the borders -of the grave, sent the warm blood throbbing through me. I again poured -out my heart in prayer to God, not for myself, but for the life of my -husband. I renewedly dedicated him to God. I cried out, "Oh! my heavenly -Father, give me his life." - -Dear mother also was besieging the throne of grace in his behalf. But he -lay unconscious of the agonized hearts throbbing near him, anxiously -watching every breath he drew. - -Dr. Clapp was to be with him through Monday night. Mother besought me to -try to sleep. I wondered if she thought I could ever sleep again? But I -only shook my head. The crisis was rapidly approaching. I saw that not a -sigh, or a groan escaped the notice of our kind physician; but I was -calm. I even wondered at myself. A strong, but invisible arm was put -round about me to strengthen me, and I leaned upon it to sustain my -drooping spirit. The night passed slowly away, the morning began to -dawn; not a word had been spoken for the past hour. Dr. Clapp sat with -his fingers upon the wrist of his patient, where he could scarce feel -the fluttering pulse. Ever and anon he would take the candle from the -table, hold it before the face of the pale sufferer, and then silently -shade it again. - -At length he arose, and putting his fingers upon his lips, to enjoin -perfect silence, he withdrew from the room. Nothing could be heard but -the ticking of the watch and our own loud breathing. It seemed a long, -_long_ time that the Doctor was absent, and when he came in, I saw he -had been weeping. In an agony of grief my very soul yearned for one more -look, one more word of love. I hardly dared to uncover my face. When I -did so, the Doctor was wetting his patient's lips with a sponge. Then he -sat down again, with his fingers upon the pulse. - -What had come over the man? I wiped my eyes to see clearer. His whole -face was lit up with an expression, to which it had for many days been a -stranger; but I dared not hope. Again and again the sponge was dipped in -the cup and applied to the parched lips, and still we sat, as though we -had no tongues, or knew not how to use them, when feeling that I could -not breathe, I silently arose and left the room. The kind watcher -followed, and leading me down stairs to the library, shut the door, and -in a husky voice said, "My dear Mrs. Lenox, the crisis has passed, and -your husband still lives." - -I started from my chair. "Compose yourself, my dear lady," he continued. -"There is hope that he may recover," and our sympathizing friend wept -tears of joy. - -But for me the reaction was too great. I felt myself falling to the -floor. When I recovered Pauline was bathing my temples. Dr. Clapp had -left the room and returned to his patient. I speedily recovered and -followed him, and was softly stepping toward the bed where mother sat -holding her beloved son by the hand. But the physician saw me and -motioned me back. I withdrew into the hall, where he soon joined me, and -leading me away from the door, said, "Your husband is now conscious, and -will recognize you. Can you compose yourself? The least excitement may -be fatal to him." - -After a moment, in which I tried to hush the loud beating of my heart, -and to breathe a prayer for strength, I said, "I think I can," and we -again entered the room. I walked silently to the bed, and looked at my -darling Frank. His eyes were closed and his face closely resembled -death; but when he feebly opened his eyes, the light of reason beamed -thence, and he knew me. I kissed his forehead and almost flew from the -room. My heart was filled with the most delightful emotions of gratitude -and joy, "and though my voice was silent, being stopped by the -intenseness of what I felt, yet my soul sung within me and even leaped -for joy." The emotion was so intense as to be nearly allied to pain. I -pressed my hand to my heart to keep it from bursting. I heard a gentle -step, and my sweet Pauline sat by my side, and drawing my head to her -breast, sought to soothe my agitated feelings. She had been weeping. -"Dear mamma," she whispered, "I am so happy, I have been trying to thank -God for making dear father better." - -"My love," said I, "will you thank our heavenly Father for me?" As we -sat, she breathed out her heart to God like one who was used to going to -him, as to a tender father. I pressed her to me and thanked God for so -great a treasure. - - -_Wednesday, September 4th._ - -I was proceeding with my writing, the day before yesterday, supposing -Frank to be asleep, when he put his hand upon mine, and said, "my love, -you have wept quite enough." - -While scarcely conscious of the fact, I had been continually wiping my -eyes, to enable me to see the page. Many tears I see have fallen upon my -paper. - -"They are tears of gratitude," I replied, lifting his hand to my lips. -"My heart is so full it overflows." There were answering tears in his -eyes then; "Cora," said he with the utmost tenderness, "while I lay upon -this bed, and in the near prospect of death, I saw that I had made idols -of the dear ones God has given me; and I resolved, his grace -strengthening me, that I would devote myself more entirely to him. We -cannot love each other too much, my own wife; but let us love God more. -While we love each other, and our dear children, let us not forget him, -who so loved us as to die for us." - - -_Tuesday, September 10th_. - -My dear husband gains but slowly. He has not yet been able to have his -bed made, but he says, he does not suffer except from weakness. After -being absent from the room about an hour to give Nelly her music lesson, -I returned and took Pauline's place by her father's side, requesting her -to go out with the children for a walk. - -He took up the book, she had turned down upon the bed, supposing I -should continue the reading. "I hardly know," said he, "which to admire -the more, the skill of the teacher, or the proficiency of the pupil. -Pauline is a fine reader, and her voice is very musical." - -"Yes," I answered, "I have often thought her voice low and melodious as -the daughters of Italy." - -"She may be one of them," he replied, closing his eyes. "Cora," he -resumed after a short pause, "I have had time to think of a great many -things since I lay here, and I feel that I have not dealt justly by our -daughter, Pauline." - -"Frank," said I, interrupting him, "you do yourself wrong." - -"Hear me through," said he pleasantly. "I do not mean that I do not love -her enough, for there is no difference in my feelings toward her, and -her lively sister; or if any, my love is more deep and sacred to the -child of our adoption; but if I should be taken away, she could not -inherit a share of my property, as a child. If I ever rise from my bed, -I will make a will, so that all my children shall share alike." I -pleaded long and earnestly with him to allow me the privilege of making -over to her my own property, which he had insisted upon settling upon -me. - -But he said "no," very decidedly, and when I was calm enough to hear, he -explained his refusal to my satisfaction. - -"Pauline has no idea that she is not of our blood, and I hope, she may -never know it--unless"--said he, "but that is very unlikely"--and -stopped. - -"I know, you are thinking if we should ever discover her parents; but if -we do, she is nothing to them as she is to us. They have never inquired -for her." - -"Softly," said Frank, with a smile, "I do not think there is any -occasion for you to distress yourself; your imagination, I dare say, has -already pictured her mother standing before you, ready to take her from -your arms." - -I laughed, "Yes," I answered, "pretty nearly that; but go on." - -"If any such event should occur," said he, returning to the subject from -which we had digressed, "a difference between her and them might call up -feelings and explanations which would be unpleasant to all concerned." - -I fully concurred in this view of the case, and then we discussed her -lovely character, and heartily agreed that we had reaped a rich reward -for our care of her, in the influence she exerted over her brother and -sister. - -"Frank obeys her," said I, "quite as readily as he does me, though she -never exercises any authority over him. She has a charm, I believe; I -don't know what I should do without her." - -"I fear," said Frank, "you'll have to give her up some day." - -"What for?" said I eagerly. - -"Why somebody may come along and win her away." - -"She is nothing but a child, only seventeen last June." - -"And how many years older, and how much taller was my Cora, when I took -her from her mother? You will never know how I loved you for taking the -friendless child so closely to your heart. I had looked forward with the -hope that God would bless our union, and give us children; but I had not -thought of finding one so soon. I have often laughed to myself," he -continued, "at the remark dear, good aunt Susy made about my being so -impatient 'for a darter I had to pick one up in the streets, and give to -you.' Good old soul! She hit pretty near the truth, certainly. Seldom -has anything given me greater pleasure than when you taught the little -creature to say 'Papa,' and you blushed so rosy too. I dared not say -much; I feared you might grow weary of the care. I had not then learned -all I have since. But when I saw you give up many pleasures to devote -yourself to the little motherless child, and particularly when I -witnessed year after year your care of her education, I have felt that -you would have your reward." - - -_Monday, September 23rd_. - -Mother and I are now obliged to exert our authority. The Doctor is as -hungry as a bear, and says he will not be kept on slops any longer. He -spoke so much like a child begging for some cake, or bread and butter, -that I had a hearty laugh at him. But though he could not keep from -laughing in sympathy, yet he says, "it is a very serious matter; Dr. -Clapp has been starving me for a month past, and now I intend to have -something to eat." - -Mother promised him a slice of toast for his dinner, and he asked half a -dozen times in the course of an hour if it were not dinner time. At -length I gave him the watch that he might see for himself. When Pauline -brought the toast and tea, he entered upon the discussion of them with -such a grave face, as if it were of such solemn importance, that Pauline -and I had enough to do to keep from laughing aloud, which in the present -state of his nerves would never do. - -Mother says, "it's always a good sign when children are worrysome." - -But the Doctor did not take this speech at all well, and said with a -grieved look, "I was not aware I had given occasion for such a remark." - - -_Wednesday, September 25th._ - -We have had war in the camp. But I must explain. I noticed this morning -that Phebe was cooking something very savory, but thought no more of it. -Mother, Pauline, or I, have always remained with the Doctor while the -others are at dinner. - -To-day I thought I would remain; but Frank would not consent. Pauline -said, "No, mamma, I'll attend to father," at the same time I saw that -she was very much flushed and looked really distressed. Frank insisted -she should remain, and I went below, wondering not a little at the -meaning of all this. After I had carved for the others, I thought so -much of Pauline's looks, that I excused myself a moment, and ran softly -back to the room. - -Judge then of my amazement when I beheld Phebe standing before her -master holding a bowl, while the Doctor was putting spoonful after -spoonful into his mouth, as fast as he could. Pauline stood by looking -as if she were not sure whether to laugh or to cry. - -I sprang forward to take the bowl; but quicker than thought, Phebe had -caught it under her apron, hoping I had not seen it, while the Doctor -looked like a whipped dog. The whole affair was so ludicrous, that it -was with the utmost difficulty, I could keep my countenance. But -endeavoring to look very stern, I said, "Dr. Frank Lenox, you will -please to tell me what you have been eating?" He had already eaten a -hearty dinner for a sick man, not half an hour before. - -There was no reply. - -"Well then," said I, "there is no help for it. I must give you a dose of -castor oil." I proceeded toward the closet, as if I were intending to -administer it to him at once, while I was thankful for an opportunity to -relax my stern countenance. - -"Cora," cried the Doctor, "don't give me any." His voice was feeble, -and I could carry the joke no farther. - -"Well; then, what can I do?" I asked, returning to him. "Phebe, do you -know that what you were giving your master may cause his death?" - -Pauline began to cry, "Oh, mamma, I was afraid I was not doing right, -but father so longed for some chicken broth." - -"Laws missus!" said Phebe, uncovering the bowl, "'tan't got no strength -to it. 'Pears like he's powerful hungry. I 'clare your ole Phebe be de -last one make the broth too strong for sick mass'r." - -I tasted the broth and finding it really weak, I hoped my hungry patient -had sustained no real injury. The Doctor put out his hand to Pauline, -and in a most child-like tone said, "I was the only one to blame, dear -child." - -She kissed him, and I motioned her to go below. Frank looked as if he -thought he deserved a punishment, and expected to receive it; but some -how I never could punish a child who appeared sorry, and just so I felt -in this case; and therefore I merely said, "I will help you to lie down, -and will read to you. My dear husband," I said, when I rose to go below -for my dinner, "if the broth does not injure you, I will ask Dr. Clapp -to let you have a dinner of it to-morrow." - -He looked his thanks and pressed my hand. I am more than ever convinced -that man was made to command, and woman to obey, and that the rule in -that good old fashioned book is right, "wives _reverence_ your -husbands--husbands _love_ your wives." - - -_Tuesday, October 1st._ - -Frank is so much better, that he not only eats broth, but chicken and -eggs. I believe, he would eat six meals a day, if we would carry them to -him. But I think he is growing a little more rational. Pauline came to -me the other day, very much grieved at herself for carrying the broth to -her father. He had begged her to ask Phebe up, when mother and I were -away, enjoining the strictest secrecy upon her, and the poor child knew -not what to do. I comforted her with the thought that no harm had come -of it, and she would know better next time. - -Frank sits up almost all day, and we are beginning to feel a little -settled. School lessons are vigorously learned, Pauline having been duly -installed in my place as teacher. I have as much as I can do to take -care of my patient, who is, however, rather _impatient_ sometimes, if I -am long out of the room. - -If I leave him with mother, I have to set the exact time that I will -return, and give him the watch to mark the minutes. Though often -inconvenient, yet it is delightful to have him longing for me to be with -him. I would not for worlds have it otherwise. - - -_Monday, October 7th._ - -I have some wonderful news for you, dear mother. It is our present -intention to leave America just as soon as the Doctor is able, spend the -winter and spring in the south of France, and return home by way of -England. - -We should not be able to do this, if it were not for our kind friend and -physician, Dr. Clapp. I love him as a dear brother, and there is a most -delightful intercourse between our families. I have not time to tell you -how this plan came about so quickly; only to say that it is nothing new -to the Doctor; but he has been keeping it to himself. Mother will spend, -at least, part of the winter with Emily, and Ann will go with her. Cæsar -and Phebe will remain here. Ruth is to accompany us with all the -children. - - -_Thursday, October 7th._ - -We hope to leave in the "_Unicorn_" which sails the twenty-fifth of this -month. The Doctor has rode out once, and it did him great good. Pauline -is much pleased with the prospect of visiting Europe, while Nelly and -Frank are perfectly wild with delight. We may meet Joseph Morgan, who -has been in business in France for two years or more. - - -_Friday, October 11th._ - -I have but a moment to tell you that preparations are going on briskly. -Emily Benson has come over from the parsonage and is very efficient -assistance. She thinks of everything. Mr. Benson lost nothing by waiting -five years for her. She has developed into a splendid woman, and is -universally beloved in the parish. "Her husband also and he praiseth -her." - -Though every moment is precious, yet I cannot refrain from repenting a -remark of our good friend, Mrs. Marshall, wife of the Attorney General, -in relation to our dear sister. She said, "Mr. Benson's family reminds -me of Cowper's description of his friends, the Unwins, 'Go when I will, -I find a house full of peace and cordiality in all its parts and am sure -to hear no scandal, but such discourse instead of it, as we are all the -better for.'" - -You would laugh if you could see the quantity of baggage master Franky -has collected for the journey, and which he has no doubt aunt Emily will -be able to get into his trunks. This moving a whole family for an -absence of nine months, which is probably the length of time we shall be -away from home, is no trifling matter. - -Mother insists that I shall not trouble myself with a thought about home -arrangements. She will attend to everything here. My dear husband gains -a little every day, and I think would gain faster if it were not for his -anxiety to do more than he is able. He has been so long accustomed to -take care of all of us, that he can hardly restrain himself until he is -overcome with fatigue. - - -_Wednesday, October 23rd._ - -Dear mother, our trunks are packed, and we are on the eve of departure. -To-morrow morning we leave for New York, and are to sail on Thursday. - -A day or two since the Doctor received a champagne-basket full, not of -wine, but of London porter, from his grateful patient, Lucy Mansfield. -This we are to take with us, and Frank has already received benefit from -it. With love to all the dear ones at home, I must bid you _farewell_. I -intend to take my journal with me to New York and mail it from thence. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIII. - - "With wild surprise - As if to marble struck devoid of sense, - A stupid moment motionless she stood." THOMSON. - - -_Nice, France, Tuesday, December 10th, 1850._ - -Dear Mother,--After a long, but not tedious voyage, the good ship -"Unicorn," bore us gallantly into the port of Havre, where we arrived on -the twenty-eighth of November. - -I could almost see my dear husband gain in flesh and strength, so -rapidly did he improve. He walks about now as erect and strong as ever. -We tarried but two days in Havre, and then proceeded to this place, -where we are comfortably established for the winter. That is, we _shall_ -be, when we can get our trunks unpacked. - -I don't know but I shall regret not having taken mother Lenox's advice -to bring Ann instead of Ruth. The poor girl appears almost demented, as -she cannot understand a word of the language; and whenever I send her to -the kitchen to bring water, or anything from thence, I hear a perfect -roar of laughter from the servants at her droll talk and signs. She -generally comes back empty handed as she went, rolling her white eyes -from side to side, while she sometimes laughs, and sometimes cries at -her "poor luck," as she calls it. To-day she came to me in great -indignation, saying, "I 'clare, missus, 'pears like I'se couldn't bring -down my idees to make dem doe heads 'stand anything I'se seb. I'se tink -dey find dis chile has been brought up in de way to teach dem manners." - -The weather is perfectly delightful. I only wish all the dear ones I -love were here to enjoy it with us. It is quite fortunate for me that I -have no household cares, for I have a double portion of journalizing. I -promised to write mother Lenox, in the same full, free manner, as I have -always written to you. And as the same journal will be passed from -mother to Emily, and from Emily to Lucy, and from Lucy to somebody else, -I must be especially careful of my style, while in writing to you I -merely let my pen travel on at its utmost speed, and with our own poet, - - - "I feel a certain tingling come - Down to my fingers, and my thumb." - - -Perhaps you can imagine, but I cannot describe to you, the thrill of -delight which I felt when I first stepped upon _terra firma_ in Havre; -and remembered that though still far from home, and the grave of my dear -father; yet I was in the same hemisphere with yourself and my beloved -sisters. - -No ocean rolled between us. - -I was quite amused at a discussion, I overheard between Nelly and Frank, -just before I commenced writing. Nelly was earnestly talking of the -pleasure she anticipated in going to England, and wishing the time were -already come. In both expectation and regret, she was cordially joined -by her brother. She then proceeded to give Frank a particular account of -aunt Nelly which could hardly be from memory; and ended by saying, "I am -the most related to her of any of the family." - -This, Frank stoutly denied, saying, "She is as much my aunt as yours." -After quite a warm discussion of this interesting point, the disputants -agreed to leave it to Ruth, who, after carefully weighing the subject, -said in a very gracious tone to Frank, "I 'spects, she is, Mass'r Frank. -But then 'pears like its you that's the nearest to mass'r, 'cause your -name be like his." I hope Mrs. Colonel Morton will not be unduly elated -at the honor to which Nelly aspires. - - -_Saturday, December 14th._ - -With the Doctor's efficient aid, we are now reduced to order; and can -find a dress or apron without strewing the floor with the contents of -three or four trunks. The same hands have driven up an innumerable -number of nails for clothes, of which Ruth and I have made extempore -closets by sewing rings to a sheet, and hanging them in front, so that -we have only to put aside our curtain, and we are in the inclosure, -while coats, dresses, and other clothes are free from dust. Master -Franky has a trunk devoted to him for his toys, and so far thinks it -much more convenient than his drawers and lockers at home. Another trunk -has been assigned to books, slates and apparatus. School commenced in -earnest to-day. - -The Doctor has sent for a piano, that the children may not lose their -practice. He also intends Pauline to take lessons on the harp. I am not, -as you know, a proficient upon that instrument. - -I have added to my family a little French girl, daughter of one of the -peasants, who was very willing to leave her parents for a time, to come -to us. Ruth is a very good sempstress; and I find enough of that -employment for her, and in following "mass'r Franky" in his walks of -discovery about the town. - -My husband chose this location from the fact of its being so healthy; -and because there is a Protestant church here. Nice is a great resort -for invalids. There are quite a number of families here at present. One -lady, with her husband, child and servant occupy rooms above ours. Frank -intends calling with me on the aged pastor, whom we have not seen except -at church. Our landlord speaks of him with the greatest enthusiasm and -affection; and ascribes the peace and prosperity of the place mainly to -his influence, and untiring efforts for the good of his people. - - -_Friday, December 20th._ - -There is very little variety in our life, and I fear, I shall not be -able to relate much that will interest you. I give six hours a day to -the children, while Pauline recites in mathematics and Italian to her -father. I wish, dear mother, you could see our Pauline again. She -reminds me of an author, who describing a young lady, says, "she is near -that age, sixteen, at which every day brings with it some new beauty to -her form." No one can be more modest, nor, (which seems wonderful in a -woman,) more silent; yet when she speaks you might believe a muse was -speaking. But then her face, - - - "So lovely, yet so arch, so full of mirth, - The overflowings of an innocent heart." - - -She is silent only when strangers are present. In the company of those -she loves, she is all animation, and merriment. Her father says it is a -perfect delight to teach her. The remainder of the school hours Frank -devotes to reading, which is a real luxury to him, reserving his walks -until we can accompany him. - -The Doctor and myself called last evening upon Mr. Percival, whose gray -locks, and venerable aspect had already inspired us with respect. He -received us with the kindness of a father, and related many incidents -connected with his flock which were very pleasing. He has established -two schools, one for infant scholars, and another for those more -advanced. The infant scholars, however, are many of them near a dozen -years of age. He accompanied us part of the way on our return to visit -an English gentleman, who is very sick and has come here to die. -"Perhaps," said the old gentleman, "at some future time, I may -communicate some facts relative to his history. His life has been one of -no common interest." - -We parted from our companion with regret, having obtained from him a -promise to return our call at his earliest convenience. - - -_Monday, December 23d._ - -This morning an incident occurred, which for want of other excitement, -has given us a fruitful subject for conversation. Having observed a -retired spot not far distant from the house where the invalid of whom I -spoke was stopping, we turned our steps toward it, and found it to be a -family burying place containing five graves, upon one of which was a -beautifully white marble monument, inscribed with the simple word -"Imogen." We stood a while to weave each for ourselves a history of this -loved one, whose grave was of the usual size of a fully grown woman. -Perhaps she was an only daughter, or a young wife, whose early departure -had cast a gloom over a large family. - -Pauline and Nelly who started with us had lingered on the way, and came -in sight just as we turned to leave the place. Meeting our good friend, -Mr. Percival, we walked on slowly together, leaving them to visit the -simple grave. It was nearly an hour before they returned. The Doctor and -I were enjoying a delightful conversation with our aged friend, who had -accompanied us home, when Nelly came bounding into the room, saying, in -an excited tone, "oh, mamma!" But seeing we were not alone she checked -herself, and was introduced together with Pauline to our visitor. I -gazed at Pauline with wonder. Her whole countenance was lighted with -animation. Her eyes sparkled, and there was the richest bloom upon her -cheeks. I saw at a glance that something unusual had occurred, and said -inquiringly, "Well, my daughters, have you had a pleasant walk?" - -"Very," they replied, and retired from the room. - -Our visitor had no sooner taken his departure than they came running in, -eager to communicate their adventure. - -"Oh, mamma!" exclaimed Nelly, throwing herself into a chair, "Pauline -has had such a scene." - -"Yes, mamma," said Pauline, "I never expected to create such a sensation -as I did soon after you left. I went to the cemetery with Nelly, and -after walking around had thrown myself down before the monument marked -'Imogen.' I was imagining my own feelings, had the interred been my -mother, and thinking if such were the case, how I should love to visit -her grave, and plant flowers around it, when I looked up to meet the -glance of a young man who was tenderly assisting an old gentleman toward -the very spot where I knelt, while in one hand he carried a portable -seat. A single glance sufficed to assure me that they were mourners for -some beloved friend lying there; and I sprang up hastily and apologized -for my intrusion. The old gentleman had not appeared to observe me until -I spoke; but then he started back as if he had seen a ghost, and would -have fallen to the ground had not his companion hastily thrown down the -stool, and caught him in his arms. I opened it, and stepping behind them -motioned the younger one that it would be better to let him be seated. -He put his hand feebly to his head, saying audibly, 'Oh, my God! support -me under this.' Then turning to his son, he said, 'Did you see her, -Eugene?' - -"'Who, father?' - -"'Why oh! I forgot myself. Let us return; I can't stay here. Perhaps -she'll come back.' - -"'Dear father, your eyes have deceived you. It was only a young lady who -happened to be reading the epitaph upon the tomb stone;' and he turned -to look again at me. - -"I had lost all power of motion, and was so drawn toward father and son, -that I had not thought of moving. - -"'You have been so very anxious,' continued the young man, 'to come here -once more, and the air is so balmy to-day, I fear you will not have so -favorable an opportunity again.' - -"A deep sigh was the only reply; and the son took a pocket-handkerchief, -and tenderly wiped his father's forehead, as he leaned against his -breast. 'Perhaps,' said he, addressing me in French,' you will come -around in front of the grave. My father is much agitated at your sudden -appearance.' - -"I replied, in English, that I was very sorry for what had happened; -and regretted that I had been led by curiosity to intrude upon their -retirement. - -"'No apology is necessary,' he replied. - -"'To whom are you talking, Eugene?' asked the invalid in a very feeble -voice. - -"'To the lady, you saw, father,' and he made a motion with his hand for -me to stand where he could see me. - -"I did so, but no sooner did the old gentleman perceive me, than he -started forward holding out both his hands as if to embrace me; and then -with a dreadful groan fell back into the arms of his son. - -"'Oh! what can I do for you?' I asked in affright. - -"'Fly,' said he, 'to that house,' pointing to the nearest one, 'and call -for help. Stay,' he continued quickly, 'if you could hold him, I could -go quicker.' - -"'Nelly,' I exclaimed, as she came running toward me, after wandering -all over the enclosure, 'Run as quick as you can to that house, and tell -the servants their master has fainted by the grave, and they must come -directly.' I knew Nelly's skill in running would serve a good purpose on -this occasion. I gave Eugene, as his father called him, my salts, and -kneeling down vigorously rubbed the cold hands in mine. - -"'I cannot account for it,' said he, 'why my father is so much agitated -at the sight of you; but as he is so perhaps it will be as well for you -to stand aside when he recovers his consciousness.' - -"In a very short time, Nelly returned in company with a man and woman. -The man brought a chair with pillows in it, and in this they speedily -placed the unconscious invalid, and carried him away. Eugene merely -said, 'I shall see you again,' as he left." - -My dear mother, you who are acquainted with Pauline's history may judge -in some slight degree of our feelings upon hearing of this adventure. I -glanced at Frank, who turned very pale, but said nothing. Pauline got up -with considerable excitement in her tone, and manner, and stood before -a small mirror which hung in the room, saying, "I cannot conceive for -whom the old gentleman could have taken me. I'm sure I don't see as I -look like anybody but father." She has often been told of her close -resemblance to him. - -After she had left the room, Frank and I talked over the singularity of -the event; but concluded that we were not called upon to make any -inquiries with regard to the old gentleman's agitation, as he is an -Englishman, and Pauline was, without doubt, a native of France. He is -doubtless the one to whom Mr. Percival alluded in our first interview. - - -_Tuesday, December 24th._ - -Last night after Pauline's adventure I was so very nervous and excited -that I could not sleep. I imagined the most improbable events, until I -felt a perfect horror from the possibility that Pauline might be related -to these people. I awoke Frank to ask him if he had brought the packet -we received with her. - -He replied that he had, but thought it was altogether probable we should -carry it back as wise as we came. I told him I had not slept, and he -quite laughed at me for making so much of a mere accident. He said that -my imagination was always running away with me. I tried to think so -myself and was soon asleep. - -To-day Mr. Percival came in to invite us to attend service in the chapel -to-morrow, (Christmas,) and having sent the children out for a walk, the -Doctor asked him the name of the English gentleman who was so ill. - -"Clifford," he replied, hesitating a moment. "Henry Clifford. He is, or -was a colonel in the English army." I saw Frank give a sudden start, and -then checked himself and went on with the conversation. - -Mr. Percival hinted that domestic trials had brought on premature old -age; that after having been for many years separated from his wife, he -had come here to die by her grave. "Is it the one marked 'Imogen?'" I -inquired. - -"Yes, and the house you see from the spot is where she was born. The -estate now belongs to her son." - -"Was he an only child?" I asked, almost gasping in my eagerness for a -reply. - -"There was an infant who died about the same time as its mother." - -"What was the cause of their separation?" asked Frank. - -"I never understood sufficiently to relate," he replied in rather a -reserved tone; and feeling entirely relieved from my great burden, I -cared not to hear more. When Pauline returned, I somewhat astonished the -dear child by the vehemence of my embrace. But recollecting myself, I -pressed Miss Ellen also in my arms, that she might not suspect any -particular emotion. - -"What has happened, mamma?" said Pauline, "you look unusually happy." - -"I am so, my dear," I could not avoid saying. - -"And lovely too, mamma," giving me another kiss. - -After he left, Frank went to his desk, and taking out the card upon -which he had written the name of the gentleman to whom he had been -entrusted with the dying confession of Squire Lee, looked earnestly at -it, hoping the name was the same. But no, that was Shirley. He said -while Mr. Percival was here, the thought that this might be the very man -concerning whom he had made so many inquiries, flashed through his mind. -It had been so long since he had despaired of learning anything about -him that he had forgotten the name. - - -_Wednesday, December 25th._ - -We have had a very quiet Christmas, that is, since Franky has done -shouting over the contents of his stocking. Miss Nelly is really growing -into a young lady. She came to me last evening, and having drawn me to a -part of the room where she was sure her father could not hear, she -whispered that she thought she was too old to hang up a stocking, for -she had known a long time who put the presents in it; and that she -would as soon have them given directly to her. - -I laughed so much at the idea of her thinking herself grown up, that her -father insisted upon sharing the joke; and somewhat to the young lady's -annoyance, I informed him that she had become too old to be treated like -a child. He called her to sit on his knee, and told her he must have her -for a baby a long time yet. She was so much better than Franky, who -would not sit still a moment. - -But Miss only pouted until he whistled, and held up his gold pencil case -for her to play with, then saying, "Baby want to hear papa's watch tick, -tick?" when she "laughed tears," and Pauline came running in to see what -caused all the merriment. - -Nelly sprang up from her father's lap, saying, "sister would make a far -better baby than I should." - -Pauline went and put her arms lovingly around her father's neck, and -said as she laid her cheek against his, "I should be contented to be a -baby in this way forever." - -We took our whole family to church, filling up one entire slip. Franky -was particularly polite to Ruth, whom he had requested leave to invite -to sit with us on this occasion. He took the book of hymns from his -sister, and passed it to his sable friend, a kindness which Ruth fully -appreciated. - -A young gentleman about twenty years of age sat near us. I could not -avoid noticing that his eyes seldom turned from our pew. He was a fine, -frank looking fellow, with light, curly hair, and fair complexion. But -his principal beauty was a pair of brilliant eyes; very bright, but soft -and mild in their expression. I saw that Pauline was confused by the -young man's ardent gaze, and I was surprised as we came out of the aisle -to see that she slightly returned his bow. But I had not much time to -wonder, before Nelly whispered, "mamma, that's Pauline's 'Eugene.'" I -saw by a smile on his countenance that the young man had heard her -introduction; and we were relieved from rather an awkward meeting, by -Mr. Percival, who inquired about his father, and then introduced him to -us. - -Young Clifford represented his father as very feeble, and said it would -be a great kindness if the Doctor would call and see him. This Frank -readily promised to do. As we went the same way the young man walked by -Pauline, and did not leave her until we reached our own door. - -Nelly was delighted with him, and her sister frankly said she thought -him uncommonly pleasing. - -The Catholic part of the community went early in the day, to their -church to attend service, and spent the rest of the time in sports. They -are now returning from the visits and places of amusement. Some of them -are rather noisy; but generally they appear weary and fatigued. - - -_Saturday, December 28th._ - -Not a day has passed since our introduction to young Clifford, (or -Eugene as Nelly insists upon calling him) without our meeting him either -in a walk, or by his coming to our place. The Doctor has also called -twice upon Colonel Clifford, who is now constantly confined to his bed. -Frank says he is not more than forty-seven years of age, but sorrow has -placed a heavy mark upon him. He expressed much pleasure that his son -had found friends in our family. I rather think our partial friend, Mr. -Percival, has spoken of us in his presence. He is very much depressed in -spirits; and says there are periods of his life, he would give a great -deal to be able to live over again. He speaks with the utmost tenderness -of his son, and says, "If he were an experimental Christian, I could ask -no more. He is everything else the fondest father could desire." - -After this expression the Doctor conversed with him upon religious -subjects. "Ah," said the sick man, "what should I have done but for the -support of religion!" He hinted that at times his mental distress had -been so great, that if it had not been for his religious principles, he -fears he should have yielded to the suggestions of the adversary, and -have put an end to his life. "But God," he added, "has mercifully -preserved me; and will preserve me until the end." - -Eugene shares not at all in his father's depression; but is very lively -as well as gentle. He says he has been obliged to act the part of a -daughter as well as that of a son, for his father has been an invalid -ever since his remembrance. - -Pauline asked, "How long has your mother been dead?" - -He replied, "Many years. I have only a slight recollection of her; and -it is a subject upon which my father never speaks." - -I saw that this remark excited Pauline's compassion. He also noticed it, -and made the most of it. I felt really a little jealous of him to-day, -she looked up at him with such a simple trust. I must be on the watch. -We know so little of him, and there is such a mystery about the family. - - -_Wednesday, January 1st., 1851._ - -I wish you a happy new year, dear mother. Eugene came early this morning -with his bright face to wish us the same. He said his father had sent -him out for a walk, and he invited Pauline and Nelly to accompany him. I -gave my consent, though with some reluctance. The truth is, he is one of -those lovely young men, who when they are present carry all before them. -Frank took the opportunity to walk over and see his father. - -Colonel Clifford really smiled when told that his son had called and -taken off the young ladies for a walk; but a tear stood in his eye as he -replied, "Eugene has never had an opportunity to be much in the company -of ladies. I am very much pleased that he has chosen such society." He -again expressed gratitude for our kindness to his poor boy, who would -soon be an orphan. The Doctor, at Colonel Clifford's request, prayed -with him. After prayer, Frank told him he was a Doctor, not of divinity, -but of medicine. He thought the Colonel was disappointed, but after a -moment's silence he replied, "a pious physician has a great opportunity -to do good." The Doctor is more and more pleased with him. - -Pauline and Nelly returned in fine spirits from their walk, and repeated -to me most of the conversation which had passed. Pauline said their -companion had requested them to call him Eugene now that they were so -well acquainted; and also that he was entirely reconciled to the plan of -his father's spending the winter here, which he at first thought would -he dismal enough. - -I don't think Eugene realizes that probably his father will not live -through the winter. - - -_Thursday, January 2nd._ - -Eugene has completely won me over. He came in to-day and appeared as -glad to see us, as if we had not met for a week. He sat down by me in -the most artless manner; and taking a skein of silk from Franky, who was -getting it into a sad snarl, said he had a favor to ask of me; and if I -would grant it he should be very happy. - -He looked at me so earnestly, that I told him with a smile, I thought I -might venture to promise, if it were nothing very unreasonable. - -For a moment he cast his eyes down; and then said with perfect -_naiveté_, "I thought of it last night after the conversation here, -about my not remembering my mother; and this morning I told father, and -he approves it very much if you are willing." - -"You forget," said I, "that you have not yet asked the favor." - -"Well," he resumed, repressing a sigh, "You know I have never since my -remembrance had a mother. I need one sadly, to tell me when I do wrong. -Oh!" he added, with great emotion, laying the silk on his knee, "I have -so longed for a mother, or sister who would watch over me, and take an -interest in me, as I have seen mothers and sisters in their sons and -brothers." - -I was very much affected by this natural outburst of feeling, and said, -"I will, my son." Hardly conscious of what I did, I leaned forward, and -kissed his pure, white brow. - -He grasped my hand, and kneeling, covered it with kisses, while he -thanked me in the warmest terms. - -Pauline and Nelly looked on with great interest. "Remember," said the -former, as she held out her hand to him, while her eyes were filled with -tears, "you have now two sisters and a brother." - -He was then in a great hurry to go and report his success to his father, -who he said would be very much pleased. - - -_Tuesday, January 7th._ - -Eugene came over for a few moments last evening to thank me in behalf of -his father, and to ask if the Doctor would call upon him in the morning, -as there had been some change in his symptoms. - -Frank offered to go at once; but the young man did not wish it. He went -this morning, however, and prescribed a change of medicine. - -Colonel Clifford confessed that he had at first been somewhat -disappointed in finding that he was not a clergyman; but now considered -it a very kind providence which had brought a physician almost to the -very door. He added that now the only anxiety he had had in remaining in -Nice was obviated. The Doctor remained and read to him for an hour. When -he left, the Colonel renewed his thanks for our kindness to his dear -boy. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIV. - - "A Mother's love--how sweet the name! - What _is_ a mother's love? - A noble, pure, and tender flame, - Enkindled from above, - To bless a heart of earthly mould - The warmest love that _can_ grow cold; - This is a mother's love." MONTGOMERY. - - - "A malady - Preys on my heart, that medicine cannot reach, - Invincible and cureless." MATURIN. - - -_Wednesday, January 29th._ - -It has fallen into a custom that the Doctor should pass a part of every -morning with the invalid, while Eugene walks with his sisters, as he -fondly calls them. Nelly and Frank have been in with their father to be -introduced to the Colonel; and received from him some valuable -curiosities as presents. The next day he sent Pauline a very valuable -token of regard, with a message that he fully appreciated the value of -such sisters to a young man destitute of any female relative. It is a -little singular that while he converses freely on every other subject, -and has drawn from the Doctor much of his own history, yet he has never -alluded in the most distant manner to the nature of his own peculiar -trials. He is much better in health since the change in his medicine, -but Frank told him freely that it was not probable the benefit would be -permanent. - -The Colonel said he should be sorry to think it otherwise; though he -supposed he ought to desire to live for the sake of his boy. - -I could hardly have thought it possible that we should in so short a -time have become so much interested in persons, of whose existence even -we were till now ignorant. Eugene is a very dutiful son, and has -evidently been trained with the greatest care by his pious father. He -repeats over and over again the names of mother and sisters, as if he -revelled in the very idea of having such relatives. He told me that one -day he called me by the name of mamma in his father's presence, when a -look of agony passed like a shade over his face; but in one moment, with -a faint smile, he said, "I thank God, my son, that you have found a -mother, even in name." - - -_Wednesday, February 12th._ - -When the Doctor visited Colonel Clifford this morning, he found him -busily engaged in writing, which he immediately put aside, saying, "I -have nearly finished the preparation of some papers which I wish at my -death to put into the hands of my son." - -The Doctor was about to leave; but the Colonel insisted on his -remaining, as he wished to introduce a particular subject of -conversation. He began by saying, "I have not inquired so particularly -about the American colleges without an object. If in what I say, you -consider me as taking advantage of your kindness, both to me and my boy, -I must beg the same indulgence to excuse it." He then, assured by -Frank's sincerely expressed wish to be of service to him, went on to -say, "when I die, Eugene will have no friend or near relative, from whom -he has a right to claim sympathy and kindness. I have often prayed that -some friend might be raised up, with whom I could feel safe to confide, -both his spiritual and temporal interests. I have thought," he added, -while a tear trickled down his emaciated cheek, "that perhaps God had -answered my prayers, and sent you here to be that friend." - -Frank took the wasted hand in his as he replied, "I shall feel honored -in being considered as such." - -"But do you fully understand my meaning?" he was eagerly asked. "Eugene -has more than enough property, and it is well funded; but he needs a -_home_, and kind friends to watch over him; just what every young man -needs." - -"Perhaps you are not aware," replied the Doctor, "that we intend -returning to the United States in a few months." - -"I am fully so; but Eugene has no particular attachments to England; -that is, when I am gone, and he would gladly accompany you. Do not give -me an answer to-day. Consult your family, and let me know hereafter; and -may the Lord incline your heart to do according to my desire!" He held -the Doctor's hand convulsively in his, as he said this, and appearing to -be much fatigued by the exciting nature of the interview, Frank took -leave. - -It was an interesting subject for us, during our long walks; and after -being interrupted for a time, was extended far into the night. My -husband fully realized that the care would fall upon me; his -professional duties so fully occupy his time at home. Then the influence -upon our children, we felt it to be our duty to consider. I frankly -confessed to the Doctor that I had never seen a young man whom I could -more readily take to my heart as a son; and that I knew Pauline and -Nelly, as well as Frank, would be delighted with this addition to our -family. - -"What is the drawback, then? I see there is something you do not bring -to the light." - -I could at first give no reply. There was a drawback; but it seemed to -me so selfish that I could not endure to mention it. It was the fear -that Eugene would love my Pauline with a love surpassing that of a -brother, and that she would return his love. At length I replied, "no, -nothing that need to be a drawback; only I thought that perhaps it might -be dangerous to place young people at the age he and Pauline are, in -such intimate connection." - -"Ah," said he, laughing, "I might have guessed Pauline was at the -bottom of all your trouble. For a girl, good and obedient as she is, she -has occasioned you great anxiety. Even if such an event should happen, -which I will acknowledge is very probable, you will have the training of -him, and you can educate him to suit yourself, instead of training her -for a wife for cousin Joseph as he proposed. Eugene appears to be a very -pure minded young man. Like our children, he has been educated at home; -and that is one reason of his father's regret and anxiety. He knows -nothing of the world, and is as ignorant as a child of the wickedness he -will have to meet, and therefore liable to be led away. I have tried to -think what I should wish were I in his place, and have concluded with -your consent, and full approbation to accept the charge." - - -_Friday, February 14th._ - -I had never seen Colonel Clifford until yesterday morning, when I went -with the Doctor to tell him of our willingness to take Eugene into our -family, if the young man's wishes in that respect corresponded with his -father's. - -He answered our light knock for admittance, after a moment; and I could -see that he had been weeping. But he held out his hand as he feebly -seated himself; and with a smile, said, "it argues well for me, Doctor, -that you have brought your lady." - -We took seats near him, and I could see that he waited with trembling -impatience for us to speak upon the subject nearest his heart. The -Doctor said, "we have come in to express our willingness to accede to -your wishes in regard to your son." - -The Colonel exhibited great emotion, and with a beautiful smile of trust -in his heavenly Father which illumined every feature, he said with -closed eyes, "My God, I thank thee!" After a short pause he turned to -me, "my dear madam, let me hear you say you will be a mother to my -motherless boy." - -The last words were uttered with difficulty, as if he had not been used -to uttering the word "Mother." I replied, "with God's help, I will." - -He covered his face with his hand, and wept long; but his tears seemed -to be soothing instead of exciting him. We waited for his agitation to -subside, while the Doctor rose and walked to the window, and my tears -flowed in sympathy with his. - -"You are Christian parents," were his first words, "and with such I need -no excuse for my tears." Then becoming more composed, he said, "the -burden which has weighed heavily upon me for many years is gone. God has -graciously answered me,"--he broke down again; but instantly resumed, -"Doctor, will you express my thanks?" - -He rose feebly, and kneeled by his chair; and though I could hear the -sobs bursting from his overflowing heart, he arose composed, and -refreshed. - -The Doctor endeavored to change the conversation for a few moments; but -he smiled as he said, "I perceive your kind intention, but I can at -present think of nothing else. It will not injure me." - -In the course of the interview he said that for many years he had been -longing to go home; but for the sake of his son, he had taken every -measure to prolong his life. "Eugene's," he added, "is a singular case. -I am not aware that he has a single relative on his mother's side; and -none nearer than two or three removes on mine. He has a lovely -disposition, though perhaps I may be deemed partial in saying so." - -"His adopted mother says the same," I added. - -With an ardent expression of gratitude, he continued, "but his yielding -temper only leaves him more at the mercy of a cold cruel world. Oh! how -many hours of sorrow I have spent in imagining his future, and fearing -he might be left to suffer like his father. Eugene remembers little or -nothing of his early life. I have never been able to converse with him -upon subjects connected with his"--The voice was so low I could not -distinguish the rest of the sentence. "I have prepared," he added, -"some papers which throw light upon some subjects, which it is natural -and right he should know at a proper age. I should be glad to leave them -in your hands when I go, with the request that he should have them when -he attains his majority. I should also be glad, if Eugene were so -inclined, to have him keep this small estate, that the cemetery may not -be molested. The steward, who has lived in it for many years, would be -glad to continue in it, and give him a suitable rent for the house and -furniture. One thing more, and I shall have done for this morning. I -fear that I have already taxed you too long. I wish a small monument in -every respect like the one in yonder grave yard, placed above my -remains, with the single word 'Harry' inscribed upon it. I have already -given directions to have my body placed by her side. Now," said he, -"receive once more the gratitude of a father, who perceives in your -pledge of kindness to his son, a new proof of forgiveness and assurance -of pardon and love from his heavenly Father." - - -_Friday, February 21st._ - -For several days I have spent much of my time with Colonel Clifford, who -after our interview respecting his son, appeared to fail rapidly. On -Monday morning the Doctor and I called, and Eugene took the opportunity -to go out for his exercise. "Dr. Lenox," said the invalid, "there is one -subject, I inadvertently omitted at our late interview, and which I may -as well mention at this time. My name is not Henry Clifford, as you -suppose, but Henry Clifford Shirley." - -Frank sprang to his feet, and was on the point of catching his friend by -the hand, but remembering the feebleness of the Colonel, and the danger -to him of any sudden excitement, he resumed his seat. - -"It is entirely immaterial to me which name Eugene retains," said he, -not appearing to have noticed anything unusual in the Doctor's manner, -"but as all his property stands registered in the name of Shirley, it -was highly desirable that you should be aware of the fact." - -Frank walked back and forth across the room evidently very much -perplexed how to introduce the communication he wished to make. At -length he sat down by the side of the sufferer, and gently said, -"Colonel Clifford, many years ago I received a confession from a dying -man in relation to a gentleman by the name of Henry Shirley, who was a -Colonel in his Majesty's service. I have endeavored in vain to find such -a gentleman, in order to confide the confession to him, according to the -desire of the penitent man." - -Colonel Clifford appeared much agitated, but at length said, "To what -did it relate?" - -"To certain anonymous letters written to him while abroad, in India, I -think he said, with a regiment of the government troops. Shall I go on?" - -With his handkerchief to his eyes the sick man bowed assent. - -"As nearly as I can recollect," added Frank, "the gentleman, who was a -townsman of mine, met your wife while on a foreign tour, and made -proposals to her which she indignantly refused. In order to revenge -himself, he wrote to you intimating her guilt in connection with another -gentleman." - -The distressed man with a dreadful groan fell forward, and would have -fallen to the floor had not the Doctor caught him in his arms. He -motioned to me to ring the bell, and with the help of a servant who -appeared, laid the unconscious man upon the bed. It was some time before -he recovered, and when he did, he looked so death-like, that we feared -the excitement would terminate his life. I remained until he fell -asleep, and then quietly left him with the Doctor. - -When Frank returned, he said that the Colonel did not allude to the -exciting subject of the interview until just before he left, and then -said to him, "I am not equal to continuing the conversation. I have -written all that is necessary to my son"--he could go no farther. Since -that time the subject has never been alluded to. A holy peace has taken -the place of the melancholy expression of his countenance; and he hails -with delight every fresh symptom of dissolution. He said yesterday, "God -has granted me delightful views of heaven, and the honor and glory of -the Saviour, who is the chief among ten thousand, and the one altogether -lovely. Oh," he exclaimed in a rapture, "Eternity will be too short to -praise him who has redeemed my guilty soul." - -This morning he is much revived, and asked the Doctor to pray that he -might be ready and waiting, but not be impatient for the coming of the -bridegroom. Eugene is tender, and affectionate as a daughter, in his -attentions. It often makes the tears start to my eyes, as I witness the -look of unuttered love which beams from the eye of the sufferer upon his -devoted son. Every day he insists that Eugene shall take exercise in the -open air; but this I fear he would be reluctant to do if it were not for -the company of his sisters. When released from the sick room he bounds -like a young doe to our door and calls them for a walk. - -Pauline has often accompanied him to the grave of his mother. To-day he -requested me to do so; when the others were about to follow, with his -usual frankness he said, "no, dear Pauline, I want to walk with mamma -alone." As we passed his house, he ran in and brought out the stool. -When we reached the grave, he said as he placed the seat near by, "Dear -mamma, I have chosen this place to make a disclosure to you, that if I -have done wrong, the thought that my own mother has long been lying -here, and that the simple word 'Imogen,' is all I have of her memory, -may incline your heart to forgive." - -I was very much affected. "Dear Eugene," I said, "I needed not the -influence of this sacred spot in order to do that. I have said that you -were to me as a son." - -"Oh! let me be indeed a son," he exclaimed, throwing himself on the -ground before me. "I love my sister Pauline. I love her with an -intensity of which I have but lately become aware. Tell me that I have -not done wrong; that you and the Doctor approve my love; and I shall be -forever grateful." - -"Does Pauline know of this?" I asked. - -"Oh no!" he answered, "of course, I could say nothing without your -consent,--we are both young. I will wait years,--you shall set the time -for our marriage,--if you will only give me leave to love her, and she -will consent." - -He uttered all this so rapidly, and so earnestly, I had not time to -think. - -"You do not answer," said he, repressing a sigh; "you do not say you -forgive me for having unconsciously loved her. Remember," said he, -rising and standing sorrowfully before me, "remember that I have had no -mother to teach me to control my feelings," and he pointed sadly to the -grave. - -"I do remember," I said, taking his hand. "You are a noble, honorable -youth, to tell me your feelings so frankly. I do not love you less, that -you love my Pauline; but this is a serious subject; there are many -things to be considered, and I must consult the Doctor." - -He pressed his lips upon my hand. "Thank you," said he, "that you do not -deny me at once. Be assured I will not betray my feelings to her until -you give me leave." - -As we passed his house on our return, I asked if he had conversed with -his father upon the subject. - -He blushed as he replied that he had. - -"And what was his wish?" - -"He smiled when I told him, and said he thought us rather young; but -said he had the most implicit confidence in you and the Doctor. But I -determined at once, that the only honorable course for me to pursue, was -to tell you all." - -"Well, my son," I answered, "I shall have great hopes that you will be a -useful man, if you carry out all your determinations as well as in this -case." - -When we drew near the house, I saw Pauline watching us from the window. -Eugene asked in a low voice, "when may I hope for an answer from you?" - -"I will walk with you again to-morrow," I answered. - -He turned away with merely a bow to Pauline, and returned to his father. -I have come to my room to wait for Frank's return. I think -notwithstanding what he said, he will be astonished that his daughter -has been sought in marriage at so early a day. But Eugene is a noble, -ingenuous youth; what can I ask more, except that he may be a humble -Christian? - - -_Saturday, February 22nd._ - -Frank returned yesterday, with a letter long expected, and waited for, -from cousin Joseph Morgan, who says, owing to the protracted absence of -one of the firm, he has not been able to leave Paris; but hopes now to -be with us in a few days, when he intends by a long visit to make up for -this tedious delay. - -When we had read and discussed the letter, I asked Frank to prepare -himself for some important business. Seeing I was in earnest he sat down -at once, and I related what had passed. - -"Really," said he, "Eugene has well improved his time. I wonder how -Pauline feels. I never saw any particular evidence of affection on her -part. Now I always expected that when she felt young Cupid's dart, she -would do pretty much as you did under similar circumstances, blush up to -her eyes every time his name was mentioned, and always be out of the way -just when she was wanted. Come, come, I didn't mean to set you at it -again; but, - - - "Tell me the charms that lovers seek - In the clear eye and blushing cheek, - The hues that play - O'er rosy lips, and brow of snow. - Ah! where are they?" - - -"I have seen nothing of all this in Pauline, but there's no such thing -as calculating all the intricacies of a woman's heart. I've given up -ever since Emily's labyrinthian course in refusing a man whom she dearly -loved." - -"Perhaps she had no idea of such a termination to his introduction to -the family; and probably is not aware of the state of her own feelings." - -I determined, however, to sound her upon the subject before I met Eugene -again. During the evening, I made an excuse for calling her to my room, -that I would read her Joseph's letter, after which I desired some -conversation with her. "Here comes Frank's proof," I said to myself as a -rosy hue mantled to her very brow; but she immediately said, she would -run to her room for her crotcheting, and then return. - -"I don't know," said I, when she had taken her seat, "as you remember -much of your cousin; you have not seen him for a number of years." - -"Oh, yes, mamma! don't you recollect the visit he made us before he came -to France?" - -"I had indeed forgotten it, my love; but he is soon to be here," and I -read her the letter. She said nothing, and I proceeded to talk of -Eugene. She raised her eyes at once, as if much interested. "You have -now had sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with him; are you -still pleased that he is to be one of us?" - -"Certainly, mamma. I love him very much, and should be disappointed if -anything should occur to prevent it. Do you know of anything?" she asked -eagerly. - -"No," I answered, fully assured of Eugene's success if it rested with -her. - -This morning, the dear fellow came in at an unusually early hour, and -requested me to accompany him. He tried not to look at Pauline, for fear -he should be violating his promise to me. I pointed to the time-piece, -showing him it was an hour earlier than common, and he made rather a -blundering excuse. I hastened, however, to my room, and the Doctor -followed me to the stairs, saying in a whisper, "do go quick, and put -the poor soul out of misery. Don't you see how he is suffering? I know -how to feel for him." - -As I came down equipped for the walk, Pauline said in an arch tone, "how -long are you intending to be so exclusive in your walks?" - -Eugene started toward her, and began to say something, but stopped very -much confused, and I hurried him away. I need not tell you what I said, -indeed I don't remember. It is sufficient that he was more than -satisfied with the permission to ask her to return his love, and then -wait until we should be willing for them to marry. He cut short our -walk, and turned back to the house. As we reached the door, I looked up -to see a group of heads making themselves very merry at our expense. But -I took it very calmly, and walked in, requesting Pauline to take my -place. She called Nelly; but I told her Nelly must practise her music. - -It was rather more than an hour before they returned. The Doctor was -watching for them with no little impatience, and curiosity. Pauline came -in leaning upon her lover's arm, who looked perfectly delighted, and -walked directly across the room, kissing me, and then her father. - -Frank was astonished, and said almost audibly, "pretty cool, that! I -never could have believed it." - -Eugene was too much excited to keep still, and calling her to the door, -begged her to go with him to his father. But she preferred to postpone -it until another day. Soon after he left, I went to my room, and Pauline -soon followed. "Well, my love," I said, "I suppose I hardly need ask you -what answer you gave Eugene, he looked so happy." - -"Yes, mamma, I told him I loved him very much, but that I thought I was -too young to engage myself; and I had never thought of him in that -light." - -"And was he satisfied?" - -"Yes, mamma, he thanked me many times, and said he should try to make me -very happy." Pauline sat down, and her eyes grew dreamy, so I left her -to her meditations and went below. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXV. - - "Ah me! from real happiness we stray, - By vice bewildered; vice which always leads, - However fair at first, to wilds of wo." THOMSON. - - -_Tuesday, March 4th._ - -Joseph came two days ago, accompanied by a young lady, Mademoiselle -Vinet, or Adele, as Joseph calls her. He went directly with her to her -uncle's, who lives about forty leagues from here, and then returned to -this place. We were much rejoiced to see our dear cousin. He has proved -all that his parents could wish. I was very glad to hear him say that he -hopes to be able to return to the United States nearly as soon as we do. -He longs for home. - -Joseph accompanied the Doctor and myself in a walk, and communicated to -us some very sad intelligence. About three months ago, a servant from -one of the hotels in Paris called at his office requesting him to go and -see a young woman who was sick. Wondering not a little who she could be, -he went, and was shown up one flight of stairs after another until he -reached a most dreary and desolate apartment, destitute of every -comfort; and there, upon a miserable pallet, he beheld, to his surprise, -his once beautiful cousin Fidelia Schuyler. She was anxiously expecting -him, and exceedingly overcome by his presence and kindness. He wished to -remove her to a more comfortable and respectable apartment, to provide -her a good nurse, and to do everything in his power for her relief. - -But she said, "I have only a few hours to live. Even now I am dying. -All I ask is, that you will remain near me while I live." - -Joseph was affected even to tears as he related the heart-rending agony -of Fidelia, while she reviewed the last few years of her life. "Ever -since I left your house, years ago, though I have lived a gay life, in -the midst of fashion and luxury," she said, "I have never known -happiness, for I have lived a life of sin. I am known here as Mrs. -Arnold, having been his companion ever since my husband, incited almost -to madness by my wicked conduct, abandoned me. For three weeks, William -has not been near me. Leaving me only a few dollars, he deserted me; and -since his departure I have been removed to this garret, and have pawned -almost every article of my clothing and of jewelry to procure for myself -even the necessaries of life. Do you remember," she asked, "the wicked -attempt I made to stir up jealousy and strife between Frank and his -young wife? Oh! how I hated her, when I saw that with his whole soul he -observed her every movement and word! He worshipped the very ground on -which she trod. But I have suffered the keenest remorse for my conduct. -I have been constantly tortured with jealousy since I lived with -William, and with fear lest he should leave me to die alone in a strange -land." - -Several times Joseph tried to soothe and comfort her as she lay panting -for breath, and sinking farther back upon her pillows. But she could -talk of nothing else. "Oh!" said she, "if I had borne with my husband as -I have had to bear with William, how happy we might have been! I have -been obliged to curb my temper, and to be a slave to one who has indeed -proved to be a hard master." - -Joseph endeavored to point her to the Saviour. At first, she was -unwilling to hear a word on the subject, and begged him not to waste his -breath; but at length, as he earnestly pointed her to the Lamb of God, -able, willing and ready to save to the uttermost all who come unto God -by him, she burst into tears, and even besought him to pray with her. He -did so; and after remaining with her about three hours, he went out and -obtained a good woman to take care of her so long as she lived. He -supposed from her appearance that she was not so near her end as she -imagined. He made his arrangements to return and to watch with her in -company with her nurse during the night. After an hour he returned to -her room, and was surprised at the alteration which had taken place. She -was evidently dying. - -Now her whole life stood out before her, and she trembled at the idea of -appearing in the presence of a holy God. Joseph prayed with her -repeatedly. He wept as he implored her to cast her burden of sin and -fear upon the Saviour. She listened as for her life, but could only cry -out "too late!--_too late!!_" This dreadful lament she continued until -near midnight, when Joseph read to her a few passages from the Bible, on -the abounding of divine mercy toward the chief of sinners, and renewed -his exhortation to her to repent and believe, saying, "turn ye, turn ye, -for why will ye die?" - -"Oh! If I could live--only one hour--more!"--and as the words were on -her quivering lips, her countenance changed, her eyes were fixed, her -spirit departed! - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVI. - - "I feel death rising higher still, and higher - Within my bosom; every breath I fetch - Shuts up my life within a shorter compass: - And like the vanishing sound of bells, grows less - And less each pulse, till it be lost in air." DRYDEN. - - - "Death's but a path that must be trod, - If man would ever pass to God." PARNELL. - - -_Wednesday, March 5th._ - -I am really pained by Pauline's conduct toward her cousin. She shuns him -as much as possible. He feels it too. He always manifested so much -interest in her; but she avails herself of every excuse to walk with -Eugene, and avoids seeing Joseph. I can perceive that he is grieved, but -though he often gazes at her with a sad, inquiring expression, he does -not speak. I have never known her to be rude; but I felt it my duty to -speak with her to-day upon the subject. I am afraid I spoke too sternly, -for she immediately burst into tears. She made no excuse, only saying, -"I can't help it, mamma." - -"Your cousin," I said, "has not deserved such treatment. He has always, -since you were a baby, taken a great interest in you;" and I related his -kindness in taking her to ride on horseback, and many other events, -which I was surprised to find she remembered. - -But still she said nothing; and only cried the more. I don't know what -to make of her. - -"Sometimes deep feeling hides itself in silence." - -But I think she has had too much excitement of late, notwithstanding -she appeared so calm. When the bell rang for tea, she begged me to -excuse her from going down, and to tell Eugene, when he called, that she -was not able to go with him to his father as he had proposed. - -"Are you ill, my dear," I asked. - -"I have a very bad head-ache, which will be well by morning." - -Joseph went out this morning early for a walk, and returned just as I -was called to breakfast. Pauline was in the room, and he went directly -to her, expressing his pleasure at seeing her down again. He took her -hand in his, and said, "I am deeply pained by seeing that you have -forgotten all your former friendship for me." He then assured her, she -should always have a warm friend in him. - -Notwithstanding I had thought her wrong, I really pitied the poor girl's -confusion. She did not once raise her eyes; but blushed painfully as she -withdrew her hand when he had ceased speaking. I pitied Joseph, too. He -came to me soon after breakfast, and asked me to walk with him, when he -immediately entered upon the subject, saying he had never been so -disappointed in a young person, so artless and frank as she used to be. -He then asked if Eugene were a suitable companion for her, fearing it -was his influence that had so changed her for the worse. - -I assured him it was not. Then feeling that from his long friendship for -us, he had a right to be treated with confidence, I told him in what -relation they stood to each other. Though I could see plainly that he -was displeased, I commenced at their singular introduction, and told him -all that had passed between Colonel Clifford and the Doctor. He listened -with the profoundest interest, but did not interrupt me until I had -done. - -"How did you account for the agitation of Colonel Clifford?" he asked. - -"Oh! a thousand ways," I replied. "He has been an invalid for many -years; and her sudden appearance would account for it in a great -measure." - -"Perhaps so," he answered in a doubting tone; "but he evidently supposed -her to be a near friend." - -"Yes," said I, "there is no accounting for the freaks of nature in these -close resemblances. I should be struck any where by her resemblance to -Frank; yet you know there is no connection." - -"She must have a singular countenance," he replied, "I noticed yesterday -a strong likeness to young Clifford. Does she know of the circumstances -connected with her early history?" - -"Not a word of it." - -"Nor Clifford?" - -"No." - -"Then, my dear cousin, I tell you frankly, I think in this instance you -and the Doctor have erred--certainly you have not acted with your usual -frankness." - -I made many excuses which had been satisfactory to my own mind. He said -no more, but only shook his head. - -When we received Joseph's letter, I thought him the same light-hearted, -merry fellow as of old; but I find he has grown very grave. I was a -little troubled at what he said, and on conversing with Frank, I find -that he is of the same opinion, that we ought at least to communicate -the circumstances to Colonel Clifford, if we do not choose to tell -Pauline. But Frank says since talking with Mr. Percival, and finding -that he had no other child, he felt relieved of all doubt in relation to -their connection. But though the thought of it makes me almost sick, I -intend to-morrow to do what I know will give exquisite pain to Pauline, -by telling her she is my child only by adoption. - - -_Saturday, March 8th._ - -If my poor head will allow, I will try to give you an account of the -events of the last three days. But I have suffered so much I really -shrink from recurring to the subject. - -In pursuance of my resolution to make the painful disclosure to -Pauline, I made necessary arrangements to be free from interruption, as -I feared the dear child's feelings would overcome her; and as I was far -from intending that Nelly or Frank should know it at present, I did not -wish unnecessarily to excite their curiosity. If the dear child were to -know it at all, I preferred she should hear it first from me; and having -procured the locket and package, I called her to my room, and went -through the story as if I were relating the history of another person, -and as briefly as justice to my subject would allow; but my great -agitation, which I could not avoid becoming apparent, must have made her -suspect that I referred to herself. She looked me full in the face, her -eyes more and more dilated until she turned deadly pale. I became -frightened that she did not give way to her feelings, and stopped, when -she said in the most heart-broken tone I ever heard, "Then I am not your -Pauline, mamma?" and leaned her head heavily on her hand. - -I pressed her to my heart, and told her that she never was dearer to me -than at present; that she was my first, and I had almost said, my -dearest child. - -But this has been a dreadful shock to the poor girl, who seems now to -feel that she has no claim upon us. I talked with her a long time, -telling her that I had never intended she should know of this; but that -her father thought it dishonorable not to tell her or Eugene; and that I -felt she ought to hear it from me. - -"I think it would have killed me," she replied, "to have heard it even -from father." After a moment she added mournfully, "may I still call you -mamma?" when her pent up feelings burst forth with such violence as I -have never witnessed. She wept and sobbed until her whole frame shook -with emotion. - -"My love, my own Pauline, you will break my heart if you do so. Our love -is the same; it can undergo no change. My affection for you has been so -selfish, that it has been my only fear with regard to you, that some one -would claim you as their child; or as has happened, that some one would -win your love from your mother." - -"Oh, mamma," said she joyfully, "I will give him up. I understood it was -your wish. Indeed I told Eugene I did not wish him to consider it an -engagement. We are too young." - -"Dearest Pauline, I only told you to show you how strong was my -affection for you." - -After two hours, during which time I had but partially succeeded in -calming her excited feelings, I showed her the locket, which affected -her exceedingly, as also the letter from her mother to the servant. She -held the tiny robe in her hand, while her tears fell hot and fast upon -it. I told her that on no account would I allow Nelly and Franky to be -made aware of what had passed. - -"I shall tell Eugene?" she said inquiringly. - -"If you think it best, love." - -"Of course, I only meant whether you or I should tell him. He asked what -I considered strange questions the second time I saw him. But I thought -it would only pain you to hear them, so I did not repeat what he said. -He asked if I had ever been abroad before. I told him "no." He then -asked if I were nearly connected with this family, when I laughed and -told him, 'my resemblance to father was proof of that fact.' He -apologized, and said he had only asked me to satisfy his father." She -took the locket, putting the chain around her neck, and bidding me good -night, left me. - -But it was a sleepless night to both of us. The questions of Eugene, to -satisfy his father,--the doubts of Joseph were constantly recurring to -me. Frank comforted me by saying I had done right in telling her what I -had. After midnight I crept softly to her room, shading the lamp with my -hand, and found her eyes wide open. She had thrown her arm over her -sleeping sister, and had vainly tried to sleep. - -"I have been trying to think who I am, mamma," said she in a sad voice. - -"You are my own darling, Pauline," I said, kissing her again and again. - -"She looks happy and kind," alluding to the picture, "but how could she -give me up so?" - -I begged her to try to sleep, and returned to my bed to make the same -effort. The next morning she did not go down to breakfast, merely took a -cup of coffee in her room; but begged me to let her know when Eugene -came in. I did so, when she instantly came down to him equipped for a -walk. - -I attempted to remonstrate, fearing she was not well enough; but she -said, "please, mamma," in so sad a voice, I could say no more. - -It was nearly noon. Joseph had two or three times volunteered to go in -search of Pauline, for whom I felt great anxiety, when a man came -running, breathless with speed, begging me to go to Colonel Clifford. He -was dying. - -I was on my way in a moment, Joseph attending me to the door. How can I -describe to you what I saw? In order to make it intelligible, I must -relate what the Doctor and Pauline afterwards told me. As soon as they -started on their walk, she communicated to Eugene the circumstances I -had related to her; and insisted that he should, without delay, make -them known to his father, saying, "perhaps he will withdraw his consent -when he hears that I am a foundling." - -Eugene spurned the idea, as unworthy either of him or his father, and -protested that he only loved her the better. He earnestly implored her -to go with him, to which she reluctantly consented. He found the Doctor -by the bed side, and leaving his beloved in the next room, he went in. -Having requested the Doctor to remain, he went on to tell his father -briefly that Pauline was only an adopted child of Dr. Lenox, and that -she would not consent to their betrothal until he were made aware of the -circumstances, and had given his consent. - -"Tell her, my son, that can make no difference in our feelings. Bring -her to me, I will tell her so." Eugene led her in; but no sooner did he -see her, than he started forward as if to take her in his arms, and then -with a loud scream fell back upon the pillows. - -The Doctor and Eugene sprang forward in affright to raise him, and threw -water in his face, when he gasped for breath, and pointing his thin -finger to where Pauline stood, tried to speak, but for a moment was -unable. "Eugene," at length he gasped out, "she is your sister, Inez," -and fainted. - -Pauline, intensely surprised, and agitated, darted forward, and kissed -the face, brow and lips of the unconscious man, crying, "Oh! father, -bless me before you die." - -When he opened his eyes, her sweet voice was pleading for a blessing. A -heavenly smile lit up his face, as he said, "Imogen, my own Imogen, I do -bless thee, sweet wife!" He thought her his lost Imogen. But he soon -knew her, and called her his beloved daughter Inez, whom he now saw for -the first time. She turned from him to Eugene, who sat bitterly weeping -with his head buried in his dying father's pillow; and putting her arms -tenderly about his neck, said, "Be comforted, dear Eugene, you have -gained a sister." - -The Doctor administered a cordial to the Colonel, who he saw was fast -failing; and had sent for me. - -When I entered the room, the dying man was passionately kissing the -little miniature contained in the locket; and from that, as well as his -instant recognition of the writing of his wife in the letter, there is -no longer any doubt that she is his child. - -He requested the Doctor to open a pocket book, and take out a blank -envelope. Opening this, he showed some of the writing of Imogen, which -exactly compared with the other. Again, and again blessing his long lost -child, and bidding his children love each other as brother and sister, -he requested to be left alone with the Doctor; when he told him where to -find the packet directed to his son, to be left in his care. He -expressed renewedly his thanks that these disclosures had been brought -to light in season to prevent so unnatural a marriage. He gave some -directions, rendered necessary by the wonderful discovery. He then said, -calmly, "I have now done with earth," and requested the Doctor to call -his children to see him die. - -Eugene threw himself upon the bed in an agony of grief. "My soul -cleaveth unto thee, my son," said the dying man. And again mistaking -Pauline for his beloved wife, he made an effort to reach her, -exclaiming, "I come, my Imogen--I--_come_!" - -Scarcely had the last words ceased to echo through the room, when the -spirit of Colonel Clifford joined his companion in the world above. - - -_Thursday, March 13th._ - -The remains of our deceased friend have been laid by the side of her -whom he so tenderly loved, to rest until the morning of the -resurrection. The arrangements for keeping the sacred place from -intrusion are completed, and we are only waiting the arrival of the -monument, which the Doctor has ordered from Rome, before we take leave -of our respected friend, Mr. Percival, and depart for Paris. - - - "Thither where she lies buried, - That single spot is the whole world to me." - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVII. - - "I had so fixed my heart upon her, - That wheresoe'er I fram'd a scheme of life - For time to come, she was my only joy, - With which I used to sweeten future cares; - I fancy'd pleasures, none but one who loves - And doats as I did, can imagine like them." OTWAY. - - -_Friday, March 14th._ - -To-day Joseph received a letter from Monsieur Vinet in reply to one he -wrote, stating the time of our leaving for Paris. He writes that he will -accompany Adele to Nice a day or two before that time, as she has a -strong desire to become acquainted with persons of whom she has heard so -much from her friend, Monsieur Morgan. For a few days past, I have -noticed that Pauline remained more in the room when Joseph was -conversing with the Doctor, and when thinking herself unnoticed, her -attention became absorbed, and her eyes flashed, while the color came -and went, giving her beautiful countenance a most bewitching variety of -expression. - -But if cousin happened to turn his eye in that direction, though the -rich bloom on her cheek might assume a deeper tinge, yet the long silky -fringes instantly drooped over her tell-tale eyes. I am sometimes almost -vexed with Joseph. If he took half the pains to win her confidence that -he did formerly, this reserve and coolness might be exchanged for the -most delightful friendship. I wonder if he ever thinks of his request -when she was a baby, that I would train her for him. If he does, it is -only to laugh at the follies of his youth. But I suppose what Frank -suspects may be true; that he is attached to Adele. She will be here -shortly, and we shall see. - - -_Tuesday, March 18th._ - -This morning Franky, who is full of mischief, put his hand slyly into -Joseph's pocket and pulled out a letter. Cousin was busily reading, and -did not notice the theft until the young rogue put on his father's -glasses, and crossing the room to place himself in an elevated position, -began to read aloud. Pauline, though trying to restrain her mirth, yet -shook her head; but as I recognized the letter as the one from Monsieur -Vinet, and Joseph had read it aloud, I thought I would not spoil Master -Franky's sport. The young gentleman is by no means an expert at -deciphering a fine hand, and though the letter was written in English, -failed to make sense. He therefore turned to the postscript, and -elevating his voice to arrest attention, began, "Beloved friend,--The -time seems very long since we parted, and I know you will be pleased to -hear from your friend Adele"-- - -At the sound of that name, Joseph started, and with a quick glance -around the room, snatched the letter from Franky, saying, "didn't you -know it was very improper to read letters not directed to yourself?" - -"I wouldn't have read it, Joseph, if I had known 'twas a love letter." - -"Pshaw," said cousin, looking very much annoyed as he saw us laughing at -his expense. - -Nelly, who is a great favorite, went and put her arms around her -cousin's neck, saying, "They shan't laugh, Joseph, you shall have just -as many letters as you please, and nobody but you and I shall read them. -Dear Jo," she asked in a whisper, "Is she a darling? Shall I love her, -when she is my cousin?" - -Joseph started to his feet. "Who has put such nonsense into your head? -Coz," he continued, turning to me, "where did Frank get hold of that -letter?" - -"He must answer for himself," I replied. As I looked up from my sewing, -I saw that Pauline had left the room. After due confession from the -delinquent, and a suitable shaking from Joseph, by way of reproof, which -made the house ring with his merry laughter, cousin continued his -reading for half an hour, when he started up, saying he would go and -meet the Doctor, who was at Mr. Percival's. - -At that instant Franky returned to the parlor, with a very dolorous -expression upon his countenance. "Mamma," he exclaimed, "Pauline is -crying as if her heart would break, and she won't tell me what's the -matter with her, though I've asked her ever so many times." - -This was so unusual an occurrence that I started to my feet to go to -her, when Eugene threw down his pencil, (he was drawing a sketch of the -house where his mother was born,) and said, "let me go, mamma. Please -let me try my skill in soothing her grief." - -I reluctantly resumed my seat. Joseph also replaced his hat in the hall, -and stood looking from the window. "We must hasten our departure," said -I. "Pauline is growing very nervous, which cannot be wondered at. -Joseph," said I, addressing him, "I almost regret having followed your -advice, to tell her she was not my own child. She grows thinner and -paler every day." - -For a moment, Joseph remained silent, and I was almost vexed that he was -not more interested for Pauline, when he replied, in an unnatural voice, -"Cora, I hardly think you are aware what you say. Would you have had her -marry her brother?" - -His tone conveyed such bitter reproof that my eyes filled with tears. -For the first time, he turned from the window, and looked at me. I saw, -with surprise, that he was very pale. He approached, holding out his -hand, "forgive me, cousin; I spoke harshly; but wouldn't it be better -for you to go to Pauline? She may not like to have Eugene witness her -grief." - -"Why?" I asked. "She is very fond of her brother." - -He walked quickly across the floor. "You forget," said he in a hoarse -voice, "how lately she loved him as her future husband. I have seen the -struggle in her mind, to overcome such an affection, or rather to change -it to the calm, though deep affection of a sister." - -I looked at Joseph earnestly, as he walked back and forth across the -room, with knitted brow and closely shut lips, and tried to discover the -cause of his agitation. At length he stopped before me, and said, "will -you go to her?" - -"Yes," I replied, laying aside my work. As I went above, I heard him -leave the house. - -When I entered the school-room, I found Pauline sitting with her head -resting on her brother's shoulder, while his arm was around her. She had -ceased weeping, but still looked very sad. "Mamma," said Eugene, "I've -been telling her how very naughty it is for her to feel sorrow, and not -allow me to share it with her. She won't even tell me what makes her -weep." Pauline put her handkerchief quickly to her face to hide the -tears which were streaming unbidden down her cheeks. I motioned to him -to leave her with me. He kissed her tenderly and went below. I then led -the weeping girl into my own room, and having fastened the door, I sat -by her side, and begged her to tell me what had afflicted her. - - - "There is a shadow far within your eye, - Which hath of late been deepening. You were wont - Upon the clearness of your open brow - To wear a brighter spirit, shedding round - Joy, like this southern sun. It is not well, - If some dark thought be gathering o'er your soul, - To hide it from affection. Why is this, - My Pauline, why is this?" - - -But after talking with her for nearly half an hour, I was no wiser than -at first. I could only get from her the confession that she was very -unhappy, and wished she were safely at home in Crawford. I hinted to her -what I suspected, that she found it difficult to change the nature of -her affection for her brother so suddenly. She looked up quickly, as she -replied, "Mamma, I was deceived as to the nature of my love for him. I -never could have _married_ Eugene; but he is very dear to me as a -brother." - -Hearing the outer door open, she sprang upon her feet, painfully -embarrassed, and was going hastily from the room, but returned, and said -in a low voice, "Please, mamma, say nothing of this to any one; I will -endeavor to be cheerful." - -When I went below, Frank had returned, and soon Joseph came in, and -seating himself near the window, commenced reading in the book which had -so much interested him when Franky stole his letter. I drew my husband -to a retired part of the room, and told him I wished to leave Nice as -soon as possible for the sake of Pauline. - -After many questions on his part, and many replies on mine, I told him -what she said with regard to Eugene. "I think she speaks truly there," -exclaimed Frank eagerly. "I am convinced she never loved him. I mean as -a suitor. I was almost sure of it at the time. She ought to be very -thankful it has turned out so well for her." - -"She is so," I replied. "She says, he is a very dear brother." - -Here Joseph threw down his book, and taking his hat walked away from the -house as if his very life depended upon his speed. The Doctor laughed -heartily, as he exclaimed, "what an odd fellow Joseph is! I wonder what -started him off on such a race. See there," he continued, approaching -the window, "he is almost out of sight." - -Pauline begged to be excused from coming down to tea; but stole quietly -in as we were sitting talking in the moonlight. I hope she will feel -better in the morning. - - -_Wednesday, March 19th._ - -We were seated at the breakfast table this morning, when Ruth entered, -bringing an exquisite bouquet, and saying with an expressive grin, -"Here, Misse Pauline, dis bunch posies for you." - -"Who brought them?" was eagerly asked by several voices. Franky took a -French leave of the company and rushed down the street after the boy who -had left them at the door. But he could not overtake him, and returned -to join in the curiosity expressed on all sides, to know the donor of so -tasteful a gift. - -Ruth was questioned again and again, and asked to recollect if there was -no message. But she kept firmly to her original story; "He laugh and -say, he told, bring dat Misse Pauline; 'pears like he mighty pleased -heself." - -The bouquet was passed from one to another and was much admired. Joseph -said, "whoever sent it might think himself well paid if he knew what a -sensation it has caused." - -When Pauline came to dinner she had selected a bright scarlet verbina -with a few queen leaves and twined them around her dark tresses, which -gave quite a glow to her pale countenance. I saw cousin look very -earnestly at her as she was seated opposite him at table. The color -deepened as she met his gaze, and this greatly added to her beauty. - -Nelly has just run up from the parlor for me to go below. Monsieur Vinet -has come with Adele. Now we shall leave Nice in a very few days. - - -_Thursday, March 20th._ - -We are all of us charmed with Adele. She said she had heard Monsieur -Morgan speak of us so often, she felt as if she were acquainted with us. -When her countenance is in repose, which to be sure is very seldom, -there is nothing about it to attract attention. But the moment she -speaks, her whole face lights up, and there is a wonderful play of the -features, which are ever changing their expression. She has handsome -hair and eyes. She wears her hair in quite a unique style, being parted -smoothly off her brow, and after being gathered, into a knot behind is -worn like a coronet around her head. She is very graceful and -fascinating; and we consider her an agreeable addition to our party. - -When we came down to breakfast this morning, a vase was standing by -Pauline's plate filled with flowers still fresh with the dew. As I -stooped over them to inhale their fragrance, I saw a card among the -leaves with the words "For the lovely Pauline, with the best wishes of a -friend." The penmanship was delicate, like that of a lady; but we did -not recognize it. - -When Nelly explained the mystery connected with the flowers to Adele, -she was quite enthusiastic upon the subject, and said gayly: "Oh! I do -so love a mystery. It is so romantic. It is charming!" But she was -unwearied in her efforts to unravel it. She first charged Eugene with -being the donor, which charge he stoutly denied. Then she shook her -finger at Joseph. "Ah, monsieur, you are the one. Now I'll call you to -account for this piece of coquetry." - -But Joseph only looked annoyed and said, "I have not left the house this -morning." - -After all had expressed an opinion, Pauline exclaimed, "I know who sent -it." - -"Who? _who?_" questioned Adele and Nelly, both at once. - -"Mr. Percival, dear Mr. Percival," she answered with enthusiasm. I -happened to meet Joseph's eye, which very much resembled the Joseph I -knew in B----; but he instantly looked down and bit his lip to keep from -laughing. - - -_Saturday, March 22d._ - -The last two days have been spent by the young people in visiting for -the last time all the favorite haunts and places of interest. Pauline's -conduct is an enigma to me. Sometimes she appears very cheerful, and -often when with Adele, I have heard her musical laugh ring through the -house like a sweet toned bell; but it is a forced laugh, and is almost -always followed by great sadness. To-day her appearance pleased me -better than it had for a long time. I thought her more natural. But this -evening she is worse than ever. From what Nelly told me to-night, I fear -this state of her spirits is somewhat connected with Joseph. During -their frequent rambles, Pauline has always clung closely to her -brother's arm before they left the house, to prevent the possibility of -walking with her cousin. But to-night I noticed that when they returned, -Adele accompanied Eugene, and his sister had taken Joseph's arm, while -Franky held his cousin by the hand. They were talking quite cheerfully -as they approached the house. I thought Joseph gazed down upon his -companion with something of the reverence with which he regarded her in -former years. - -But after tea, Pauline happened to go with Nelly into the school-room, -and found Joseph sitting by the window with Adele. To use Nelly's words, -"Cousin Joe was holding her hand in his, and she was crying. She said, -'oh! Monsieur, I can't indeed! I can't bear such treatment.' I was just -going," Nelly continued, "to ask her what was the matter, but Pauline -pulled me away." - -"Where is Pauline?" I asked. - -"She is in her room, mamma." I went to her door, but found it locked. -This must not go on so. I am glad we are to leave here Monday morning. - - -_Paris, Monday, March 31st._ - -The Doctor, Joseph and Eugene are planning excursions enough to last for -a month. Adele, who resides with her uncle in this city, has promised to -accompany the young people to all its places of interest. Indeed she has -already begun to do so. Her uncle, who is also her guardian, is one of -the firm where Joseph is a partner; and it is thus she has become -acquainted with him. I have noticed that since Pauline saw Adele weeping -in the school-room with Joseph, she has avoided her cousin more -assiduously than ever. I am intending to renew some of my former -acquaintances, while the others are sight-seeing. - - -_Evening._ - -Pauline's bouquets have followed her to Paris. This evening she received -a magnificent one. She said, "I am now fully convinced father procured -them for me." I looked quickly at Frank, who only smiled. - -"Oh! papa," said Pauline, throwing her arms about his neck with a -natural burst of feeling, "I thank you so much. How very, _very_ kind," -and she kissed him affectionately. But the next moment with a convulsive -sob she sank back into her chair and wept bitterly. - -Joseph flew to her side, and leaning forward said, "Dear Pauline, how -can I comfort you?" - -Her father sent the children from the room, and took her tenderly on his -knee, where, drawing her head to his breast, he whispered, "Pauline, my -own dear child, cannot you tell your father the cause of your grief?" - -I sat by her side while Joseph walked the room, stopping ever and anon -as if about to speak, and then checking himself with difficulty. After a -short time Pauline became more composed, so that she could speak, and -she raised her eyes mournfully to her father's face as she said, "I -forgot you were not my father, and I was so happy." - -We were all much affected at the deep sadness of her tone, and Frank -said, "Let us all forget it, my daughter. Your father loves you truly -and tenderly;" and he pressed her in his arms as she lay like a child, -hiding her face in his bosom. - -Joseph could restrain himself no longer, but rushed forward and stooping -down, took her unresisting hand. "Pauline, dearest Pauline, _I_ cannot -forget it, for the hour I learned that Eugene was your brother, was the -happiest of my life. Won't you look at me, dearest, to show you forgive -me?" - -But the weeping girl clung to her father, while she absolutely shook -with emotion. - -Just at this moment, Adele burst into the room with very evident marks -of excitement. Her eyes were much inflamed, and bore signs of excessive -weeping. She walked quickly up to Joseph, and requested to see him -alone. - -Though evidently much annoyed, he led her into the next apartment, where -we heard their voices in earnest conversation for a short time; then she -wept aloud, and I could hear Joseph try to soothe her, and beg her to -compose herself. Soon after, he left with her in the carriage which -brought her to our hotel. - -Frank looked much perplexed, and almost stern. Pauline wept so violently -he feared the effect upon her. She sobbed out, "Oh, papa!" and pressed -her hand to her heart. It was nearly an hour before we succeeded in -getting the poor child to her chamber, and when I left her she promised -to try to sleep. The Doctor is determined to wait for Joseph, and demand -an explanation of his conduct, and as I am too excited to sleep, I have -employed myself in writing. - - -_Tuesday, April 1st._ - -After sitting up to receive Joseph, who occupies rooms at our hotel, -until after two this morning, Frank retired to bed. I have rarely seen -him more displeased. He says Joseph has trifled with Pauline's -affections. I did not know what to think. I never saw anything in his -conduct which led me to suppose he loved her. - -We were dressing for breakfast when a servant brought the Doctor a note. -It was from cousin, begging to see him as soon as possible. Frank -followed the servant, instead of sending an answer; and you can easily -imagine I awaited his return with no little impatience. - -At length I went to see if Pauline were awake, and to my astonishment -found her up and dressed. Her countenance was pensive; but she tried to -smile as she came forward for her morning kiss. - -We were hardly seated before her father knocked and begged me to -accompany Pauline to the parlor. He appeared so pleased, I could easily -see that Joseph had been able to explain his conduct satisfactorily. -When we entered the parlor, Joseph came quickly forward to meet us. -Pauline shrank back as if she wished to avoid the meeting; but Joseph -spoke a few words in her ear. What they were, I have not been able to -find out; but there must have been some kind of a charm about them, for -the dear girl started and gazed earnestly at him, when she seemed to -feel satisfied, and artlessly put her hand in his. After pressing the -dear little treasure again and again to his lips, he led her forward to -where I sat looking on with astonishment. "Cousin Cora," said he to me, -"fifteen years ago I asked the hand of your daughter. Your husband has -just now made me very happy by giving his consent. Will you give me -yours?" - -"You are making a very bold request," I replied, as I drew the blushing -girl nearer to me. "What say you, my daughter, shall we encourage such a -suit?" "Just as you please, mamma." - -"No, my love, not just as _I_ please. You must speak for yourself." -Joseph had thrown himself on one knee before us, and having made a -prisoner of her little hand, he poured out all the story of his -love--the agony he had experienced when he visited Nice and found her -affianced to Eugene, and the many, _many_ doubts and fears he had felt -on account of her cold manner toward him. - -The poor girl trembled excessively, and when he ceased, seemed -absolutely unable to reply. He started to his feet and said, "O! -Pauline, beloved of my soul, can you, will you accept my love?" - -Making a great effort, she said in a very low voice, "I do love you, -dear Joseph." I could hardly distinguish the words; but I suppose the -old saying is true, "for lovers' eyes are sharp to see and lovers' ears -to hear," for the loving Joseph appeared fully to hear and appreciate -her meaning, and was by no means sparing of his thanks on the occasion. -I took the first opportunity to leave the room, though Pauline was -almost frightened at the ardor of her lover, and clung to my dress, as I -attempted to pass her. - -The Doctor has explained to me what appeared strange in the conduct of -our cousin, especially as connected with Adele. Her history I will give -you in a few words. She was left when a child to the guardianship of her -uncle. Being quite an heiress, he wished her to make what he called a -great match. But Mademoiselle, whose wishes had never been -crossed--whose slightest whim had been law to the whole household, had -fallen in love with a young man whose only inheritance was a heart full -of warm and generous impulses, united to a strength of determined -purpose, which would in the end surmount all obstacles in his path, to -riches and honor. All the wealth of his affections he had lavished upon -the charming Adele, and she fully reciprocated the attachment. But -Monsieur Vinet, her guardian, was very much enraged when the young and -ardent lover asked the hand of his niece, and positively refused his -consent. It was this which had caused him to send her for a time to his -brother near Nice, in the hope that absence would dissolve their foolish -fondness. Joseph had been made a confidant by each of the parties; and -it was a letter addressed to him by Monsieur Couvier that had so -distressed Adele while at Nice. It was a short postscript in relation to -this subject which had so much disturbed cousin, when Franky commenced -reading the letter aloud. - -The crisis of her troubles which had occurred at a time so unfortunate -for poor Pauline, was caused in the following manner. Adele, driven -almost to despair by the inflexibility of her guardian, determined to -make an appeal to him in her own behalf. She had thrown herself at his -feet, and with all the enthusiasm of her impulsive nature, had begged -his consent to her union with the one she loved. She offered to give up -to him all her property, and in everything else, to be all that he could -desire. Monsieur Vinet really loved his niece after his own fashion, and -could not be made to understand why she should prefer a man so poorly -endowed by fortune, to one who, though of doubtful morals, and -questionable virtue, yet was of noble birth and princely estate. - -Having sued in vain for his consent, and being in her violent grief -wholly unmindful of appearances, she had driven to our hotel to beg -Joseph to intercede for her. I need not stop to detail all that -followed. Suffice it to say that his influence, added to the distressing -agony of Adele which she took no pains to control or to conceal, at -length prevailed, and Joseph had the pleasure before he left them of -feeling that he had been the means of securing happiness to two -otherwise distracted hearts. - - -_Wednesday, April 2d._ - -This morning the mystery connected with the bouquets has been revealed. -After receiving her morning gift from the hands of the servant, Pauline -gracefully went to her father, and thanked him for giving her so much -pleasure. - -Frank looked archly at Joseph, who quickly dropped his eyes, to conceal -the look of merriment which begins to show itself. "Thank you, my -daughter," Frank said, returning the kiss, "but I rather think you've -bestowed it on the wrong person." - -Pauline started, while a beautiful rosy hue spread all over her face, -and gave one eager glance at her lover. - -I saw it was with great difficulty that Joseph restrained himself from -pressing her to his heart; but he bent lovingly over her little hand, -and said something in a low, yet impassioned voice. If he intended to -drive away her blushes, he was unfortunate in his choice of words, for -they only deepened. - -My husband and I have been talking over the whole of this novel -courtship from beginning to end, and I feel quite humbled as I am -obliged to come to the conclusion that, while Joseph for fifteen years -has never wavered in his affection for Pauline, who, he says, first -awakened him to a sense of his responsibility as a man and a Christian, -I, who have always prided myself upon my shrewdness in matters of the -heart, have been blind as a bat. We expect to be with you on the -twenty-second instant. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVIII. - - "And lo! at last relieved from every toil, - They come! the wanderers view their native soil! - Then the bright raptures words can never speak, - Flash in their eyes, and mantle in their cheek! - Then Love and Friendship, whose unceasing prayer, - Implored for them each guardian spirit's care; - In that blest moment all the past forget,-- - Hours of suspense, and vigils of regret!" MRS. HEMANS. - - -_Crawford, Monday, August 4th._ - -DEAR MOTHER,--Since the hasty letter I wrote you, announcing our safe -arrival at home, my time has been so fully occupied that I have been -altogether unable to resume my journal. Our dear, lovely Pauline is to -leave us the first of October. It is fortunate for me that cares and -duties demand every moment of my time, else I fear, I should spend much -of it in the unprofitable employment of weeping. Indeed, there is a sad -weight at my heart, and sometimes when my darling child sits down before -me, and lays her head in my lap, I am completely overcome. How fully, -dear mother, I can enter into your sorrow, when I remember the -convulsive embrace with which you held me to your heart on the event of -my leaving home. I can again see the tears which flowed like rain down -your pale cheeks, and hear your broken voice saying, "May God bless you, -my own dear Cora, and comfort your mother in her loss." - -I must relate to you one little circumstance in connection with Pauline, -as showing the length of her attachment to Joseph. Eugene was trying to -unlock a small work-box, (as I had always taken it to be,) with a key of -his own, his sister having playfully refused to allow him to see the -contents. She sat by laughing, perfectly secure that he had no key which -would fit the lock, when all at once the cover flew open. I had just -entered the room, when she said merrily, "There, Eugene, give it to me. -It's useless to try;" when, as she perceived his success, her tone -changed to one of such deep distress, as she eagerly tried to take it -from him. "Oh! my dear, _dear_ brother, do give it to me." I looked in -surprise. Eugene held the box behind him while she stood with anxious, -tearful distress, begging him to restore it. I stepped quietly behind, -and took the box with its precious contents from his hand. - -"Eugene," said I, shaking my head at him, "you are a naughty boy to -tease your sister." He called Nelly, his inseparable companion and -adviser, and went into the garden. I still held the box, and when we -were alone, I presented it to her with a smile, saying, "It would be -safer, my dear, to put this out of Eugene's way, since he is so curious -to know the contents." - -She held it tightly for a moment, a struggle evidently taking place in -her mind, when she said frankly, "Dear mamma, it is only some letters -you permitted me to keep." - -"_Letters_ from whom?" I asked eagerly. - -She put the whole into my hands, saying, "Dear mamma, you gave them to -me," and she hid her face on my shoulder. Judge of my surprise when I -found letters and scraps of letters dating back as far as 1836, when -Joseph was a gay boy. In truth almost every one of them contained some -message to his young friend. - -Then there was a sheet of scribbling, with the names, Joseph Lenox -Morgan and Pauline De Lacy Lenox, written in every variety of -penmanship, in cousin's bold hand. These were interspersed with pictures -evidently drawn to please a young child; a tall gentleman leading a -little girl; then a young lady taking the arm of her companion, while -underneath were written the names "Joseph and Pauline." These were the -precious mementos which she had hoarded with as much care as the miser -does his gold; and she confessed with tears, that when Adele was with us -at Nice, almost her only comfort consisted in reading over and over -these messages of love. - -"When Eugene told me of his affection for me," she added, with a slight -shudder, "I thought I ought to destroy them; but I had not the strength -to do it." - -I pressed the artless child to my heart, as I said, "And when I blamed -you for treating Joseph so ill, did you love him then?" - -"Oh! mamma," said she weeping, "how I longed to tell you all about it! I -never knew until Joseph came, how much I loved him. But then I knew also -that Eugene loved me and desired me to return his affection, and I -feared it would be wrong toward him, for me to show my strong attachment -to my cousin. Besides I thought Joseph would despise me if he saw my -regard for him while another sought my heart and my hand." - - -_Thursday, October 2d._ - -Yesterday morning, at eleven o'clock, my dear Pauline was married. I -cannot yet realize that she has left me. The young couple started -directly on their wedding tour, and will return in a fortnight to pass a -few days with us, before they go to B----, where she is to be for the -present, in the family of her father-in-law. It is their wish to give up -the whole management of the household to her. But Joseph prefers to wait -until she can determine for herself whether she will board with them, or -whether the new couple shall set up a separate establishment and keep -house by themselves. In the midst of all my sadness, I cannot but smile -at his treatment of her. He listens to her words, as to oracles of -wisdom, and is as tender of her as a father of an only and a feeble -daughter, while she is the very picture of health and cheerfulness. - -But I forget that I have told you nothing of the wedding,--the -company,--the ceremonies and the bridal gifts. I allowed Pauline to make -her own arrangements, and was not a little surprised and delighted at -her characteristic choice of bridemaids. In all her plans, Eugene and -Nelly were zealous, if not able advisers; and I doubt whether any young -masters or misses were ever more elated than were those appointed to -this service. - -Upon Monday evening, Joseph arrived with uncle and aunt Morgan. Uncle -presented his intended daughter with a splendid service of plate, -manufactured expressly for her; and aunt, with a bridal veil which -Joseph had imported for her. Tuesday evening a large box arrived from -Lee Hall, directed to "_Mrs. Joseph Morgan elect_." Poor Pauline was -kept very rosy from morning till night, by Eugene's continual practice -on the enunciation of this new name, that he might obtain its sweetest -and most approved accent. The dear girl was almost overcome by this -public recognition of her new title. On opening the box, it was found to -contain a magnificent silver urn with slop-bowl to match, lined with -gold. This gift was from our dear friend, Mrs. Mansfield. Many other -appropriate and rich presents were received from friends, which I have -not time to specify, as I must hasten to my account of the wedding. - -It was private, but few being present, as Pauline is to meet her friends -on her return, and has appointed the twenty-first of October, her -father's birth-day, for her wedding party. - -On Wednesday morning, at eleven o'clock, the time appointed for the -ceremony, Eugene ushered us into the parlor, where we found Allen and -Lucy, Dr. and Mrs. Clapp, Miss Proctor, uncle and aunt, Mr. Benson and -Emily, and our dear mother with our beloved pastor and his family, while -Cæsar, Phebe, Ruth and Ann filled up the back ground, and gave an -agreeable variety to the shading of the picture. Eugene formally -conducted the Doctor and myself to the seats of distinguished guests, -and then retired to fulfil his duty as master of ceremonies, which from -the youthfulness and inexperience of many of the company, and the -perfect order with which they entered the room, must have required no -little skill in the training. - -First entered Eugene and Nelly; then Charles Karswell and Anna Reynolds, -who are shortly to be married; next Henry Marshall, grandson of our -friend the Attorney General, and Emily Lenox Mansfield; next Franky -Lenox and Susy Benson, while Willie Reynolds and little black-eyed Hatty -Clapp brought up the rear. These all walked, with the order and dignity -befitting the occasion, to their proper places, leaving a vacant space -in the centre for the young bride, who entered last, leaning on the arm -of him whom she had loved "from very childhood up." - -Truly, they were a noble pair. He was tall and erect, with a broad, high -brow, and eyes beaming with fondness upon the fair face so confidingly -upturned to his own. She wore a white satin dress with an over-dress of -gossamer lace. Her hair, which she always wore in natural curls, falling -upon her neck, was looped up at the sides with a wreath of orange -flowers, that also confined her veil. Sister Emily, who, with Lucy -Mansfield's assistance, dressed the bride, and gave the finishing touch -to the dress of all the young men and maidens, was much delighted at the -complete success of her efforts. Rev. Mr. Munroe, by a few mystic words -made the twain one forever. Then after prayer for a blessing on the -happy union, all walked up to salute the bride. - -Though my heart was overflowing, yet I had been able to command myself -until my husband led me to the bride. I tried to speak, but finding my -voice inarticulate, hastily kissed her and retired for a few moments to -recover myself. When I returned to the room, Cæsar was passing the cake, -while his countenance wore a ludicrous mixture of sorrow and delight. He -evidently felt a strong inclination to weep; but his duties rendering -this inappropriate and inconvenient, he tried to assume an expression of -the joy which he conceived to be more befitting the occasion. - -Uncle and aunt Morgan will remain with us until after Pauline's return -and levee. A list of the persons to be then invited she put into the -hand of her brother Eugene. The day before she went, she consulted me -about the number she should invite. I replied, "just as many as you -please, and just whom you please." - -From her choice of bridemaids, I rather think, there will be a -miscellaneous company. But if it gives the dear girl pleasure and -affords her an opportunity to take leave of friends, to whom she is -ardently attached, I shall be satisfied. - -Both she and Eugene were delighted that the levee would occur on their -father's birth-day. Emily Benson has brought her babies to make us a -family visit while uncle and aunt Morgan are here, so that I have no -time to be lonely. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIX. - - "How few, like thee, inquire the wretched out, - And court the offices of soft humanity! - Like thee, reserve their raiment for the naked, - Reach out their bread to feed the crying orphan, - Or mix the pitying tears with those that weep!" ROWE. - - -_Wednesday, October 22d._ - -Last evening the company began to assemble for the levee at an early -hour, and consisted of persons selected without any reference to the -accidental distinctions of wealth and rank. Mr. Marshall, the attorney -General, and Thomas Jones the reformed inebriate, but now one of the -most respectable and respected citizens of the town, were in close -proximity. Here too, were Mr. Allen and Mrs. Lucy Mansfield, at the head -of the wealthy aristocracy, in animated conversation with William and -Anna Reynolds, once so oppressed with poverty. Mr. Benson and Emily, who -would anywhere be recognized as persons of true refinement and grace, -bestowed special attention upon those present, who were unaccustomed to -such scenes, and on that account timid and reserved. A table was -extended the entire length of the dining room, and bountifully crowned -with delicacies and luxuries, of which at the proper hour all were -invited to partake. The bride and bridegroom with their train, who were -in attendance as at the wedding, mingled with the company and addressed -a kind word to each. - -There were so many children and young people present who were obliged -to leave at an early hour, that the Doctor, after consultation with me, -requested Mr. Munroe to close this interesting interview with prayer. -Instead of complying immediately with this request, I noticed that Dr. -Clapp stepped forward and said something to the Doctor, and then -suddenly left the room in company with the reverend gentleman, Mr. -Marshall, Allen Mansfield, and one or two others. I looked at Frank, -wondering what this could mean. He whispered to me, that Dr. C. wanted -to have a little singing. I was still more puzzled when Emily Benson -touched my arm and desired to speak with me. "They have found out," said -she, "that it is Frank's birth-day, and want to sing a hymn in honor of -the event. Take his arm and keep him quiet, just where you are." She -then went and led mother and the children near me, and taking her -husband's arm, stood behind us. - -The gentlemen returned, and Dr. Clapp, who is a fine singer, commenced -the following hymn, in which he was joined at first by nearly all the -company except our immediate family: - - - To him who e'er hast lent a hand - In hours of direst woe, - Who like a brother led the way, - And showed us how to go; - To him who oft has bowed the knee - Beside the lowly cot, - Here thanks we give, here thanks we pay, - On this thy natal day. - - Kind benefactor, brother, friend, - Our words but feebly tell - The gush of love comes over us, - And in our bosoms swell, - For all thy kindness, all thy care - For souls by sin oppressed, - Here thanks we give, here thanks we pay, - On this thy natal day. - - May He who in his precious word - Declares the giver blessed, - E'en far beyond recipients, - Pronounce thee doubly blessed; - And as swift years their circles speed, - May lover, children, friends, - Combine to bless thy natal day, - As we our thanks do pay. - - -I never knew Frank so much overcome. He put his handkerchief to his -eyes, and then made a movement as if he were meditating an escape from -the room; but I whispered, "don't leave me, Frank." - -When the singing terminated, Rev. Mr. Munroe stepped forward and began -to make a speech. My heart beat very fast; and for a moment I felt as if -I were going to be married. I was so much overcome that I could not hear -all that was said, but the next hour was occupied with speeches -addressed to the Doctor, by Rev. Mr. Munroe, Mr. Marshall, Dr. Clapp, -and Thomas Jones; each of whom in a most delicate manner, spoke of his -happy influence and professional services. Mr. Munroe said, "No one -could fully estimate the value of the labors of a pious physician this -side of eternity." "Everywhere," he continued, "among this people, I -find occasion to bless God for locating me in a parish where those -labors abound." - -Dr. Clapp thanked my husband for his kind attention, encouragement and -friendship, and concluded by saying "I owe all my present ease and -comfort to you, Dr. Lenox." - -Allen Mansfield followed him, and in glowing terms spoke of the -blessings for which under God he and his were indebted to Frank, and to -our family. - -Next Thomas Jones came forward to acknowledge his obligations. He -commenced in a lofty strain. "Dear sir, I speak not for myself alone, -but for a large class in the community, some of whom I see standing -around you and your worthy lady and family, persons who through your -instrumentality."--Poor man, his emotion choked his utterance, and he -suddenly stopped, caught the Doctor by the hand, and broke out in a more -natural and therefore impressive strain; "Oh, sir, think what I was when -you found me, took me out of the ditch, led me home by the hand, -encouraged and warned me, prayed with me and for me; think of me, a poor -besotted drunkard, frightening my own wife and children, and see what -your kindness has made of me and of them. I say with Dr. Clapp, that -under God, I owe all this to you, Doctor; and there's many here whose -hearts are saying the same thing. God bless you, Doctor, your beloved -wife and children; and may he also bless us, and gladden our hearts, by -many returns of your birth-day. Mr. Willard had prepared me a fine -speech for the occasion; but before I got through the first sentence I -forgot the whole of it." This frank acknowledgment suddenly turned the -sorrow that was suffusing so many eyes into a roar of laughter, in which -even the weeping Doctor could not but unite. - -Finally, Mr. Marshall presented himself and said, "Dr. Lenox, there are -many persons in this company who have it in their hearts to reiterate -the remarks of Mr. Jones, Dr. Clapp and others who have addressed you; -but the lateness of the hour forbids them the pleasure. Enough has been -said to convince you, their esteemed friend and physician, that your -labors have been neither in vain, nor unappreciated. In their behalf and -in my own behalf, I thank you for your ministrations of kindness, for -your charity to the poor, and your relief of the distressed; and I -cordially unite with them in the desire that your life and valuable -services may be long spared to us, and to the community in which we -live. I conclude with this sentiment: "_Our beloved physician--he has -sown bountifully, may he also reap bountifully, harvesting esteem in -this world, and life eternal in the world to come._" - - - "Thy natal day-- - And duly shall our raptured song, - And gladly shall our eyes - Still bless this day's return, so long - As thou shalt see it rise." - - -When he had closed, Mr. Marshall, perceiving that the Doctor was too -much overcome to attempt a reply, turned to the pastor, who concluded -the service with a solemn and impressive prayer. There was hardly a dry -eye in the room, while Cæsar and Phebe, who stood in the rear of our -family, sobbed aloud. The Doctor kept his handkerchief to his eyes, and -he told me afterwards, that it was with difficulty he could support -himself. - -After prayer, the company bade us good night and retired. The next -morning, at family prayers, I was delighted to hear my husband pray that -he might not be led to take to himself that glory which was due to God -alone; but that the late scene might humble him and render him more -diligent in his master's service. - - -_Friday, October 24th._ - -This morning, before Pauline's departure, Eugene put into her hand, -legal documents conveying to her one half of their deceased father's -estate. Uncle and aunt Morgan are to return with the bride and -bridegroom. Charles Karswell and Anna Reynolds are to be of the party as -far as New York city, and Eugene to New Haven, where he is to resume his -place in the senior class in Yale College, which he entered at the last -commencement. - -Now that they all have gone, I begin to realize that Pauline, the child -of my heart, has left me, and in spite of all my efforts at resistance, -a sadness steals over my spirits. I try to compose myself, and to -realize some comfort from the thought my dear husband holds up to my -view, that I have gained a son. But as yet I can only remember that I -have lost the society and companionship of my lovely daughter; I think -that Frank feels her loss almost as much as I do; for though he appears -very cheerful, yet there is a pallor about his mouth which I have -always noticed when his feelings are deeply moved. I heard him as he -left me to visit his patients humming a lively tune; but I knew that he -only did it, as boys whistle in the dark, to keep their courage up. - - - - -CHAPTER XL. - - "When all the fiercest passions cease, - (The glory and disgrace of youth;) - When the deluded soul in peace, - Can listen to the voice of truth; - When we are taught in whom to trust, - And how to spare, to spend, to give; - (Our prudence kind, our pity give,) - 'Tis then we rightly learn to live." CRABBE. - - -"_Papers relating to my beloved Imogen, to be read by my son on his -attaining his majority._ H. C. S. - - -"MY DEAR SON EUGENE,--When you unseal this packet, the hand which wrote -this brief account of your mother, will be mouldering in the dust. When -you have read it, you will need no farther explanation of the cause of -that sorrow which has brought me to the grave. Nor will you wonder that -I could never enter upon the subject so often and so naturally referred -to by you. - -"My beloved Imogen, your mother was born in Nice, of highly respectable -and wealthy parents. The estate on which they lived, which has of course -much depreciated in value, together with funds in Paris, enabled them to -live in comfort, and to bestow upon their only child, Imogen, the best -advantages of education. - -"In the autumn of 1828, I went to Rome for the winter. There I first met -her, whose image from that hour to the present has never left me. Though -her great personal beauty, both of face and figure, joined to her -remarkable mental endowments, rendered her the object of universal -admiration, yet I alone won the affections of her generous heart, a -heart which, though warm and impulsive beyond even the daughters of her -native clime, was pure as that of a vestal. - -"But my throbbing pulse and trembling hand warn me not to delay at this -point of my story. Suffice it to say that I returned with my beloved -Imogen to Nice, and our betrothal receiving the sanction of her parents, -we were married; their only condition being a promise from me, that when -I was ordered abroad, (I was then in command of troops in his majesty's -service,) she should return to them to remain during my absence. - -"No language can describe to you the happiness experienced by us during -the few years which followed. An amount of happiness not often -vouchsafed to man. Alas! _alas!_ I sought nothing beyond the felicity of -the present hour. I adored my wife, and lovely boy, but forgot even the -being of that God, who had blessed me so far beyond the common lot of -mortals. But early in the year of 1833, I was fully awakened to a sense -of my bliss, by the thought of the terrible separation which had now -become necessary. I received orders to join my regiment and go to India. -I had taken one furlough after another, but now there could be no more -delay. In the first frenzy of her despair at losing me, Imogen insisted -upon accompanying me. But earnestly as my heart seconded this appeal, I -could not be so rash as to allow it. It was within a few months of her -accouchement; and I determined not to leave her until she was safe in -Nice under the care of her parents. This, however, circumstances -compelled me to do. At this crisis, Ralph Mortimer, a young officer, who -was dear to me as a brother, arrived in England. He had sold out his -commission, and was intending to go to France to recruit his wasted -strength and spirits. I met him accidentally, and in a few moments had -communicated to him the nature and depth of my affliction. He was -somewhat roused from his melancholy by my distress; and without -detailing minutely what followed, it was at length decided that I -should remain with my family until the time of sailing, and then -Mortimer would proceed to Nice with Imogen and our boy. I presented -every possible inducement to him to remain in Nice, that I might feel in -case of her parents' death, or any unforeseen event, that my dear wife -would have a protector. She, however, in private informed me that she -feared constant intercourse with a man so morose and melancholy would -only prey upon her spirits. But I hoped much from her influence to -overcome this morbid state, and as there was no living being in whom I -had such entire confidence, I rather urged this upon her. My friend I -believed to be the very soul of honor and--But I cannot go on. I have -been thus particular to show you that I was the only mover in these -arrangements for her comfort during my absence; and that she unwillingly -agreed to them solely out of her affection for me; often repeating, that -in the society of her parents, and with the affection and nurture of her -beautiful boy, she should endeavor to pass away the time, and count the -months when I should return to her arms. - -"Passing over the frantic grief of my loved Imogen from whom I was -obliged forcibly to tear myself away, I went mechanically on board the -vessel which I regarded with horror as the one that was to bear me far -from all I loved; nay, idolized. Mortimer accompanied me, and I was -startled from my brief unconsciousness and unconcern of what was -passing, by his approaching to take leave. - -"Drawing him passionately to a retired part of the vessel, I there -extracted from my friend a promise that after accompanying her to her -parental home, he would under all circumstances watch over her with the -affection of a brother; that he would never cease his efforts for her -happiness or prosperity. All this, he solemnly promised out of regard to -our early and long tried friendship. Afterwards I let him go. - -"During the ensuing year, I received letters from home announcing the -birth of a little daughter; and also the sudden death of my wife's -father, which latter event was quickly followed by the decease of her -mother. - -"Imogen was now alone, and Mortimer, though still an invalid, prompted -by his desire to fulfil his promise to me, spent much of his time in her -blissful society, having his rooms at the hotel, which was near her -residence. It was his delightful privilege to watch the unfolding of our -two precious buds of promise, to administer consolation to his sorrowing -charge in her successive bereavements. Alas! _alas!_ while soothing her -grief, a pang entered his own soul. He suddenly awakened to the fact -that he loved one, whose innocent purity of thought and action were at -every meeting more and more apparent. He loathed himself for his perfidy -to the brother of his early affections; that he had thus returned the -generous confidence which had confided to him in perfect trust, the wife -of his youth, the chosen companion of his heart. - -"But I am anticipating. Toward the close of the year 1834, I received a -letter, purporting to be from a gentleman residing in Nice, and who -professed great interest in me. This letter, though cautiously written, -yet more than hinted at the unfaithfulness of my wife, and the perfidy -of her companion, Ralph Mortimer. When I received it, like the bite of a -poisonous serpent, it instantly diffused itself through every vein in my -body. I gnashed my teeth that I could not get my hands upon the villain, -and tear him to pieces. But I was thousands of miles away, and must bear -my dishonor as best I might. After a night, spent in such horror as no -words can describe, I determined to resign my commission, to sacrifice -everything in order to get home. What was to become of me when there I -never thought. But before I could accomplish my wishes, the idea which -waking or sleeping was ever before me, of him whom I considered too -vile, even for the company of devils, in the constant society and love -of my hitherto adored wife--this idea so wrought upon a frame enfeebled -by a hot climate, that I was laid upon my couch with fever. So violent -was this attack, that there was no hope of my recovery. For weeks, I -lay unconscious; but when I recovered my reason, and was told I could -not live, I knew better. I was sure I should be allowed to unmask the -traitor, and expose Mortimer to infamy. I was right. I recovered so -rapidly that the most sanguine expectations of my friends were more than -realized; and far sooner than I had even dared to hope, I was ready to -sail for England. But I had nearly failed in this, for when about to -embark, having all my goods on board, I received another letter, -containing intelligence which had I doubted before, would now, alas! -have left no farther room for doubt. Burning with rage, I was carried on -board ship, where, by a dreadful relapse of fever, I was brought a -second time to the borders of the grave. Again mercy interposed, and I -partially recovered. But I felt no gratitude for restored health,--no -thanks to the Being who had preserved me amidst so many dangers. All the -feelings of my soul were concentrated into one burning desire for -revenge, and every moment which delayed this, was an age to my impatient -spirit. - -"I landed in England, and without an hour's delay took passage for -Havre, from which place I proceeded to Nice. - -"Oh, my son Eugene! I have taken up my pen many times, and unable to -relate, even to you, the awful, the shocking events which followed, have -again and again been obliged to lay it down. But justice to your -departed mother requires the sacrifice, and it shall be made. - -"I reached Nice, and with the fires of Etna raging within me, I drove -directly to the home of Imogen. She was not in. One of the servants -informed me she had gone out to walk with Mr. Mortimer. - -"The old steward caught my hand, as without waiting to see my children, -I was rushing after the wanderers. "Thank God!" said he, "that you have -returned." - -"Even in this cordial welcome, I read a confirmation of my dishonor. -Having learned the direction they had taken, I flew along the streets -until at length I saw my wife approaching with Mortimer. I instantly -crouched behind a wall, and as they passed, heard her imploring him to -leave Nice. - -"He told her it was in vain for her to plead. The time had passed when -he might have done so; now it was no longer in his power to tear himself -from her presence. - -"Had I not heard enough? A voice within me thundered why wait for more? -With one bound, I leaped like a tiger over the wall, and throwing him to -a distance from where she stood, I presented a pistol to his breast. - -"The movement had been so sudden, and unexpected, that for an instant -they stood paralyzed. But recovering himself, Mortimer, though pale as -death, stood erect before me, saying, 'you can do me no greater favor -than to end a life so miserable as mine has become.' - -"There was something about him which reminded me of the loved Ralph of -my boyhood, and my hand holding the pistol dropped to my side. But -Imogen rushed forward and threw herself at my feet. 'Spare his life! oh, -Harry! _spare his life!!_' - -"In this appeal, I recognized only her love for the guilty wretch; and I -spurned her from me, calling her by the vilest of names. She fell -senseless to the ground, and I, maddened by the scene, only waited to -appoint a meeting for the morrow with Mortimer, when hastening to the -inn, where I had ordered my horse to be left, I flew rather than rode to -the next town. I cannot tell how I passed the night. At the time -specified, I was at the place, and soon Mortimer met me. I placed a -brace of pistols in his hand, and in a voice hoarse with passion, I bade -him take his choice. - -"Mechanically he took one from me, and then stopped. 'Harry,' said he, -'one word before you fire. I alone am to blame. Imogen is'--he -hesitated--'_an angel_!' - -"'Yes,' said I, drawing my breath with difficulty, 'but a _fallen_ one.' - -"He groaned aloud. 'Oh, God forgive me that I should have made her -suffer!' - -"I was beside myself as he thus dared to avow his love, and I ordered -him to stand, or I could not restrain myself. He stood around facing the -sun. Even in my rage, I would not take advantage of this, but pointed to -him to change his position. - -"'No,' said he, 'I neither deserve nor wish to live. Fire, Harry,' he -continued, as I paused. 'I never will raise my hand against one I have -treated so treacherously!' - -"'Ralph,' I exclaimed, 'You dare not refuse to give me satisfaction.' - -"Without another word, he placed the pistol to his own breast, when, -with a spring into the air, he fell heavily to the ground. He had taken -his own life. - -"I flew to him, and raised him in my arms. All my revenge was oozing out -with the blood which poured from his death wound. - -"'Oh, Harry,' he said faintly, 'tell me before I die that you will -forgive Imogen. She is innocent. She never knew till yesterday that I -loved her, and then she implored me to leave her at once. She said her -heart was all yours.' - -"I gasped for breath. 'Ralph,' I shouted, 'say again that she _is -innocent_, and I will willingly lie down beside you and die.' - -"'Harry,' and the voice grew more and more faint. 'I would not deceive -you. Had she known the wicked feelings I have indulged, she would have -spurned me from her presence.' - -"'And you?' I asked quickly. - -"'I dared--to love her--whom you--so -trustingly--confided--to--my--care!' - -"The last words were spoken so faintly, that by putting my ear to his -mouth, I could scarcely distinguish them. 'Oh, Ralph,' I exclaimed in an -agony of remorse, 'you must not die!' The blood had ceased flowing since -I had crowded into the wound a handkerchief torn from my neck, and I -began to hope he had but fainted. I shouted 'help!' Soon some men came -running from a field. I told them a man was dying from loss of blood, -and I wanted help to carry him to the inn. - -"From that fatal moment, I remember nothing which passed for nearly a -month, except lying in a darkened room, while a figure dressed in white -floated around me. When I partly recovered my consciousness, I began to -listen for the light footstep, and looked up to see my nurse. She was -dressed in a gray robe, like the sisters of charity, with a hood which -nearly concealed her face. I turned my head to the wall and sighed; but -my thoughts soon wandered, and I forgot my disappointment. Whenever I -slept, I dreamed that my Imogen was by my side, but awoke only to see -the calm figure of the hooded nun. Twice I felt sure I heard violent -weeping in the room, but could never discover the cause. - -"I had now regained my consciousness, but I dared ask no questions. The -nun never spoke. She performed the office of a nurse in the most tender -and devoted manner. But after I had begun to question her, she left me, -and her place was supplied by another. I asked my physician to restore -the one who had so kindly watched over me. - -"'Her skill has saved your life,' was all his reply. - -"I asked him how I came to this place. - -"'When you are strong enough to bear it I will tell you.' - -"This answer put me back several days. When at the worst, I one day -suddenly opened my eyes, and found the gray nun leaning over me. For an -instant the large lustrous eyes looked mournfully into mine, and I was -sure Imogen was before me, when turning partly aside, a calm, cold voice -asked me what I would have. - -"The disappointment was too great. I buried my head in the bed clothes -and wept. I saw her no more. A week passed away; it was a full month -since I first asked the question; and I again implored my kind physician -to tell me what had happened during my sickness. I found Mortimer had -never spoken after he reached the house; and I had been discovered and -conveyed to my home, I never knew by whom. - -"I had over-estimated my strength, and again relapsed. But this time I -had my reason. Then it was that my sins stared me in the face. I was a -murderer. Yes, though my hands had not shed blood except in battles, yet -in the sight of God, aye, and in my own sight, I was a murderer. - -"But where were Imogen and my children? I had often asked this question, -but had never been able to obtain a reply. I now determined to ask Mr. -Percival; and taking advantage of an early visit, I put the question -directly to him, 'Where is my wife?' - -"He shook his head mournfully. - -"'I cannot be kept longer in suspense,' I exclaimed. 'Do not fear it -will injure me.' - -"'I shall probably be able to impart some knowledge of her at our next -interview,' he replied, and soon took his leave. - -"When he bent over my head at parting, I saw his eye was moistened by a -tear, and I loved him for sympathizing in my grief. - -"Oh, my son! my hand almost refuses to record the pang which was soon to -seize my soul. During the days succeeding his visit, I arose from my -bed, dispensed with the services of a physician, and yet my kind friend -came not. I determined to wait no longer. Though hardly daring to hope -that my injured wife would forgive me, yet I longed to throw myself at -her feet, and sue for pardon. I called my servant and told him to send -for the clergyman. - -"He replied, 'Mr. Percival is below, and will wait upon you.' - -"Something in the manner of the man alarmed me, and sinking back in my -chair, under an apprehension of I knew not what, I impatiently awaited -my visitor. He came in, kind and gentle as ever, and sat by my side. - -"'You promised,' said I eagerly, 'to tell me of my Imogen.' - -"'I have come for that purpose, my son,' and again he paused. - -"'Mr. Percival,' I said, catching hold of his hand, 'Have you no -compassion?' - -"He put his handkerchief to his eyes. '_She is at rest!_' - -"I sprang from my chair, and stood before him, only half comprehending -his meaning. 'Where?' I tried to articulate. - -"He pointed upward. * * * * * - -"I pass over the agony of that period. It was a long, _long_ time before -I could be reconciled to life. I could not endure the thought of leaving -the grave of my lost Imogen, and I sent my steward to England for our -children. My sympathizing friend, Mr. Percival, had directed me where to -find them. The steward returned with you, my son; but from that time to -the present, I have never been able to find the least trace of the -little Inez. She had started for England with her nurse to meet you, who -were there with our friends, and though I caused the strictest enquiries -to be made, and advertised in the papers for many months, yet nothing -could be learned. She was probably wrecked in a vessel reported as lost -at sea about that time. - -"This loss was, however, but slight compared with the one which from the -hour I heard it, to the present, has pressed upon me with a mountain -weight. The conduct of your mother was so spotless, that, -notwithstanding the intimacy of Mortimer in the family, not a breath of -calumny had ever fallen on their intercourse. The loss of her parents -had been blessed to her soul, so that for a year she had been a humble -Christian. She came and watched over me during my sickness in the -disguise of a nun, the physician enforcing perfect silence as the only -condition of her presence. She arose from her bed to look upon me once -more, and then returned to the parsonage to die of a broken heart. - -"My dear son, Eugene, I have now concluded my brief sketch of my crimes, -and of your mother's virtues. No motive less powerful than the desire to -do justice to her memory, together with the hope that you may be enabled -by the grace of God to avoid the one and to imitate the other, could -have induced me to make a record of this portion of my life. - -"I have with great satisfaction observed that in the sweetness and -urbanity of your disposition, you resemble your lovely mother. Could I -feel that religion guided, and governed your thoughts and actions; that -the instructions I have endeavored to impress upon your mind, would be -sanctified to your heart by the Holy Spirit; that the daily and hourly -prayers I have sent up to heaven in your behalf would be accepted, and -answered, then indeed I could lay me down and die in peace. - -"Oh, my dear son! Take warning by my crimes; by the sudden blighting of -all my fondest hopes; by my premature old age; but above all, by the -agony of remorse, which has in the prime of life, brought my gray hairs -in sorrow to the grave; take warning never to be governed and controlled -by passion. Never allow yourself to be influenced by what is falsely -called "_honor_," to raise your hand against your fellow. - -"In every event of life you have a sure guide in the word of God. Read -it, my son; read it daily; read it prayerfully; endeavor to conform your -life to its precepts; so shall you be useful in life, peaceful in death, -and happy through all eternity. - -"And now, my dearly beloved son, _farewell_! Though my sins have risen -up to heaven, yet the blood of my crucified Saviour has sufficed to wash -away their guilty stains. I leave myself with him, trusting solely in -his righteousness for pardon and salvation. - -"Soon I hope to receive my summons to resign my earthly tabernacle, and -to join my Imogen in forever singing praises to him who died to redeem -my guilty soul. - -"Eugene, my son, _Eugene_! FAREWELL!!" - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's Cora and The Doctor, by Harriette Newell Baker - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK CORA AND THE DOCTOR *** - -***** This file should be named 35526-8.txt or 35526-8.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/3/5/5/2/35526/ - -Produced by David Edwards, Martin Pettit and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -book was produced from scanned images of public domain -material from the Google Print project.) - - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions -will be renamed. - -Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no -one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation -(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without -permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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