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+This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements,
+metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be
+in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES.
+
+Procedures for determining public domain status are described in
+the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org.
+
+No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in
+jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize
+this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright
+status under the laws that apply to them.
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+Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for
+eBook #53957 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/53957)
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-The Project Gutenberg EBook of Graham's Magazine, Vol. XXXIV, No. 4, April
-1849, by Various
-
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most
-other parts of the world 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. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have
-to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook.
-
-Title: Graham's Magazine, Vol. XXXIV, No. 4, April 1849
-
-Author: Various
-
-Editor: George R. Graham
- J. R. Patterson
- J. B. Taylor
-
-Release Date: January 13, 2017 [EBook #53957]
-
-Language: English
-
-Character set encoding: UTF-8
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK GRAHAM'S MAGAZINE, APRIL 1849 ***
-
-
-
-
-Produced by Mardi Desjardins & the online Distributed
-Proofreaders Canada team at http://www.pgdpcanada.net from
-page images generously made available by Google Books
-
-
-
-
-
- GRAHAM’S MAGAZINE.
- VOL. XXXIV. April, 1849. No. 4.
-
-
- Table of Contents
-
- The Poet Lí
- The Naval Officer
- Victory and Defeat
- To Mother
- On a Diamond Ring
- The Recluse. No. I.
- Rome
- The Missionary, Sunlight
- Thermopylæ
- Lost Treasures
- The Brother’s Temptation
- The Unsepulchred Relics
- Reminiscences of a Reader
- The Gipsy Queen
- The Brother’s Lament
- Sonnet to Machiavelli
- The Darsies
- The Unmasked
- Mormon Temple, Nauvoo
- Rose Winters
- The Zopilotes
- History of the Costume of Men
- The Beautiful of Earth
- Wild-Birds of America
- Jenny Lind
- Storm-Lines
- Review of New Books
- Editor’s Table
- Adieu, My Native Land
-
- Transcriber’s Notes can be found at the end of this eBook.
-
-
-
-
-[Illustration: Anaïs Toudouze LE FOLLET _Robes de M^{me.}_ Bara Bréjard,
-_r. Laffitte, 5—Coiffures de_ Hamelin, _pass du Saumon, 21_. _Fleurs
-de_ Chagon ainé, _r. Richelieu, 81—Dentelles de_ Violard, _r. Choiseul
-2^{bis}_ 8, Argyll Place, Londres. Graham’s Magazine ]
-
-
-
-
-[Illustration: D. Bydgoszcz, pinx. A.L. Dick
-
-THE BRIDGE & CHURCH OF S^{T}. ISAAC.]
-
-
-
-
- GRAHAM’S MAGAZINE.
-
- * * * * *
-
- VOL. XXXIV. PHILADELPHIA, April, 1849. NO. 4.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- THE POET LI.
-
-
- A FRAGMENT FROM THE CHINESE.
-
-
-BY MRS. CAROLINE. H. BUTLER, AUTHOR OF “RECOLLECTIONS OF CHINA,” “MAID OF
- CHE-KI-ANG,” ETC.
-
-
- PART I.
-
- Do not draw upon you a person’s enmity, for enmity is never
- appeased—injury returns upon him who injures—and sharp words
- recoil against him who says them.
-
- _Chinese Proverb._
-
-On the green and flowery banks of the beautiful Lake Tai-hoo, whose
-surface bears a thousand isles, resting like emeralds amid translucent
-pearl, dwelt Whanki the mother of Lí. _The mother of Lí!_ Ah happy
-distinction—ah envied title! For where, far or near, was the name could
-rank with Lí on the scroll of learning—receiving even in childhood the
-title of the “Exiled Immortal,” from his skill in classic and historical
-lore!
-
-Moreover, he was of a most beautiful countenance, while the antelope
-that fed among the hills was not more swift of foot. Who like Lí could
-draw such music from the seven silken strings of the Kin! or when with
-graceful touch his fingers swept the lute, adding thereto the
-well-skilled melody of his voice, youths and maidens opened their ears
-to listen, for wonderful was the ravishing harmony.
-
-Yet although the gods of learning smiled upon this youthful disciple of
-Confucius, poverty came also with her iron hand, and although she could
-not crush the active mind of Lí, with a strong grip, she held him back
-from testing his skill with the ambitious _literati_, both old and
-young, who annually flocked to the capital to present their themes
-before the examiners. For even in those days as the present, money was
-required to purchase the smiles of these severe judges. They must read
-with _golden_ spectacles—or wo to the unhappy youth who, buoyant with
-hope and—_empty pockets_, comes before them! With what contempt is his
-essay cast aside, not worth the reading!
-
-Sorely vexed, therefore, was poor Lí—and what wonder—to know that he
-might safely cope with any candidate in the “Scientific Halls,” yet dare
-not for the lack of _sycee_ (silver) enter their gates, lest disgrace
-might fall upon him.
-
-Yet Lí was of a merry heart—and, as all the world knows, there is no
-better panacea for the ills of fortune than the spirit of cheerfulness.
-Thus, although poverty barred the way to promotion, it could not
-materially affect his happiness—no more than the passing wind which for
-a moment ruffled the surface of the lake, yet had no power to move its
-depths.
-
-Now it happened that one day taking his nets Lí went down to the lake,
-and as he cast them within the waters, not knowing any one was near, he
-broke forth into a merry song, which sent its glad burthen far off to
-the lips of mocking Echo, like Ariel, seeming to “ride on the curled
-clouds.” Now it also chanced, that within a grove of the graceful
-bamboo, which skirted the path down which Lí had passed on his way,
-walked the great Mandarin Hok-wan.
-
-“_Hi!_ by the head of Confucius the fellow sings well!” he exclaimed, as
-the song met his ear, (for, as we have said, Lí had a voice of rare
-melody,) and forthwith issuing from his concealment, Hok-wan seated
-himself upon the bank and entered into conversation with the young
-fisherman.
-
-If the mere melody of the voice had so charmed the mandarin, how much
-more was he captivated by the wit and learning of the youth, who, thus
-poorly appareled, and humbly employed, seemed to share wisdom with the
-gods! Hok-wan stroked his eye-brows in astonishment, and then bidding Lí
-leave his nets, he bore him off as a rare prize to his own house, where
-he that day feasted a numerous company.
-
-First conducting Lí to an inner apartment, he presented him with a
-magnificent robe richly embroidered, together with every article
-necessary to complete the toilet of a person of distinction, and when
-thus appareled, introduced him into the presence of his guests. And
-truly Lí walked in among them with all the stateliness and hauteur of a
-man who feels that he is conferring an honor, instead of being honored,
-as no doubt Lí should have considered himself, in such an august
-assemblage of grave mandarins. With what an air he seated himself at the
-sumptuously loaded table! where, according to Chinese custom of the
-higher classes, the various dishes of meats, soups, fish, preserves,
-etc., were all nearly hidden by large bouquets of beautiful flowers, and
-pyramids of green leaves.
-
-And now no sooner had Hok-wan delivered with all customary formality the
-speech of welcome, and drained to the health of his guests the tiny
-goblet of crystal, embossed with gold, than rising to his feet, and
-joining his hands before his breast, in token of respect to his host, Lí
-called a servant, and bidding him take a part from all the good things
-spread before him, said:
-
-“Carry these to the dwelling of Whanki, the mother of Lí. Say to her
-that as the sands on the lake shore, countless are the blessings of the
-gods, who have this day smiled upon her son. Bid her eat—for although
-from hunger he should gnaw his flesh, and from thirst drink his blood,
-yet not one morsel of this banquet shall pass the lips of Lí unless his
-aged mother be also sustained by the same delicacies.”
-
-At hearing which, all the mandarins, and Hok-wan himself, loudly
-expressed their admiration. Such is the esteem which the Chinese
-entertain for filial piety.
-
-This duty discharged, Lí attacked the dainties before him like a hungry
-soldier, yet seasoning all he said and did with so much wit and humor,
-that the guests laid down their chop-sticks and listened with wonder.
-With the wine, Li grew still more merry—his wit cut like hail-stones
-wheresoe’er it lighted, and at his jovial songs the grave dignitaries
-forgetting their rank, (somewhat washed away by copious draughts of
-_sam-shu_,[1]) snapped their fingers, wagged their shorn heads, and even
-rising from the table embraced him familiarly. At length, when after an
-interval of a few hours their hilarity was somewhat abated, during which
-the guests walked in the beautiful gardens, or reclining upon luxuriant
-cushions, regaled themselves with their pipes, or in masticating their
-favorite betel-nut, Lí made bare his bosom before them, and to their
-astonishment they found it was only a needy scholar whose praises they
-had been shouting.
-
-_A needy scholar!_
-
-How firmly they clutched their fobs, lest a _candareen_[2] might jump
-into the pocket of the needy scholar. But of advice they were as profuse
-as grass-hoppers in August.
-
-“Go to the capital—go to Kiang-fu,” (Nankin the ancient capital of the
-empire,) “thou wilt perplex the learned—thou wilt bewilder the
-ignorant!” said one.
-
-“_Hi!_ this fellow Lí will yet stand with honor before the emperor,”
-cried another.
-
-“Appear boldly in the ‘Scientific Halls’ before the Examiners,” said a
-third, “and never fear but thy name shall be cried at midnight from the
-highest tower in the city,[3] as the successful Lí, with whom no other
-candidate can compete!”
-
-“When the wind blows over the fields does not the grass bend before it!”
-said Hok-wan. “When the great Ho speaks will not inferiors obey! the
-learned academician Ho is my brother—to him then you shall go—one word
-from him, and even the judges themselves shall cry your name.”
-
-“Ivory does not come from a rat’s mouth, or gold from brass clippings,”
-thought Lí, as he listened to these remarks—“a few candareens now would
-be better for me than all this fine talk—truly I must be a fool not to
-know all this stuff before. Yet by the sacred manes of my ancestors, I
-_will_ go to the capital, and that, too, ere another sun ripens the
-rice-fields—furnished with a letter to the illustrious Ho, I may dare
-admittance.”
-
-Giddy with wine, and with the excitement of high hopes for the future,
-at a late hour Lí was borne in a sumptuous palankeen to the humble
-dwelling of Whanki.
-
-The poor old soul at first knew not the gay gallant who stood before
-her, so much had the gift-robes of the mandarin changed his appearance.
-
-“_Heigh-yah!_ but, Lí, thou art as fine as a magpie,” quoth she, raising
-her head from the pan of charcoal, over which she seemed to be simmering
-something in a small dish—“_Heigh_—and now I look at you again, I see
-you have drank of that cursed _sam-shu_—forever abhorred be the name of
-I-tih![4] with all thy wit dost thou not know the wise saying of
-Mencius—‘_Like a crane among hens is a man of parts among fools_.’ (It
-may be inferred, I think, that the good old Whanki was something of a
-scold.) And while thou hast been guzzling, see what I have prepared for
-thee—what had _I_ to do with birds-nest soup, and with shark’s fins,
-and with pigeon’s eggs from the table of Hok-wan! My poor Lí will be too
-modest to eat with the great company, I said to myself, and I will not
-eat them, but warm them up to comfort him when he comes back—look, here
-they are,” (lifting the dish from the fire) “and yet thou comest home
-like a well-fed, stupid swine!”
-
-“Now tu-h, mother,” answered Lí, “if thy son has been drinking with
-fools, they wore fine feathers—and now embrace me, for I am going to
-the capital.”
-
-“Lí, thou art drunk—go to bed—the capital indeed! Ah cursed, cursed
-I-tih!” exclaimed the old woman.
-
-But when at length Lí convinced her that he was neither drunk nor crazy,
-but in reality about to start for Nankin, as a candidate for honors in
-the Scientific Halls, and with a letter to the great Ho in his pouch,
-Whanki knocked her head reverently before the shrine of the household
-gods in token of gratitude.
-
-The remainder of the night was passed in preparations for the journey,
-and just as the golden ripples of the lake danced in the rays of the
-rising sun, Lí tenderly embraced his aged parent, and set forth on foot
-for Nankin, more than a hundred miles distant.
-
-“Ah, the blessed bug,” quoth the old woman, gazing after him so long as
-she could catch a glimpse of his large bamboo hat, “he will not want for
-rice any day—no _sycee_ has he in his pockets, but such a tongue in his
-head, as will bring him food and honors.”
-
-Whanki was right. In every hamlet he passed through—in every cottage by
-the wayside, Lí found a shelter and a welcome—the good people
-considering themselves amply repaid for their hospitality if the young
-stranger would but touch the strings of the _pipa_, or recite to them
-odes from the Shoo-king.
-
-In this manner he reached the capital, and crossing the marble bridge
-over the great canal, upon the eastern side, entered the city at the
-Gate of Extensive Peace. Going into the first barber’s shop which
-offered, Lí carefully plucked _out_ his beard, (hear this, ye exquisites
-of modern days!) shaved his head anew to the crown, and plaited his long
-black hair with red ribbons. Then entering an adjoining tavern, he
-exchanged his dusty, travel-worn garments for the rich dress presented
-him by Hok-wan, which he had preserved with great care for the occasion,
-and holding up his fan, to shield his eyes from the sun, stepped forth
-into the busy streets, to look for the dwelling of the illustrious Ho.
-
-And next, within the Hall of Ceremony, in the elegant mansion of Ho,
-behold Lí in the presence of the great man himself—for with the same
-audacity which marked his behavior at the dinner of Hok-wan, had Lí
-given the door-keeper a vermilion card, leading Ho to expect a visiter
-of rank. Advancing three steps to meet him, Ho bows low to his stranger
-guest—then with graceful ease Lí also advances three step, and bows
-still lower—Ho again gravely steps forward and makes another
-salutation—upon which Lí again does the same—with a still lower
-bending of the body, Ho once more advances—whereupon Lí, nearly
-touching the marble pavements with his forehead, steps forward yet
-another three steps! By this time their united and solemn paces had
-brought them near the couch upon which visiters are expected to repose
-themselves. And here again the same formalities were gone through with,
-as to who should first be seated thereon. But _being_ seated, Lí at once
-burst forth with such a flow of wit and fancy, that Ho was completely
-captivated ere he knew the name or business of the daring youth!
-
-Now this was a capital stroke of Lí. For the academician cared not so
-much for any dignitary under the Emperor Supreme, as he did for a man of
-learning, or even for one who could tickle the moments as they flew with
-witty jests, provoking laughter. Ho saw at once that Lí not only
-possessed this recommendation, but that his knowledge could also ring on
-as many topics as there were bells to the Porcelain Tower. When,
-therefore, he had perused the letter of Hok-wan, which, after securing
-his ground, Lí put into his hand, and after having listened to the
-history which the youth gave of his hard struggles, of his poverty, and
-earnest desire to come before the judges on the day of examination, than
-Ho, embracing him, bade him be of good cheer.
-
-“Now, by the sacred Budha!” he exclaimed, “learning like thine shall win
-its crown without the aid of propitiatory gifts, save to the gods
-themselves. Know, O Lí, that Yang and Kau, who enjoy the smiles of the
-great emperor, are this year the examiners. To them shalt thou go, with
-no favor but my name—humble as it is, it shall cause thine to be
-enrolled among the _literati_ of the Imperial Academy!”
-
-No doubt Ho manifested great vanity in this, in so much as hinting that
-his “_humble_” name could balance with gold in the scales of avarice!
-Nevertheless Lí was delighted, and immediately set about piling up such
-a cloud castle as spread over his whole heaven of glory.
-
-And now the day of examination approached, and confident of success, Lí
-boldly presented himself for admission.
-
-Offering the memorial of Ho, which was to insure him, as he supposed,
-the favor of the judges, he was much surprised to see those great men,
-Yang and Kau, after turning over the missive with elevated noses,
-expressive of their contempt, cast it from them with scorn.
-
-“_Heigh!_ the academician Ho thinks to cheat us with bubbles! He sends
-us a scrawl devoid of meaning, to bespeak our favor for an upstart
-without degree or title! Yes—_we will remember the name of Lí!_” Saying
-which, they cast looks of bitter disdain upon the needy scholar.
-
-Then commenced the tedious formula of the examination. The candidates,
-hundreds in number, were all obliged to undergo the strict search of the
-officers in attendance. Their robes, pockets, shoes, and even their
-nicely plaited queues were examined, to see they had not secreted some
-essay or composition of some kind, which they might substitute for one
-written on the spot without preparation, when the examiners should
-command them. This done, they were all seated on long benches with their
-paper and pencils ready for the trial—the doors and windows in the
-meanwhile being closely barred and guarded, that no one from without
-should have the power of smuggling any written paper into the hands of
-the students.
-
-At a signal-gun the theme for composition was given out, and, like the
-velvet feet of butterflies, the pencils of the rival candidates glided
-smoothly and fleetly over the tinted paper. With perfect composure and
-ease, Lí wrote off his essay in the most beautiful characters, without a
-single erasure or omission—handling the subject with great skill and
-judgment, and gave it into the hands of Yang.
-
-“_Heigh!_” said Yang, without giving himself even the trouble to glance
-over it, but drawing his pencil derisively over the fair and beautiful
-characters, “I remember the name of Lí! What stuff is here—why the
-fellow is only fit to grind my ink!”
-
-“To grind your ink!” quoth Kau, “say rather he is only fit to lace my
-buskins!”
-
-And laughing loudly at their own wit, the great judges Yang and Kau
-turned their backs upon the unfortunate Lí.
-
-Overwhelmed with mortification and rage, he rushed to the lower end of
-the hall, and there was obliged to remain until evening, as not until
-then could the doors be thrown open to give egress to any one. Here he
-had the vexation of listening to the jibes and sneers of those around
-him, and of seeing others promoted to honors, who were as far inferior
-to him as owls to eagles! What a bitter day for poor Lí! and when at
-length dismissed with renewed contumely from the Scientific Halls, he
-rushed into the presence of Ho, swearing loudly that he would one day
-ride over the necks of the proud Yang and Kau, “and by the head of
-Confucius when I do—_Yang shall grind my ink, and Kau lace up my
-buskins!_” he cried with bitterness.
-
-Ho was terribly indignant at the treatment of his _protégé_, as well as
-incensed for the insult he imagined his own dignity had received. But,
-although he was himself high in favor with the emperor, Yang and Kau
-stood still higher, therefore he dissembled his anger, lest his head
-might pay the forfeit, should those two powerful courtiers incense the
-emperor against him.
-
-When he found Lí preparing to return home, he embraced him kindly, and
-bade him tarry yet another year in the capital.
-
-“In the end thou wilt surely succeed, O Lí. The next year the examiners
-will not be the same, and thou may’st then be certain of success,” said
-Ho. “Remain with me until the time comes round—thy days and nights
-shall roll off bright and rosy as morning clouds—wine, wit, and music,
-yes, and the smiles of women, shall make thee forget the insults thou
-hast received.”
-
-But Lí remembered his aged mother, sitting solitary in her humble home
-by the side of the lake, and his resolution strengthened.
-
-“Know, O Ho, that an old mother waits for Lí afar off. Summer and
-harvest will come, but Whanki has no one to sow her rice, and desolation
-will sit in her dwelling. The fish sport and gambol amid the waters of
-the lake—Whanki has no strength to draw them forth, therefore hunger
-and death will await her! What profit, O wise Ho, should I gain if my
-aged parent suffered! Would not the gods curse the race of Lí!”
-
-“Noble youth, take this purse—it is heavy,” exclaimed Ho—“hasten to
-relieve the necessities of thy mother—a happy mother in so dutiful a
-son—then return without delay and await the examination. I promise
-thee, thou shalt not this time lack a present for the greedy
-judges—though, by Budha, I would like to give it them at the dagger’s
-point!”
-
-Accordingly Lí bade farewell to his generous friend, promising to return
-as speedily as possible.
-
------
-
-[1] A deleterious liquor distilled from rice.
-
-[2] A Chinese coin.
-
-[3] The custom of announcing the names of the successful candidates at
-the examination.
-
-[4] The god of intoxicating liquors.
-
-
- PART II.
-
- A man who has a tongue may go to Rome.
- _Chin. Prov’b._
-
-Within the “Tranquil Palace of Heaven,” Hwant-sung sat upon the Dragon’s
-Throne, with all his court prostrate before him.
-
-There was evidently “something rotten in the state of Denmark,” for the
-clouds which veiled the august features of the Celestial Monarch were
-black as night—thunder might soon be expected, and low in the dust his
-humble courtiers awaited the outpouring of his terrible wrath.
-
-Before his footstool knelt the Premier Yang, bearing in his hand an
-official document inscribed with curious hieroglyphics.
-
-“By my ancestors,” exclaimed the emperor, with a wrathful look from one
-to the other of his trembling courtiers, “a wise court is sustained by
-the bounty of Hwant-sung! say rather a pack of idiots, asses, dolts,
-fatted dogs! What! shall we become a jibe in the mouths of foreign
-nations! Shall barbarian kings mock the court of Nankin! _Hi!_ Is there
-not one then of my learned counsellors—not one of my renowned warriors
-can decipher me this scroll! Tremble, then, ye hounds! Yang, I command
-thee to make known to us the purport of the missive which the foreign
-ambassadors have brought to our court.”
-
-At this order well might Yang turn pale—for there was no more meaning
-to him in the characters on which his eyes were fixed, than in the slimy
-trail which the green lizard draws upon the sand. Over and over he
-turned it—now on this side, now on that—watched narrowly and jealously
-meanwhile by all around—for when was one high in favor with princes
-also the favorite with the mass! At length, nine times reverently
-knocking his head before Hwant-sung, Yang said:
-
-“Let not the displeasure of Earth’s Glory, before whose frown the whole
-world stands affrighted, annihilate his slave that the gods have not
-granted him power to do the will of his majesty in this thing. He cannot
-read.”
-
-Then did Hwant-sung call up one after another of those whose scholastic
-lore was famed throughout the empire. In vain. Not one could understand
-the mysterious scroll. At which, becoming exceeding wroth, Hwant-sung
-swore that unless within three days his ministers could make known to
-him the signification of the embassy, their _offices_ and _salaries_
-should all be taken from them—and if in six days they were still in
-ignorance, their _death_ should release the empire from so many stupid
-owls!
-
-Then did the academician Ho humbly present himself at the foot of the
-throne.
-
-“Will the emperor deign to open the ears of graciousness while the
-humblest of his slaves speaks? Know then, O mighty sovereign, there
-arrived last night at my house a man in whom all knowledge seems to
-centre. His mind, keen as the lightning, penetrates the most hidden
-mysteries—there is no science, no art, which he hath not already
-mastered. Command then that he appear before thee to make plain that
-which doth perplex thy majesty’s servants.”
-
-Hwant-sung rejoiced greatly at this information, and bade Ho bring the
-learned scholar at once into his presence.
-
-But when Ho, eager with joy, related to Lí the good fortune he had
-secured him, that audacious youth positively refused compliance with the
-commands of the emperor! offering as an excuse, that as he was but a
-poor scholar, without title or degree, he dared not presume to appear
-before so much majesty.
-
-With this answer then the unhappy Ho returned to the palace, not
-doubting but the rage of Hwant-sung would vent itself not only upon Lí,
-but also upon himself.
-
-Kneeling before the monarch, Ho exclaimed reverently—
-
-“Will your majesty once more graciously listen. At the last examination,
-this man of whom I have spoken was turned from the Scientific Halls in
-disgrace—his essay rejected by the Premier Yang and the General Kau.
-Will it then please thee to bestow some favor upon Lí, that he may with
-more propriety come into this august presence?”
-
-“It shall be done,” exclaimed the emperor. “We confer upon Lí the title
-of Doctor of the first degree, together with the purple robe and yellow
-girdle. Go bring him before us.”
-
-With this mark of royal patronage, Ho retraced his steps with all the
-alacrity of a lover, and made known to Lí the gracious favors of the
-emperor, supposing, doubtless, that the student would rejoice as one
-long blind now suddenly restored to light, or as a famished man at a
-feast. But lo! coolly putting on the robes of office, as if he had but
-just cast them aside, with the air of a prince, Lí signified to the
-great academician Ho his readiness now to obey the mandate of the
-emperor.
-
-Entering the hall of audience with all the grace and ease of a man bred
-in courts, Lí advanced to the throne, and after paying the customary
-homage, rose to his feet and looked proudly around upon the assembly of
-grave men and gallant courtiers.
-
-The knees of the Premier Yang smote each other, as he recognized the
-youth he had treated with so much contumely now suddenly brought into
-notice—and well did Kau now _remember the name of Lí_—and it seemed as
-if hot pins tore his flesh, into such agitation did that name now throw
-him.
-
-Hwant-sung received the new doctor with condescension, and placed in his
-hand the document which he was required to make plain.
-
-But Lí, casting a meaning glance upon Yang and Kau, said:
-
-“Can an indifferent scholar like myself presume to know more than these
-learned men! Know, O mighty emperor, thy servant was deemed unworthy of
-favor by thy commissioners Yang and Kau—surely, then, they must be more
-wise than Lí.”
-
-Charmed with the boldness of the youth, the emperor graciously smiled
-upon him, and motioned the two mortified examiners to withdraw.
-
-Then standing erect, his head thrown back, yet in an attitude of
-careless ease, Lí opened the important missive, and without even
-glancing his eye over it to understand more fully its nature, read it
-aloud from beginning to end, in a clear, melodious voice.
-
-It proved to be a demand from the king of Po-Hai, couched in the most
-insulting language, requiring the emperor to restore a part of Corea,
-consisting of no less than a hundred and eighty towns, and also
-demanding tribute from the time of its “_usurpation_” (as the memorial
-expressed it) by the Emperor of the Tang Dynasty. Thus, but for the
-skill of Lí, the empire would have been plunged in irretrievable
-disgrace through the ignorance of its ministers.
-
-The countenance of Hwant-sung grew black as midnight as he listened to
-this insulting claim, and but for the bold remonstrance of Lí, he would
-have ordered the bearers of the embassy to instant death.
-
-“May it please your majesty to summon the boorish ambassadors before
-us,” cried Lí boldly, “I will myself confer with them, and teach them
-how to respect the mighty Emperor Hwant-sung.”
-
-Immediately, therefore, the ambassadors were brought before Lí, who
-conversed with them in their own language with the same haughty bearing
-as if he himself were emperor, interpreting as he did so to the
-indignant Hwant-sung. At length Lí dismissed them, saying:
-
-“To-morrow his sovereign majesty, to whom your prince is but an
-earth-worm, will indite an answer to your insulting embassy. Retire—and
-tremble as ye walk! Thank the gods that the gracious emperor deigns ye
-to live.”
-
-The audience chamber rang with acclamation, as the ambassadors
-obsequiously withdrew in compliance to the orders of Lí, and all the
-courtiers pressed forward to compliment the young doctor—while the
-emperor, embracing him, conferred upon him at once the rank of
-academician, and ordered apartments to be prepared for him in the palace
-of the Golden Bell.
-
-With continued graciousness, he also directed a sumptuous banquet to be
-got in readiness, and at which all the learned men and wits of the court
-were expected to appear. Wine was poured for the guests by beautiful
-young girls of the “_golden lilies_”[5]—ravishing music swept around
-them, while at intervals of the feast, the emperor sent from his own
-apartments a choice theatrical corps for their entertainment.
-
-Now did it seem that all the trials of Lí were over, his poverty but a
-dream long past, and that now upon the pinnacle to which his ambition
-had pointed from early youth, he stood ready to hurl back in the teeth
-of his enemies the disgrace which, only a few months before, they had
-heaped upon the name of Lí.
-
-The feast wore on even into the night—the wine circulated freely, and
-in the same breath the courtiers exalted the name of the emperor and of
-the young academician. What wonder that under the attendance of such
-charming cup-bearers Lí should have drank more freely than was
-consistent with his new dignity! How from such hands could he resist the
-tempting goblet!
-
-The result was, that when the next morning the emperor repaired to the
-Hall of Audience to treat with the embassy from Po-Hai, the academician
-Lí was not in attendance—nay, did not make his appearance until after
-being twice summoned by royal mandate!
-
-The courtiers with whom Lí had feasted the night previous, shook their
-heads and looked significant. The Premier Yang and the General Kau
-resumed their usual boldness of demeanor, for no doubt this upstart,
-this vagabond Lí, would find the anger of their Celestial Monarch more
-than his head was worth—decapitation would certainly follow such
-contempt of royalty!
-
-To be _twice_ summoned—what audacity!
-
-At length Li walked carelessly into the hall—his dress somewhat
-disordered, and his feet thrust negligently into slippers. But for those
-who were hoping his ruin, what rage to see the emperor not only extend
-his own royal hand in signification that he would raise him from the
-ground, but also condescend to inquire after his health!
-
-“I think, learned doctor, the wine was to thy fancy, yet methinks the
-fumes are still troubling thee! Ere we proceed to our public duties I
-would have thy wits clearer.”
-
-Saying which, Hwant-sung ordered a plate of hot-spiced fish-broth to be
-brought from the royal kitchens, that its effects might dissipate the
-evils of last night’s debauch.
-
-And when with unprecedented condescension their sovereign even took the
-chop-sticks, and himself cooled it for the palate of Lí, amazement
-almost turned them to marble.
-
-When his majesty deemed the senses of his new favorite sufficiently
-restored, the ambassadors were summoned into the hall.
-
-Upon the top of the platform, near the foot of the “Dragon’s Throne,”
-was placed, by the order of Hwant-sung, a cushion or divan of the
-Imperial Yellow, embroidered with gold and silver, and upon a tablet
-formed of mother-of-pearl, and richly set in a band of emeralds, was a
-cake of perfumed ink—a sheet of flowery paper—a hair-pencil set in a
-gold tube, together with a small _jade_ stone, with which to rub the
-ink.
-
-Waving his hand condescendingly to Lí, the emperor spoke: “Ascend the
-platform, learned doctor, and repose thyself upon the cushions at my
-feet, while I indite to thee our answer to these slaves.”
-
-“May it please your majesty,” replied Lí, “my feet are not in proper
-dress to approach so near the ‘Glory of the Earth.’ Will it please thee
-to command new buskins to be brought thy servant, that he may with
-decency ascend the platform.”
-
-This bold request was no sooner proffered than it was granted. And then,
-with a significant glance to the spot where stood Yang and Kau, pale
-with rage and envy, the audacious Lí again addressed the emperor:
-
-“The humblest of thy slaves would not be officious—but he has one more
-request to lay at the feet of his gracious sovereign. At the examination
-this year, thy servant was repulsed by Yang, and turned from the
-Scientific Halls in disgrace by Kau! Will it therefore please thee to
-command the Premier Yang to _grind my ink_, and the General Kau to _lace
-my buskins_!”
-
-Never, perhaps, was an audience-chamber so insulted! Even the awe which,
-in the presence of the Celestial Monarch, rendered the courtiers less
-men than jackals, failed in this case to suppress a murmur of
-indignation which passed from one end of the hall to the other.
-
-But Hwant-sung, well pleased to punish the injustice of his
-commissioners, immediately ordered them both to approach and do the
-bidding of Lí!
-
-To disobey was death. They wanted courage to die, therefore preferring
-disgrace, they obsequiously advanced. Kneeling, _Kau laced the buskins
-of Lí_, who then ascended the platform, and while reclining at his ease
-upon the soft cushion at the feet of the emperor, Yang stood at his side
-assiduously _rubbing his ink_!
-
-Thus did Lí accomplish his revenge, and triumph over his enemies!
-
-Taking the pencil, he now, with rapid and easy strokes, proceeded to
-indite the answer, which the emperor vouchsafed to the Po-Hai embassy,
-and while he did so, Hwant-sung bent over him in astonishment, beholding
-the characters which he traced with so much rapidity to be identical
-with those which had so perplexed his court.
-
-Then standing erect upon the right hand of the “Dragon’s Throne,” in
-clear distinct tones, Lí read aloud the imperial answer—the ambassadors
-trembling with fear as they listened.
-
-“And now return,” exclaimed Lí, “and teach your king that foxes may not
-war with lions, nor the cuckoo steal into the eagle’s nest! He is like a
-vexed grasshopper striving to combat the mighty chariot about to crush
-him, or like a fly in the jaws of the dragon! When the mighty
-Hwant-sung, at whose name fear sits in the hearts of all nations, shall
-send a handful of men to seize upon the petty territory of Po-Hai, blood
-shall flow a thousand _li_!”[6]
-
-Kneeling reverently before the throne, and knocking their heads in token
-of submission, the ambassadors then withdrew to relate to their king
-that the “Celestial Empire was upheld by an Immortal from the skies!”
-who stood ever by the throne of the Dragon, and to whom all men did
-reverence.
-
-From that day the star of Lí was in the ascendent, and for many years he
-enjoyed the undivided confidence of the emperor, and attained a rank in
-the scale of letters, which renders the name of Lí celebrated in Chinese
-literature. Many volumes of his beautiful poems and other works are
-still preserved in the Imperial Libraries.
-
------
-
-[5] Small feet.
-
-[6] Leagues.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- THE NAVAL OFFICER.
-
-
- BY WM. F. LYNCH.
-
-
- (_Continued from page 164._)
-
-Mr. Gillespie and his daughter had retired below when the sweeps were
-gotten out, and had now returned to the deck. Unconscious of danger,
-they looked admiringly upon the shining and beautiful scene. Nearly
-abreast the island of Porto Rico, in full view, lay basking in the beams
-of the setting sun, the dark, rich green of its luxuriant growth of
-cane, here and there varied by groves of the cotton-tree, amid which
-were seen clustering the settlements of the planters. Astern, but
-farther distant, Cape Engano stretched far to seaward, while inland,
-ridge over ridge, wooded to their summits, rose the picturesque
-mountains of St. Domingo. The numerous vessels in sight, mostly running
-before the wind, varying in size, in rig, and in the color of their
-canvas, enlivened the view, while nearer, the frigate in her towering
-proportions was borne majestically toward them.
-
-“Oh, Edward! what a glorious sight!” said the maiden to her lover, who
-had stepped to her side, as she gained the deck. “Look, father! look at
-that splendid ship, doesn’t she cleave the waters ‘like a thing of
-life?’ But what is the matter, Edward? You are silent, and seem
-dejected, do tell me?”
-
-“In a moment, dearest,” he whispered, as he left her to approach the
-captain, who had beckoned to him.
-
-“Mr. Talbot,” said the last, “my little craft is in great peril, and
-less than an hour must decide her fate. The Spaniard will not be silent
-much longer, and I advise you to get the passengers below.”
-
-“I was about to propose it,” replied Talbot, and returning to Miss
-Gillespie’s side, said, “summon your fortitude, Mary, the ship which you
-admire so much, is a Spanish frigate, and is endeavoring to capture the
-vessel we are in.”
-
-“Oh, how unfortunate! and will they harm us? Can they hurt you and
-father and Frank? Good God! what is that?” and she shrieked as the ship
-luffed to the wind, and fired a shot, which went plunging across the
-bows of the schooner.
-
-“Come below, dearest! come quickly! Help me, Mr. Gillespie, for she has
-nearly fainted.”
-
-The maiden and her father were conducted to the most secure place below,
-when, resisting the entreaties of his mistress, Talbot returned to the
-deck, which Frank had refused to leave.
-
-At the first report of the frigate’s gun, the captain had called out,
-“Edge her away, quarter-master, keep her off a point; let the guns
-alone,” he added, addressing some of the crew, “let them be, it would be
-worse than useless to fire them—the ‘Bird’ must now trust to her wings
-alone.”
-
-The little vessel was in fact at the very crisis of her fate. The last
-shot had told that they were within reach of the guns of the enemy; they
-felt that their only avenue of escape was through a gauntlet of fire,
-and that the loss of a single spar would certainly insure their capture.
-It seemed perfect madness for such a wee thing to abide the wrath of the
-huge leviathan, panoplied in thunder, and possessing almost the power of
-annihilation. But, in the forlorn and desperate hope of sustaining the
-enemy’s fire for a few moments, without material injury her captain
-steadily pursued his way, but cut his anchors from the bow, and threw
-four of his guns overboard. If the wind had been light, the schooner’s
-chance would have been a fair one; but the breeze instead of lulling,
-seemed to freshen as the sun went down. As it was, however, there was a
-bare possibility of escape, for already the little vessel, lightened of
-so much weight, began to increase her velocity—still there was an
-abiding, a stunning fear of being sunk or disabled by the broadside of
-the frigate. The latter had already opened her fire, and near the chase,
-the fierce, iron hail had fairly lashed the water into foam, but the
-schooner was yet materially unharmed, when a voice more potent than that
-of gunpowder, hushed the loud artillery.
-
-Unobserved by either, a light and fleecy speck, more like a wift of
-smoke than a fragment of a cloud, had risen over the land, and swift as
-a meteor shot across the sky. It was what sailors term a “white squall,”
-and it had caught the chaser and the chased wholly unprepared. Almost
-simultaneously it struck them both. The frigate's fore-mast and
-main-topmast went by the board, and every sail that was set, was blown
-into perfect shreds. The “Humming Bird,” light and resistless, felt the
-blast but to succumb before it—she was whirled over and capsized in an
-instant. A number of the crew, entangled in the sails and rigging were
-immediately drowned. The remainder clambered to the upper-rail, to which
-they clung with the tenacity that endangered life. In a paroxysm of
-anguish, Talbot had thrown himself down the cabin-hatchway as he felt
-the vessel going over, and at imminent hazard had rescued Miss
-Gillespie, but her father and the servant-maid perished. Frank had been
-saved by one of the seamen, who held him firmly with one hand, while
-with the other he clung to the shrouds.
-
-As soon as the survivors were assured of their immediate safety, they
-looked around to see if there were any hopes of being rescued from their
-position before the night set in. The frigate had driven past them, and
-under a single after-sail was hove-to, clearing her hull of the wreck.
-To the westward, distinct in the reflected light of the sun, which had
-descended, were several vessels again unfolding to the breeze the canvas
-which they had wisely furled to the passing gust. Some of the larger
-ones were again standing boldly out to seaward, while the others like
-affrighted wild-fowl, were hovering toward the shore. They were all too
-distant, and the air was fast becoming too obscure for them to see the
-wreck, or the unfortunate beings who were perched upon it.
-
-On the first recovery from her swoon, the grief of Miss Gillespie for
-the loss of her father was almost inconsolable. It required all the
-endearment and entreaties of her lover and her brother to prevail on her
-to struggle against the spasms which threatened her very existence.
-
-The survivors strove to cheer each other, but the indiscreet cry of one
-that he saw the fin of a shark cleaving the surface of the water, led
-them to fear that they were environed by yet greater peril. In about two
-hours the moon arose, and her clear, chaste light silvered the crests of
-the waves, as they curled to the now gentle breeze. She had risen scarce
-more than her diameter, when the watchers on the wreck discovered two or
-three dark objects which seemed to creep upon the water. Their hopes and
-their fears were equally excited, but presently they heard the splash of
-oars, and they knew them to be boats from the frigate. As eager now to
-be taken as before to escape from capture, by shouts and cries they
-attracted the notice of those who sought them. They were soon removed to
-the frigate; the lady and her brother being led to the cabin, and the
-remainder, including Talbot, promiscuously confined on the lower deck.
-
-Under jury-foremast and new main-topmast, the frigate was the next
-morning standing under easy sail, along the southern side of St.
-Domingo.
-
-Repeatedly but ineffectually Talbot had endeavored to convey a message
-to Miss Gillespie, and spent the night in sleepless anxiety on her
-account. He knew not into whose hands she had fallen, and whether her
-youth and beauty might not, in the hands of unprincipled men, tempt to
-ruffianly treatment. Her brother was with her, it was true, but although
-spirited, he was young and feeble compared to the strong men around him.
-
-Early in the morning, Talbot had asked to see the officer of the watch.
-He was told that he could not communicate with any one but through the
-officer of the marine guard, who would not make the rounds for three or
-four hours. Talbot impatiently waited for him, and it seemed an age
-before he made his appearance. When he did so, and was told that Talbot
-wished to speak to him, he superciliously asked, “Well, sir, what do you
-want?”
-
-“I wish,” replied Talbot, “to communicate through you to the commander
-of this ship, that I hold a commission as lieutenant in the navy of the
-United States, and that with the family of Mr. Gillespie, I was a
-passenger on board of the privateer.”
-
-“This is a singular tale,” remarked the other, incredulously; “have you
-any proofs of your identity—where is your commission?”
-
-“I haven’t it; with all my baggage, it was, unhappily, lost in the
-schooner.”
-
-“This seems incredible,” said the officer, “your dress, too, does not
-indicate the position you claim.”
-
-“I am aware of it,” replied Talbot, “for I scrupulously avoided wearing
-any part of my uniform, that in appearance even, I might not be classed
-among the complement of that unfortunate vessel. But here is her
-commander, who, as well as his crew, will bear testimony to what I say.”
-
-“Let them answer for themselves,” was the abrupt reply. “If they escape
-being hung as pirates, they will fare well.” After a moment’s
-hesitation, he added, “I will state what you say to Count Ureña, our
-commander, although I do not myself believe it; but let me advise you
-not to rely upon the evidence of these wretches,” pointing to the
-prisoners, “if you have no other proof you will fare badly.” As he said
-this, he turned upon his heel and walked away, Talbot with difficulty
-restraining himself from throttling him for his coarse, unfeeling
-rudeness.
-
-Again, hour after hour passed away in fruitless anxiety. Every step upon
-the ladder which led from above, exciting a thrill of hope, only the
-instant after to be crushed in bitter disappointment. At length, about 2
-P.M., an orderly, with a file of marines came to conduct him to the
-commander. With alacrity he obeyed the summons, and when he reached the
-gun-deck, from habits of association, he felt cheered at the sight of
-the long lines of massive artillery, the stacks of muskets here and
-there, surmounted with their bristling bayonets, and the bright sheen of
-the sharpened cutlases. As the cabin-door was thrown open by the sentry
-stationed there, he cast a quick and searching glance around the
-apartment, in the hope of seeing his betrothed. She was not there, and
-but for the guns projecting from either side, he could not have realized
-that he stood in the cabin of a man-of-war, so rich was its furniture
-and so gorgeous its decorations. Gracefully festooned across its entire
-width, and partially concealing the white and highly polished
-lattice-work of the after-cabin, was a deep curtain of crimson
-embroidered and fringed with gold. On either side, in the recesses
-between the guns, were magnificent couches canopied and covered with the
-same material, intertwined with white. Between the forward and the after
-gun, on each side, were collections of flowers and fragrant plants. A
-large mirror in an arabesque frame, was inclined over a rose-wood
-sideboard, laden with massive plate and a profusion of crystal. A richly
-chased silver lamp was suspended over a table, the cover of which was of
-white cloth, like the curtain, fringed with gold. Around were a few
-rose-wood chairs, and from several cages were heard the cheerful and
-melodious notes of canary-birds. The deck was covered with the finest
-matting. On the couch, in the recess to the left, was seated a man of
-middle age and rather delicate features, except the chin and under lip,
-which were massive and sensual, and a peculiar glance of the eye, which
-gave a sinister aspect to an otherwise singularly handsome countenance.
-He was spare in figure, and to a casual observer, even as he sat, it was
-perceptible that he stooped, and his whole appearance indicated a
-frequent participant in the orgies of dissipation. Before him stood the
-officer of marines, who had just made his official report. At a signal
-from the latter, Talbot advanced toward the count, who said, “I
-understand, sir, from the officer of the guard, that you declare
-yourself to be a lieutenant in the navy of the United States, but that
-you have no evidence to sustain you. How can you expect me to credit the
-assertion of a stranger under such suspicious circumstances as you must
-admit your present position to be?”
-
-“You have a lady on board, sir, my affianced bride, who, with her
-brother, is here under the same circumstances with myself, they will
-tell you that I am not an impostor.”
-
-“Your affianced bride,” said the count, not heeding what he had last
-said, “you are then the friend for whom she has been so restless and
-uneasy?”
-
-“I knew that she would be so,” replied Talbot; “may I ask now to see
-her, that she may corroborate what I have said?”
-
-“Not so fast,” exclaimed the count, “that you have gained the affections
-of the young lady is no proof of your being what you profess, indeed,
-you may have won them under an assumed name and character.”
-
-“It ill becomes you, sir,” cried Talbot, highly incensed, “it ill
-becomes you to insult a man who for the time being is in your power; but
-I warn you that if I, or those with me, are unnecessarily detained or
-harshly treated, you will be held to a severe accountability.”
-
-“And by whom, sir,” exclaimed the count, turning pale with rage, “by a
-man who has no other vouchers to a most improbable tale, than a horde of
-pirates, a mere boy, and a love-sick maiden?”
-
-“The proofs are sufficient, sir, for any impartial mind, but I see
-plainly that you have some purpose in seeming to disbelieve them—what
-that purpose is your conscience best can tell.”
-
-“What mean you, sir, by this insolence; but I know how to curb and to
-punish it!”
-
-“Insolence! and punish!” contemptuously answered Talbot, “those are
-words used by cowards when addressing slaves. I defy alike your malice
-and your power. You may maltreat me, but a day of reckoning will surely
-come. I demand to see Miss Gillespie and her brother,” he added, as his
-ear caught the sound of stifled sobs in the after cabin.
-
-The count pulled a bell-rope by his hand, and at the summons, the sentry
-who had admitted him, opened the door and looked in, while from another
-door, the steward entered and stood obsequiously by his master. The
-latter, pointing to the door, said,
-
-“Mr. Manuel, take out your prisoner and confine him apart from the rest;
-sentry, let them pass.”
-
-Talbot hesitated a moment, and then said, “I am unarmed and helpless,
-and it would therefore be madness to resist you—but, in the name of
-humanity, I ask you, can you listen unmoved to the distress of the
-unhappy lady within there; as a man, an officer, and a nobleman, I
-appeal to you in her behalf. She has recently lost her father, as you
-know, and, save myself, her young brother is now her only protector.”
-
-“She will be sufficiently protected, sir, without your
-interference—take out the prisoner, Mr. Manuel.”
-
-The above conversation had taken place in Spanish, which Talbot spoke
-fluently, but when he found that for some sinister purpose, he was not
-to be permitted to see Miss Gillespie, he advanced toward the
-lattice-work and called out in English, “Mary, dear Mary, be upon your
-guard! Frank, do not leave your sister for a moment; I fear that she is
-in the hands of a villain.”
-
-“That I will not,” cried the boy, who vainly tried to force the door,
-while his sister sobbed convulsively.
-
-The count, who, although not understanding the language, comprehended
-the import of the words, with a gesture of frantic impatience, motioned
-the officer to lead his prisoner away.
-
-Talbot, satisfied that the danger was lessened by the timely warning he
-had given, without resistance, submitted to be led from the apartment.
-
-When left alone, the count remained for some time in a thoughtful
-attitude. “If I could but speak their horrid language,” he said,
-soliloquizing with himself, “or if she understood mine, I should
-certainly succeed, for as to this would-be bridegroom, I can easily get
-rid of him, and of the brother also, if he prove intractable. Let me
-see! can I trust Gonzalez? From the expression of his eye sometimes, as
-well as from his never speaking of her, I fear that he knows all about
-his unhappy sister; and yet I must trust him, or abandon all, for he is
-the only interpreter we have. There is no help for it; I cannot give up
-the game so freshly started—but I will be wary and watch him closely.”
-He slightly touched the bell, “Send Gonzalez to me,” he said to the
-attendant, who obeyed the summons. A few moments after, a young man of
-23 or 24 years of age entered the apartment, and bowing to the count,
-awaited his commands in silence. From his spare figure, he looked taller
-than he really was. His hair and moustaches were glossy black, curling
-in their rich luxuriance. His eye-brows, thick and bushy, formed one
-continuous arch, and the eye beneath, black and lustrous, was soft and
-subdued in its ordinary expression, but at times, in a single glance,
-would convey a startling idea of latent but indomitable energy. His
-features were almost femininely regular, and his voice musically clear
-and sweet. The count’s fears were not without foundation; his secretary,
-for such was the position of Gonzalez, knew his sister’s wrongs, and
-like a true Spaniard, thirsted for an opportunity to revenge them. His
-commander scanned him closely where he stood for some minutes, the young
-man at first returning his gaze with a look neither too humble, nor yet
-audacious, and then deferentially turned his eyes in another direction.
-
-“What is the matter, Gonzalez? You seem of late unusually taciturn and
-moody.”
-
-“I think, señor, that my health is suffering from long confinement to
-the ship. I need recreation on shore.”
-
-“What mean you by long confinement—were you not on shore repeatedly
-last month in Havana?”
-
-“No, señor! If you will recollect, I applied several times to go, but on
-each occasion you had important letters or despatches to write.”
-
-“Did you hear from home before we sailed?” and the count’s look became
-intensely riveted upon him.
-
-The young man slightly colored, “I heard indirectly, señor, that all
-were well.”
-
-“From whom?”
-
-“From a muleteer who resides in the adjoining village.”
-
-“Did he give you any particulars?”
-
-“None, señor, worth relating.”
-
-The count paused. He was dissatisfied, yet feared that by further
-questioning he might excite the very suspicions he wished to repress.
-Assuming a bland and conciliatory tone, he said, “I have been to blame,
-Gonzalez, and will make amends. When we reach port, you shall have ample
-opportunities to recruit on shore. Should you need funds, consider my
-purse at your service.”
-
-“Thanks, señor! my salary is more than sufficient for all my wants.”
-
-“Well, should you be in need, remember my offer; but come nearer, I have
-now something confidential to impart. You are aware that the lady
-brought on board last night is now in the after-cabin.”
-
-“I am, señor.”
-
-“One of the prisoners, doubtless an impostor, assumes that she is his
-betrothed. I wish you to see her and ascertain how she is affected
-toward him.”
-
-“It is needless, señor. At the invitation of Lieutenant Flores, I
-accompanied him in his boat last night, and in rescuing the prisoners
-from the wreck, witnessed how tenderly that lady clung to the man you
-speak of.”
-
-“It may have been the convulsiveness of fear!”
-
-“If so, señor, it would have subsided with the occasion that gave it
-birth; but it continued to the last, and while she evinced for the lad
-the solicitude of an elder sister, she seemed to regard the American as
-her chosen and sole protector.”
-
-“How were they separated?”
-
-“I understood, señor, by your orders,” replied the youth with an air of
-surprise.
-
-“I mean,” said the count, somewhat confused, “how did they bear it?”
-
-“He was at first disposed to resist, but a moment after submitted with
-an air of stern resignation.”
-
-“And she?”
-
-“She at first seemed bewildered, and could not comprehend the purport of
-the order; when she did so, she implored her lover, for such he must be,
-not to desert her, but after he had whispered a few words to her, she
-too submitted, and with such meek gentleness as moved the hardest hearts
-to sympathy.”
-
-“Sympathy,” exclaimed the count, reddening; “where there is no real
-distress, there can be no occasion for its exercise. In common humanity,
-I am bound to protect her from the acts of an impostor.” There was a
-slight twitch of the secretary’s upper lip, but he said nothing.
-
-“At all events, I wish you to converse with her, Gonzalez. Try if you
-cannot reconcile her to a short separation from her lover, and assure
-her that as soon as I am satisfied that he is what he represents
-himself, he shall be free.”
-
-The secretary bowed in acquiescence, and the count rising, led the way
-into the after-cabin. It was fit for the boudoir of a queen. A carpet of
-the richest Persian dyes and softest texture was under foot. Except in
-front, the whole apartment was lined with fawn-colored tapestries; the
-windows framed into the after ports had party-colored curtains of fawn
-and cherry colors. An ottoman and several chairs were covered with
-embroidered damask corresponding to the tapestry; a small, richly-carved
-book-case was filled with handsomely bound books. There was a pair of
-globes upon stands, and a harp, a guitar, mirrors and candelabra, with a
-few small but exquisite paintings completed the equipment of this cell
-of a Sybarite.
-
-With disheveled hair, and eyes inflamed with weeping, in all the
-abandonment of grief, Miss Gillespie lay with her head upon her
-brother’s breast, who, as the door was opened, threw his arms around, as
-if more perfectly to protect her. With a courteous air, and all the
-finished breeding of an artificial gentleman, the count advanced and
-paid his respects through the medium of the interpreter. “Had she
-sustained no injury from the accident of the night before? Had she
-recovered from her alarm? Had she slept well? Could he do any thing for
-her?”
-
-The three first questions she answered in monosyllables. At the fourth,
-she made an effort to speak, but maiden bashfulness overcame her, and
-she looked imploringly to her brother. The youth construed her feelings
-rightly, and said,
-
-“We wish, sir, to see our friend, Mr. Talbot, who was, with us, a
-passenger in the schooner.”
-
-“At present it cannot be,” answered the count, “but when we reach
-Havana, he will doubtless prove his character, and then you can be again
-united, but,” addressing her, “so much beauty should not be marred by
-untimely grief. A few days more and your friend will be restored to
-liberty. Here I cannot make any distinction between him and the other
-prisoners. Let me therefore entreat you, Miss, to dry up your tears, and
-let a smile once more wreath itself upon your lovely cheek.”
-
-“Say to him,” asked Miss G., of the interpreter, “that I am in deep
-affliction. Yesterday I lost my father, and now, when I am most
-helpless, I am by his act,” (she looked toward the count) “separated
-from the friend whom that father had chosen as my protector through
-life. I am therefore in no mood to listen to compliments, which would be
-ill-timed from any one, most of all from him.”
-
-The count stifled his vexation and said, “I beg pardon for this
-intrusion. I will await a more seasonable time to express my sympathy
-and make a proffer of my services;” so saying, he withdrew, desiring
-Gonzalez to remain and gather the particulars of their history.
-
-An unprincipled man, in his sphere possessing almost unlimited power, he
-felt himself baffled by an unarmed prisoner and a helpless maid. “Till
-now,” he said to himself, “I thought Dolores beautiful, but her features
-want the intellectual grace and harmony of this northern houri. At all
-hazards, she must be mine. If all else fails, the drug must be resorted
-to. It is certainly the speediest and I know not but that it is the
-best; but I am neglecting my first precaution.” He rung the bell for the
-steward, a dark, swarthy Italian, with the body of a man surmounted on
-the legs of a dwarf.
-
-“Domingo,” said his master, “go into the secret passage and watch
-Gonzalez, who is now with the lady. Note every thing that he does, and
-try to gather the meaning of what he says.”
-
-The steward obeying, disappeared through a panel that opened with a
-spring.
-
-In about half an hour, Gonzalez came forth from the inner cabin, and
-stated what he had learned of the prisoners, which, as there was no
-concealment, is precisely what is known to the reader. When he had
-retired, at a peculiar signal from the count, the panel noiselessly flew
-open, and the steward reappeared before his master. His account was any
-thing but satisfactory, and the count’s brow was darkened with deep
-mistrust, as he listened to the recital.
-
-About sunset, Miss Gillespie, aroused by some incentive, sent to ask if
-her brother and herself might be permitted to walk on the upper deck.
-Assent was most graciously given, and the count himself escorted her.
-Finding that she would not converse, and that his presence was evidently
-irksome to her, he smothered his chagrin, and after a few turns, left
-the orphans to themselves.
-
-It was an hour and a scene fitted to captivate the eye and refresh the
-soul; and such was its soothing influences, that Miss G. frequently
-found her mind wandering from the contemplation of the perils which
-environed her. The night previous, the ship, driven before the blast,
-was whirled with resistless velocity along a bed of seething foam. Now,
-the gentle wind borne from the land, wafted fragrance on its wing, and
-the sea, slightly ruffled, seemed to enjoy the refreshing embrace of its
-sister element; the ship, too, under a cloud of canvas, snow-white and
-full distended, pressed majestically on, the spray, like fairy fret-work
-curling and combing beneath the bow and the rippling wake sparkled in
-the rays of the setting-sun. The gorgeous western sky was tinged with
-the hues of crimson and gold; the south was a boundless expanse of blue,
-the island of St. Domingo, lofty, picturesque and beautiful, bounded the
-northern and eastern horizon. The land, but little cultivated, seemed
-fertile in the extreme, and was covered with lofty and umbrageous trees,
-the tangled and luxuriant undergrowth seeming so interlaced as even at
-high noon to intercept the light of the sun. The near mountains were
-covered to their very summits with verdure, not the tawny verdure of a
-northern clime, but the brilliant green of the tropics, while the
-loftier mountains wreathed their bald and craggy tops with the clouds
-that floated in the distance.
-
-The sun had gone down and the moon was up: still Miss Gillespie paced
-the deck with her brother. It was evident that she had some purpose in
-view, and by those who watched her, she was observed to cast frequent
-and furtive glances around. At length a figure that had been stealthily
-gliding along under the shadow of the bulwarks to leeward, suddenly
-stepped beside her, and whispered, “Lady, I have endeavored to see him,
-but failed. Some time tonight I will surely succeed. In the meantime
-there is but one resource. Take this powder, and when you go below,
-dissolve it, and take a part yourself, giving the remainder to your
-brother. If you would be safe, neither of you should sleep a wink
-to-night. Be careful of what you eat or drink. But, hush! there is a
-man’s head raised above the rail—he has been observing us. I must
-away—but do not forget this.” He handed a small folded paper as he
-spoke, and immediately disappeared.
-
-Miss Gillespie had brought a book on deck with her, and by occasionally
-seeming to read it, had at first given a pretext for remaining. Into
-this book she inserted the paper, and soon after turned to leave the
-deck, when some one brushed rudely against her, and the book fell. The
-person, who, in her confusion she did not recognize, instantly picked it
-up, and in seeming eagerness to return it, let it fall a second time.
-Frightened almost beside herself, Miss G. now snatched it up and hurried
-below. Unfortunately, the paper was not to be found. So dreadful seemed
-the fate before her, that with difficulty she restrained herself from
-shrieking aloud. Frank cheered her all he could, although he had but a
-faint conception of the danger. They determined to deny themselves food
-and liquids of every description, hoping thereby to avoid the
-administration of an opiate. Alas! they knew not the infernal arts of
-the demon in human shape, who had them in his power.
-
-That evening, as was his wont once a week, the count supped with his
-officers in the ward-room, and he remained until near midnight; but in
-the meantime his diabolical agent had not been idle.
-
-About 11 o’clock Frank and his sister were sensible that they were
-inhaling an aromatic and fragrant vapor. At first they enjoyed it; but
-it soon occurred to them that they were fast becoming drowsy. With
-desperate exertions they endeavored to force the doors, or to obtain
-assistance by their loud and vociferous outcries. The breeze had
-unfortunately freshened on deck, and there was much tramping and running
-overhead, so that they were unheard, or if heard, unheeded. One would
-suppose that this agitation and fear would have proved an antidote to
-the insidious effects of the drug; but no! gently, imperceptibly, they
-felt their systems relax; they soon began to wonder at their alarm; a
-delicious langour enthralled them, and as volume after volume of the
-scented vapor rolled into the apartment, they surrendered themselves to
-its influence, and pressed in each other’s arms, were soon wrapped in a
-profound and insensible sleep.
-
-About an hour before, Talbot, to whom the night previous had been a
-sleepless one, although racked with anxiety, had fallen into a light and
-fitful slumber, when he was instantly aroused by a hand being laid upon
-his chest, and a voice whispering in his ear, “Do not speak, but follow;
-imitate my motions as exactly as you can. For God’s sake be cautious,
-you know not how much is at stake.”
-
-The speaker, who was lying beside him on the deck, then rolled over
-toward the hatchway; but when the sentry turned in his round, he
-remained perfectly still. This he repeated, slowly and cautiously;
-Talbot followed his example, until they reached what sailor’s term the
-combings of the main-hatch, i.e. the elevated pieces around it, to
-prevent the water from running into the hold. He there waited for some
-time until he saw the sentry loiter at the furthest end of his round,
-when he quickly threw himself down the hatch, and crept on one side out
-of sight. As soon as Talbot had done the same, he led the way among the
-casks and barrels. When they had proceeded a little distance, he
-whispered, “The master’s-mate of the hold, who is a fellow-townsman of
-mine, had this passage opened for me to-day. Had he refused, and he
-hesitated for a long time, that villain in the cabin would inevitably
-succeed in his plans.”
-
-“What plans?” eagerly asked Talbot. “I know not who you are, or whither
-you are leading me—explain.”
-
-“You will soon know me; but let it content you now that I lead you to
-save your mistress. But that I feared the interference of that ruffian,
-the steward, I would have gone alone.”
-
-“Lead on, then! lead quickly!” said Talbot, his fears strongly excited.
-
-They resumed their way, groping along in the dark, and taking every step
-with the greatest caution. In a short while they distinguished the faint
-light admitted from the deck above through the fore-hatch. As soon as
-they had gained this opening, Gonzalez, for it was he, taking the
-opportunity when the sentry was furthest off, and had his back toward
-him, sprung quickly up, and blowing out the light in a lantern which
-hung to an upright timber, immediately returned to Talbot’s side. As was
-anticipated, the sentry, supposing the light to have been extinguished
-by a flurry of wind, took the lantern down, and proceeded to the
-main-hatch, to relight the lamp. As he did so, they both, unperceived,
-succeeded in gaining first the gun and then the upper-deck. Then
-separating, each one quietly and undetected reached the quarter-deck,
-and again rejoining each other, they slipped through a port-hole to a
-narrow platform outside, called the main-chains, and there, in intense
-anxiety, concerted their future movements, for the most perilous part of
-their enterprise was yet before them.
-
-
- CHAPTER III.
-
-The convivial party in the ward-room had been broken up by a squall, and
-with the other sea-officers, the count had repaired to the quarter-deck.
-For a short time the wind blew with violence, and was succeeded by a
-heavy fall of rain. In less than an hour there was a perfect calm, and
-the sails flapped sluggishly against the masts as the ship moved with
-the undulations of a light ground-swell.
-
-In the cabin, the solitary lamp, suspended from a beam, through the
-gauze-like vapor shed its soft light upon the rich and costly furniture,
-and revealed the forms of the sleepers, whose deep breathing alone
-proclaimed their existence, so immovable was their position—so much
-deprived did their bodies seem of the watchful guardianship of the
-spirits within them. The faint and silvery light, the attenuated vapor,
-the fragrant odors wafted from the flowers in front, the boy, with his
-noble brow undimmed by sin or sorrow, the lovely maiden, one arm upon
-her breast, and one clasped around her brother, formed an atmosphere and
-a group in and around which angels might love to linger. But a serpent
-had stealthily glided in, and the count, with maddening pulse and
-gloating eye, looked upon his unconscious victim. Incapable of any
-feeling but that of a hardened libertine, no thought of the dire ruin he
-was about to inflict for one instant stayed his purpose. As the spider,
-after weaving its web, contemplates the struggles of the entangled fly,
-before clutching to devour it, so he stood, reveling in anticipation on
-the sensual feast before him. At length he approached, he gently
-touched, then breathed upon, and called them by their names, and then
-more rudely shook them. As he anticipated, they neither heard nor heeded
-him. The stillness was death-like and profound. He removed the boy from
-the girl's embrace, and she lay resistless at his mercy. For an instant
-longer he paused; he fondled her hand, he played with her tresses; he
-stooped to kiss her moist and parted lip.
-
-The fiend-like purpose was frustrated: a crashing blow descended upon
-his head, and he rolled over and fell senseless on the deck. With one
-foot upon the prostrate form, and the massive bar again uplifted, Talbot
-stood over him, while from the doorway Gonzales looked on.
-
-“Hold!” said the last, as Talbot was about to repeat the blow, “Hold!
-another stroke may finish him, and that is a task reserved for me
-alone.” He advanced as he spoke, and proceeded to examine the wound. “It
-is a very severe contusion,” he added a moment after, “and if it had
-fallen a little more direct, the blow would have been a fatal one. He is
-now wholly insensible, and unless my skill in surgery fails me, he will
-remain, for some days at least, in a perfect stupor. It is most
-fortunate. We need not now attempt an escape, for no one can suspect us,
-and before he recovers, we shall probably be in Havana. Let us place him
-in his room and retire; the vile, pandering steward will not dare to
-enter during the night, and in the morning, I will be hovering near. It
-is useless, no human efforts can awake them now,” he added, as he saw
-Talbot endeavoring to arouse the maiden: “but they are safe, and that
-they may continue so, we must not lose a moment.”
-
-With a sigh, Talbot relinquished the hand of his mistress, which he had
-clasped within his own, and, pressing his lips to her fair forehead,
-turned to assist Gonzalez in removing the wounded man. They then effaced
-all traces of their presence, and retired as they had come, through the
-window of the quarter-gallery.
-
-The next morning the table in the forward cabin was spread for
-breakfast; the steward, in passing to and fro, grinned leeringly as from
-time to time he looked toward the after cabin. One of the midshipmen of
-the watch came to report 8 o’clock. The steward tapped lightly at the
-state-room door, but receiving no reply, and not presuming to disturb
-his master, took it upon himself to report to the officers that the
-count said “Very well”—the usual reply. By 9 o’clock, he began to be
-uneasy, not that he apprehended any thing to have happened to his
-master, but that the lady might awake before the count had left her
-apartment. At the lattice-work, and to the key-hole of his master’s
-door, he alternately placed his ear. At the last he thought that he
-distinguished a deep and smothered breathing; at the first he could hear
-no sound whatever. Satisfied that his master was in his state-room, he
-felt more easy.
-
-At 10 o’clock, the wonted hour, the drum beat to quarters for
-inspection. When the first lieutenant came to make his report, the
-steward intimated that the count was indisposed.
-
-“Has he directed that he should not be disturbed?” asked the officer.
-
-The steward admitted that he had not.
-
-“Have you been summoned to him in the night?”
-
-“No, sir!”
-
-“Then I must make my report.” He advanced to the door and knocked, at
-first gently, and then louder and more loudly still. There was no reply;
-and the officer, turning the bolt, to the surprise of the steward, the
-door yielded to his push, and flew open. (That their mode of entrance
-might not be suspected, Gonzalez had unlocked it before retiring.) The
-count was found with his wrapper on, lying in a profound stupor, the
-blood clotted thickly over the wound he had received. The orphans were
-buried in a sleep which the surgeon pronounced unnatural; and the
-steward was suspected of having drugged them, and afterward attempted
-the life of his master. This miserable wretch was thrown in irons as the
-supposed murderer of the man in whose contemplated villainy he had been
-a willing and a free participant.
-
-Light and baffling winds detained the frigate, and on the evening of the
-fourth day after the incident above related, she had just cleared the
-windward passage, and with Cape la Mole astern, was standing along the
-northern shore of Cuba, for the port of Havana. The count had laid in a
-comatose state since his accident, and his constant heavy breathing and
-frequent moans, showed how much pressure there was upon the brain, and
-how much he suffered. In the course of this day his respiration had
-become more regular and less oppressive, and about 3 o’clock in the
-afternoon, he awoke to consciousness and a sense of pain. By degrees his
-recollection returned, and after making a few inquiries, to the surprise
-of every one, he ordered the steward to be released, and again summoned
-in attendance upon him. These two, the master, just rescued from the
-grave, and the servant who would have found an ignominious one had his
-master died, conferred for a long time together. After questioning his
-steward closely, the count said, “I am satisfied, Domingo, that it was
-not from your hand that I received the blow. I left you in the forward
-cabin, you could only have entered on the starboard side, and in that
-direction my head was turned, and I must have seen you. The blow was on
-the other side—probably from some one secreted there. Were you at any
-time absent from the cabin, after I went to the ward-room?”
-
-“Not an instant, señor!”
-
-“It is strange! Could he have entered by the quarter-gallery?”
-
-“It must have been so, señor, although I can discover no marks.”
-
-“I suspect Gonzalez,” said the count; “indeed, I am sure that he has
-been concerned, but then he had not the vigor to deal such a blow. That
-hateful American must have been the man. I will be deeply revenged!”
-
-Late that afternoon, as Talbot, sitting aloof from the other prisoners,
-was grieving that Mary’s persecutor had recovered his faculties before
-the arrival of the ship in port, and from which he feared the most
-serious consequences, he was accosted by the master’s-mate, who said, in
-passing, “Courage, my friend, you will soon be at liberty—take a cigar
-to cheer you.”
-
-Talbot thanked him, and was about to decline, when he caught the eye of
-the officer, and noticed that he pushed a particular one out from the
-small bundle he held in his hand; Talbot took it, and watching his
-opportunity, opened his cigar unobserved. It contained a small slip of
-paper within its folds with these words. “We are strongly suspected, if
-not discovered; I know it from the searching examination I have
-undergone. We must fly and reach Havana before the ship if possible. Be
-on the alert for any opportunity that may present to slip up the
-main-hatch ladder, near which I will be hovering. Do not hesitate! Here
-you are absolutely within the power of the tyrant. He will throw you
-into the Moro Castle as soon as we arrive, and before your case can be
-investigated, months must elapse, and in the meantime, the lady will be
-lost to you forever.”
-
-This note agitated Talbot exceedingly. It was agonizing to think of
-leaving Mary and her brother in the hands of their unprincipled captor;
-and yet, from his own experience thus far, he felt sure, that if he
-remained, he would be kept separated from her, and most probably
-confined in a dungeon until her ruin was completed. His only consolation
-was, that the count could not recover sufficiently to renew his
-nefarious designs before the ship had reached her port of destination.
-This consideration determined him to make his escape if possible.
-
-There had been some water heated in the coppers, (anglice—boiler,) for
-the purpose of giving the count a prescribed bath. It so happened that
-while the cook’s attention was drawn another way, a piece of meat was
-thrown in, which rendered the water greasy and unfit for its destined
-use. The master’s-mate was therefore directed to have more drawn from
-the hold. Accordingly he came upon the lower or birth-deck, and as he
-stepped from the ladder, said, sufficiently loud for Talbot to hear, who
-was reclined beside it, “Look out!” and passed immediately on. The
-latter, taking the hint, but uncertain how to apply it, remained for a
-few moments in great suspense, when the master’s-mate called the sentry
-forward to hold the light for him. As the latter moved forward, Talbot
-availed himself of the opportunity, and instantly hurried up the ladder,
-although yet uncertain if such were the plan concerted by his friends.
-He was very soon assured, however, for nearly abreast of him, from the
-shadow between two of the guns, a figure advanced a few steps and
-immediately retired again. It proved to be Gonzalez, and together they
-clambered out over one of the guns, and found themselves by the small
-skiff of the privateer, which had been saved and hoisted up immediately
-under the anchor in the waist. Fortunately, the wind had hauled nearly
-ahead, and with the yards sharp-braced up, the ship was sailing
-sluggishly along, with her head rather diagonally inclined toward the
-shore.
-
-“We must remain quiet here,” whispered Gonzalez, “until some movement be
-made on deck, in the noise of which we can lower the skiff undetected.”
-
-The wind was gradually freshening, and the ship began to plunge with the
-increasing swell. After a while the topgallant-sails were taken in, but
-it was an operation so quickly performed, that before the boat was
-lowered half the distance it was suspended from the water, the noise
-ceased, and they were obliged to hold on. In about half an hour after,
-which seemed to them an almost interminable space of time, they were
-cheered with the welcome order,
-
-“Man the main clew-garnets and buntlines,” preparatory to hauling up the
-mainsail. As the men ran away with the ropes, and clued and gathered the
-large and loudly flapping sail to the yard, Talbot and Gonzalez lowered
-the boat, and casting her loose, the ship passed by without any one
-observing them and was soon lost to view in the obscurity of the night.
-They had exchanged apprehended evils from human malignity for instant
-and appalling danger. The moon, struggling through a bank of clouds and
-shorn of her brilliancy by the opposing mist, cast her furtive beams
-upon the fretted sea. Instead of the prolonged and easy swell of the
-mid-ocean, the gulf, as if moved by adverse tides, whirled its waves
-about like some huge Briareus, tossing his hundred arms in the wildest
-and most furious contortions. The skiff was so light, so frail, and so
-difficult of trim, that they were every moment in danger of upsetting.
-The swell rapidly increased, and as they sunk into the trough of the
-sea, and shut out the faint horizon, the succeeding wave overshadowed,
-and its crest seemed to curl in anger above them. Sometimes a wave, like
-some monster rising from the deep, looked down black and threatening
-upon the tiny boat, and then rolling its seething foam along the sides,
-it rushed ahead, and gathering into a mass, seemed to await her coming.
-Thinly clad, and soon wet to the skin, as they rode upon the tops of the
-waves, they suffered bitterly from the coldness of the wind. In the
-hollow of the sea, they were sheltered one moment only to be more
-exposed the next. Sometimes riding upon the broken crest of a wave, they
-felt upon their bed of foam, as insignificant and far more helpless than
-the gulls which, disturbed in their slumber, screamed around them. The
-oars were of little service, save to steady the boat in the dreadful
-pitchings and careerings to which it was every instant subjected. One
-managed the oars, or sculls rather, while the other steered and
-occasionally bailed. There could be no transfer of labor, for it was
-certain death to attempt a change of position. Although the current set
-along the land, the wind and the heave of the sea, drove them indirectly
-toward it. After five hours incessant fatigue, cold, cramped and wearied
-to exhaustion, they reached the near vicinity of the shore, and running
-along it for about a mile, in increased danger, for the boat was now
-nearly broadside to the sea, they made the mouth of a small harbor, into
-which, as their frames thrilled with gratitude, they pulled with all
-their might. As the peace and the joys of heaven are to the wrangling
-and contumelies of this world, so was the placid stillness of that
-sheltered nook to the fierce wind and troubled sea without. The
-transition was as sudden as it was delightful, and with uncovered heads
-and upturned gaze, each paid his heartfelt tribute of thankfulness.
-
-On one side of the sequestered little bay, through the dim and uncertain
-light, they discovered two or three huts, embowered and almost concealed
-by groves of the umbrageous and productive banana, whose large
-pendent-leaves waving in the wind, seemed at one time to beckon them on,
-and at another to warn them from approaching. It was evidently a fishing
-settlement, for there were some boats hauled up on the shore, and a long
-seine was hung upon a number of upright poles. Pulling toward what
-seemed the usual landing, their light skiff grated upon the pebbly
-beach, and they leaped, overjoyed, upon the silent shore—silent and
-mute in all that pertains to human action or the human voice, but
-eloquent, most eloquent, in the outpourings of a rich and teeming earth,
-and the gushing emotions of thankfulness it awakened in the bosoms of
-those two weary and persecuted men.
-
- [_To be continued._
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- VICTORY AND DEFEAT.
-
-
- To-day, with loud acclaim the welkin rings
- In praise of deeds the shout of VICTORY brings:
- To-morrow, not e’en Echo will repeat
- The praise of deeds then canceled by DEFEAT.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- TO MOTHER.
-
-
- BY ANNIE GREY.
-
-
- Oh! wake, my mother! wake! and hail
- With me this dawning day;
- Oh wake, my mother! wake and list
- Thy daughter’s fervent lay.
-
- She comes to seek thy blessing,
- And to whisper in thine ear—
- That warmer glows her love for thee
- With every added year.
-
- Wake, mother! wake! while faintly steal
- The sunbeams pure and bright,
- And playful throw around thy couch
- Their most bewitching light.
-
- For this is a hallowed day, mother!
- A hallowed day to me;
- ’Twas at its dawn, four years ago,
- That first I greeted thee.
-
- We love the sunbeams, mother,
- And wheresoe’er they rest,
- We feel their sacred influence,
- As though some angel guest
-
- Concealed itself ’mid golden rays,
- That from God’s holy shrine
- Fall as night-dews or summer-showers,
- Refreshing and divine.
-
- We love the sunbeams, mother!
- What beauties they awake,
- When first from the clear eastern sky
- All gloriously they break.
-
- Oh! how the flowers delight to feel
- Their warm kiss from above,
- And brighten ’neath it as the heart
- Beneath a kiss of love;
-
- And merrier dance the waters,
- When every ripple shows
- A sparkling crown like diamond gems,
- As carelessly it flows.
-
- But wake, my mother! wake and list
- The strain I have to sing;
- ’Tis not of these glad sunbeams,
- Though joy around they fling,
-
- But of a sunbeam brighter,
- That cheers me all the while,
- And never knoweth change, mother!
- The sunbeam of thy smile.
-
- How often, oh! how often,
- When my heart feels lone and drear,
- Its thrilling presence banishes
- All thoughts of grief or fear.
-
- How often, often, mother!
- When I’ve mourned, but scarce knew why,
- I’ve hailed its light, and soon forgot
- The tear-drop and the sigh.
-
- For thoughts of sadness will intrude
- Upon my soul oft times;
- They come and bid me ne’er forget
- That there are purer climes.
-
- And still I trust its radiance
- May fall upon my soul
- Through all my future hours and days,
- As onward still they roll.
-
- And, mother! oh, my mother!
- When this dream of life is o’er,
- When God calls back his wandering child
- To Heaven’s unclouded shore,
-
- Amid the pure and golden beams
- That fall around me there,
- The gentle stir of angel wings
- And harp-strings softly fair,
-
- I’ll not forget thee, mother!
- Though fleeting years have flown,
- But come sometimes and watch o’er thee
- When thou art all alone.
-
- Thou wilt not see me, but I’ll come
- Upon the summer breeze,
- Or hidden lay amid the shade
- Of young, green summer leaves,
-
- And whisper in thine ear, mother,
- Of what I feel too well,
- But words of mortal dialect
- Can never, never tell.
-
- I’ll whisper of my fervent love,
- And breathe low thanks to thee
- For all the tenderness and care
- Thou hast bestowed on me.
-
- And I shall hope to meet thee
- In the sinless land on high,
- Where we can lisp in tones of love
- The language of the sky.
-
- Oh! I shall be waiting, mother dear!
- And watching all the while,
- To greet again, with happy heart,
- The sunbeam of thy smile.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- ON A DIAMOND RING.
-
-
- BY CHARLES E. TRAIL.
-
-
- Rare is the diamond’s lustre, and the mine
- No richer treasure hath than yellow gold;
- Yet were its jewels of a price untold,
- Still dearer charms this little ring doth shrine.
- Circling thy taper finger, how divine
- Its lot; oft to thy fair cheek prest,
- And by such contact past expression blest,
- Or sparkling ’mid those sunny locks of thine!
- Oh! these are uses which might consecrate
- The basest metal, or the dull, vile earth;
- Enhance the diamond’s price, or elevate
- The clod to an inestimable worth.
- Would that so dear a gem, which thus hath shone
- Upon thy snowy hand, might ever bless my own!
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- THE RECLUSE. NO. I.
-
-
- BY PARK BENJAMIN.
-
-
-In the series of papers (and they will have the rare merit of being
-short) which I am about to offer to the reader, I shall not so far
-follow the ill fashion of the day as to strive to be “original.” I do
-not mean by this remark to signify that I shall not give my own thoughts
-in my own way. But I shall not twist the English language out of all
-shape and comeliness; I shall not Germanize and Frenchize and
-Italianize; I shall express my ideas in the simplest possible words; I
-shall always choose the Saxon rather than the Norman; I shall endeavor
-to write so that “he who runs may read.” Were I a teacher of youth, I
-should recommend as the best models of style Swift and Southey, Addison,
-Steele, Channing, Sir James Macintosh, Irving, not Carlyle, Gibbon,
-Johnson, Emerson. I set plain Nature above gorgeous Art. The epithet
-“natural” conveys to my mind the highest praise of verse or prose. A
-style may indeed be eminently artistic, but still appear to be natural.
-
-I have said enough to show the manner in which I shall try to convey my
-ideas. Fewer words will set forth the character of my matter.
-
-I have no subject. I think, in my solitude, of many things. As thoughts
-occur to me I put them down. Though a Recluse, and having but little
-society except that of woods and fields, rocks and waters, I am fond of
-contemplating the events of the hour. Many of my topics will therefore
-be of immediate interest. They will at least have the charm of variety,
-and my “mode of treatment,” to use an expression of physicians, the
-merit of brevity.
-
-This is sufficient introduction. Courteous reader, I salute you.
-
-
- I.—THE CROTON CELEBRATION.
-
-Of all public displays, that which affected me most deeply was the
-celebration of the opening of the Croton river into the great city of
-New York. A day had been appointed by the powers in being. Arrangements
-were made for a mighty civic procession. It was a jubilee of Cold Water.
-The Temperance Societies figured chiefly on the occasion. Those trades
-which best flourish by the practice of temperance were numerously
-represented, bearing before them their symbols and instruments. I
-remember a printing-press on a platform, borne triumphantly along,
-working as it went, throwing off handbills, on which odes were printed,
-to the eager and amused crowd on both sides of the way. By the side of
-that printing-press sat, in smiling dignity, Colonel Stone, as everybody
-called him, then editor of the Commercial Advertiser. Kind-hearted,
-conscientious, hospitable, credulous, verbose gentleman! thou art
-sleeping as silently as those aboriginal lords of the soil whose lives
-thou commemoratedst!
-
-I have seen a great many multitudes, but never so quiet, so orderly, so
-well-dressed, so happy a concourse as that which filled the windows and
-balconies and doorsteps, and absolutely covered the sidewalks, on the
-morning of the Croton celebration. Throngs of gayly clad women and
-children moved merrily about; for there was not a solitary drunkard that
-day in all the streets of the city to molest or make them afraid. An
-individual under the influence of any liquor more potent than that which
-was gushing from a thousand fountains, would have been an anomaly too
-hideous to be borne. Braver than Julius Cæsar or Zachary Taylor must he
-have been who dared to took upon wine red in the cup on such a day as
-that.
-
-I well remember the reflections which passed through my mind as I stood
-gazing on that happy and soul-comforting scene. The treaty of peace, as
-it might well have been called, establishing the North-Eastern boundary
-of the United States, settling a _questio vexata_ of long continuance,
-which had again and again threatened war, had just been concluded
-between this country and Great Britain—thanks to the pacific
-dispositions and noble talents of the negotiators. Thinking of this, as
-I looked at the mighty civic array, at the procession, which was like an
-endless chain of human beings, the head of it, after having traveled
-through six miles of streets, meeting the tail of it, which had not yet
-drawn an inch of its slow length along, below the Park—as I looked at
-the smiling faces and the sporting fountains—I exclaimed to myself, How
-glorious a scene is this! How much worthier of a free people than the
-martial triumphs of old! A great good has been done. Energy and Skill
-have effected a stupendous work. Thousands and thousands are met
-together on an appointed day, to commemorate an achievement which shall
-prove a blessing to many generations yet unborn. Indeed, indeed this is
-more to be desired than the most complete of victories.
-
-I went on thus with my cogitations. Let me suppose that these
-negotiations between two nations, strong in men and the resources of
-warfare, negotiations skillfully conducted to a most fortunate issue,
-and the establishment of a peace in which all the world is interested,
-had proved to be unsuccessful. Suppose that war had been declared, that
-we had no longer ago than yesterday received intelligence of a conquest
-on the sea, that a fierce battle had been fought, and that our ships had
-come into port laden with spoils and crowded with prisoners. How
-different to-day would have been our rejoicings! The outward
-demonstrations might, in some respects, have been the same. The streets
-would have been filled with multitudes of men; the bells of the churches
-(oh sacrilege!) would have pealed long and loudly; the flag of our
-country would have waved from many a house-top and “liberty-pole”—yet,
-in the midst of all this, there would have been distinguished the
-trophies of wo and of disaster. The cannon, which had dealed death to
-the brave, would have been borne through the streets, and the banners of
-the conquered trailed in the dust. Execrations would have mingled with
-shouts, and frowns of hatred with smiles of joy. Sorrow and anguish
-would have been comates with exultation and delight, and the hilarity of
-all hearts deeply subdued by the sad faces of many mourners.
-
-And how different would have been our inward emotions! Instead of “calm
-thoughts regular as infant’s breath,” we should have experienced a
-tumultuous rapture, a demoniac triumph, an uneasy and restless joy, a
-trembling pride, a satisfaction with the present embittered by fears for
-the future. Now we rejoice with cheerful consciences. No “coming events
-cast their shadows before” to cloud the horizon of hope. We look upon a
-cloudless firmament above us and around us. We are indeed proud of the
-task which has been accomplished; but ours is a pride unmixed with any
-baser emotion—a pride honorable to humanity. Ah, how much more glorious
-is this than a victory! It is a sight to make the old young—a sight
-worthy of perpetual commemoration. It will be always recollected. We
-shall tell it to our children’s children. From time to time our authors
-shall write of it—so that it may always live in the memory of the age.
-
-
- II.—ON A BIBLE.
-
- Could this outside beholden be
- To cost and cunning equally,
- Or were it such as might suffice
- The luxury of curious eyes—
- Yet would I have my dearest look
- Not on the cover, but the Book.
-
- If thou art merry, here are airs;
- If melancholy, here are prayers;
- If studious, here are those things writ
- Which may deserve thy ablest wit;
- If hungry, here is food divine;
- If thirsty, Nectar, Heavenly wine.
-
- Read then, but first thyself prepare
- To read with zeal and mark with care;
- And when thou read’st what here is writ,
- Let thy best practice second it;
- So twice each precept read shall be,
- First in the Book, and next in thee.
-
- Much reading may thy spirits wrong,
- Refresh them therefore with a song;
- And, that thy music praise may merit,
- Sing David’s Psalms with David’s spirit,
- That, as thy voice doth pierce men’s ears,
- So shall thy prayers and vows the spheres.
-
- Thus read, thus sing, and then to thee
- The very earth a Heaven shall be;
- If thus thou readest, thou shalt find
- A private Heaven within thy mind,
- And, singing thus, before thou die
- Thou sing’st thy part to those on high.
-
-I have modernized the orthography of the foregoing quaint and beautiful
-stanzas, from the dress in which they are clothed in the second part of
-the Diary of Lady Willoughby, just published by John Wiley, bookseller,
-in New York. They are happily imitative of the style of the poets of
-olden time. They remind one of George Herbert—that “sweet singer in the
-Israel” of the English church, of Donne, of Wotton, and of other
-lyrists, who chanted the praises of our God. To my ear, much dearer are
-such simple, tuneful verses than the grandiloquent outpourings of the
-more modern muse. They come home, as it were, to one’s child-like
-sympathies. They awaken the thoughts of “youthly years;” they freshen
-the withered feelings of the heart, as heaven’s dew freshens the dried
-leaves in summer.
-
-Let me recommend this most tender, most soul-touching of “late
-works”—these passages from the Diary of Lady Willoughby. It is not a
-_real_ “aunciente booke,” but an imitation; yet, like certain copies of
-a picture by an old master, it may boast some touches better than the
-original. Chatterton’s forgeries were not more perfect in their way,
-though this be no forgery, but what it pretends to be—namely, an
-invention. I feared, when I took up the second part of this remarkable
-production, that it would deteriorate in interest, that the hand of the
-_artist_ would become manifest. But it is not so. Here, throughout, is
-the _ars celare artem_ in perfection.
-
-How touching a lesson do the feigned sorrows the Lady Willoughby present
-to her sex. What absence of repining! What reliance on the justice and
-mercy of God! What trust in the merits of her Redeemer! Her faith is
-never shaken. Her soul is never dismayed. With an expression holier than
-Raphael has imparted to his pictures of the Madonna, she looks upward
-and is comforted. Ever into the troubled waters of her soul descends the
-angel of peace. Perfect pattern is she for wives and mothers. Excellent
-example of a Christian woman.
-
-
- III.
-
-Are not some of the prophecies being fulfilled in these latter days?
-Trace we not in the decay of old empires the tempest of God’s wrath? Is
-not the arm of the Lord stretched out over the people and over the
-nations of the earth? Breaks he not thrones to pieces as if they were
-potter’s vessels? Where are the kings and princes who were born and
-chosen to rule over men? “How are the mighty fallen!” Even now, as by
-the mouth of his holy prophet, Isaiah, may the Lord say, “Is not _this_
-the fast that I have chosen. To loose the bands of wickedness, to undo
-the heavy burdened, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break
-every yoke?”
-
-Truly has my mind, shut out as I am from commune with the busy
-world—truly has my mind been deeply, solemnly affected by the wondrous
-events which are passing in those realms, the pages of whose history are
-printed in blood. I see the hand of God in all. I trace the fulfillment
-of prophecies contained in the Book of books. I am oppressed by a
-sensation of awe as I read the words of inspiration and discern their
-truth in these latter days.
-
-Was not the heart of Louis Philippe before his sudden and terrible
-overthrow as stout as the heart of the King of Assyria? Did not he, too,
-say of his monarchy, his rule and his riches—not only to himself, but
-even to the stranger in his land—
-
-“By the strength of my hand I have done it and by my wisdom; for I am
-prudent; and I have removed the bounds of the people, and have robbed
-their treasures, and I have put down the inhabitants like a valiant man;
-and my hand hath found as a nest the riches of the people.”
-
-And was he not likewise cast down? Was not a burning kindled under his
-glory like the burning of a fire? “And behold at evening-tide, trouble,
-and before the morning he _was_ not.”
-
-“This is the portion of them that spoil us,” shouted the people of
-France at the overthrow of the family of Orleans. “This is the portion
-of them that spoil us, and the lot of them that rob us.”
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- ROME.
-
-
- BY R. H. STODDARD.
-
-
-In the heart of Rome eternal, the Coliseum stands sublime,
-Lofty in the midst of ruins, like a temple built to Time.
-
-Vast, colossal, ’tis with piles of broken arches reared on high,
-But the dome is gone, and nothing roofs it but the summer sky.
-
-And the walls are rent, and gaping wide, and crumbling fast away,
-And the columns waste, but moss and grasses cover their decay.
-
-When the sky of June was bluest, melting as the eye of love,
-And the breezes from Campagnia bore the city’s hum above;
-
-Poring o’er the rich and classic authors of the Age of Gold,
-Virgil, Horace, Terence, Plautus, Livy and historians old,
-
-I imagined Rome restored as in the glorious days of yore,
-Peopled by the great and mighty, as it shall be nevermore.
-
-I beheld the Past before me, and the fallen circus rose,
-And the leaning columns righted, and the ruins seemed to close;
-
-Flags were streaming on the lofty walls, and standards of renown,
-Plucked from out some hostile army, or some sacked and burning town;
-
-Proud patricians filled the boxes, judges, senators, in white,
-Consuls from remotest provinces, and hosts of ladies bright;
-
-And the emperor sat among them, in his regal purple proud,
-And below a countless sea of heads, the common plebeian crowd;
-
-Wrestlers struggled in the ring, and athlete and equestrians bold,
-And the steeds and dashing chariots raised a cloud of dusty gold;
-
-Troops of sworded gladiators, Dacian captives, fought and bled,
-And the lists were strewn with wretches lying on their bucklers dead;
-
-And in the arena Christian saints and martyrs, old and gray,
-Were trampled in the dust, and torn by savage beasts of prey.
-
-Sick of this, I turned and looking out the arches in the street,
-I beheld a mighty multitude, a crowd with hurrying feet;
-
-Nobles with their flowing togas, simple artisans bedight
-In their holyday attire and badges, maids with eyes of light,
-
-Waving hands to lovers distant, and the little children clung
-To their mother’s gowns, and nurses held aloft their infants young,
-
-And afar and pouring through the city gates a long array,
-And in front, in his triumphal car, the hero of the day;
-
-And his coursers champed their frosted bits and pranced, but all in vain,
-Braced he stood, with streaming robe, and checked them with a tightened
- rein;
-
-And a mournful group of kingly captives, dusty, drooping low,
-Followed, fettered to his chariot, gracing his triumphal show;
-
-Augurs and soothsayers, flamen, tribunes, lictors bearing rods,
-And gray-bearded priests, with olive boughs and statues of the gods,
-
-Shaking from their brazen censers clouds of incense to the skies,
-Leading lowing steers, in wreaths and garlands decked, to sacrifice.
-
-Sacred nymphs from temples near, in spotless white, and vestal throngs
-Followed solemn, dancing mystic dances, singing choral songs.
-
-Cohorts of the Roman soldiers conquering legions marched behind,
-With their burnished armor shining and their banners on the wind;
-
-And, with distance faint, the brattling drums, the trumpet’s mighty blast,
-And the clarion rung and sounded like an echo from the Past.
-
-All at once the glorious vision melted, faded in the air,
-Like a desert exhalation, leaving all its ruin bare.
-
-And, in place of glory and the beauty of the olden day,
-I beheld the Queen of Cities wasted, fallen in decay.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- THE MISSIONARY, SUNLIGHT.
-
-
- BY CAROLINE C——.
-
-
- “Her presence makes thick darkness light—
- Hope’s rainbow spreadeth o’er her path;
- Through her, weak souls are filled with might,
- And Mercy triumphs over Wrath.”
-
-
-A sweet Sister of Charity, a faithful, never-wearying missionary, is the
-beautiful Sunlight, daughter of the proud monarch who reigns supremely
-over the broad dominions of the “upper blue!”
-
-Six long, tedious months in her father’s gorgeous palace, had the lovely
-maiden been constrained to mingle in the festal scenes which enlivened
-the monarch’s dwelling during that dreary time when the poor earth lay
-helplessly beneath the iron hand of winter. How often from the
-palace-windows had she looked with eyes dimmed with tears, and most
-melancholy glances on the world that was subject during all those months
-to a _natural_ kind of heathenish slavery! Despoiled of their rich
-garments the old princes of the forests stretched forth their naked arms
-toward her in supplication of her presence and charitable aid. A voice,
-to no ear audible save her own, crept up from beneath the winding-sheets
-which envelopes streamlet and river; and a wail that broke forth from
-the poor in their agony and want, reached her gentle heart, and her
-tears fell afresh. And even the children of gayety and fashion felt an
-irresistable yearning in their hearts to listen once more to her soft
-and gentle teachings!
-
-But “’tis always the darkest the hour before day;” and while Sunlight
-was half-despairingly revolving in her mind all possible means by which
-she might again, without the utmost danger of sudden death, be enabled
-freely to wander over earth to beautify and bless it, the discerning old
-king, her father, saw how pale her cheek was growing, and how dimness
-was creeping over her bright eyes. He knew she wearied of, and longed
-heartily to escape from the heartless pomp and magnificence which
-surrounded her; so he resolved to carry into immediate execution a plan
-he had long been contemplating. He would make a sudden and strong attack
-on his old foe who was lording it so magnificently over earth! He would
-teach the rough, boorish chieftain, in a way he could not mistake, that
-there were other and mightier powers in existence than his own.
-
-So he fought long and valiantly, and won the victory—a glorious one it
-was, too. In a few days many sharp, fierce conflicts had taken place,
-the glittering crown of winter was broken, his staff of office taken
-from him, and the disagreeable old gray-beard was forced to skulk away
-in silence and shame and confusion of face, to his bleak and fitting
-home at the North Pole.
-
-(Would he were wise enough not to attempt again another short-lived
-triumph! But he is so Napoleon-ish in his nature, we may well have our
-fears on this point.)
-
-When the king had returned to his palace the night of the last decisive
-victory—after he had thrown aside his golden armor, though weary from
-the conflict, he paused not a moment to rest till he had summoned his
-young daughter to his presence, and thus made known to her his will.
-
-“To-morrow, my child, put on thy most beautiful and radiant garments,
-and let the bright smile come back once more to thy face, for I have
-work for thee to do. I have subdued the army of King Winter, and now it
-shall be thine to make joy in the place where he has sown desolation. It
-is thine, to restore order and comfort and happiness and beauty in the
-dwelling place where he reigned in such a rude, uncivilized, mobocrastic
-manner. Ah! that light in thine eye tells me it is no ungrateful task I
-set for thee! it is very plain now, the cause of all thy sighing and
-tears for so long back; the old bloom will revisit thy cheek again I
-see. But remember, thy mission is one all-important. Do all things well,
-and nothing hastily—and now to rest! This shall be no gala-night, thou
-needest all thy strength for thy work; so haste to thy couch, and be
-stirring early in the morn.”
-
-When the maiden was thus assured of the fulfillment of her greatest
-hope, she bended down at the king’s feet and said, joyfully, “Oh, my
-father, I bless thee for thy goodness. The dear earth, she shall swiftly
-know thy mercy, and array herself in glorious garments in which to honor
-her deliverer! To-morrow, to-morrow shall see that if thou, my father,
-art strong to make free, thy daughter is loving, and patient, and full
-of good-will to help and adorn the miserable captives thou hast
-delivered from bondage.”
-
-And early the next morning the lovely princess went forth alone,
-rejecting all offers of a body-guard, a most devout and devoted
-missionary, whose end and aim was to make glad the waste-places, and to
-cause the wilderness to blossom.
-
-There were as yet, here and there, stubborn patches of snow on the
-ground, and a vindictive, sharp-voiced wind, a wounded straggler
-belonging to the white king’s retreating army, and his chief object
-seemed to be to exhaust the patience of all who were within hearing
-wherever he moved, by his rude insulting speeches. But totally unmindful
-of him, and maintaining a most dignified silence, Sunlight passed by
-him, well knowing that he too would speedily be compelled to follow
-whither his master had gone.
-
-Sometimes dark, threatening clouds would flit before her eyes, for a
-moment totally obstructing her vision, but a brave heart was that
-maiden’s, and when these petty annoyances were passed, she continued on
-her way patiently and hopefully as before. An apparently hopeless and
-endless task was that Sunlight had undertaken. She must, as it were,
-perform the part of resurrectionist. She must breathe life into a
-breathless body, and call the seemingly dead forth from their graves.
-The labor seemed too vast for her gentle hand, it appeared almost
-impossible that she should accomplish it. She was alone, too, in a
-strange, unpleasant kind of silence. There was not the voice of even a
-bird to cheer her on, and stiff and mute the brooklets lay in their
-coffins of ice.
-
-But she is very far from despairing. And her strength is, indeed,
-perfectly wonderful. Stealing with quiet steps along the banks of the
-little streams, she speaks to them some words apparently powerful as the
-“open sesame,” for the waters begin to open their eyes, faintly the
-pulse begins to throb, and the heart to beat, and ere long they have
-wholly thrown off that cold shroud which enveloped them, while it in
-turn becomes part and parcel of their own rejoicing life. Then they set
-forth rejoicing in their strength, and glorying in their newly-gained
-liberty, careering through the just awakening fields, and astonishing
-them by the beautiful soft songs of thanksgiving they unremittingly
-sing. The princess is not alone then—one class of prisoners she has
-released, and their glad voices cheer and encourage her in her work of
-love.
-
-Day after day she returns unweariedly to the great field of her pleasant
-labor, and day by day perfects the evidence of her progress. A most
-efficient co-worker whom she arouses and entices to join her in her
-work, is the gentle spirit of the summer wind. Encouraged and excited by
-her smile, he takes the oath of fealty, and heartily strives to aid his
-mistress. From the brow of earth he wipes away the tears the stars have
-wept, and multitudinous are his kind unceasing offices, for she has
-promised him a dominion which shall spread over many rejuvenated
-forests, and freshly garmented fields!
-
-In the old woods she lays her hand upon the myriad branches, and on the
-softening ground beneath which lie the buried roots. From every bough
-she calleth forth the tender buds, and ere long she spreads with kindly
-hands a rich, green mantle over all the forests. And in those
-“leafy-pavilions,” the returning birds she has summoned from the south,
-build their nests, and sing merrily through the long, happy days.
-
-Quickened into life by her presence and word, over all the barren fields
-the soft and tender grass springs up; the moss becomes aspiring, too,
-even the humble moss, and disowning its gray garments, it dons the more
-beautiful and universal green livery. A thousand thousand insects spring
-into sudden existence—the voice of the croaking frog is once more found
-in tune. Violets bud and blossom, the air grows increasingly more mild;
-even the wind learns a sweeter song; the heavens finding it impossible
-to resist the general rejoicing which follows the most successful labor
-of the missionary, put on a brighter and a more resplendant garment, and
-the dear Sunlight is filled with unfeigned rejoicing when she sees how
-speedily the regenerating influences of her glance are recognized.
-
-It is spring-time then!
-
-Weeks pass on, but Sunlight does not tarry in her work; the grand
-commencement she has made, but the work of perfecting is yet to be done.
-
-Gradually she spreads a richer green over all the meadows; all along the
-banks of streams and lakes the grass grows long and soft—the leaves
-hang heavier and fuller on the forest boughs—a softer voice whispers
-through the day-time and the night—flowers blossom more richly and
-abundantly, and the air is filled with their fragrance. Sunlight has
-spread the perfection of beauty over earth, and filled with unutterable
-affection for the world she has beautified, more warm and tender grow
-her embracings—and in return the voices of all the earth go up in a
-fervent declaration of love and gratitude to the fair missionary who has
-so generously, so gloriously labored for them. The good, beautiful
-Sunlight! no wonder all creation loves her, and blesses her; no wonder
-that innumerable objects, on all other subjects dull and voiceless,
-discover a way in which to sing her praises!
-
-It were idle to attempt a detail of all the _homes and hearts_ that even
-in one day she blesses and enlivens by her presence; but let us for a
-few moments follow her in her wanderings, perhaps thereby we may gain a
-proper appreciation of the labors of this good angel.
-
-It is morning, and she has just alighted on the earth; and see now where
-her light feet are first directed. On yonder hill there stands a lofty
-building—secure as a fortress, made of stone, and brick, and iron. It
-is a gloomy, comfortless looking place; the windows, though it is a warm
-summer morning, are fast closed, and bars of iron stretch over them! It
-is a prison-house; but, though its inmates are guilty criminals, the
-pure and high-born Sunlight does not disdain to visit them. She is
-looking through all those grated windows fronting us—will you also look
-in?
-
-There is a criminal condemned to death—a hardened villain, whose
-unbridled passions have worked his ruin. He is yet far from old, not a
-gray hair is there in all that thick black mass which crowns his head!
-From his youth up his life has been a life of sin, and little remorse.
-Heaven has at last overtaken him, and he will soon fearfully expiate, in
-part, his guilt.
-
-Yesterday, justice delivered to him the sentence; he listened to it as
-though he heard it in a trance, and ever since they brought him from the
-presence of the excited court, he has sat on that hard pallet,
-immoveable as now. His food is untouched—he has no time to feel the
-wants of nature; his arms are closely, convulsively folded upon his
-breast; the black, large eyes, have a fixed and stony glare, in which it
-would seem few tears had ever gathered; firmly compressed are the pale
-lips; no prayer or sigh, or moan shall issue from them! He knows there
-is no way of escape for him—that on such a day, at such an hour, he
-will perish by the executioner’s hand; and that dreadful fact it is
-which is constantly staring in his face, and writing such a record of
-shame and terror in his heart.
-
-He feels no penitence—nothing but anger, that he has stupidly suffered
-himself to be overtaken by the hand of the law—that his crimes have
-been detected. It is not the fear of God that is before his eyes; it is
-not dread of the hereafter which so overpowers him, but hatred of his
-fellow men, and a desire to wreak his vengeance on them who have brought
-to light his guilt!
-
-Through all the long, dark hours he has rested on his hard bed,
-listening to the “voices of the night,” and not one softening thought
-has entered his heart, not one repentant sigh has he breathed. It seemed
-then as though nothing could arouse him as he so coldly beheld the
-reality, death staring him in the face. But now see, there is a faint
-glow on the narrow window-pane, and it grows brighter and brighter.
-Creeping slowly along the wall it reaches him at last—it falls upon his
-breast—it glances over his hard face, where sin has written her
-signature with a pen, as of iron—it looks into his stern eyes—that
-light arouses him, and while he returns the piercing gaze of the
-sunbeam, human feelings are aroused in his breast once more. He rises
-from the place where in his rage he had flung himself—he gazes round
-the contracted, miserable cell in which he is secured! Alas! and he has
-fallen so far that humanity acknowledges the justice of immuring him in
-a prison! and as he gazes on the gentle spirit whose presence fills his
-cell with light, the recollections of his far-off, innocent
-childhood—of his early home, from whence not a great many years ago he
-went with the blessing of his old mother sounding in his ears, steals
-over him—his heart is softening—his lips tremble—the stolid, hardened
-look has passed from his countenance—he is human again—he weeps!
-Blessed Sunlight! Fairest and holiest of the missionaries, who come from
-the halls of heaven to purify the earth, she has subdued him! Oh, we
-will hope that now, since the heart of stone has been changed to one of
-flesh, the good, redeeming work may not stop there; we will hope that
-when he is standing in his last hour upon the scaffold, when she comes
-to him again, it may be with a faith-supported heart that he will behold
-in her brightness a token of the blissful rest which awaits his
-repentant, pardoned spirit!
-
-Close adjoining this cell there is another which likewise has its guilty
-inmate—a miserable, abandoned woman. She is sleeping. For her violation
-of the laws both of God and man she is now imprisoned.
-
-She is sleeping, but hers is a troubled slumber, for conscience is at
-work night and day in the mind of that woman, accusing and
-condemning—yet she sleeps. She is dreaming of the husband of her early
-years—of the child in whom, when she was young and innocent, and of
-contented mind, her hope and joy centered; she is dreaming of her maiden
-home—of her bridal morning. The voices of her former, youthful friends
-are ringing in her ears; the innocent thoughts and hopes of girlhood
-fill her heart again. She wakens weeping—for in imagination she is
-standing once more beside the death-bed of her mother, listening to the
-words of warning and counsel that mother forces herself to speak when
-she beholds with all a parent’s agony that the girl of her hopes is
-treading in the wild paths of shame and sin.
-
-She wakens in tears, with a strange feeling of contrition that she has
-seldom or never felt before agitating her bosom, to see the Sunlight
-looking down with pitying glance upon her—to see the good spirit whose
-mission it is to make glad and bright the earth, deigning to creep
-through those prison-bars to speak a word of counsel and hope to her.
-Thoughts of her husband, on whose honest name she has cast such
-dishonor, and of her deserted, innocent child, come to her full of most
-sorrowful reproach. A longing for the restoration of her lost virtue—a
-conviction of the peacefulness and happiness and exceeding reward
-attending goodness, ever make her unsealed tears flow more freely.
-Beside that narrow bed, on the stone floor of her cell, she kneels down
-in her sorrow and contrition, and on her knees she breathes forth such a
-prayer as never before went from her heart. And the dear Sunlight is
-witness of that prayer! She looks upon the kneeling penitent with
-joy—and from that now hallowed place she does not steal forth hastily,
-leaving the cell dreary and comfortless as before; she is there when the
-woman rises from her supplication, as though to assure of the smile of
-Heavenly forgiveness, which may yet await her. She remains to give
-encouragement to the hope that the corroding stains now resting on her
-soul may be ere long effectually wiped away—that reconcilement and love
-and peace, are yet for her on earth.
-
-Near this woman’s cell there is another where a youth, unjustly accused,
-singularly blameless and innocent in his life, is singing a morning hymn
-of praise and adoration. Hemmed in as he is by the prison-wall, deprived
-of that freedom which is the good man’s _best_ possession, confined with
-guilty men, and bearing himself the heavy imputation of crime, yet is he
-supported by the comforting knowledge of his innocence, and by the
-assurance that the eye which is strong to pierce the secrets of the
-heart, knows his innocence. The dreariness of his confinement does not
-fill his soul with terror; his faith is strong in the power and goodness
-of his Maker, and so it is with patience he performs the labor
-apportioned him, looking confidently for the hour of his release, and
-the honorable conviction of his uprightness in the minds of all honest
-men.
-
-And when the kindly Sunlight appears before _him_, her presence but
-serves to foster these hopes. It is a sweet message of patience and
-faith she whispers to him, and after she has departed, through all the
-long day its remembrance strengthens and cheers him. Blessed be the good
-spirit who remembers to visit these sad, afflicted, guilty ones in the
-hour when they are well-nigh forgotten of all the world, and by their
-own kin!
-
-Beyond the prison, on the same range of elevated grounds, just without
-the city, there is a cemetery—a quiet place where the dead sleep in
-peace. And thither Sunlight bends her golden, sandaled feet. How
-brightly her shadow lies on the white monuments, and on the grass and
-flowers. How quiet and holy is this place, there is no sound of the
-tread of living feet to disturb the rest of the slumberers; no human
-form at this early hour is treading in this solitary place to muse on
-the “vanity of all earthly things,” or to weep over the departed! Oh,
-yes! there, by that newly-made grave, where the sod has been placed so
-recently, there, where the print of the feet of the funeral-train is yet
-fresh on the loosened ground, there stands a child with flowers in her
-hand; she has come to lay them on the grave of her mother! The Sunlight
-knew that she would meet her there, for every morning since the day the
-funeral-train paused there, and laid the loving mother in the dark,
-cold, “narrow house,” the little girl has visited that grave, bringing
-with her to beautify it, and make it seem a rest more sweet and
-cheerful, the flowers from her little garden, which early in the spring
-her mother planted there. When the child goes back to the city, the vast
-crowds of life will have awakened, and the rush, and jar, and strife,
-will have begun; happy were it for all those multitudes, if a voice,
-gentle and holy in its teaching as has spoken to that young girl,
-whispered also to them, ere they mingled in the whirlpools of business
-and pleasure!
-
-Then amid the dwellings of the city Sunlight wanders next. And by no
-means is she sure to honor first with her presence the mansions of the
-rich; for at such an early hour she would hardly receive a welcome
-there; perhaps, however, this is not the sole reason why the very first
-place which she chooses to enter is the cot of the humble laborer.
-Gently does she lay her fair hand on his rude, weather-worn frame, and
-tenderly she kisses his hard-browned face, as a loving mother embraces
-her infant. And if the man does not at once awaken at the call of her
-royal highness, she does not go away and leave him in _humanly_ anger,
-but yet more lovingly does she caress him, thinking meanwhile to
-herself, “poor man, he was worn out by his hard work yesterday.” And so
-at last by her patient gentleness she succeeds in awakening him—and
-when he rubs his eyes, and sees her waiting for him there, with her soft
-hand, on which the regal ring is glistening, resting so lovingly upon
-him, how he reproaches himself that he has dared to sleep while she was
-honoring his poor roof by her presence! and how fervent is the blessing
-with which his heart blesses her, as he hastens away to his labor with a
-light heart and renewed courage.
-
-Later in the day, peeping into the small windows of the unpretending
-school-room, she beckons to the little children to come out and ramble
-with her among the fields, to hunt for the ripe strawberries in the
-grass, and to gather the violets, and lilies, and wild-geranium flowers
-which grow in the shady woods. A beautiful song she sings to the merry
-youngsters—a song whose burden has more of wisdom in it than many
-gather from their books in the coarse of years—a lesson of reverence of
-freedom, and of innocent love for nature.
-
-Sunlight is not content with merely resting like a _visible blessing_ on
-the head of the gentle girl whose breast is throbbing with a “love for
-all things pure and holy,” she steals into her guileless heart, and
-makes _that_ glorious by her smiling there; and the little one laughs
-while she lingers, because she fancies that all the future to which she
-looks forward, will prove as bright and joyous as the unclouded present.
-And as for the king’s daughter, she knows when she hears that joyous
-ringing laugh which always welcomes her presence, that it is indeed more
-blessed to give than to receive!
-
-The bright-eyed maiden _loves_ children, with all the earnestness of her
-soft, true heart, and how earnestly they return her love, let every man
-and woman and child answer! She is, indeed, like a kind and gentle elder
-friend to them—like a friend whose heart has not grown cold or hard
-from much mingling with the world, who knows how to sympathize with them
-in their simple joys, who listens to their merry voices with a tender
-interest, which time has not been enabled to make cold or false.
-
-Well may the children love her, whose smile is the grand main-spring of
-their joy—the constant inspirer of their never-ceasing hope!
-
-Look for a moment into this alms-house. Poor people, the wretchedly
-poor, who were rendered at last, by long destitution utterly unable to
-work with the rude elements of life, which lay like broken useless tools
-around them, are gathered here for rest, that they may gain strength for
-a renewal of their conflict! For a few weeks, and perhaps a longer time,
-they may dwell in this comfortable shelter, and partake of food, _not_
-gathered from the refuse of rich men’s tables—they may partially rest
-from their hard, unsatisfactory, unproductive labor. Let us hope that
-Sunlight may not speak vainly to them now, as every day she livens up
-their new home, let us hope they may understand the cheering messages
-she brings to them, and as they learn more of the goodness and justice
-of their Creator _than they have ever yet had time_ to learn, perhaps
-with more of hope and resignation they will endure their burden. It were
-well to go through necessity to a poor-house, even if we can find no
-other school in which to learn the grand lesson of endurance and
-continuance in well-doing; there, perhaps, it would not be impossible to
-understand the messages dear Sunlight delivers every day to our
-unappreciating, slow-hearing minds.
-
-Notwithstanding all our boasted democracy, there is scarcely a being on
-the face of the earth who embraces with quite such heartiness its
-principles, and so understands its precepts as—Sunlight. How graciously
-her hand is laid on the matted locks of those children of want; how
-lovingly and earnestly is her kiss imprinted on their toil-grimmed
-faces—how radiantly her smile envelops them. Ah! well-a-day! would
-there were in human hearts as much of genuine love! No sham-tenderness,
-nor aristocratic, cold-blooded, _repelling_ fondness, is there in her
-embracing, stronger than a _human_ heart’s beating is that which
-proclaims the life that is in _her_!
-
-See now in this other place, where helpless orphans are collected and
-cared for, children whose parents have died and left them helpless and
-dependent on the bounty of the world; Sunlight has not forgotten them
-either. Kindly hands and charitable hearts have gathered these little
-ones from hovels of sin, and sorrow, and shame, and nurtured by the good
-and the wise, in early manhood and womanhood they will be prepared to
-struggle for themselves, and to bear their own life-burden.
-
-Day after day the affectionate Sunlight visits these assembled little
-ones, and adds her cheerful blessing to that which God has already
-pronounced on them, whose love has prompted them out of their abundance
-to support and comfort the destitute and friendless.
-
-And there is another place teeming with human life, where this good
-friend of earth and her children comes daily, but where there are very
-few who may welcome her smiling approach, but few to know certainly of
-her departure when she is gone. This is the home for the blind.
-
-How many are the fair young faces and graceful, gentle forms and
-innocent hearts, how frequent are the kindly words in that place; and
-yet, alas! how small the power to see and know the beauty of the world;
-how few the eyes to behold the approaching of the fair daughter of the
-sun! The blind live there, but Sunlight does not shun them! When she
-enters their dwelling-place unsummoned, and only attended by that glory
-with which God has adorned her, they may, it is a fact they often do,
-know that something blessed and heavenly is nigh, because they feel it
-in their enlivening senses, in the warmth of her caressing. But they may
-not touch her hand; and when they speak to her she does not answer them;
-and so they know she is not a mortal, but a spirit who may not speak
-with an audible voice to them—a spirit though which loves and blesses
-them!
-
-Let us follow on further in her path, where polished doors are fastened
-against the intruding world. It is a home of fashion, but from the
-parlor windows no token of life are seen. The blinds are closed—the
-dwelling looks uninhabited. But there _is_ life within, ay, and death,
-too! Around the silver door-knob, and circling the door-bell handle,
-where the hands of the wealthy and gay have so often rested, (but very
-rarely those of the poor and needy,) there is wound a scarf of crape,
-and mournfully the death-token flutters in the morning air. For two days
-scarcely a form has entered those doors; the sufferers within, however
-much they may have rejoiced in display in former days, have no wish that
-there may be spectators to their sorrow.
-
-Yet there is one—a not often heeded guest, though a seldom failing
-one—who comes to them now they cannot shut her out; she longs to utter
-some soothing and consoling word. She penetrates to the very scene of
-their grief. She looks into the silent chamber where the father and
-mother are weeping over their only child—the child of whom they had
-made an idol, whom God, who hath said “thou shalt have _no_ gods but
-me,” hath taken away from them. They have with their own hands laid
-their child in her coffin, ere long they will see her borne away from
-them forever; so it is with unutterable sorrow they stand beside that
-little one and gaze on her pale face. The blinds are closed, and the
-curtains partly drawn, but through an open shutter the Sunlight enters
-the darkened room, and drawing near to the bereaved parents, she lays
-her hand, oh, so gently on the forehead of the child!
-
-The clustering curls which fall upon that brow seem almost illuminate
-beneath the pressure of that hand—and the mother’s tears fall faster as
-she looks on the beautiful little one that will be so soon hidden away
-from the pleasant day-light and the hopes of life. But as the father
-looks, his sorrow is abated, his voice is lifted up, there is hope in
-its tone, he says, “Mary, let us weep no longer over our child, her
-spirit has already won a brighter crown than that the sunlight lays upon
-her head.”
-
-And the mother’s grief becomes less wild, and humble is the voice with
-which she makes answer,
-
-“God help us, it was his to take away who gave.”
-
-And now with more of submission under their affliction, with much of
-hope that cheered even in the midst of their bereavement, they will see
-their child laid in the funeral-vault to meet their eyes no more until
-the resurrection morning—and with chastened hearts, and more
-thoughtfully they will tread the path set before them, feeling convinced
-and thankful that sorrow has taught them a lesson of wisdom they never
-could have learned in a life like that they had lived.
-
-Through the opened Gothic windows of the old church she is speeding, for
-what? To make beautiful by her presence the temple of the Lord. See!
-before the altar there is gathered a little group, and a maiden and a
-youth are answering the binding, “I will,” to a question than which none
-more fraught with deep and solemn meaning was ever propounded to mortal
-man and woman.
-
-The bridegroom has placed upon his companion’s finger the uniting
-ring—she is his wife. You see she has arrayed herself gayly; it is the
-great festival of her life—may it not prove the adornment has been for
-the ceremony of the sacrifice of all the dearest and best hopes of her
-trusting young heart! Around these happy ones are gathered their most
-familiar, dearest friends; before them the “solemn priest,” and, hark!
-with mingled words of warning, and of counsel, and of blessing, he
-pronounces them now man and wife. And upon the newly-wedded ones is
-resting the congratulatory smile of Sunlight! She bids them joy in their
-love, and gives the bridegroom the comforting assurance that his will
-not prove a cross and turbulent bride, for his wedding-day is calm and
-bright, and over all the sky there is not one speck of cloud!
-
-But why does the Sunlight linger when the bridal party has gone forth?
-She is about the altar and chancel, as though there were others yet who
-would need her presence and her blessing there.
-
-Ah! there are steps—another group is approaching the awaiting “holy man
-of God.” A woman comes, bearing in her arms a child for baptism. The
-font containing the regenerating waters is there in readiness. Troops of
-invisible angels are nigh to listen to and make record of the solemn
-vows now to be made, and the spirit of the living God is there also, a
-witness, merciful in his omnipotence.
-
-There are but few who accompany the woman—she comes in no pomp and
-state to dedicate her child to God in baptism; neither is the offering
-she brings adorned with the pride of wealth. The mother is poor—the
-child an heir of poverty. But will He therefore spurn the gift? “He that
-cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.”
-
-The father of the child, the husband of the mother is dead—and her
-widow’s weeds but “faintly tell the sorrow of her heart.” Therefore it
-is with so much the more trustful confidence she has come with her child
-to the altar, she will give him into the watchful care of the Almighty
-Father of the fatherless! With what a solemn earnest voice she takes
-upon herself, for the child, the vow of renouncement of the world and
-its sinful desires; and when the sign of the cross is laid upon the brow
-of her infant, and the holy waters which typify its regeneration are
-poured upon his head, it is with heartfelt gratitude she lifts her heart
-to heaven, with heartfelt confidence she implores his watchful love and
-care. And all the while on the uncovered head of the child the glance of
-the sunlight has rested, as if in token of the acceptance of the
-offering the mother has made, in token that the blessing and mercy of
-God would be upon that child for whom a holy vow was registered in
-heaven, which he must one day redeem, or else pay the fearful penalty.
-
-And now the mother with her child and friends have left the church, and
-a sacred quiet reigns there once more; yet the priest lingers by the
-altar, still arrayed in his robes of office, and Sunlight also remains.
-
-And, hark! once more the “deep-toned bell” is ringing now—tolling
-mournfully—no wedding-peal of joy is that, from out the heart of the
-strong iron is rung the stern tale that another mortal hath put on
-immortality! Now they come, a long and silent train, and foremost move
-the bearers treading heavily; “it is a man they bear”—an aged man, the
-measure of whose cup of life was well filled, reaching even the brim;
-and following after them are the children, and grandchildren, and
-great-grandchildren of the deceased, and the procession is closed by his
-many friends and neighbors. Of all that lengthened train there is not
-one who set out on the path of life with the dead man. One by one his
-early companions passed away, there are none who retain a recollection
-of that aged face when it was smooth, and of those locks now so very
-white and thin, as they were in earlier years; not one who shared the
-hopes of his childhood with him—few who mingled with him in the scenes
-remembered now as of the old, old time. Yet the mourners weep, and the
-bells toll mournfully.
-
-The old man has finished his course with honor and with joy. Reverenced
-and loved, he has gone down to the grave—no, I must not say that, he
-has gone upward _to rest on the bosom of his Father_! In boyhood he was
-wild, and fearless, and reckless—his manhood, generous and upright,
-nobly redeemed his early days—and happy, and peaceful, and honorable,
-was his “green old age.” And now he has “gone to his reward”—his race
-well run, his labor all fulfilled, it seems strange that any should
-weep. They have laid back the coffin-lid that the assembled people may
-once more look on their venerated friend. Oh, how peacefully he sleeps,
-and lovingly, as on the unconscious infant, the Sunlight, that messenger
-of consolation, looks upon the calm, cold face, and the mourner’s grief
-is stayed as they behold the brightness which once more illuminates
-those lifeless features.
-
-Upon the infant, dedicated to God in the days when he lies helplessly at
-the portal of life, on the maiden and the youth, entering on a state of
-existence, either supremely blessed or supremely cursed in its
-_eventuation_, and on the dead old man, whose race so long, and of
-mingled pleasure and hardship, is over at last; on these the faithful
-Sunlight has pronounced her blessing within the walls of the old church.
-But now all the human beings have gone away, the minister with the
-funeral train to the burial, and the sexton has fastened the
-church-doors and gone too; but still the Sunlight remains, and it seems
-as though she were kneeling before the altar now, craving God’s blessing
-on all those who have this day stood within His courts, and before His
-altar, brought there by joy or sorrow to rejoice or to weep.
-
-Not, however, within the sanctity of walls alone does the Sunlight make
-herself visible. Through byways, and in the open street, where the
-stream of life goes rushing on violently, does she tread, brightening up
-by her presence dark and dismal corners, and enlivening the gloomiest
-and dreariest places.
-
-In the intervening places between the high brick dwellings and stores
-she stations herself; there, like a priestess, she stands to pronounce a
-benediction on all who pass by her. On the blind old beggar, led by a
-little child, who pause a moment to rest in the sunshiny place, for they
-have walked on wearily amid a heartless crowd, that had but little
-feeling for the poverty-stricken old man, whom Heaven deprived of sight;
-and on the gaudily decked form of the shameless woman, as a reproach and
-condemnation; on the proud, hard man, whose haughty head and iron heart
-care little for the Sunlight or for Sorrow, whose honorable name has
-safely borne him through the committal of sins and crimes, which, had he
-been poor and friendless, would have long ago secured for him a safe
-place among convicts and outlaws! Little recks _he_ of Sunlight. A
-blessing so freely bestowed on all, as is her smile, is not what he
-covets; so through shade and light he hastens, and soon enough he will
-arrive at the bourne. What bourne?
-
-There go by the wandering minstrels, men from Scotland with their
-bagpipes—Italians with hurdy-gurdy—girls with tamborines, and boys
-with violins and banjoes—there are professors of almost all kinds of
-instrumental music, and vocal too, a great many of them there are, but
-sure, almost all of them, of winning coppers from some who would bribe
-them into a state of quietude, and from other some, harmony-loving
-souls, who delight in the dulcet sounds such minstrels ever awaken and
-give utterance to! And Sunlight blesses _them_!
-
-And here comes an humble, tired-looking woman—a school teacher she is,
-whose days are one continued round of wearying, and most monotonous
-action. You would scarcely err in your first guess as to her
-vocation—it speaks forth in her “dress a little faded,” but so very
-neat, but more loudly still in that penetrating glance of her eye, and
-in the patient expression of her features. Though she is evidently
-hurried, for she has been proceeding at a most rapid pace along the
-streets, you could tell she has some appreciation of the glory of
-Sunlight, for how she lingers whenever she comes near the places
-enlivened by her presence! Her feet, too, press less heavily the
-pavement, perhaps she feels as though she were treading on sacred
-ground!
-
-Then, there comes another, a little, frail, youthful creature, with
-bright, black eyes, (which have obviously a quick recognization power
-for “every thing pretty,”) a person of quick and nervous movement, a
-seamstress. She has not time often to pause and take note of the
-beautiful. Her weeks have in their long train of hours only twelve of
-daylight she may call her own! She, too, steps slowly, almost
-reverently, over the flags where the princess is stationed, and with an
-irresistible sigh thinks of earlier and happier days, when a merry
-country child she rejoiced in her delightful freedom, though clad she
-was then in most unfashionable garments, and almost she regretted the
-day that sent her into the great, selfish city to fashion dresses for
-the rich and gay. Poor girl! before she has half passed over the shady
-place which succeeds the glimpse of Sunlight, she has forgotten the hope
-which for a moment found refuge in her breast, wild as it was, that one
-day she might indeed go into the country again, and find there a welcome
-and a home; for must not Miss Seraphina’s and Miss Victoria’s dresses be
-finished that very night in time for the grand party; and the flounces
-are not nearly trimmed, and numberless are the “finishing touches” yet
-to be executed.
-
-Alas! before night comes again, when she will go alone, and in the
-darkness, through the noisy street, in her weariness and stupidity, (for
-continued labor, you know very well, reader, will make the brightest
-mind stupid and weak,) she will hurry to her bed, forgetful of her
-bright dream of the morning, unmindful of her prayers, in the haste to
-close her weak and tired eyes. But in the morning, perhaps, the Sunlight
-will give to the overworked girl another gleam of hope, another
-blessing.
-
-And now goes by an interesting, white-gloved youth, fresh from “the
-bandbox,” as you perceive. Let him pass on; for there is but little
-chance that Sunlight will be recognized by _him_, and so _we_ will not
-waste our comments, for could he even see where lies the brightness, I
-cannot say but the inevitable eye-glass might be raised, and such a
-glance of idiocy and impudence be directed toward the gentle daughter of
-the mighty king, as would warrant her in annihilating him at once with a
-powerful _sunstroke_!
-
-Here comes another, a benevolent, but solemn-featured, portly gentleman,
-who seems in musing mood, for he goes slowly along with head bent down.
-He is a judge, proceeding toward the scene of his trying duties, feeling
-the responsibility which rests upon him, and nerving himself to meet the
-solemn and affecting scenes and circumstances which may await him. Oh
-may it be that as he passes by those small illuminated places, that a
-stronger voice than he has ever heard before may find utterance in his
-heart, charging him to remember that the highest attributes of the
-Heavenly Judge are mercy and love, and that only as he employs them in
-his decisions, can he justly imitate his Divine prototype!
-
-And now there is another going by, whose disappointment is legibly
-written on his face. Either of two doleful things has happened to him.
-His prayers have been unheard by his “lady-love,” and she looks coldly
-upon him, or—scarcely less to be dreaded climax—his first attempt at
-literature has met with unqualified failure. Let him but bear in mind
-that “faint heart never won fair lady,” or honor in the “literary
-world;” let him take one intelligent look at the sweet Sunlight, as so
-patiently she stands there before him, and small will be the danger of
-his ultimate defeat.
-
-But—but how fast the crowd increases—it is growing late, and between
-the increasing crowd of fashionables, and of people of all sorts and
-conditions, we are really in danger of being soon unable to distinguish
-who of all the host stop for the blessing of Sunlight, and who unmindful
-pass by her. And indeed it were an endless task to impose on one’s self
-the attempt to speak, or even to think, of the myriads who in their
-hours of sorrow, despondency, tribulation or joy, have had occasion to
-be thankful for the cheerful smile of glorious Sunlight!
-
-Her mission—ay, never was there one so blest—and never was there so
-faithful a missionary! She comes with a message of love for the whole
-world! How perfectly she has learned that lesson taught her by our own,
-as well as her Almighty Father! How nobly has she obeyed his sublime
-precepts, how truly is she the joy-diffuser of the human race!
-
-And now what remaineth to be said? But one thing only.
-
-In a necessarily more contracted sphere of action may there not from
-_our_ faces, and _our_ hearts, go forth a beam of light that shall be
-powerful to cheer up a desponding spirit, or to encourage a drooping
-heart, or to give comfort to a sorrowing soul, or to increase the faith
-and courage of a lonely life?
-
-Cannot the sunshine of a human face, in the dark forest of a sad heart,
-have power to make the old trees bud, and the birds to sing, and the
-violets to spring up and bloom, and the ice-bound streamlets to go free?
-From many a love-lit eye, from many a brow from which tender hands have
-erased the record of care, from many a rejoicing heart lightened of its
-dread burden, there comes to me an answer, “Yes—oh yes!”
-
-Blessed forever be the sweet Sister of Charity, the angelic, untiring
-Missionary, the lovely princess—daughter of the Sun!—and, also,
-blessed forever be that human heart which doth not disdain to learn the
-heavenly lesson Sunlight teaches, ay, twice blessed of God, and of man!
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- THERMOPYLÆ.
-
-
- BY MRS. MARY G. HORSFORD.
-
-
- ’Twas night; the gleaming starlight fell
- On helmets flashing high;
- The glancing spears and torrent swell
- Of armed men sweeping by.
-
- No clarion’s voice was on the breeze,
- No trumpet’s stormy blast;
- The hollow moan of distant seas
- Was echoed as they past.
-
- With measured step and stealthy tread,
- In stern and proud array,
- They sought the camp in silence dread
- Where the slumb’ring Persian lay.
-
- Then long and loud the battle-shout
- Rung on the startled air,
- There was fitful torch-light flashing out
- And sudden arming there.
-
- The shriek of death and wild despair,
- And hasting to and fro,
- When like the lion from his lair
- The Spartan charged the foe.
-
- Then hand to hand and spear to spear
- The hostile armies stood;
- The tempest’s note rung loud and clear
- And shook the solitude.
-
- And ’mid the fearful tide of fight,
- Where thousands met to die,
- The lances gleamed athwart the night
- Like lightning in the sky.
-
- On! on they swept their land to bless,
- And fast around their way
- The Persians gathered numberless
- As leaves in summer’s day.
-
- Morn dawned upon that battle-field,
- And shivered spear and lance,
- And banner torn and broken shield
- Reflected every glance.
-
- But where were they—those patriots bold,
- Of bright and fearless eye?
- Each noble heart in death was cold,
- Each spirit in the sky.
-
- Fair Greece! of glorious deeds the clime
- By dauntless valor wrought;
- Of daring minds, and souls sublime,
- The pioneers of thought!
-
- No marvel that thy skies should boast
- A fairer, sunnier blue—
- Departed day illumes the west
- With many a radiant hue.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- LOST TREASURES.
-
-
- BY P. D. T.
-
-
- I am coming, I am coming, when this fitful dream is o’er,
- To meet you, my beloved ones, on that immortal shore,
- Where pain and parting are unknown, and where the ransomed blest
- Shall welcome treasures left on earth, to Heaven’s eternal rest.
-
- I am with you, I am with you, in the visions of the night,
- I feel each warm hand pressing mine, I meet each eye of light.
- Oh these are precious seasons! they bring you back to me,
- But morning dawns, and with it comes the sad reality.
-
- I dare not trust my thoughts to dwell on blessings that were mine,
- Or, “hoping against hope,” believe one ray of joy can shine
- Across my path, so dreary now, that late was bright and gay,
- But, meteor-like, hath left more dark the track which marked its way.
-
- Yet I feel that thou art near me! my guardian angels thou,
- Who fain would chase all sorrow and sadness from my brow.
- For thou hadst strewn my pathway so thick with thornless flowers,
- I quite forgot that _Death_ could come to revel in our bowers.
-
- But now, I’m oh so lonely! my “household gods” are gone,
- And though my path’s a dreary one, I still must journey on.
- Yet Faith steps forth and whispers—Time flies, look up and see,
- For in his wake swift follows on a blessed eternity.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- THE BROTHER’S TEMPTATION.
-
-
- BY SYBIL SUTHERLAND.
-
-
- CHAPTER I.
-
-“You look sad to-night, Alice,” was the remark of Mr. Colman as his
-young wife entered the sitting-room, and took a seat beside him with a
-countenance expressive of unusual dejection; “and where is Maggie this
-evening that you have been obliged to take upon yourself the duty of
-nursery-maid to our little ones?”
-
-“Maggie has gone upon an errand of mercy—to watch over a sick and
-suffering fellow creature,” replied Mrs. Colman. “It is a long story,”
-she added, in answer to the look of inquiry which her husband cast upon
-her, “but I will endeavor to relate it if you will listen to it
-patiently. This morning, Harry, after you had left home, I resolved to
-set forth in search of a seamstress who was making some dresses for our
-little girl. She had failed to bring them home at the time appointed,
-and as I had never employed her before, and knew nothing of her
-character, I felt rather anxious concerning the safety of the materials
-I had given her to work upon, and determined to go to the dwelling which
-she had described as her residence and learn the cause of her
-disappointing me. The house was in a miserable street some distance from
-here, and I hurried along till I came to it. It was a wretched-looking
-dwelling, such as none but the very poorest class would have chosen. The
-door stood open, and several ragged little Irish children were playing
-upon the steps. I inquired of them if Mrs. Benson, the seamstress lived
-there? They did not seem to recognize the name—but they told me that a
-young woman who took in sewing hired the back rooms of the third-story.
-Following their direction, I ascended three flights of stairs and found
-myself at the door of the apartment, where I knocked, and a faint voice
-bidding me enter, I unclosed the door and stood upon the threshold. What
-a strange and unexpected sight now met my gaze! Upon the floor, almost
-at my feet as I entered, lay a young and very beautiful girl apparently
-bereft of all consciousness. She looked so thin and pale that at first I
-thought her dead, and starting back in horror I was about to leave the
-place, when a feeble voice, the same which told me to come in, besought
-me to stay. Looking round to discover whence it proceeded, I saw the
-emaciated form of a man reclining upon a couch in a distant part of the
-room. Hastily I approached him, for I felt it to be my duty to render
-what aid I could. As I drew nearer to his bedside, I read the tale of
-confirmed disease in that pallid face and in the wild sunken eyes whose
-gaze met my own. In a few words he informed me that the maiden who lay
-there senseless was his daughter. While busily engaged at her work about
-an hour previously, she had fallen from her seat and remained thus in a
-state of unconsciousness. He said that his limbs being palsied he was
-unable to help her, and so he had lain upon his couch agonized by the
-thought that his child was dead, or that she might die for want of
-proper assistance. And he now besought me to endeavor to discover if
-there were any signs of life, and if possible to restore her to her
-senses. The appeal was not in vain. I turned from him to his inanimate
-daughter, and raising that light and fragile form in my arms, placed her
-upon a couch in a small closet-like apartment adjoining the one I had
-first entered. For a long time every means of restoration were vainly
-tried—but at length my strenuous efforts were rewarded, and the young
-girl once more unclosed her eyes. But she evidently recognized nothing
-about her—those dark and strangely beautiful orbs glared wildly around,
-while a few broken, incoherent sentences burst from her lips, and as she
-sunk again upon the pillow the bright fever flushes rushed to her cheek,
-and I knew that her brain was suffering. Great was her parent’s joy that
-she once more breathed—but my heart was full of sadness, for I could
-not help feeling that her life was in jeopardy. It was my wish to have a
-physician summoned, but I knew not how this was to be done, for I dared
-not leave my charge, and there was no one near to help me. At this
-moment I heard footsteps in the hall, and quickly opening the door,
-beheld a boy ascending the stairs. The promise of a piece of silver
-easily procured his assent to go for the nearest doctor, and accordingly
-he set off, while re-entering the room I resumed my station by the sick
-girl’s bedside. In a few minutes the physician arrived and my suspicions
-of the nature of the young girl’s disorder were confirmed, for he
-pronounced it to be a fever of the brain, and said that his patient
-would require constant watching and careful nursing. The father listened
-anxiously and attentively to the doctor’s words. His countenance fell as
-he caught the last sentences, though he said not a word. It was not till
-after giving his prescription, the physician left, promising to call
-early on the morrow, that he spoke what was passing in his mind.
-
-“‘Julie must die!’ he said, bowing his head upon his hands, while
-bitter, hopeless anguish was depicted upon his face, ‘for I have no
-means of obtaining for her the care she needs.’ It was all that passed
-his lips, but it spoke volumes to my heart, and my resolution was
-instantly taken. I told him that I would not desert his child, that I
-would continue with her part of the day, and when I was obliged to leave
-that I would send some one to take my place. Oh, Harry! if you could
-only have seen how grateful that poor invalid looked! Most amply repaid
-was I by that glance for whatever I had undertaken. I remained with the
-sick girl several hours longer, and in the intervals when she slumbered,
-I had time to observe the appearance of things around me. The furniture
-was mean and scanty. There were but two chairs in the room, and the
-carpet was worn almost threadbare. Every thing betokened extreme
-poverty—but neatness was plainly perceptible in the arrangements of the
-apartment, and I felt from the appearance of its occupants that they had
-seen more prosperous days. A book lay upon a table close at hand, I took
-it up, and discovered it to be a volume of Bryant’s poems. On looking
-over the pages, I found several of the most beautiful passages marked.
-Upon one of the fly-leaves was written, ‘To Julie—from her father.’ The
-book was evidently the young girl’s property. There was also a small
-portfolio of drawings upon the table, which evinced signs of both talent
-and cultivation. For an hour after the physician’s departure the parent
-of Julie—for by her name I may as well call her—showed little
-disposition to converse. He seemed exhausted by the emotions of the
-day—but I knew that though he said nothing, his gaze was often upon me
-when he imagined that I did not observe him. At last he roused himself
-to answer some inquiries which I thought it necessary to make. He told
-me that he was very poor, and that for more than a year, during which
-his infirmity had appeared and increased, his daughter had maintained
-him by the proceeds of her needle. He said also that two years
-previously he had resided at Baltimore as one of its wealthiest
-merchants—but having failed under circumstances that cast a cloud upon
-his character, though he was in reality innocent of intentional wrong,
-he had left the city of his birth and hastened with Julie, his only
-child, to New York, where he would be sure of never more meeting the
-scornful gaze of those who had been his friends ere misfortune overlook
-him. Here he hoped to procure employment—but fate seemed against him.
-Shortly after his arrival in this city, he was seized with a dangerous
-illness which left him in his present helpless condition, and his lovely
-and accomplished child found herself very unexpectedly thrown upon her
-own resources for her support and that of her invalid parent. Bravely
-for many months had she borne the burden, but continued anxiety
-concerning the means of obtaining life’s necessaries had at last done
-its work—and in the delirium of fever, the fair and noble girl now
-tossed restlessly upon her bed, a mere wreck of what she had once been.
-
-“This brief sketch of their history, as you may imagine, dear Harry,
-interested me greatly. And when, at its conclusion, the speaker again
-expressed his fears for the future and his doubts as to the recovery of
-his child, for whom he had no power to provide necessary attendance, I
-again assured him that I would watch over her until she became quite
-well, and that after this I would endeavor to find some more healthy and
-suitable employment for her than that in which she had latterly been
-engaged.
-
-“Toward the close of the afternoon, being desirous of going home for
-awhile, I dispatched the boy whom I have once before mentioned, for
-Maggie, that she might supply my place as attendant upon the sick Julie,
-until evening, when I proposed to bear her company and resume my post at
-the bedside. She came, and her sympathies were soon all enlisted by the
-tale which I hurriedly repeated to her. But she decidedly opposed my
-wish to return—reminded me of my late indisposition, and declaring that
-I was not strong enough to bear the fatigue of sitting up all night,
-insisted upon being allowed to exercise her skill as nurse without any
-other assistance. I thanked her for her consideration, while I felt that
-she was right. So I left her and proceeded home, where, as you may
-suppose, I was welcomed most joyfully by little Willie and his sister,
-who had mourned incessantly over mamma’s protracted absence.
-
-“And now, Harry, that I have finished my somewhat lengthy narrative,
-tell me whether you approve of what I have done and promised to do?”
-
-“Certainly, dearest Alice,” replied Mr. Colman, affectionately pressing
-the little hand that rested within his own, “while you continue to
-follow, as you have hitherto done, the dictates of your own pure, loving
-heart, I can never do aught but applaud you. The present objects of your
-benevolence, are I am sure from the account, well worthy of whatever you
-may do for them, and I would advise you to persevere in your efforts for
-their welfare. But you quite forgot to tell me, my dear, if you
-discovered in your _protégé_ the seamstress for whom you were
-searching.”
-
-“No, indeed,” she replied, while her countenance wore a look of
-vexation, “_my_ seamstress was a very different sort of a being from
-this beautiful Julie. Nor do I think that I shall ever discover her, for
-just before I returned home I made inquiries as to whether a person
-answering her description lived in that house, and was assured that no
-one of that name had ever dwelt there. How foolish I was to trust those
-dresses to an entire stranger.”
-
-“And pray what may be the name of the family whose history has
-interested you so deeply?” asked Mr. Colman.
-
-“The father’s name is Malcolm—Walter Malcolm, as he informed me. With
-the daughter’s I believe that I have already acquainted you.”
-
-“Walter Malcolm! Julie Malcolm! And you say they are from Baltimore?” As
-he spoke Mr. Colman’s cheek grew suddenly pale, and rising from his seat
-he paced the apartment with a hasty and agitated step.
-
-“Why, what is the matter, Harry?” exclaimed his wife in a tone of the
-deepest solicitude, as she sprung to his side, “pray tell me what has
-moved you thus?” But it was some moments ere he seemed able to reply. At
-length with emotion he said—
-
-“Alice, what if I were to tell you that this man—this Walter Malcolm is
-my brother—the brother who in my early youth drove me away from his
-luxurious home, an orphan and unprotected, to seek my fortune in the
-wide, wide world?” Alice Colman started and raised her eyes wonderingly
-to her husband’s face, and after a brief silence he resumed with a
-sternness unusual to him—
-
-“In that hour, Alice—in that hour of utter desolation, when lonely and
-uncared for I left my brother’s roof forever, a fierce, burning desire
-for revenge took possession of my soul. In the first bitterness of
-despair I called upon Heaven to avenge my wrongs. I wished that Walter’s
-wealth might take to itself wings—that one day he might come to me for
-bread; and I resolved were this ever the case, to give him—a stone! My
-desire has been fulfilled, and my proud and unfeeling brother is now a
-beggar at my door!”
-
-He paused—while his wife shuddered and looked appealingly up into his
-face.
-
-“Harry!” she exclaimed in a low, earnest tone, “you surely do not mean
-that you will not forgive the sorrow your brother’s conduct once caused
-you—that you will now look exultingly upon his woes, and turn a deaf
-ear to the wants of his sweet and suffering child?”
-
-The reproving expression of the dear face now anxiously upturned to his,
-at once recalled the husband to a sense of error, and drawing the form
-of the beloved one closer to his side, he said—
-
-“Oh! how fervently should I thank Heaven who has given to me such a
-monitor in the hour of temptation! Pardon me, my Alice, if by giving way
-to impulse I have wounded your sensitive spirit, and that in the moment
-when passion held its sway, I slighted the divine lesson of forgiveness,
-through your influence first impressed upon my soul. Nay, dearest, look
-not thus surprised, for it was really by your means that the wish to
-quell the thirst for revenge upon my brother, entered my heart; and if
-you will listen a few seconds I can explain to you the words that at
-present may well seem mysterious. You will doubtless remember, Alice,
-that some months before our marriage, I experienced a severe fit of
-illness. One pleasant Sabbath evening shortly after I was declared
-convalescent, I was reclining upon a sofa in the sitting-room at your
-uncle’s residence. My spirits were just then very much depressed—I felt
-inwardly fretful and uneasy—and as is not uncommon at such a time, many
-little circumstances which before had been almost forgotten, rose up in
-my mind, and woke anew in my bosom sensations according to their nature,
-of pain, anxiety, or indignation. Among other things came forcibly to
-view the memory of the grievous wrong I had received at the hands of him
-who should have been a parent to me; and a feeling of the deepest hatred
-toward my brother stole to my heart, together with a hope that at some
-future time a chance might be mine of returning him measure for measure
-of the unkindness which he had so unsparingly dealt out to me.
-
-“At that instant, Alice, you re-entered the room from which you had been
-a few minutes absent, and at the request of your uncle, opened the
-family Bible and began your usual Sabbath-evening duty of reading a
-series of chapters from the holy book. There was a passage in the first
-which you read that affected me strangely—for it came as a reproof from
-Heaven delivered to me through the medium of one of earth’s angels. It
-was the following—‘Avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto
-wrath, for it is written, vengeance is mine; I will repay saith the
-Lord. Therefore, if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him
-drink; for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.’ The
-sentences awed me, coming upon my ear as they did at a period when my
-spirit needed the precious warning and rebuke contained in them, and I
-breathed a silent prayer to Heaven for strength to enable me to heed it.
-The hour of my trial has arrived, and to-day have I again felt the
-promptings of the tempter. You cannot imagine with what force these old
-feelings have been driven back upon my soul, but, Alice, your voice has
-once more stilled the tempest, and I know that I have passed the ordeal
-in safety.”
-
-Harry Colman ceased, and this time as his gaze met that of his companion
-he saw that her eyes were full of tears—but they were tears of grateful
-joy. For a little while there was silence between them, but at length
-Mr. Colman continued:
-
-“Let me recount to you, Alice, as briefly as possible, a few
-circumstances connected with my early history. I have never done so
-before, because the effort was a painful one, and there was no exact
-necessity for the repetition. As you are aware, I was so unfortunate as
-to lose my father when I was a mere infant, and my mother lived only
-till I had attained my twelfth year. I was the child of her second
-marriage, and she had one son by a previous union who was many years my
-senior. At the period of my mother’s death, my brother, Walter Malcolm,
-had been married nearly five years, and was now a widower and the father
-of one little girl, who had just reached her third summer. Upon her
-death-bed my parent left me beneath his care, desiring Walter to attend
-to my wants and to be kind and gentle to me when she was no more. As
-soon as the funeral was over, my brother took me with him to his own
-dwelling. I was now entirely dependent upon him for maintenance. Walter
-Malcolm was wealthy, for a large estate had descended to him from his
-father, who had also left my mother a life-annuity, which while she
-lived had supported us. At her death I was of course unprovided for, for
-my own father had possessed no worldly goods to bequeath me. My new home
-seemed very different to me from the hearth of my early, sunny
-childhood. I was lonely and desolate—for between Walter and myself
-brotherly love had never existed. Not that _I_ would have denied him his
-meed—but I was too proud to award the gift that I was confident would
-never be valued, for my memory could not boast a single instance wherein
-he had evinced for me the slightest regard. Nay, I even felt that I was
-an object of dislike to him, though I knew not the cause. During my
-mother’s life I had been greatly indulged, and it was scarcely to be
-wondered at that I was frequently very wayward. Upon such occasions, a
-word of love had always been sufficient to control my passionate nature;
-but when the sweet affectionate tones that ever had power to calm me,
-were hushed in the tomb, my faults were met by my new guardian with
-harshness and contempt, and this never failed to rouse a spirit of
-continued opposition. There was but one voice in my brother’s household
-that ever spoke lovingly to me. It was that of his child—the little
-Julie. From the first hour of my residence beneath Walter’s roof, the
-little creature had conceived a passionate attachment to me, preferring
-my presence to that of her nurse or even her father. And, as you may
-imagine, Alice, I did not slight her proffered affection, and during the
-three years that we dwelt together the little one was the sole sunbeam
-upon my shadowed life-path. How gladly did I greet her graceful bounding
-step! How dear was the sound of her clear ringing laughter as I joined
-in her sports!—and more precious still were the moments when weary of
-play, she would steal to my side, and twining her tiny arms about my
-neck, murmur forth, in lisping accents, her sweet child-like terms of
-endearment.
-
-“I had reached my fifteenth year when the incident occurred that
-separated me from my brother. An error was laid to my charge of which I
-was really guiltless—and as I proudly refused to acknowledge and repair
-the fault—Walter Malcolm turned me from his dwelling, declaring that
-thenceforth and forever he disowned me! Time was merely given me to
-collect a few little articles that I could really call my own—I was not
-allowed to bid farewell to the child whom I yearned to look upon once
-more before I went—and so, an outcast, I passed from that stately
-mansion. Alice, I dare not linger over a description of my sensations in
-that hour of anguish—for it might perhaps arouse them again within my
-soul. You know the rest of my history—the circumstance of my adoption
-by your uncle who was then visiting Baltimore, and first beheld me in a
-store where I had entered in quest of employment. To him I confided the
-facts relating to my former life; he pitied and sympathized with me, and
-bore me with him to his own home in this city, and from that day was in
-every respect to the lonely orphan all that a kind and generous parent
-could be to his only son.”
-
-
- CHAPTER II.
-
-The morning succeeding the events last recorded, at an early hour, Mrs.
-Colman was on her way to the dwelling of the now destitute and infirm
-Walter Malcolm. She had new motives for the advancement of her
-charitable purposes, and her interest in the sick girl had deepened
-since she knew her to be the one whose infant steps her own husband had
-guided. Hastening up the stairs she knocked at the door, which was soon
-opened by Maggie, who looked weary enough with the fatigue of the past
-night. The young girl had been very restless, she said, and she believed
-that the fever was rapidly progressing. “But is she not a beautiful
-creature?” remarked Maggie to her mistress, as she bent over the couch
-and parted the rich curls from the fevered brow, “ah, ma’am, I have
-nursed many a one before this in sickness—but never a person whose
-appearance so won upon me as hers has.”
-
-Alice Colman did not wonder at the observation—but as she now glanced
-round the room she met the gaze of Julie’s father, and her morning
-salutation to him was full of gentleness and sympathy.
-
-Through the whole of that day Mrs. Colman maintained her station in the
-chamber of sickness and poverty. The physician came at the appointed
-hour, and gave it as his opinion that Julie was growing rapidly worse
-and that there were even doubts whether in any case her life would be
-spared. Oh! how the thought of her dying affected Mrs. Colman.
-
-“Let every thing be done that may be of benefit to her,” she said
-anxiously to the doctor, “spare no expense whatever if you think you can
-by any means preserve her from the grasp of death. I will be answerable
-for whatever remuneration you may require.”
-
-And not even content with his advice, she sent for her own family
-physician determined to try all the means she could for the preservation
-of the life of her husband’s niece. She noticed that Walter Malcolm
-looked very pale all day, but attributed it to anxiety for his daughter.
-He seemed too languid to converse—but once, as she handed him a glass
-of water, he said—“Lady, Heaven will reward your kindness to the
-suffering.”
-
-That evening when Alice Colman returned home, her husband surprised her
-with the intelligence that Walter Malcolm was aware of her relationship
-to him. Before she went there in the morning, Mr. Colman had advised her
-on no account to allow his brother to suspect from whom he received the
-needful aid, for he feared that Walter still entertained against him the
-old feeling of hatred, and that it would awaken unpleasant emotions in
-his heart if he knew that the brother he had deserted was now destined
-to be his chief reliance. But the caution to his wife was unnecessary.
-Walter Malcolm had made inquiries of Maggie concerning the family to
-whom he was indebted, and from their minuteness Harry Colman was
-confident that he had been recognised. And that his brother had not
-forgotten his former aversion to him he deemed evident from the fact
-that he had said nothing of his discovery, during the day, to Mrs.
-Colman. The latter however thought differently. Julie’s father had
-spoken his thanks for that draught of water too earnestly for her to
-join in her husband’s belief, and she expressed her conviction that he
-repented his past conduct, and that he merely wanted courage to confess
-his penitence.
-
-But day after day passed on, and yet there was no allusion to the
-subject on the part of Walter Malcolm. Meanwhile his daughter had passed
-the crisis of the fever and was declared convalescent. If the appearance
-of Julie Malcolm in the hour of delirium had attracted the fancy of
-Alice Colman and her nurse, how much more were they drawn toward her
-when her mind was freed from the chains that bound it—for gentle and
-loving-hearted, her grateful spirit manifested itself in various little
-touching ways toward those who had watched over her during her dangerous
-illness. When she grew stronger and was able to enter into conversation,
-a perfect understanding arose between Mrs. Colman and herself that they
-were always to be friends. Alice Colman felt that she already loved
-Julie dearly—and the latter was not slow in returning the affection of
-one whose timely succor had saved her life. Still the young girl
-suspected not that they were kindred by law as in heart.
-
-It was soon settled that when Julie became entirely recovered, she
-should undertake the duties of governess to Mrs. Colman’s children, and
-this new office was to afford her the means of support. A more suitable
-residence had been sought by Alice Colman for Julie and her father, and
-they were to remove into it as soon as the former had gained sufficient
-strength to bear the fatigue. Two more weeks elapsed ere this last
-project was effected—and they were then comfortably settled in their
-new abode.
-
-And still there was no sign from Walter Malcolm that he knew of his
-brother’s agency in the change wrought in his affairs. He was now
-generally reserved when Mrs. Colman was near, and his countenance often
-wore a deep shade of gloom.
-
-
- CHAPTER III.
-
-The first day that Julie Malcolm felt equal to the exertion was spent at
-the house of her new friend, and then it was that for the first time
-since her childhood, Harry Colman beheld his niece. So strongly
-impressed upon his mind was the recollection of her early fondness for
-him, and the soothing influence which her winning, affectionate ways had
-possessed over his spirit, that had he now obeyed the voice of impulse
-he would fain have clasped Julie once more to his heart; for though he
-now looked upon a beautiful and graceful maiden of eighteen, he could
-scarcely view her in any other light than as the darling child whose
-caresses had so often comforted him when greeted by every other voice
-with coldness. Yet recalling the fact that their relationship could not
-be breathed to her by himself, he was obliged to meet her with the
-reserve of a perfect stranger. But all formality between them soon
-vanished, and an hour after their introduction found them conversing
-together with the ease of old acquaintanceship. Nor had Julie forgotten,
-in her own frank earnest manner, to thank him again and again for the
-services his family had rendered her father and herself—while her soft
-dark eyes filled with tears as she spoke of the debt which by gratitude
-only she could repay. Harry Colman longed to tell her that _he_ was the
-debtor—and that by his wife’s attention to her, Julie had but been
-rewarded for the love she had accorded him when all other hearts were
-steeled against him.
-
-Mrs. Colman saw with delight her husband’s increasing predeliction for
-his niece—for by renewing his former affection for Julie, she hoped to
-make the young girl at some future day, the instrument of reconciliation
-between the estranged brothers.
-
-The day of Julie’s visit to the Colmans was a happy one to all parties.
-Even little Effie Colman and her brother Willie, though at first rather
-shy of the lady, who, as they were told, was to initiate them into the
-mysteries of the primer, had become very fond of her, and were
-exceedingly loath to let her go when the time appointed for her return
-home arrived. Then, with her arms entwined about Julie’s neck, little
-Effie besought her to say when she was coming to them daily—and the
-following week was accordingly named for the commencement of her career
-as preceptress to the children.
-
-
- CHAPTER IV.
-
-The morning agreed upon by Julie and Mrs. Colman for the beginning of
-the former’s labors arrived, but the young girl did not appear. Knowing
-well her eagerness to enter upon her new duties—the eagerness of a
-noble spirit to throw off the yoke of dependence—Alice Colman might
-well feel anxious at Julie’s non-fulfillment of her promise. For the
-first time a thought crossed her mind that the suspicions of her husband
-concerning his brother’s continued ill-feeling toward him, might be
-just, and that Walter Malcolm had resolved to oppose his daughter’s
-constant association with them. But not long would she allow herself to
-imagine thus. Perhaps Julie was ill again—or some unforeseen
-circumstances had prevented her coming. So Mrs. Colman determined to
-wait till the following day, when if the object of her solicitude was
-still absent, and she received no message from her, she felt that she
-would then be more capable of judging the matter.
-
-It was not until near the close of the afternoon that she was relieved
-of uncertainty upon the subject by the reception of a note from Julie.
-The latter stated that her father was very ill of a dangerous fever,
-brought on, as the physician averred, by distress of mind—and that it
-was doubtful whether in his enfeebled condition he could live a week
-longer. She added that only a few hours previously he had informed her
-that their benefactress was the wife of his brother, and also of the
-unfeeling treatment which that brother had received from him. And Julie
-said that from the hour when he had learned the circumstance of their
-relationship, remorse and the knowledge of his unworthiness to accept
-assistance from the one whom he had injured, preyed upon her father’s
-spirits, and at last caused the fever that threatened soon to terminate
-his existence. His last earthly wish now was to see his brother and ask
-forgiveness of the past—and Julie concluded by begging Mrs. Colman to
-use all her influence in order to bring her uncle to her parent’s couch,
-if it were possible, that very evening.
-
-And that evening Mr. Colman, accompanied his wife to the abode of Walter
-Malcolm. The meeting between the brothers was a painful one. There was
-mingled shame and penitential sorrow on the part of the elder, while the
-countenance of the younger was expressive of the deepest agitation as he
-stood by the bedside of him who had cast so dark a cloud upon his youth.
-Harry Colman had yielded to the entreaties of Alice for this interview,
-while he felt that it would have been wrong to have denied it—but it
-was not until he looked upon Walter’s pallid face, and heard that once
-stern and familiar voice supplicating forgiveness, even with the humble
-avowal that it was undeserved, that the lingering spark of resentment
-was entirely extinguished within his breast—and when he breathed the
-much-desired word of pardon they were truly heart-felt.
-
-And by returning good for evil he had indeed “heaped coals of fire” upon
-the head of his brother.
-
-“From your birth, Harry, you were the object of my bitterest envy and
-hatred,” was the confession of Walter Malcolm, “for upon you was freely
-lavished the love of that mother whose affection I had never possessed.
-She had been forced by her family into a union with my father while her
-heart was another’s—and when her husband died and she was free to wed
-again, she married the one who had first gained her regard. This was the
-key to your superior claim upon our mother’s love. I will not now blame
-her for the wrong of partiality, though it was the basis of my demeanor
-toward yourself. I should have had sufficient strength of mind to have
-resisted its influence—but in this I was sadly deficient. To the last
-hour of her life my mother’s chief thought was of you. Yes, even in her
-dying moments her principal anxiety was for _your_ future happiness,
-while there was but little reference to the welfare of her eldest child.
-When she was no more, and you came to dwell beneath my roof, I scrupled
-not openly to show the sentiments which during our parent’s life-time I
-was obliged to conceal. And I had now an additional cause of dislike. I
-secretly accused you of robbing me of the affection of my little girl,
-who, as you will perhaps remember, always manifested a decided
-preference for your society. I did not reflect that my manner toward her
-was often cold and distant, and widely different from your own; and with
-such feelings of jealousy concerning you in my heart, it was scarcely to
-be wondered that I seized the first opportunity of ridding myself of
-your presence. Though I knew you to be guiltless of the fault for which
-I blamed you, I drove you from my dwelling, refusing from that moment to
-own you as a brother. Nor did I then experience the least remorse for
-the act—and during the years that followed I strove to forget that you
-had ever existed.
-
-“It was only within the past twelvemonth, when surrounded by poverty,
-and the victim of an incurable malady, that as I lay restlessly upon my
-bed, the memory of my cruel conduct toward my innocent brother has
-pressed heavily upon my mind. Often have I busied my brain with vain
-conjectures respecting your fate—whether you still lived—and if you
-had escaped the whirlpool of crime and sin within which the young and
-unadvised are but too frequently engulfed. When I thought, as I
-sometimes did, that you might have fallen—my sensations were those of
-the most acute anguish, for I felt that the sin would all be mine, and
-that at the judgment day I should be called to the throne of God to hear
-him pronounce the fearful penalty for the murder of a brother’s soul.
-
-“At length, through the illness of my daughter, who was very
-unexpectedly thrown upon the benevolence of your wife, I obtained from
-your servant some information concerning the family to whom I owed so
-much, and discovered in the hand stretched forth to aid my child, the
-wife of my discarded brother. It would be vain to attempt a description
-of my emotions as I learned this fact. Joy that you were not forever
-lost, predominated—and then was added shame, and a consciousness of my
-own unworthiness to receive the benefits which henceforth you daily
-conferred upon me, as I felt that you must have recognized me—for I had
-given to your wife an account of my previous life. Each successive
-service lavished upon my family by your own, sunk like a weight of lead
-upon my heart, while as I saw how generously you repaid me for the evil
-I had committed against you, I longed to cast myself at your feet and
-supplicate forgiveness. But one thought deterred me. It was the fear
-that you might deem me actuated by interested motives—by the desire to
-leave my daughter at my death under the care of her now wealthy uncle.
-And so, for a time, I set aside the yearning for a reconciliation. But
-it returned with double force when this, which I know will be my last
-illness, came upon me, and I felt that I could not die happily without
-hearing from your lips a pardon for my misdeed.”
-
-The weeping Julie had stood by the bedside listening attentively as her
-father spoke, one hand resting affectionately in her uncle’s, while the
-other was clasped in that of his wife. Though scarcely six years old
-when Harry Colman was dismissed from his brother’s house, she had ever
-retained a vivid recollection of the event. She remembered how
-passionately she had wept when told by her nurse that she would probably
-never again behold her favorite, and how indignant she had felt when
-they said that it was owing to his own naughty conduct he had been sent
-away—while her ignorance of the fact that her uncle’s name was not the
-same as her father’s prevented a recognition of him when they again met.
-
- * * * * *
-
-Walter Malcolm survived a week after the scene just described. Having
-made his peace with earthly objects, his last hours were devoted to
-solemn preparations for a future state, looking trustfully for the mercy
-of Him who listens kindly to the prayer of the penitent. His brother was
-constantly with him till his eyes were forever closed in the
-death-slumber; and from the day when the remains of her father were
-borne to their last resting-place, the orphan Julie found a home with
-her uncle, to whose pleasant hearth she was lovingly welcomed, while by
-every kind and sympathizing attention her relatives strove to alleviate
-the sorrow for a parent’s loss, which at first seemed almost
-insupportable.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- THE UNSEPULCHRED RELICS.
-
-
- BY MRS. L. S. GOODWIN.
-
-
- “Far out of the usual course of vessels crossing that ocean,
- they discovered an unknown island, covered with majestic trees.
- The captain, with a portion of the crew, went on shore, and
- after traversing its entire circumference without seeing a
- solitary representative of the animal kingdom, were about to
- return to their ship, when the skeleton of a man was found upon
- the beach, and beside it lay a partially constructed boat.”
-
- Bleaching upon the sands that pave
- An unknown islet strand,
- Where surges bear from mermaid cave
- The music of her band,
- A clayey temple’s ruin lies—
- Of that grand pile a part
- Whereon the Architect Divine
- Displayed His wondrous art;
- Its tenant long since hath obeyed
- The summons to depart.
-
- Mysterious, as dire, the doom
- That cast a death-scene where
- Deep solitude converts to gloom
- What else were brightly fair:
- Perchance wild waves that made a wreck
- Of some ill-fated bark,
- Giving his valiant comrades all
- To feast the rav’nous shark,
- Swept hither this lone mariner,
- For misery a mark.
-
- Yon half-completed boat his lot
- In mournful tones doth tell;
- With what assiduous zeal he wrought
- Upon that tiny cell,
- Which promised o’er the billows broad
- The worn one to convey
- Within compassion’s genial realm,
- Where woes find sweet allay;
- ’Twere better e’en the sea should whelm
- Than thus with want hold fray.
-
- Believe you not that in his pain,
- His agony of soul,
- Flew o’er the dark engirding main
- The thoughts which spurn control?
- Abiding with the cherished ones
- Who blest a far-off home;
- O how his sinking spirit yearned
- To view once more that dome;
- To hear young voices gayly shout
- For joy that he had come.
-
- He mused how love with pining frame
- Her grief-fount would exhaust,
- As on time’s laggard wing there came
- No tidings of the lost.
- Ah! who may speak the bitter pangs
- That exile’s bosom knew.
- As, day by day, and hour by hour,
- Faint, and yet fainter, grew
- The hope that erst had nerved him on
- His labor to pursue.
-
- To ply their wonted task, at length,
- Refused his weary hands;
- His form was stretched, bereft of strength.
- Upon the burning sands.
- Haply his latest wish besought
- ’Mong kindred dead to lie;
- But fate denied the boon, and death
- Seized him ’neath stranger sky;
- While mercy drew a mystic veil
- ’Twixt him and friendship’s eye.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- REMINISCENCES OF A READER.
-
-
- BY THE LATE WALTER HERRIES, ESQ.
-
-
- Oh! the times will never be again
- As they were when we were young,
- When Scott was writing “Waverlies,”
- And Moore and Byron sung;
- When “Harolds,” “Giaours” and “Corsairs” came
- To charm us every year,
- And “Loves” of “Angels” kissed Tom’s cup,
- While Wordsworth sipped small beer.
-
- When Campbell drank of Helicon,
- And didn’t _mix_ his _liquor_;
- When Wilson’s strong and steady light
- Had not begun to flicker;
- When Southey, climbing piles of books,
- Mouthed “Curses of Kehama;”
- And Coleridge, in his opium dreams,
- Strange oracles would stammer;
-
- When Rodgers sent his “Memory,”
- Thus hoping to delight all,
- Before he learned his mission was
- To give “feeds” and invite all;
- When James Montgomery’s “weak tea” strains
- Enchanted pious people,
- Who didn’t mind poetic _haze_,
- If through it loomed a _steeple_.
-
- When first reviewers teamed to show
- Their judgment without mercy;
- When Blackwood was as young and lithe
- As now he’s old and pursy;
- When Gifford, Jeffrey, and their clan,
- Could fix an author’s doom,
- And Keats was taught how well they knew
- To kill _à coup de plume_.
-
- Few womenfolk were rushing then
- To the Parnassian mount,
- And seldom was a teacup dipped
- In the Castalian fount;
- Apollo kept no _pursuivant_,
- To cry out “_Place aux Dames_:”
- In life’s round game they held GOOD _hands_,
- And didn’t strive for _palms_.
-
- Oh! the world will never be again
- What it was when we were young,
- And shattered are the idols now
- To which our boyhood clung;
- Gone are the _giants_ of those days,
- For whom our wreaths we twined,
- And _pigmies_ now _kick up a dust_
- To show the _march of mind_.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- THE GIPSY QUEEN.
-
-
- BY JOSEPH R. CHANDLER.
-
-
- [SEE ENGRAVING.]
-
-Power, consequence, importance, greatness, are relative terms; they
-denote position or attainment, comparable with some other. And hence a
-queen is a queen at the head of a band of gipsies as much as if she sat
-upon a throne, at the head of a nation whose morning drum beats an
-eternal _reveille_. It was therefore, and for another cause yet to be
-told, that I lifted my hat with particular deference when I opened
-suddenly upon the head woman of a gipsy tribe, as I was passing through
-a small piece of woodland. Though, truth to say, I had been looking at
-her for some time, an hour previous, as she was giving some directions
-to one or two of her ragged and dirty train. Now I had known that woman
-in other circumstances. I had seen her in the family, had heard her
-commended by the men for her graceful movements, and berated by the
-women for exhibiting those movements to the men, and being as free with
-her tongue in presence of her female superiors as she had been with her
-feet before her male admirers. But neither the admiration of the men nor
-the rebuke of the women produced any effect. All that this woman
-received from a long sojourn with the people of the village, was a
-little loss of the darkness of the skin, and a pretty good understanding
-of the wants and weaknesses of society. Everybody knew that she had been
-left in exchange for a healthful child—and some years before it had
-been discovered that the healthful child would be worth nothing to the
-gipsies, and the gipsy girl would, at the first opportunity, return to
-her “brethren and kindred according to the flesh.” And such was the
-skill which she manifested on her return, such her ability to direct,
-such her knowledge of the wants of the villagers, and her power to take
-advantage of these wants, that she became the head of the tribe with
-which she was associated, and might have directed numerous tribes, could
-they have been collected for her guidance.
-
-I could not learn that there was much of a story connected with the life
-of the queen, much indeed that would interest the general reader. But
-she was a woman—and her heart, a mystery to the uninitiated, would, if
-exposed, have been worth a world’s perusal. A woman’s heart—alas! how
-few are admitted to loose the seals and open that secret volume! How
-very few could understand the revelation if it were made. I could not, I
-confess; and it is only when a peculiar light is thrown upon here and
-there a pace, that I can acquire even a partial knowledge of what is
-manifested. The Queen of the Gipsies, though elevated by right, and
-sustained by knowledge, was no less a woman than a queen. She could and
-did command male and female, old and young. She was treated with all
-that marked distinction which, even among her rude people, continues to
-be paid to preeminence. And while she sought to do the best for all, she
-received all this homage with that ease, and that apparent absence of
-wonder, which denote the right to distinction—this was a part of her
-queenly character admirably sustained, natural, easy, dignified. But the
-queen was a _woman_. I had heard her give orders, which sent certain of
-the most active of the young, male and female, to the other side of the
-village, and then she gave employment to the old and the young in the
-moving hamlet, and seeing the first depart, and the last busy, she left
-the camp, and took her way through the wood. I followed her and traced
-her rapid steps to the burying-ground of the town, which stood a
-distance from any dwelling.
-
-Seating myself out of view, I saw the queen walk directly to a recently
-sodded grave, upon which she looked down for a moment, and then clasping
-her hands wildly above her head she threw herself with a subdued cry
-upon the grave. I was too far from her to distinguish all the words of
-her lament, but they were wild and agonizing.
-
-After a short time the woman arose, and said with a distinct, clear
-voice, “With thee and for thee I could have endured the mockery of their
-boasted civilization, and suffered the ceremonies of their tame creed.
-With thee and for thee I would have foregone my native tribe and my
-hereditary rights. So persuasive was thy affection that I could have
-forgotten—or at least would not have boasted—that I was of the
-glorious race that knows no manacles of body or of mind, but what it
-chooses to impose. But thou art gone, and with thee all my attraction to
-the idle, wearisome life of thy race. I have returned to my people, and
-I may lead them, and power and activity may for a time weaken my agony.
-I need no longer sacrifice my love for my race—but yet one sacrifice I
-will make, and thy grave shall be the altar. With thee my heart is
-buried. To thee do I here swear an eternal fidelity—and year by year
-will I lead my tribe hither, that I may pour out my anguish upon the sod
-that rises above thee. And I may hope that such devotion may lead the
-spirit that made our race for future happiness as for present freedom,
-to give thee back to me when I enter on my world of changeless love and
-glorious recompense.”
-
-Kneeling again, the Gipsy Queen kissed the grave, and gathered a few
-blades of grass and one or two flowers, shook away the tears which she
-had let fall upon them, and placing them in her bosom turned and left
-the burying-place, and proceeded toward the camp. I left my position by
-the other route, and passing through the wood I met her. Her face was
-cleared from every cloud, no trace of a tear was evident; she had
-prepared herself to meet her party in a way to excite no inquiry.
-
-[Illustration: THE GIPSEY QUEEN.
-
-Engraved expressly for Graham’s Magazine]
-
-The little that I knew of the Gipsy Queen previous to that day, and what
-was told me by one who had lived in the village very long, I have set
-down. I never saw her after I passed her in the woods. But she made an
-impression on my mind that will not be easily removed. And she bore in
-her heart motives for action which few but herself and me will ever
-know.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- THE BROTHER’S LAMENT.
-
-
- BY MRS. AMELIA B. WELBY.
-
-
- One moment more, beneath the old elm, Mary,
- Where last we parted in the flowing dell—
- One moment more through twilight tints that vary,
- To gaze upon thy grave, and then, farewell!
- Ere from this spot, and these loved scenes I sever,
- Where still thy lovely spirit seems to stray—
- One look—to fix them on my soul forever—
- And then away!
-
- Mary, I know my steps should now be shrinking
- From this sad spot—but on my mournful gaze
- A scene floats up that sets my soul to thinking
- On all the dear delights of other days!
- I’m gazing on the little foot-bridge yonder
- Thrown o’er the stream whose waters purl below,
- Where I so oft have seen thee pause and ponder,
- Leaning thy white brow on thy hand of snow.
- I’m standing on the spot where last we parted,
- Where, as I left thee in the fragrant dell,
- I saw thee turn so oft—half broken-hearted—
- Waving thy hand in token of farewell.
- I start to meet thy footstep light and airy—
- But—the cold grass waves o’er thy sweet young head;
- Would that the shroud that wraps thy fair form, Mary,
- Wrapped mine instead!
-
- In vain my heart its bitter thoughts would parry,
- An adder’s grasp about its chords seem curled,
- For you were all I ever thought of, Mary—
- Were all I doted on in this wide world!
- And yet, I’d sigh not while thy fate I ponder,
- Did memory only bring thee to my eyes
- Pale as thou sleepest in the church-yard yonder—
- Or as an angel dazzling from the skies!
- I then at least could treasure each sweet token
- Of thy pure love—and in life’s mad’ning whirl
- Steel my crushed heart—had not thine own been broken,
- Poor hapless girl!
-
- But, Mary—Mary, when I think upon thee,
- As when I last beheld thee in thy pride—
- And on the fate—oh God!—to which he won thee—
- I curse the hour that sent me from your side!
- Oh why wert thou so richly, strangely gifted
- With mortal loveliness beyond compare?
- The look of love beneath thy lashes lifted—
- Its fatal sweetness was to thee a snare!
- Yet sleep, my sister—I will not upbraid thee—
- Thou wert too sweet—too innocently dear;
- But he—the exulting demon who betrayed thee—
- He lives, he lives, and I am loitering here!
- Even now some happier fair one’s chains may bind him
- In dalliance sweet—but I’ll avenge thee well!
- Avenge thee?—Yes! a brother’s curse will find him,
- Though he should dive into the deeps of hell!
- I swear it, sister—as thou art forgiven—
- By all our wrongs—by all our severed ties,
- And by the blessedness of yon blue heaven,
- That gives its world of azure to mine eyes!
- By all my love—by every sacred duty
- A brother owes—and by yon heaving sod,
- Thine early grave—and by thy blighted beauty,
- Thou sweetest angel in the realms of God!
- I swear it, by the bursting groans I smother,
- And call on Heaven and thee to nerve me now.
- Mary, look down!—behold thy wretched brother,
- And bless the vow!
-
- Sister, my soul its last farewell is taking,
- And I for this had thought it nerved to-night,
- But every chord about my heart seems breaking,
- And blinding tears shut out the glimmering sight.
- One look—one last long look to hill and meadow—
- To the old foot-bridge and the murmuring mill,
- And to the church-yard sleeping in the shadow—
- Cease tears—and let these fond eyes look their fill!
- One look—and now farewell ye scenes that vary
- Beneath the twilight shades that round me flow!
- The charm that bound my wild heart here, was Mary—
- And she lies low!
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- SONNET TO MACHIAVELLI.
-
-
- FROM THE ITALIAN OF MAMIANI.
-
-
- Thou mighty one, whose winged words of yore
- Have spread on history’s page Italia’s wars,
- The sad mischances of intestine jars,
- Like beacons blazing where the breakers roar.
- Still canst thou glance out civil discords o’er?
- Some solace for us canst thou not divine?
- Canst thou not oil on troubled waters pour,
- And soothe each petty tyrants ruthless mind?
- Why else unveil the falsehood of our land,
- Which sees not why its tale thou deign’st to tell?
- Why else didst thou with an unsparing hand
- Make bare the wounds whose angry scars will tell
- The lasting shame of ignomy’s brand,
- All petrified at history’s command?
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- THE DARSIES.
-
-
- BY EMMA C. EMBURY.
-
-
- _Don Pedro._ I pray you, hold me not responsible for all these
- travelers’ tales. I am but the mouthpiece of others: therefore,
- if I question the infallibility of the Pope, summon me not
- before the Inquisition; if I speak treason against the king,
- clap me not up in the Tower; and if I utter heresy against the
- ladies, let me not be flayed alive by the nails of enraged
- damsels. OLD PLAY.
-
-“There is no use in wasting words, Cousin Charles; you never can
-persuade me that men love more devotedly than women.”
-
-“How can you be so unreasonable, Anne? I only want to convince you that
-affection being an essential part of woman’s nature, she cannot help
-loving something or somebody all her life. The most she does, even in
-her most intense devotion, is to _individualize_ the general sentiment
-which pervades her character; but when men love, they actually take up a
-new nature, and concentrate upon it all their strength of mind and force
-of character.”
-
-“You have certainly a droll method of reasoning, cousin; because women
-are _loving_ creatures, therefore they cannot love as well as the
-rougher sex.”
-
-“You are willful, Anne, and are determined not to understand me. I mean
-that love is usually a habitude with women, while with men, if it exists
-at all, it is a positive, determinate thing—a graft, as it were, upon
-their sturdy natures, and partaking therefore of the strength of the
-stock which nourishes it.”
-
-“How can you say so when men are always in love, from the time they quit
-the nursery until they are gray-headed, or _married_?”
-
-“Such attachments are mere fancies.”
-
-“Pray, how is one to distinguish between a fancy and a fact in so
-delicate a matter?”
-
-“It is difficult to decide at first, because in their inceptive state
-they are much alike; but time is the true test. A fancy, a mere
-intoxication of the senses, is scarce worth talking about; but in a
-genuine manly love there is a depth, a fervor, a disinterestedness, a
-devotion, such as woman can never feel—nay, which they can rarely
-appreciate.”
-
-“Heresy—rank heresy—Cousin Charles. I appeal to Uncle Lorimer, who has
-heard our whole discussion, if you do not deserve excommunication with
-‘bell, book and candle,’ for holding such opinions.”
-
-The cousins were sitting together in the twilight, and, as the shadows
-of evening deepened around them, the light of the soft-coal fire in the
-polished grate gave a beautifully cheerful look of home comfort to the
-pleasant apartment. An old gentleman, whose silver hair glittered in the
-fire-light, had been sitting in the chimney-nook, and, thus appealed to
-by his merry niece, he smiled good-humoredly as he replied—
-
-“If you submit the dispute to me, I must decide against both.”
-
-“Why so?”
-
-“Because you are both too generalizing in your remarks. In this
-work-a-day world of ours there is a daily and hourly need of the tender,
-watchful, kindly ministry of sympathy and affection; now the peculiar
-attributes of woman’s nature are such as fit her for this ministry; and
-whether it be a mere habitude or not, it is the quality most needed by
-men and most generally possessed by women.”
-
-Anne clapped her hands, and looked triumphantly at her cousin; but Uncle
-Lorimer continued—
-
-“I must agree with Charles, however, that when men give out their whole
-strength to a genuine affection, it is a more unselfish, magnanimous and
-higher emotion than ever could dwell in the bosom of woman. The same
-qualities which make her the gentler half of man mingle their leaven in
-her affections. For instance, a woman will make any sacrifice for one
-whom she loves, she will bear all kinds of privation and suffering for
-his sake, but earth holds not the creature more pitilessly exacting of
-affection than she is, or more jealously awake to every whisper of
-distrust. Another weakness in her character is vanity; and I must
-confess I never yet found a woman so much in love with her lover, that
-she would not curl her hair and dress in her best to meet the eyes of
-other men.”
-
-“Oh! uncle. You are worse than Charles.”
-
-“But perhaps you will like to hear my whole opinion, Anne. I have said
-that women possess most of the quality which is required in daily life;
-as I am not one of those who pretend to despise _good habits_ because
-they are not _heroic virtues_, I think you ought to be satisfied with my
-decision.”
-
-“But you attribute so much nobler a quality to men.”
-
-“That is true, but let me comfort you by just whispering in your ear,
-that not one man in a thousand is capable of such an affection. True
-sentiment is the rarest thing upon earth. To use the language of your
-favorite poet—
-
- Accident, blind contact, and the strong necessity of loving,
-
-often bring together hearts which habit afterward keeps united. Few,
-very few, create an ideal in their youth and see it substantialize into
-a reality as life goes on. Still fewer of those men who are capable of
-real love ever bestow its treasures upon one who can appreciate them. I
-think I have never known a single instance of such an attachment being
-reciprocated and rewarded.”
-
-“Did you ever know more than one man who possessed this faculty of
-loving, uncle?”
-
-“In the course of my long life I have known _three_; and if you choose I
-will tell you the history of one of these, to prove my theory.
-
-“Among my earliest school friends and playmates were Edgar and Herbert
-Darsie. They were twin-brothers, the only children of a widow, whom I
-remember as a tall, pale lady in close mourning, which she never laid
-aside till the day of her death. There was little of that resemblance
-between the twins which generally makes the pleasant puzzle of mothers
-and nurses in similar cases; for, though alike in feature and height,
-and even in their peculiarity of gait and manner, yet Edgar had the fair
-complexion, blue eyes, and light silken hair of his mother; while
-Herbert’s olive complexion, dark eyes, and curling black locks betrayed
-the French blood which he derived from his father. They were cheerful,
-happy-tempered boys, and possessed a certain natural sweetness of
-manner, which made them universal favorites with old and young. Their
-mother lived in the retired but handsome style which, in those days, was
-considered the proper mode of showing respect for the memory of a
-husband. She kept up the establishment exactly as it had been during Mr.
-Darsie’s life, and seemed to find her only pleasure in doing precisely
-as he would have wished. She was apparently in the enjoyment of a
-handsome income, kept her carriage, and had a number of servants, while
-the house and grounds exhibited taste as well as no stint of expense.
-
-“The boys were about twelve years of age, when an accident happened to
-Herbert, which, though apparently slight at first, finally led to the
-most disastrous consequences. While skating, he fell and received some
-injury, which, after months of suffering, finally developed itself in an
-incurable disease of the spine, entailing upon him a life-time of pain,
-and branding him with frightful deformity. The tall, lithe, graceful
-boy, whose step had been as light and free as the leap of the greyhound,
-was now a dwarfed and distorted cripple. As soon as he was able to leave
-his sick-room, Mrs. Darsie placed Edgar at boarding-school, and sailed
-for Europe, with the intention of giving Herbert the benefit of all the
-modern discoveries in medicine. She designed to be absent a year, but,
-led on by fallacious hopes, she traveled farther, and remained much
-longer than she had anticipated. Three years elapsed before her return,
-and to all appearance Herbert had derived little benefit from the
-various experiments to which he had been subjected. He was still
-dependent on his crutch, and his gnarled and stunted figure presented a
-pitiable contrast to the tall and well-knit form of his brother. But his
-health was somewhat improved; his paroxysms of pain were less frequent,
-and he could now enjoy weeks of comparative ease and comfort.
-
-“The brothers had early been remarkable for their affection for each
-other, and their unbroken concord, but their long separation had not
-been without its effect upon them. Edgar was gay, active, volatile, and
-not destitute of a leaven of selfishness; while Herbert had become
-grave, quiet, gentle in manner, and most thoughtful and considerate for
-others. To him suffering had been a teacher of all good things, and the
-misfortune of being cut off from fellowship with the world had taught
-him to find resources within himself. He could not and did not expect
-Edgar to sympathize in all his tastes, for he was conscious that their
-paths must henceforth be divided ones. He schooled himself to overcome
-the pang which this reflection gave to his sensitive spirit, and tried
-to find in his brother’s enjoyments of outer life, a pleasure which he
-could only receive from the reflection of another’s joy.
-
-“Soon after their return from Europe, Mrs. Darsie received into her
-family the orphan child of a poor clergyman, partly from charity, partly
-with a view to furnish a companion and attendant for Herbert. Jessie
-Graham was a pale, delicate-looking child, about twelve years old, when
-she took up her abode with her benefactress. Her thin and almost
-transparent cheek, her bloodless lips, and large gray, timid-looking
-eyes, spoke of fragile health, and of a certain shyness of character
-which might be the result of early anxieties, or perhaps denoted
-feebleness of mind and indecision. But she was a sweet-tempered, gentle
-little girl, and her compassion for Herbert’s melancholy condition soon
-dissipated her shyness toward him, though to every one else, even to
-Mrs. Darsie, she was as timid as a startled fawn.
-
-“To divert his lonely hours Herbert undertook her instruction. He was
-but a boy of fifteen, but sorrow had given him the stability of manhood;
-and never did a more discreet, tender, and watchful Mentor attempt the
-training of a female mind. Jessie was docile and intelligent, quickly
-acquiring every thing which called forth the perceptive faculties, but
-utterly incapable of abstract reasoning or profound reflection. Her mind
-possessed a certain activity, and a kind of feminine patience that
-enabled her to do full credit to her teacher, without ever attaining to
-his high reach of thought. To cultivate her mental powers, to impart to
-her a portion of his accomplishments, and to train her moral sense, now
-became Herbert’s chief occupation. That such employment of heart and
-mind saved him from bitterness and misanthropy there can be no doubt;
-but whether he did not pay dearly for his exemption we shall see in the
-sequel.
-
-“Time passed on without making any great change in the affairs of the
-Darsies. Edgar went through college rather because it was necessary to a
-gentlemanly education than from any love for study, and, immediately
-after graduating, he set off on the tour of Europe. In the meantime
-Herbert continued to lead his usual quiet life, driving out in his low
-pony-carriage every day, teaching Jessie all she would learn, and
-surrounding himself with pictures of his own painting in the intervals
-of his severer studies.
-
-“It was on the anniversary of their birth—the day they attained their
-twenty-first year—that the brothers again met upon their own
-hearth-stone. Mrs. Darsie’s health had begun to fail, and Edgar, at
-Herbert’s suggestion, had unwillingly torn himself from the enjoyments
-of Parisian life to return to his quiet home. He found his mother sadly
-changed, and evidently suffering from the insidious disease which so
-slowly saps the foundations of health and life. Herbert, like all
-deformed persons, had early lost the freshness of youth, and he was not
-surprised, therefore, to find him looking at least ten years older than
-himself, but he was astonished at the intellectual beauty which seemed
-to radiate from his noble countenance. To the shapeless form of a
-stunted tree he united the head of a demi-god. The beauty of his
-classical features, the splendor of his deep, dark eyes, and rich glossy
-hair curling in heavy masses round his temples, gave him the appearance
-of a magnificently sculptured head joined on to some distorted torso.
-
-“But if Edgar was startled at the change in his mother and brother, how
-was he amazed and bewildered when he saw Jesse Graham! The pale, puny,
-frightened-looking little girl had expanded into one of the very
-loveliest of women. At eighteen Jessie had all that delicate yet fresh
-beauty which a painter would select as his model for a youthful Hebe. “A
-rose crushed upon ivory” was not too extravagant a simile for her cheek;
-her lips were like the berry of the mountain-ash; and her eyes so soft,
-so tender, with just enough of their former shyness to make them always
-seem appealing in their expression, were like nothing else on earth.”
-
-“You are extravagant, Uncle Lorimer; pray how did you avoid falling in
-love with such a creature?” asked Anne, saucily.
-
-“By the best of all preventives—_pre-occupation_. But my story has to
-do with others, not with me. Soon after Edgar’s return, his mother took
-an opportunity to inform him of her plans with regard to Jessie. She had
-watched the progress of Herbert’s attachment to his young pupil, and she
-believed it to be fully reciprocated by the docile girl. She had,
-therefore, as she thought, fully provided for Herbert’s future
-happiness; and, lest Edgar should be attracted by Jessie’s loveliness,
-she hastened to tell him that in the beautiful orphan he beheld his
-brother’s future wife. Mrs. Darsie was a weak woman, though kind-hearted
-and affectionate. She proceeded to inform Edgar how the idea first came
-into her head—how she had told Herbert of it—how she had been at first
-shocked at the thought of sacrificing Jessie’s youthful loveliness to
-such a union—how she discovered his secret love even from his heroic
-self-denial—how she had finally succeeded in persuading him that Jessie
-really loved him better than any one in the world—and how he had at
-last consented to entertain the hope and belief that Jessie might become
-his wife without repugnance. To Edgar’s very natural question, whether
-Jessie was really willing to marry Herbert, his mother replied that as
-yet Jessie knew nothing of their plans, Herbert having forbidden her to
-use her influence in the matter, being determined that if he won Jessie,
-it should be through her own free and unbiased will.
-
-“Whether it arose from that perverseness in human nature, which teaches
-men to value a thing just in proportion to its difficulty of attainment,
-or whether Jessie’s loveliness was irresistible to a man of Edgar’s
-temperament, I cannot determine; but certain it is, that from that time
-he looked upon her with far different eyes than he had at first regarded
-her. Edgar was precisely the kind of man who is always successful with
-women. His talents and accomplishments were all of the most superficial
-kind, but he danced well, sung beautifully, played the guitar
-gracefully, and withal was exceedingly handsome. His voice was perfect
-music, and when he bent down in a half-caressing manner over a lady’s
-chair, flinging back his bright, silken hair, and gazing in her face
-with eyes full of dangerous softness, while his rich voice took the
-sweetest tone of deference and heart-felt emotion, it was next to
-impossible for any woman to resist his fascinations.”
-
-“Was his character a perfectly natural one, uncle, or was this exquisite
-manner the result of consummate art?”
-
-“It was natural to him to wish to please, and he aided his natural
-attractions by a certain devotedness of manner, which made each
-individual to whom he addressed himself _appropriate_ his tenderness as
-her own right. Jessie had lived in such close seclusion that she knew
-nothing of the world or its ways. It is probable that had Herbert asked
-her to become his wife before the return of Edgar, she would have easily
-consented, for she certainly loved him very dearly, and long habit of
-associating with him had accustomed her to his deformity. To her he was
-not the shapeless dwarf, whose crippled limbs scarce bore the weight of
-his crooked body. He had been her ideal of excellence—the friend, the
-Mentor who had made her orphaned life a blessing, and she could imagine
-no stronger, deeper affection than that which he had long since
-inspired.
-
-“But after Edgar had been at home a few months, she was conscious of a
-great change in her feelings. She loved Herbert as well as ever, but she
-had learned the existence of another kind of affection. Edgar’s sweet
-words and honied flatteries were unlike any thing she had ever heard
-before, and unconscious of any disloyalty to Herbert, she gave herself
-up to the enjoyment of this new sensation of happiness.
-
-“Herbert was tried almost beyond his strength, for it was when his
-mother lay on what was soon to be her death-bed that he first suspected
-the fatal truth respecting his brother and Jessie. A lingering illness,
-protracted through many weeks (during which time Herbert was his
-mother’s constant companion, while Edgar enjoyed the opportunity of
-unrestrained companionship with Jessie,) finally terminated in Mrs.
-Darsie’s death; and, as Herbert closed her eyes, he could not but feel
-that sinking of the heart which told him that he was now alone upon
-earth. Immediately after his mother’s funeral he was taken alarmingly
-ill, and for several days his life was considered in imminent danger. It
-was not until his recovery that he again saw Jessie Graham, who, in
-compliance with the world’s notions of decorum, had left the home of her
-childhood on the decease of her benefactress. She had found her
-temporary abode in the family of a friend in the neighborhood, and
-Herbert’s sick-bed had known no other attendance than that of the
-housekeeper and servants. In his first interview with Jessie after his
-convalescence, he drew from her a confession, or rather an admission of
-her love for Edgar. The manner in which she confided this to him—the
-frank, sisterly feeling which seemed to animate her, stung him to the
-heart. But he possessed great self-command, and Jessie never suspected
-the actual state of _his_ feelings while she confided to him her own.
-
-“As soon as practicable after Herbert’s recovery, his mother’s will was
-opened, and then arose a new subject of wonder and dissatisfaction. No
-one but Mrs. Darsie and her lawyer had known that she had been merely in
-the enjoyment of a life interest in her fortune; but it was now
-ascertained that her husband’s estate had been very trifling, and that
-her large income was the product of a handsome fortune bequeathed to
-Herbert by an old uncle, in consideration of his physical misfortunes.
-The yearly product was given to Mrs. Darsie during her life, but at her
-death the whole reverted to Herbert. His father’s property, amounting
-only to a few thousand dollars, was bequeathed solely to Edgar, and a
-legacy of five hundred dollars, (to purchase her wedding-dress, as the
-will stated,) marked the testator’s wishes regarding her protégé, Jesse
-Graham. Every body was surprised at this development, but no one more so
-than the brothers. Why their mother had left them in such close
-ignorance of their affairs, it is impossible to say, but they certainly
-had no suspicion of the facts until they were thus legally made known.
-
-“One of the first wishes of Herbert’s heart was to see Jessie placed in
-her proper position, and he therefore nerved himself to speak to Edgar
-on the subject. What was his surprise, therefore, when his brother
-treated the whole thing as a boyish affair, and avowed his determination
-to spend his pittance (as he termed it) abroad, and then to repair his
-fortunes by a wealthy marriage! If ever the gentle spirit of Herbert
-entertained a feeling of abhorrence for any living creature, it was at
-that moment. His own hopes had been ruthlessly blighted, and Jessie’s
-heart estranged from him, merely to gratify a _boyish fancy_!
-
-“What he suffered, and what he felt, however, it is not for me to
-attempt describing. He had garnered up all his treasures of affection in
-Jessie and his brother. Now Jessie was lost to him, and Edgar was a
-villain. How he, with his delicate sensibility, his high sense of honor,
-and his stern principles of duty, must have suffered, I leave you to
-imagine. But his love for Jessie conquered all other feelings. He knew
-that her happiness depended on her union with Edgar, for she was
-precisely that kind of character, which, though infirm of purpose in the
-outset, yet have a certain tenacity of feeling when once a decision has
-been made for them. He revolved many schemes in his mind before he could
-form a practicable one, and at last he suffered his frank and candid
-nature to lead him with its usual directness to his object. He asked
-Edgar to be more explicit in his confidences, and when Edgar declared
-that had he been the heir of wealth he would gladly make Jessie his
-wife, but that nothing would ever induce him to tie himself down to a
-life of privation and poverty, Herbert’s decision was at once made. He
-proposed dividing his income with Edgar, on condition that his brother
-should marry Jessie, and reside in the home of their childhood, while he
-himself should travel into distant lands. But Edgar, with the
-quick-sightedness of selfishness, saw how deeply Herbert’s soul was
-interested in the matter. Pretending a jealousy of his brother’s
-influence over Jessie—a jealousy of which he declared himself ashamed,
-yet which he could not subdue—he said that if he had the means he would
-marry Jessie, and take her far from all her early associations, but that
-he would never let her live in Herbert’s house, or in a place where she
-might at any time be subject to his visits.
-
-“Pained as he was by this appearance of distrust, Herbert’s conscience
-accused him of cherishing a wicked love for one who was about to become
-his brother’s wife, and he therefore submitted meekly to this new trial.
-What terms were finally decided upon could only be known at that time to
-the two brothers.
-
-“Six months after Mrs. Darsie’s death Edgar was united to Jessie Graham,
-in the little village church, and immediately after the ceremony, the
-wedding-party left for New York, from whence they sailed a few days
-afterward for Havre.
-
-“Herbert dismissed the greater part of the servants, shut up all except
-one wing of the large house, sold off the carriage and horses,
-(reserving only the little pony-carriage, without which he would have
-been deprived of all means of locomotion,) and restricted his expenses
-within such narrow limits, that people began to consider him mean and
-miserly. He withdrew entirely from society, and lived more utterly alone
-than ever. His books, his pictures, his music, were now his only
-companions. Yet he did not forget that earth held those to whom even he
-might minister. The door of the poorest cottages often opened to admit
-the distorted form of the benefactor and friend, but the sunlight on the
-rich man’s threshold was never darkened by his shapeless shadow.
-
-“Edgar Darsie went to Paris with his beautiful wife, and there he lived
-in luxury and splendor, surrounded by every thing that could minister to
-his love of pleasure. Only himself and one other, the lawyer who had
-drawn up the papers, knew whence his wealth was derived. Even Jessie
-never suspected that Herbert was living with the closest economy in
-order that the poor should not suffer from the lavish generosity which
-had induced him to secure to his brother more than three-fourths of his
-whole income as a bribe to insure her happiness.
-
-“Ten years passed away, dragging their weary length with the lonely and
-suffering Herbert, winging their way on golden pinions to Edgar, weaving
-their mingled web of dark and bright to the womanly heart of Jessie. She
-had witnessed the changes of a fickle nature in her husband—she had
-learned to endure indifference, and to meet with fitful affection from
-him—she had borne children, and laid them sorrowing in the bosom of
-mother earth—she had drunk of the cup of pleasure and found bitterness
-in its dregs; and now she stood a weeping mourner beside the dying bed
-of that faithless but still beloved husband. Edgar Darsie had inherited
-his mother’s disease, together with her beauty. His excesses had
-hastened the period of its development, and ten years after his marriage
-he was withering like grass before the hunter’s fire, beneath the touch
-of consumption. Day after day he faded—his stately form became bowed,
-his bright face changed, his silken locks fell away from his hollow
-temples. Health was gone, and beauty soon departed.
-
-“With the approach of death came old memories thronging about his heart,
-and filling his sick chamber with fantasies and spectres of long by-gone
-days. “Take me home! take me home!” was the bitter cry. But his
-“_home-wo_” came too late. Never again would he leave his bed until he
-was carried to the house appointed for all living. At the first tidings
-of his illness Herbert had sailed for Havre, and traveled with all speed
-to Paris; but when he arrived there his heart failed him. He remembered
-Edgar’s avowed jealousy of him, and the wild, fierce joy which thrilled
-his heart when he found himself once more near to Jessie, taught him
-that he was not entirely guiltless toward his brother. He accordingly
-took lodgings in the same hotel, that he might be near Edgar, in case he
-should wish to see him, well knowing that the mode of life in Paris
-secured him the most perfect privacy. He made known his present abode to
-a certain business-agent, through whose hands letters had usually been
-sent to him from Paris, and thus he received from Jessie’s hand constant
-tidings of his brother’s condition.
-
-“But this state of things could not last long. His impatience to be with
-Edgar led him to seize upon the first faint intimation of a wish to see
-him, and he soon found himself welcomed with tears of joy by Jessie
-while Edgar thanked him with his eyes—those tender eyes—for his
-thoughtful kindness in coming without waiting for a summons. During
-three months Herbert shared with Jessie her care and watchfulness over
-the invalid. All the lovable qualities of Edgar’s nature were brought
-out by his sickness, and Herbert could not help feeling the full force
-of those fascinations which had won for him the love of every one.
-Weakened in mind as well as in body by his disease, he was like a lovely
-and gentle child, so docile, so affectionate, so helpless, so tender,
-and so altogether lovely did he appear, as the dark wing of death flung
-its shadow broader and deeper above his couch.
-
-“He died with penitence for past misdeeds deep-rooted in his heart, and
-prayer for pardon lingering on his lips. He died clasping his brother’s
-hand in his, and the last act of his life was a vain attempt to unite
-Jessie’s hand in the same grasp. There was no time for the indulgence of
-selfish feeling at such a moment. The presence of death had hushed the
-whispers of earthly passion, and the grief of both the brother and the
-widow was the genuine tribute of affection to the departed.
-
-“As soon as Edgar’s affairs could be arranged, the widow, with her only
-surviving child, returned to America under the protection of Herbert.
-Ignorant as a child about pecuniary affairs, Jessie left every thing to
-Herbert, and consequently never knew at what sacrifice he rescued
-Edgar’s good name from obloquy, and paid his enormous debts. Nor did she
-ever know that the money which had supported their extravagant
-expenditure in Paris, was the free gift of Herbert. But daily and hourly
-did she experience Herbert’s considerate kindness. Fearing to awaken her
-suspicions relative to his agency in her marriage, he determined to
-continue to her an allowance similar to that which he had bestowed upon
-his brother. But to do this required new retrenchments, and the
-sacrifice of a fine landed property; for Edgar’s lavish prodigality had
-cost him so large a portion of his fortune that it now needed the most
-careful and judicious management.
-
-“If Herbert hoped to marry his brother’s widow, he at least determined
-to leave her free to choose for herself. Jessie found herself pleasantly
-domiciled in a new home, with a handsome provision for herself and
-child, and surrounded by all the appliances of American comfort before
-she had yet recovered from the dull torpor of her grief. For fifteen
-years Herbert had lived but for her. During the five years preceding her
-marriage his whole soul had been devoted to her; and when afterward he
-tried to banish her image, he found though he might dethrone the idol,
-the sentiment of loyal love, like a subtile perfume, had diffused itself
-through his whole being. Was it strange, then, if he should once more
-dream that his love and faith might do more than remove mountains—that
-his devotion might veil the unsightliness of his person—that he might
-yet be beloved and rewarded?
-
-“Now tell me, Annie, how do you think my story is going to end?”
-
-“In the marriage of Jessie to the devoted Herbert,” replied Annie. “It
-is not in the nature of woman to be insensible to such devotion.”
-
-“Remember that Jessie knew nothing of his pecuniary sacrifices, had no
-suspicion of his agency in bringing about her marriage; did not dream of
-his self-denying, self-forgetting love.”
-
-“But no woman could doubt the true meaning of all his devotedness.”
-
-“He had never flattered her with gentle words; never wooed her in
-courtly phrase; never played the lover in the most approved fashion. He
-had been the adviser, the Mentor, the steady friend; love had been the
-pervading and animating soul of all he thought and all he did, but his
-very magnanimity had been as a cloak to conceal his affections. Do you
-think a woman like Jessie—an ordinary woman, lovely and gentle, but
-withal having no perception of that inner life which so few can
-penetrate—do you think she could see through this magnanimous reserve,
-and detect the hidden love?”
-
-“Surely, surely!”
-
-“Recollect that she had early learned to pity him for his personal
-defects, and though ‘pity’ may be ‘akin to love’ in our sex, yet no
-woman ever loves a man she must look down upon with compassion.”
-
-“But his nobler qualities must have commanded her respect.”
-
-“Suppose they were so far above her perceptions as to inspire her with
-_awe_ instead of respect? A woman never loves the man she _pities_, nor
-will she love the man whose superiority she _fears_. Jessie
-compassionated Herbert’s bodily weaknesses, and she had a vague terror
-of his stern, uncompromising ideas of right and wrong.”
-
-“Nevertheless, I am sure she married Herbert, uncle.”
-
-“You are mistaken, Annie. Herbert continued his devotion for years; he
-learned to love her child as if it were his own, and gave proofs of
-disinterestedness and tenderness such as no woman could misinterpret;
-but he never offered her his hand.”
-
-“Why not?”
-
-“Because he _knew_ it would be rejected, and he preferred being a
-life-long friend, to occupying the position of an unsuccessful suitor.”
-
-“Then I suppose she never married again.”
-
-“You are wrong again, Annie. At forty years of age, when her beauty was
-faded, and her character had deteriorated amid the follies of society,
-she married a man some ten years her junior, who, tempted by the income
-which _Herbert_ had bestowed upon her, flattered her into the belief
-that she had inspired him with the most passionate love.”
-
-“And her child?”
-
-“Was adopted by Herbert Darsie, and at his death inherited his estate.”
-
-“Poor, poor Herbert!”
-
-“He suffered the penalty which all must pay who give to earth the high
-and holy sentiment which is only meant to make us companion with the
-angels in heaven. Not one in a thousand can love thus, and that one
-always finds that in the world’s vast desert, he has expended his
-strength in vain—‘hewn out broken cisterns which can hold no water.’”
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- THE UNMASKED.
-
-
- BY S. ANNA LEWIS.
-
-
- The struggle is over—my pulses once more
- Leap free as the waves on the surf-beaten shore;
- And my spirit looks up to that world of all bliss,
- And heaves not a sigh for the faithless in this.
-
- ’Twas in Sorrow’s bleak night, when the sky was all dark,
- And the tempest shrieked loud round my storm-beaten bark,
- That arose, ’mid the darkness, thy radiant form,
- Like the rainbow illuming the brow of the storm.
-
- An angel thou seemedst, that had come to the earth,
- To guide me—to nourish my heart in its dearth;
- And blindly, as Paynim kneels down to his god,
- I have loved thee—have worshiped the earth thou hast trod.
-
- But this waste of affection—this prodigal part—
- Is over—the mask has been torn from thy heart—
- And back with affright and amazement I shrink—
- At a fount so unholy my soul cannot drink.
-
- * * * * *
-
-[Illustration: Mormon Temple, Nauvoo]
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- MORMON TEMPLE, NAUVOO.
-
-
- [SEE ENGRAVING.]
-
-By permission of Mr. J. R. Smith, we have caused a view of the Mormon
-Temple at Nauvoo to be engraved from his splendid Panorama of the
-Mississippi, and we give the engraving in this number. As the building
-has been recently destroyed by fire, our engraving, the first ever
-published, acquires additional value. We copy from Mr. Smith’s
-description of the Panorama, the following account of Nauvoo and the
-Temple:
-
-“_Nauvoo._—A Mormon city and settlement, now deserted. It is one of the
-finest locations for a town upon the river, it being situated at the
-second and last rapids below the Falls of St. Anthony, which extend from
-this place to Keokuk, a distance of 12 miles. The great Mormon Temple
-stands out conspicuous. It is the finest building in the west, and if
-paid for would have cost over half a million of dollars. It is built of
-a white stone, resembling marble, 80 feet front by 150 deep; 200 feet to
-the top of the spire. The caps of the pilasters represent the sun; the
-base of them, the half moon with Joe Smith’s profile. The windows
-between the pilasters represent stars. A large female figure with a
-Bible in one hand is the vane. An inscription on the front, in large
-gilt letters, reads as follows:
-
- “The House of the Lord, built by the Church of Jesus Christ of
- the Latter Day Saints. Commenced April 6, 1841. Holiness to the
- Lord.”
-
-There is in the basement of the temple a large stone-basin, supported by
-twelve oxen of colossal size, about fifteen feet high altogether, all of
-white stone and respectably carved. A staircase leads up to the top of
-the basin. It is the font where all the Mormons were baptized. It is
-seen in the Panorama standing aside the Temple, _but in the basement is
-its real situation_.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- ROSE WINTERS.
-
-
- A TALE OF FIRST LOVE.
-
-
- BY ESTELLE.
-
-
-“I shall never have another hour’s happiness as long as I live!”
-exclaimed Rose Winters, weeping passionately. “You wouldn’t let me marry
-him, father, and now he’s gone to sea, and said he should never come
-back.”
-
-“Don’t believe it, Rose,” said Mr. Winters. “He’ll be glad enough to
-come back, I’ll warrant you—and the longer he stays away the better,
-I’m thinking, it will be for you.”
-
-“It’s not like you, father, to be so unfeeling,” said Rose, sobbing
-almost hysterically.
-
-“Nonsense, child—unfeeling, indeed! ay, ay, it may be so in your
-judgment, I dare say, but I must judge with the head, and not with the
-heart.”
-
-“I think I ought to be allowed to judge for myself, now I’m of _age_,”
-answered Rose, with sudden spirit. “I was eighteen my last birthday.”
-
-“True, Rose, you have had great experience of mankind, no doubt. But
-come, now, just tell me what you could have done if you had married Bob
-Selwyn, with no fortune yourself, and he nothing to depend on but his
-hands?”
-
-“We could have done as other people do,” said Rose—“we could have
-worked. Have I not always worked at home, father?”
-
-“To be sure you have. You have been a good, industrious girl, Rosy, that
-I sha’n’t deny; but your work at home was not like pulling continually
-at the rowing oar, which would have been your portion all your life, I’m
-afraid, with Robert. I can’t see, for my part, what you wanted to marry
-him for.”
-
-“Because I loved him, and he loved me. Didn’t you and mother marry for
-love, father?”
-
-Mr. Winters could not forbear laughing at this question, notwithstanding
-Rose’s grief—and his natural droll humor struggled with his former
-seriousness as he replied, “Well, I must try to remember. It is nearly
-twenty years ago, now—so long that you have come of _age_ in the
-meanwhile, and fancy you are wiser than your father. But I can tell you
-one thing, Rose, if we did marry for love, we had something to begin the
-world with, which is quite as necessary. You know the old proverb, ‘When
-poverty comes in at the door, love flies out of the window.’”
-
-“I don’t believe any such thing, father. Whoever wrote that proverb
-never knew what love was. It was a mean thing in any man to say so; and
-what would never have come from a woman, I’ll be bound.”
-
-“Well, well, Rosy, you may dry your eyes. I wish I was as sure of a
-fortune for you, as I am that Robert will be back with the ship, if his
-life is spared; but if that shouldn’t be the case, you will be young
-enough then, and pretty enough, too, to get another beau.”
-
-“I wont have any other!” exclaimed Rose. “I am determined to wait for
-him, if he stays twenty years!”—and with this resolution she hastily
-turned away and ran to her own room, where, secure from observation, she
-might give free vent to her full heart in a long fit of weeping.
-
-We are at a loss to imagine what sort of an impression our rustic
-heroine, Rose Winters, has made on the minds of our readers, from her
-unceremonious introduction to them through the foregoing dialogue: but
-at all events, she is deserving of a more detailed description. She was
-the daughter of a respectable farmer on Long Island, who resided in a
-country village, situated on the Atlantic ocean, and near a large
-seaport town. Mr. Winters was a shrewd, practical man, of strong natural
-powers of mind, and excellent plain common sense. Rose was his eldest
-and favorite child, and inherited his independent spirit and natural
-gifts of understanding, which had been improved in her by a useful and
-solid education at a first-rate country school. She was not, perhaps,
-strictly beautiful, but her cheeks were bright with the hue of health,
-and her dark-blue eyes sparkled with animation, and the joyousness of a
-young heart, over which a lasting shadow had never passed, until her
-lover left her to try his fortunes on the sea. Her figure was small, but
-of exquisite proportions, and her steps sprang elastic with the
-unchecked spirits of happy childhood. She was always agreeable and
-entertaining without effort, for her words flowed in the easiest manner
-possible, from a mouth which nature had made perfect; and then there was
-nothing on earth more inspiring than her merry laugh, which seemed like
-the very chorus of joy, and insensibly imparted a portion of her own
-gayety to all around her. Rose had but little of imagination in her
-heart or feelings. She was a young, gay creature, full of spirits and
-activity, and only actuated by the every-day scenes of life, from which
-she extracted mirth and enjoyment to diffuse unsparingly among all who
-came within her influence. There was also a truthfulness and integrity
-in her nature, which could not fail to give beauty, strength, and
-elevation to her thoughts and character. The visions of romance which so
-often pervert the minds of the young, and throw a false coloring over
-the world, were all unknown to Rose. She had been nurtured amid scenes
-where there was but little to excite or enrich the imagination, but much
-to awaken bold and lofty sentiments. Born and brought up within sight
-and sound of the grand and magnificent ocean, she delighted to gaze on
-its rolling and breaking billows, and listen to its ceaseless sounding
-roar, which had often been the solemn lullaby to her nightly slumbers.
-The wide and level fields outspread before her native home, and the few
-bare hills which skirted here and there the distant outline, were but
-little calculated to inspire those enchanting, but unreal dreams, which
-seem insensibly to arise amid the mountain scenery so wildly beautiful
-and picturesque in many parts of our western world.
-
-Rose had never been twenty miles from her father’s dwelling. All that
-she knew of the world had been learned in her own village, which was an
-occasional resort for a small number of strangers during the heat of
-summer; but its situation was too remote to be very generally visited
-before there were either railroads or steamboats to facilitate and add
-comfort and convenience to traveling. Communication with New York, which
-was the nearest city, was at that time tedious and fatiguing, as the
-road lay for many miles through sandy woods, or over a bleak and rough
-country. By water, the journey was performed in sloops, taking from
-three days to a week to accomplish the voyage. In consequence of these
-disadvantages, the transient sojourners in the village consisted chiefly
-of sportsmen, who sought its solitary retreat for the purpose of
-enjoying the game which was formerly found there in great abundance. The
-birds were seldom frightened away from the lanes and meadows, excepting
-by the gun of the stranger, who, having once found his way to that
-lonely yet delightful part of the country, returned again and again, not
-only to scare the plover from their haunts, but to enjoy the refreshing
-and invigorating breezes from the ocean, and revel in the luxury of
-freedom from fashion and restraint. There was a primitive simplicity in
-the manners of the inhabitants of the village which was peculiarly
-pleasing; and in which school Rose had received her first model. She was
-easy and unaffected, because seeking to appear no higher nor better than
-she really was. Among her associates, she was a universal favorite. Her
-presence was sure to be in requisition at all the balls or merry-makings
-in the neighborhood, for nothing of the kind could go off well, unless
-Rose Winters, with her quick wit, irresistible good humor, and gay
-spirits, made one of the party. Her father, though a man of severe
-morals and true piety, was far from being puritanical in his views or
-feelings. He loved to see Rose happy, and enjoyed the sunny atmosphere
-which her never-failing cheerfulness and vivacity spread around the
-household dwelling. The bright sallies which flashed from her lips,
-instead of being checked by the farmer, frequently occasioned a repartee
-of wit from him, which gave Rose a habit of sharpening her own against
-her father’s weapons. Thus it was that she learned to respect her parent
-without fearing him. She knew him to be possessed of the most inflexible
-principles of truth and rectitude; and that his jocose and lively
-temperament could never induce him to swerve for a moment from the
-straight-forward course of honesty and honor. In his judgment she placed
-the most unbounded confidence; and it was only in the one instance in
-which her heart rebelled against it, that she yielded to its mandate
-with bitter and unsatisfied feelings. Her mother, whom we have not yet
-mentioned, had been dead several years; and three sisters, considerably
-younger than herself, partook more of her care than her confidence. It
-thus happened that her father had been her companion, more than is
-usually the case in such relationships. She had been accustomed to
-consult him in all affairs of consequence; and self-dependent as she was
-by nature, she durst not incur the responsibility of acting in direct
-opposition to his counsels. In this slight sketch we have endeavored to
-give a faint outline of the character of our heroine, unlike, we are
-sensible, to the usual heroines of romance; but the portrait is drawn
-from real life, with its beauties unflattered, and its blemishes
-unconcealed; and we leave it as it is to make what impression it may on
-the opinions of others.
-
-Robert Selwyn was a native of the same village. He was a few years older
-than Rose, but had been accustomed to mingle in all the country
-pleasures and amusements of which she had been for a time the principal
-attraction. His handsome form, his manly and pleasing countenance, and
-his gay and careless manners, were his only passports to favor. He had
-no fortune to assist him in winning his way, but he had energy and
-ambition, which were yet to be aroused into action. There was a distant
-connection between the families of Winters and Selwyn, which served as a
-plea for frequent and familiar intercourse. Rose called him Cousin
-Robert, and under that name he was received as a sort of privileged
-guest at her father’s house. The farmer always welcomed him; and Rose
-chatted and laughed and flirted with him, until at last the flirtation
-ended in a serious attachment. Mr. Winters, with all his habitual
-foresight, had not looked for this result. To part with Rose, was an
-event for which he had made no calculation, and he could not persuade
-himself to believe that her affections were irrevocably engaged. The
-application of her lover, therefore, for his consent to their marriage,
-was met by a decided refusal.
-
-“Pooh, pooh, Robert,” said he, in answer to his solicitation, “I wonder
-what you would do with a wife. Tell me first, how you expect to make a
-living for yourself, let alone Rose?”
-
-“Why, if I can do nothing else, sir,” said Selwyn, “I can follow the
-sea, and at least get a living out of the whales. You know others here
-have got rich that way.”
-
-“Yes, yes, Robert, but it’s a hard life, and not much to your taste, I
-reckon.”
-
-“It might not be my choice, Mr. Winters; but I’m not afraid of hardships
-any more than other men—and I should think nothing hard with Rose.”
-
-“Oh, that’s the way all young men talk when they’re in love; but have
-you no other plan than that?”
-
-“Yes, sir—I thought of either setting up a store, or trying to get the
-school, as the old master is going away. I believe I know about as much
-as he does.”
-
-Mr. Winters laughed as he replied, “Very likely you may, Robert, and be
-no Solomon either; but it wont answer. Set up a store on credit, and
-break next year; and as for school-keeping—no, no, I must see some
-surer prospect of your being able to support a wife, before you can have
-Rose with my consent.”
-
-“But, Mr. Winters, none of our girls here expect to marry rich. I wonder
-where they’d find husbands, if they looked for money! not in this town,
-I am sure.”
-
-“There must be something to look to, though, either money or business.
-Take my word for it, young man, you would find love but light stuff to
-live upon without something more substantial along with it.”
-
-Selwyn was silent for a few moments, and then said in a tone of severe
-disappointment, “Well, I must say, sir, that I did not look for this
-refusal. You never objected to my visits to Rose.”
-
-“No, but I wish I had, since neither of you have as much sense as I
-thought for. I have been to blame, and am sorry for it; but there has
-been enough said now, Robert—all the talking in the world will not
-alter my mind at present.”
-
-It was after this conversation that Selwyn, finding the farmer
-inflexible, and Rose determined to sacrifice her love rather than
-disobey her father, formed the resolution to go out in a whaling ship,
-just about to leave the port. Rose sought in vain to dissuade him. He
-told her his mind was made up. “If you wont have me, Rose,” said he, “I
-may as well be on the ocean as the land, for I shall never marry any one
-else; but I shall not hold you bound—for most likely I shall never
-return.”
-
-“I didn’t expect to hear you say such a thing as that, Cousin Robert,”
-answered Rose, with her eyes full of tears; “but you may hold me bound
-or not, just as you please, I shall wait for you. If you should forget
-me, I could never believe in the love of any man afterward.”
-
-The ship sailed unexpectedly, and Selwyn, much to his disappointment,
-was obliged to depart without again seeing Rose; and the sudden news
-that he had gone, occasioned the burst of feeling in her, with which our
-story opened.
-
-We must now pass over a few anxious and tedious years. Rose waited and
-dreamed of her lover’s return, until her spirits flagged, and her young
-heart grew sick with “hope deferred.” Mr. Winters was puzzled and
-confounded. He had mistaken his daughter’s disposition, and was not
-prepared for the depth of feeling and affection which she had garnered
-in her bosom. That his bright and merry Rose should suddenly become the
-reflective and thinking being, and perform her household duties with
-methodical and earnest care, instead of flying like a bird from room to
-room, and singing or laughing off a thousand grotesque mistakes, which
-before were continually occurring under her management, was to him a
-matter of serious consideration. In truth he did not much like the
-change; for what was gained in order and regularity in his house, was
-lost in that inexhaustible fund of animating gayety which had been wont
-to beguile him at sight of the fatigue of daily labor, and cast an
-unfailing charm over his retired dwelling. Not that Rose had altogether
-sunk into the sober and serious mood—that it was not in her nature to
-do—but an indescribable change had passed over her former manner, which
-had somewhat of a depressing influence on her family. She could not help
-laughing and being lively, any more than she could help the beating of
-her pulse, or the breath that came without her will or agency; but there
-was something missing in the inward spring from which her spirits
-flowed. It was the heart’s happiness—and the spring, in consequence,
-sometimes yielded bitter waters.
-
-Three years had fulfilled their annual revolutions, before the ship
-returned in which Selwyn had embarked, and then, alas! it returned
-without him. The voyage had been a most disastrous one. They had been
-nearly shipwrecked, after being but a few months out, and had been
-obliged to put in at one of the islands in the Pacific to repair and
-refit. This operation necessarily detained them a long time; and the
-second year of the voyage, Selwyn got sick and discouraged, and left
-them at a port where they had stopped to winter, and went to London. It
-was hinted that he was wild and reckless, and would never do any thing
-for want of stability and perseverance. Rose was indignant at these
-innuendos. Her sense of justice and generosity spurned the meanness of
-traducing the absent, and her woman’s love shielded him in her own mind
-from every attack on his reputation. She received a letter from him
-shortly afterward, the first he had written since his departure. The
-general tone of it was sad and desponding, but it breathed the most
-unabated affection toward herself, while at the same time it set her
-perfectly free from her engagement to him.
-
-“I cannot ask you, dear Rose,” he wrote, “to wait for me, when it is so
-uncertain if I ever can return to claim your promise. I have made
-nothing by this voyage, and am determined never to see your father again
-until I can give him a satisfactory answer to his question of ‘how I am
-to support a wife.’”
-
-Rose wept over the letter, and then consigned it to her most secret
-hiding-place, and returned with unshaken resolution to her usual train
-of duties. She had lost none of her beauty, for the healthful exercise
-of necessary and constant employment, preserved the bloom on her cheek,
-and kept her from giving way to useless repining. Among the beaux of the
-village, she continued to have her full share of admirers; and there was
-one of the number, Edward Burton, an enterprising and promising young
-man, who sought earnestly to gain her hand. It was all in vain. Rose was
-deaf to his entreaties, and laughed at his remonstrances, until he was
-obliged to give up his suit.
-
-In the meanwhile Robert Selwyn was seeking encouragement and advancement
-from a foreign people. He continued to follow the sea, but without
-returning to his native place. He went out from London, and had risen by
-the usual gradation of ship-officers, lastly to captain. At the
-expiration of three more years, Rose received another letter from him;
-but the time of meeting seemed still further and further in the future.
-He knew not when he should return. His employers kept him constantly
-engaged, and he hoped in the end to realize an independence; but it
-might be long yet before it was accomplished.
-
-Such was the burden of the letter, and Rose decided promptly on a new
-course of action for herself. She had long had it in her mind to leave
-home. Her eldest sister was fully competent to take her place in the
-management of the house, and the other two were old enough to be
-companions and assistants; but Rose felt that she should have to
-encounter the opposition of her father. She therefore determined on
-making all her arrangements to go before apprising him of her intention.
-Much, indeed, then, was the farmer astonished when Rose took her seat by
-his side, after he had finished his evening meal, and addressed him as
-follows:
-
-“Father, I am going to New York to live.”
-
-“Going to New York to live!” repeated he, slowly, as if unable or
-unwilling to comprehend her words, “Why what has put that notion in your
-head, Rose?”
-
-“I’ve been thinking of it for a year, father, but put off telling you
-till the time came. Last summer, when Mrs. Sandford was here, she often
-advised me to go to New York; and a few days ago I had a letter from
-her. She says she can get me a situation as teacher in a school, where I
-shall have many advantages, and I have made up my mind to accept it.”
-
-“You ought to have consulted me about it first, Rose; I’m doubtful if it
-will be for the best.”
-
-“Well, I shall do it for the best,” answered Rose, “and if it shouldn’t
-turn out so, I can’t help it. You know I’m too much like you, father, to
-give up any thing I judge to be right; and I hope you wont blame me for
-leaving home now, since Betsey is quite as good a housekeeper as I am.”
-
-Mr. Winters bent his eyes downward, and was silent. It was not his habit
-to betray any outward emotion, but there was grief in his heart. His
-fortitude was sorely tried. The departure of Rose would cause a sad
-break in his home enjoyments, and the philosophy of the man was
-destroyed for the moment, by the feelings of the father. Inwardly he
-struggled, till unable to control himself longer, he rose quickly, and
-snatching his hat, went out from the house.
-
-After some time, he returned calm and composed, and simply remarked to
-his daughter, “You say you’ve decided to go, Rose, so there’s no use in
-arguing—but you’ll find a great change in a city life. If you shouldn’t
-like it, come back to your old home—that’s all. Now call the girls in
-to prayers—it’s nigh bed-time.”
-
-Rose did as she was bid—and that night the farmer prayed earnestly and
-fervently for the child who was about to quit his protection, and
-committed her to the watchful care of Him who neither slumbers nor
-sleeps. The prayer over, he retired immediately to his pillow, which was
-wet before morning with an old man’s unwonted tears.
-
-In the course of the following month, Rose was duly installed in the
-authority of her new station. Her active and energetic mind, on which
-the useful branches of education had been thoroughly grounded, soon
-comprehended all the mysteries of her office, while her sprightliness
-and good humor, joined to her unusual decision of character, fitted her
-admirably for her occupation. The first term of her initiation, however,
-passed wearily away. Her spirit pined in the confinement to which she
-had voluntarily subjected herself—and with a feeling of _home-sickness_
-gnawing at her heart, she repaired to her patroness, Mrs. Sandford, to
-tell her that she could remain no longer. “I get thinking of my father,”
-said she, “when I ought to be attending to the lessons—and sometimes my
-mind gets so confused, that I almost imagine myself mad, and the school
-a bedlam. Indeed, Mrs. Sandford, I cannot engage for another quarter. I
-find I was not made for a city life, after all. The confusion distracts
-me, and the high houses and narrow streets, make me gloomy and
-low-spirited. I feel as if I couldn’t breathe in the smoke and dust
-here. Oh, if you only knew how I long for the pure air of the country,
-and the sight, once more, of the wild, free ocean.”
-
-“But, my dear child,” said the lady, “you cannot think of returning now,
-in the depth of winter. The communication by water is closed, and you
-know it is a three days’ journey by land in the best of traveling. At
-present, they say the roads are nearly impassable. Come, take my advice
-and content yourself till spring. Believe me, you will not find every
-thing as you expect when you return to the country. A short absence from
-home, often produces a great change in our own minds, and we are led to
-view the same objects in a different light. New impressions of life and
-manners frequently destroy the power of old associations to bring back
-past happiness; and we are left to experience a painful disappointment,
-without being at first sensible that the change is in ourselves. We can
-never be again what we were before.”
-
-Rose listened attentively, and though far from being fully convinced by
-the reasoning of Mrs. Sandford, she bent her will to a seeming
-necessity, and consented to remain. Naturally buoyant, she rallied her
-spirits, and overcame her transient depression. Interested continually
-in receiving as well as imparting knowledge, she said no more about
-returning home until the summer vacation left her at liberty to revisit
-her native town. Then it was that she understood the change which the
-more experienced woman of the world had sought to picture to her
-imagination. She was once more in the bosom of her family; on the very
-spot where life had opened to her with such bright anticipations of
-happiness. The same scenes were around her. The extended range of level
-country, and “The sea, the open sea,” with its mountainous and heaving
-billows, presented itself, as in former days, to her unobstructed view.
-What then was lost? It was the simple taste, the unsophisticated mind,
-the feelings untainted with the world, and, most of all, the heart at
-peace! She was no longer contented. The quietude and sameness of the
-country left her too much time for thought; and her restless spirit
-wandered again to the thronged and bustling city, and the ceaseless
-routine of her labors in the school as a sort of necessary means of
-relief. The sight of the ocean grew painful to her, from its reminding
-her too forcibly of her absent lover. Selwyn wrote not, came not. Some
-said he was married in London, and there came not a word from himself to
-contradict the report.
-
-Edward Burton took advantage of it to renew the offer of his hand to
-Rose.
-
-“No,” answered she, decidedly, “if Cousin Robert is really married, as
-people say, my faith in man’s love is destroyed forever. I hope you will
-never ask me again, Edward, for my answer will always be the same.”
-
-So Burton gave her up, and consoled himself by marrying another; and
-Rose returned to New York, and again devoted herself to the arduous task
-of teaching, which often filled her heart with weariness; yet no one
-would have imagined her to be a disappointed girl. _Love-sick_ she was
-not; she had too much strength of mind—but she was true-hearted and
-constant. Nine years had elapsed since she had heard a word of Selwyn,
-and she knew not whether he were living or dead. They had been parted
-_fifteen years_; and who will wonder that time had robbed her of some of
-her early bloom; but there was an added expression of intellect in her
-countenance, and a certain refinement of manner imperceptibly acquired,
-which she had never possessed in her father’s house: so that altogether
-she was more attractive, more to be admired at thirty-three years of
-age, than when she first appeared at eighteen as a country belle.
-
-And where was Robert Selwyn, while by slow gradations from year to year
-this change had been silently wrought in his heart’s first idol. His
-migrations in the meantime had been many, and his fortunes varied.
-Profits and loss were for some years nearly balanced in his accounts,
-but at length the brighter side predominated. Misfortunes and mishaps
-were cleared away from his horizon, and his sails swept onward through a
-tide of unexpected success. It was then that he began to weary of his
-long, self-imposed exile, and turn his thoughts and wishes to home and
-“native land.” Energetic in purpose, and prompt in action, he no sooner
-formed the resolution of returning than it was put in execution. The
-voyage, quickly accomplished, he once more found himself among his old
-friends and townsmen, who shook him heartily by the hand, and welcomed
-him back with right good will. Some author remarks, that “one of the
-greatest pleasures in life, is to be born in a small town, where one is
-acquainted with all the inhabitants, and a remembrance clings to every
-house.” He no doubt felt this on his first arrival, and his satisfaction
-was unalloyed; for, like Rose, he had yet to know himself as he now was.
-Most of his youthful companions were married, and settled down into
-steady, sober-minded, every-day sort of people—having made but little
-improvement either in mind or manners; but they were not slow to
-perceive that the Selwyn who had just returned, was quite a different
-man from the Selwyn they had formerly known. There was certainly a
-change in him, but in what it consisted, they found it impossible to
-decide. He lacked nothing in cordiality—he assumed no airs of
-superiority—he was neither _elegant_ nor _fashionable_—but he was not
-what he used to be. Perhaps it was that he had acquired more manliness
-of character; and there was the least bit more of dignity in his
-manners; he was the smallest possible degree more guarded in his
-expressions; and his frank and easy address was entirely free from the
-most distant approach to awkwardness. It is true, he was still the gay
-and jovial sailor, noble-spirited and generous to a fault—but he was
-more the gentleman, more the man of the world than before he went to
-foreign parts; and upon the whole, the conclusion was that he was
-greatly improved, and would most likely turn out to be quite a credit to
-the town. He had certainly grown handsomer, as he had grown older. His
-face wore no traces of any inward discontent or disappointment, and it
-is probable that he had worn his love either lightly or hopefully in his
-heart. His first inquiry, after his return, however, was for Rose; and
-hearing she was in New York, he hastened thither to meet her. It was at
-the close of a summer afternoon when he found himself at the door of the
-house where he was told she boarded. He inquired for her, walked in, and
-sat down in the parlor in the dim light of the fading day, which was
-rendered more obscure in the shadow of the curtained windows.
-
-Rose had gone to her room fatigued and somewhat dispirited. The name of
-her visiter was unannounced, and as she descended with a languid step to
-the parlor, she was little prepared for the surprise that awaited her.
-
-Selwyn rose at her entrance with a confused and doubtful air. “I beg
-your pardon, madam,” said he, “I called to see Miss Winters—Rose
-Winters—I understood she was here.”
-
-“And so she is, Cousin Robert!” exclaimed Rose. “She is before you, and
-yet you do not know her. Am I altered so very much, then?”
-
-The question was accompanied with a painful blush, from the
-consciousness that the bloom of youth in which he had left her, had
-passed away forever.
-
-Selwyn sprang toward her and caught her hand.
-
-“Rose, my own dear Rose,” said he, with real feeling, “forgive me. No,
-you are not altered; but if you were, I should know your voice among a
-thousand.”
-
-“Ah, I know I have grown old, cousin,” said Rose, struggling to recover
-herself, “how could it be otherwise, when so many years have passed
-since we met.”
-
-“Well, Rosy, look at me! Has my age stood still, do you think? Look at
-the crow’s feet and the gray hair, and tell me if you love me the less
-for them. You would be the same to me, if you were twice as old as you
-are; for you see I have come back for no earthly reason but to marry
-you, unless your own consent is as hard to obtain now as your father’s
-was before.”
-
-“Why, your friends said you were married in London.”
-
-“No, not my _friends_, Rose. It must have been my _enemies_ who said
-that; but _you_ knew better. Didn’t I tell you I would never marry any
-one but you?”
-
-“Yes, fifteen years ago, Cousin Robert—but the promise might be
-outlawed by this time, for all I knew. You do not pretend to say that
-you thought my faith in your word would hold out, without even receiving
-a line from you the last nine years.”
-
-“Why not pretend to say it, coz, when I know it has. Deny it now if you
-can.”
-
-“But why didn’t you write to me, Robert?”
-
-“Because I’m no writer, and meant to come myself. You said you’d wait
-for me—and I knew you never broke your word. So now, my sweet little
-flower, I’ve come to claim you, like a blunt sailor, as I am, with few
-words, but a heart full of love, and what is better, something to live
-on beside.”
-
-“You are in a great hurry now,” said Rose, laughing and blushing.
-“Suppose you wait a little, seeing you learnt the art so well in your
-absence. Why I have not had a chance yet to ask you what kept you away
-so long.”
-
-“Never mind that, coz. There ’ill be plenty of time hereafter. Answer my
-question first, whether you mean to have me or not, and let me know
-which way to shape my course. If you’ve changed your mind, and lost your
-affection for me, just say so at once, and I’m off to sea in the first
-ship. You’ll never be troubled with me again.”
-
-“What an unreasonable man you are,” said Rose, “just as impatient and
-headstrong as before you went away.”
-
-“You knew all my faults, dearest, long, long ago,” said Selwyn. “They
-did not hinder you from loving me once. Love me still, Rose, as you once
-did. Be mine, as you promised you would before we parted, and you shall
-make me what you please.”
-
-Rose was silent. Her lover’s arm was around her, and memory was holding
-its mirror to her mind: and when she did speak at length, her voice was
-low and indistinct, and her words nearly unintelligible. The spirit of
-them may be guessed, however, from the fact that Selwyn did not go to
-sea, and she resigned her situation as teacher, and returned with him to
-her former home. The wedding was soon after celebrated with the sanction
-of her father, and but one source of regret to Rose, that the old
-minister, who in her youthful days was the pastor of her native village,
-had been removed in the meanwhile to another world, and the ceremony of
-her marriage was performed by a stranger.
-
- * * * * *
-
-[Illustration: THE MINIATURE.]
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- THE ZOPILOTES.
-
-
- BY FAYETTE ROBINSON.
-
-
- [A Mexican soldier, being grievously wounded in one of the
- battles of Hidalgo, was deserted by his victorious companions.
- Unable to defend himself against the numerous Zopilotes, or
- vultures, which hovered around him, he put an end to his life
- with his own hand.]
-
- I feel the motion of each heavy wing—
- I hear the rustling of the air they cleave—
- The shadows they, like sombre phantoms, fling
- Closely around and o’er me, hovering,
- Beget wild fears, which busy fancies weave
- Into a dreadful certainty.
-
- I hear the war-cry on the distant field!
- I see the dust, by charging squadrons cart;
- The cannon’s blaze, the flash of burnished steel;
- Bright banner’s wave, the rapid march and wheel,
- Where every step may be, perhaps, the last
- A soldier e’er may take.
-
- Closely, more closely, still I see them sweep,
- Their wings are furled, and eagerly, they tread,
- Yet silently, as one who walks in sleep,
- Swiftly, as tyrant monsters of the deep
- Rush on their helpless prey, which seems to dread
- Far, far too much to fly.
-
- Ye whom I loved, my brethren of the sword,
- With whom I left my distant mountain-home,
- Come, come to me. Alas! no single word
- I speak will ever by your ears be heard,
- Where battle cries, the trump and stirring drum,
- Salute your victory.
-
- Was it for this I left my mother’s side,
- And bade to her I loved a last adieu,
- The dark-eyed girl I won to be my bride?
- Was it to watch this warm, empurpled tide
- Of life come gurgling, like a fountain, through
- My rent and gaping breast?
-
- Wounded, alone, upon the field of strife,
- The shouts of victory upon mine ear,
- My comrades joyous, or bereft of life,
- Martyrs, with fame and glory ever rife—
- I do not dread to die alone e’en here,
- As yon brave men have died.
-
- But oh, great God! I would not feel the beak
- Of yon dark vulture tear away my heart;
- Not that I wish my failing strength to eke—
- A soldier’s death it was my joy to seek,
- Wounded, alone, I have no other art
- To save me. Let me die.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- HISTORY OF THE COSTUME OF MEN,
-
-
- DURING THE EIGHTEENTH AND THE BEGINNING OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY.
-
-
- BY FAYETTE ROBINSON.
-
-
- (_Continued from page 198._)
-
-Nor does the following present a much greater difference, and, but for
-the ear-rings and knee-breeches, would pass muster even now amid our
-infinite varieties of _palelots_, _sacks_ and _Hongroises_. The
-boot-black represented in the cut is a miniature _bonnet-rouge_.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-It is worth while to state that costumes, like opinions, reproduce
-themselves. As the ideas which were once in vogue, and have been
-abandoned, return and resume their influence and orthodoxy, so do the
-costumes of other days continually reappear, it is true, with a
-difference often striking enough, for men no longer wear either coats of
-mail or inexpressibles of velvet, yet the Norman cloak of the Black
-Prince, and the _sack_ of Lauzun, the handsome French colonel, who,
-during our own Revolutionary war, turned the heads and carried away the
-hearts of half the women of Philadelphia, are still every day to be
-seen.
-
-The same thing is observable in female costume. The long waists, tight
-sleeves and full skirts of old times have returned, and even the
-ungainly ruffs of Queen Elizabeth’s age have shown a disposition to
-return. The mode of dressing the hair is also retracing itself, so that
-there is little real difference between the traditional court-dress of
-former times and that of every-day life worn at present, except the
-train.
-
-The following is a caricature of that day, but scarcely more outré than
-the bearded creatures from time to time seen in our own streets. It may
-be remarked that the passion for hair on the face always is consequent
-on a war. In the time of Henri IV, all the world was bearded; so during
-the days of Cromwell were his ironsides, and now men who never saw a
-shot fired, force the sublime into the ridiculous, by parading a
-moustache in every thoroughfare throughout the country.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-Who knows but that our own Mexican war may exert an influence on dress,
-and that some day the Ranchero’s striped blanket and broad-brimmed hat
-may become the fashion. Men will stalk about the streets in boots of
-cow-hide, and instead of hunting with dogs and rifles, the _lazo_ or
-_lariette_ will be adopted universally. All the world knows that
-immediately after the return of the army of the Duke of Wellington to
-England, from Waterloo, the military black stock was adopted, and it may
-be that the green pantaloons with the brown stripe, now worn, are an
-imitation of the dress of the Mexican veterans who were defeated at
-Cherebusco. The same may be said of the cloth caps, with the covers of
-oil-skin, now so much in vogue. It may be remarked that this article of
-dress has always followed the _tenue_ of the army, the flat cap
-replacing the hussar’s, as the latter did the old gig-top leather
-apparatus.
-
-Other nations of Europe did not participate in the French Revolution,
-but became imitators of the costumes it created. We have now come to the
-period of the Directory, which exerted its influence on costume, or
-rather the influence of which was reflected by the costume of the day.
-
-The Directory and Consulate saw all France seized with fury for the
-antique. These were the days of the _Romaines_ and _Atheniennes_, when
-David was toiling with the pencil to effect a reform of costume, and
-when Talma sought to introduce correct ideas of dress on the stage. The
-men of Paris still adhered to the English costume, which, fortified by
-their _fiat_, became that of the world. They compromised their English
-predilections, however, so far as to wear their hair _à la Titus_ or _à
-la Caracalla_, what that was may be seen from the following engraving.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-They seemed, however, to struggle to make this costume as unbecoming as
-possible, wearing the coats loose, the collars immense, the breasts
-small, and such pantaloons and _shocking bad_ hats as were never seen
-before or since. The costume of a dandy of 1798 consisted of a blue
-coat, a white waistcoat, open in the breast, a finely worked
-shirt-bosom, fastened with a diamond pin, a huge muslin cravat, Nankin
-pantaloons, with black stripes down the seams, and thrust into the
-boots. (In society the boot was replaced by a small and pointed shoe.)
-The everlasting bludgeon was as indispensable in the street as the boots
-and the hat. To young Thelusson, when thus dressed and armed, Madame de
-Stael, who wore an oriental _toilette_, said, “Citizen, you bear the
-sceptre of ridicule.” “Madame,” replied he, “you are certainly competent
-to award it to whom you please.” Never were there so many strange
-costumes seen in any one city as in Paris at that time, when _peruques_,
-powder, hair _à la Titus_, cocked and round hats all were mingled
-together. Costume was indeed republican if the government was despotic.
-
- [_Conclusion in our next._
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- THE BEAUTIFUL OF EARTH.
-
-
- All Nature’s beauteous forms, of light, of earth, or air, or sky,
- Compare not with the flexile frame, the lustrous, speaking eye;
- The opening flower, the rainbow tint, the blue and star-lit dome,
- Are things of naught, in contrast with the angels of our home:
- All gentle acts, all noble thoughts, of Heaven-directed birth,
- Are centered in the fair and good, the beautiful of earth.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- WILD-BIRDS OF AMERICA.
-
-
- BY PROFESSOR FROST.
-
-
-[Illustration: CAROLINA OR MOCKING WREN.]
-
-This interesting bird is strictly southern in its habits, being rarely
-found north of Maryland and Delaware, while it abounds during the whole
-year in the warmer states. Occasionally it strays to the vicinity of
-Philadelphia and even of New York; but this is so seldom that the
-indefatigable Wilson never found its nest north of the Maryland line.
-Like the House-Wren it is a sprightly, industrious and familiar bird,
-and a general favorite in the neighborhood where it abounds. Other
-qualities render its nature so ambiguous that some have hesitated to
-place it among the Wrens. One of the most remarkable of these is its
-power of imitating the songs of other birds. With much sweetness and
-accuracy it blends its own notes with the simple twittering of the
-Ground-Robin, the harsh noise of the Woodpecker, the trilling of the
-Blackbird and Warbler, and the whistling of the Cardinal. These are its
-favorite imitations; but its powers of mimicry embrace the songs of
-almost all our forest-birds. But notwithstanding this capriciousness in
-sounds, the Carolina Wren is said to have a favorite theme, repeated
-more regularly than any other. Nuttall thus pleasantly describes it.
-“This was the first sound that I heard from him, delivered with great
-spirit, though in the dreary month of January. This sweet and melodious
-ditty, _tsee-toot_, _tsee-toot_, _tsee-toot_, and sometimes _tsee-toot_,
-_tsee toot-seet_, was usually uttered in a somewhat plaintive or tender
-strain, varied at each repetition with the most delightful and delicate
-tones, of which no conception can be formed without experience. That
-this song has a sentimental air may be conceived from its interpretation
-by the youths of the country, who pretend to hear it say, _sweet-heart_,
-_sweet-heart_, _sweet_! nor is the illusion more than the natural truth,
-for, usually, this affectionate ditty is answered by its mate, sometimes
-in the same note, at others in a different call. In most cases, it will
-be remarked, that the phrases of our songster are uttered in 3s; by this
-means it will be generally practicable to distinguish its performance
-from that of other birds, and particularly from the Cardinal Grosbeak,
-whose expression it often closely imitates, both in power and delivery.
-I shall never, I believe, forget the soothing satisfaction and amusement
-I derived from this little constant and unwearied minstrel, my sole
-vocal companion through many weary miles of a vast, desolate, and
-otherwise cheerless wilderness.”
-
-The food of the Carolina Wren consists of the insects found in old
-timber, and along the banks of streams, places which it delights to
-frequent. It is found among the thick cypress swamps of the south even
-in the middle of winter. It can see well in the dark, sometimes
-searching food in caves, where to most other day birds objects would be
-undistinguishable. Its building places are a barn, or stable, some old
-decayed tree, or even a post-fence. The female lays from five to eight
-eggs, of a dusky white, mottled with brown. Two broods are raised in a
-season, and sometimes even three. The adult bird is five and a quarter
-inches long, of a chestnut brown, beautifully mottled with black and
-other colors. The female differs little in color from the male.
-
-[Illustration: THE CARDINAL BIRD.]
-
-This bird is known under the names of Virginia Red Bird, Virginia
-Nightingale and Crested Red Bird. It is one of the most beautiful of
-American songsters, and in power and sweetness of tone it has been
-compared with the Nightingale. The species belongs mostly to the United
-States and Mexico, but has been found in considerable numbers in the
-West Indies, Central America and Colombia. Although delighting in a
-southern clime, it is sometimes observed in Pennsylvania, and even New
-England.
-
-Being migratory, it often flies in large flocks, presenting a splendid
-appearance, especially when moving in relief over a clear sky, and in
-the rays of the sun. At other times several of these birds are found
-associated with Sparrows, Snow-Birds and other half domestic species.
-When alone his favorite haunts are the corn-field, small clumps of
-trees, and the borders of shaded rivulets. Corn is their favorite food,
-in addition to which they eat seeds of fruit, grain and insects. They
-are easily domesticated, even when taken quite old, and require very
-little trouble in order to thrive well. Loss of color, however, has
-often been the result of long confinement, although with care this might
-perhaps be obviated. They are lively in the cage, and maintain their
-powers of song to the last. Numbers of them are carried to France and
-England, where they are highly esteemed. Their time of song lasts from
-March to September.
-
-The Cardinal Bird’s song consists of a favorite stanza often repeated,
-with boldness, variety of tone and richness. Its whistling somewhat
-resembles that of the human voice, though its energy is much greater. In
-his native grove, his voice rises above almost every other songster
-except the Mocking-Bird. The powers of the female are almost equal to
-those of the male, of whom she is a most constant and affectionate
-partner.
-
-Latham admits that the notes of the Cardinal “are almost equal to those
-of the Nightingale,” the sweetest of the feathered minstrels of Europe.
-But, says Nuttall, “the style of their performance is wholly different.
-The bold martial strains of the Red Bird, though relieved by tender and
-exquisite touches, possess not the enchanting pathos, the elevated and
-varied expression of the far-famed Philomel, nor yet those contrasted
-tones, which, in the solemn stillness of the growing night, fall at
-times into a soothing whisper, or slowly rise and quicken into a loud
-and cheering warble.”
-
-The Cardinal Bird measures eight inches in length, and eleven from the
-tip of one wing to that of the other. The whole upper parts are of a
-dull dusky-red, except the sides of the neck, head and lower parts,
-which are of a clear vermilion. The chin, front and lores black. The
-head is ornamented with a high pointed crest. The bill is coral red, and
-the legs and feet are pale ash color. The female is somewhat less than
-the male, and a little different in color. Both sexes are noted for
-affection to their young, and to each other; but so jealous are the
-males that they have often been known to destroy those of their own sex.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- JENNY LIND.
-
-
- BY MISS M. SAWIN.
-
-
- A world’s sweet enchantress, unbounded in fame,
- O how shall I sing of so peerless a name—
- Thy tones, from the wilds of a picturesque land,
- The billows of ocean have borne to our strand;
- Though I ne’er have beheld thee, yet bound in thy spell,
- My bosom thine echoes still onward would swell—
- Would enshrine in my song the sweet soul of thy strains,
- Till fresh incense should rise from our mountains and plains.
- Though long on the altar thou’st kindled the fire,
- Oh how shall it burn on the strings of the lyre!
- ’Tis the music of Nature sublimed in thy lays
- Which has won thee thy guerdon of lore and of praise;
- ’Tis hence that the depths of the spirit it thrills,
- That responses start forth from mountains and hills,
- That no barriers the flight of thine echoes can bind,
- Which are borne o’er the earth on the wings of the wind.
-
- There is glowing within us, all restless, a lyre,
- Which would swell like an angel’s its anthems of fire,
- But the shroud of mortality fetters its strings—
- Yet thou while on earth hast unfolded thy wings,
- Canst dwell with the fairies in chalice of flowers,
- And glide with the wood nymphs in deep sylvan bowers;
- Canst float with the moonbeams in dew-silvered trees,
- And rise on the wings of the morn’s fragrant breeze,
- While sunbeams are waking the rapturous lays
- Of dew-drops and birds, and yet all ’neath their blaze;
- Canst hover o’er ocean when storm it enthrones,
- And bear from the foam-crested surges their tones;
- When dark are the skies and the thunder-clouds lower,
- With the eagle’s bold flight to the mountain’s crest soar;
- The streams of the forest to their fountains canst wind,
- And caverns resounding in solitude find;
- Enshrined in thy spirit their voices canst keep,
- Sublimed by thine alchemy subtile and deep,
- At thy will from thy spirit their harmonies sweep,
- And I ween thou hast soared to the portals of Heaven,
- Or some angel a tone to thy praises has given.
-
- O, Jenny, the brightest cynosure below!
- The fount in thy bosom must here cease to flow;
- Like the sear leaves of autumn which shroud the old years,
- Thy harp-strings must perish ’mid wailings and tears;
- Thy lovers who bend at thy purity’s shrine,
- Enchained by the spells of thy carols divine,
- When no temple’s proud arches resound with thy strain,
- In the wilds of thy forests shall seek thee in vain;
- But when from thy tomb they despairing return,
- In lyres immortal thine echoes shall burn.
- Alas! that thy music should ever here die,
- Should leave the sad earth and ascend to the sky;
- Yet when thou art fled to the seraphim throng
- Will fancy yet list to thy glorified song,
- Will dream that no harp on the heavenly plains
- Has music so sweet as are there thy high strains.
- Though we never may list while on earth to thy lays,
- For the boon of thy being high Heaven we’ll praise;
- Where thy strains are ascending must Paradise be—
- Humanity’s scale is exalted in thee.
-
- There is a tone in my bosom as yet unexpressed,
- And fain would I bid it to ever there rest,
- But the woes of the earth for its utterance plead,
- Then may it go forth as a merciful deed:—
- O, Jenny, while shining so brilliant on high,
- Like the Lyrian star on the vault of the sky,
- While the peers of the realms bow in homage to thee,
- Dost never thy race in their miseries see?
- To the charm of thy music we ever would yield,
- By thee would be borne to Elysium’s field,
- And forgetful that wrong or that wo were on earth,
- Forever would list to thine angel-like mirth.
- But the heart fraught with sympathies true, must embrace
- The lowest as well as the stars of our race—
- Round the poor and the wretched in bitterness twine—
- On devotion’s wings rise to where pure seraphs shine;—
- In our pathway to Heaven we encounter the thorn,
- Each brother’s woes feel and the proud tyrant’s scorn—
- The way that our holy Redeemer has trod
- But leads us through tears to the throne of our God.
- I know that thine own gushing spirit is free
- As the winds that o’ersweep the high mountains and sea;
- Thy genius has burst from all species of chains,
- And freedom unbounded swells forth in thy strains;
- But while ever exulting on fetterless wing,
- Wouldst not the blest boon to each lorn spirit bring?
- Thy music, which thrills to the depths of the heart,
- Might bid us to deeds of true chivalry start;
- Might bid the kind fountain in proud bosoms flow,
- To heal the crushed hearts that are writhing in wo.
- Both Knowledge and Virtue like angels descend,
- The sad thralls of Sin and of Darkness to rend,
- Perchance that the tyrant may yield to thy charms,
- And avert the dread doom of the Future’s alarms,
- Till unwilling vassals no more bend the knee,
- But rise at his bidding and ever be free.
- And the gold thou hast won by the charm of thy name,
- To its splendor might add the philanthropist’s fame,
- Till many an oasis from deserts shall spring,
- When the arches of Heaven with thy praises shall ring.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- STORM-LINES.
-
-
- BY J. BAYARD TAYLOR.
-
-
-When the rains of November are dark on the hills, and the pine-trees
- incessantly roar
-To the sound of the wind-beaten crags, and the floods that in foam through
- their black channels pour:
-
-When the breaker-lined coast stretches dimly afar, through the desolate
- waste of the gale,
-And the clang of the sea-gull at nightfall is heard from the deep, like a
- mariner's wail:
-
-When the gray sky drops low, and the forest is bare, and the laborer is
- housed from the storm,
-And the world is a blank, save the light of his home through the gust
- shining redly and warm:—
-
-Go thou forth, if the brim of thy heart with its tropical fullness of life
- overflow—
-If the sun of thy bliss in the zenith is hung, and no shadow reminds thee
- of wo!
-
-Leave the home of thy love; leave thy labors of fame; in the rain and the
- darkness go forth,
-When the cold winds unpausingly wail as they drive from the cheerless
- expanse of the North.
-
-Thou shalt turn from the cup that was mantling before; thou shalt hear the
- eternal despair
-Of the hearts that endured and were broken at last, from the hills and the
- sea and the air!
-
-Thou shalt hear how the Earth, the maternal, laments for the children she
- nurtured with tears—
-How the forest but deepens its wail and the breakers their roar, with the
- march of the years!
-
-Then the gleam of thy hearth-fire shall dwindle away, sad the lips of thy
- loved ones be still:
-And thy soul shall lament in the moan of the storm, sounding wide on the
- shelterless hill.
-
-All the woes of existence shall stand at thy heart, and the sad eyes of
- myriads implore,
-In the darkness and storm of their being, the ray, streaming out through
- thy radiant door.
-
-Look again: how that star of thy Paradise dims, through the warm tears,
- unwittingly shed—
-Thou art man, and a sorrow so bitterly wrung, never fell on the dust of
- the Dead!
-
-Let the rain of the midnight beat cold on thy cheek, and the proud pulses
- chill in thy frame,
-Till the love of thy bosom is grateful and sad, and thou turn'st from the
- mockery of Fame!
-
-Take with humble acceptance the gifts of thy life; bid thy joy brim the
- fountain of tears;
-For the soul of the Earth, in endurance and pain, gathers promise of
- happier years!
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- REVIEW OF NEW BOOKS.
-
-
- _The Child of the Sea and Other Poems. By Mrs. S. Anna Lewis,
- Author of “Records of the Heart,” etc. etc. New York: George P.
- Putnam._
-
-A large edition of “Records of the Heart” was sold in a few months, and
-the fair author stepped at once into a very enviable position. “The
-Child of the Sea,” etc. will add much to her poetical fame. The poem
-which gives name to the volume, and occupies most of it, is a romantic
-and passionate narrative, and embodies all the main features of Mrs.
-Lewis’s thought as well as manner. The story is well conducted and
-somewhat elaborately handled; the style, or general tone, is nervous,
-free, dashing—much in the way of Maria del Occidente—but the principal
-ground for praise is to be found in the great aggregate of quotable
-passages. The opening lines, for example, are singularly vivid:
-
- Where blooms the myrtle and the olive flings
- Its aromatic breath upon the air—
- Where the sad Bird of Night forever sings
- Meet anthems for the Children of Despair.
-
-The _themes_ of the poem—a few lines farther on—are summed up in words
-of Byronic pith and vigor:—
-
- ——youthful Love,
- Ill-starred, yet trustful, truthful and sublime
- As ever angels chronicled above—
- The sorrowings of Beauty in her prime—
- Virtue’s reward—the punishment of Crime—
- The dark, inscrutable decrees of Fate—
- Despair, untold before in prose or rhyme.
-
- * * * * *
-
-We give a few more instances of what we term “quotable”
-passages—thoughtful, vivid, pungent or vigorous:
-
- Fresh blows the breeze on Tarick’s burnished bay—
- The silent sea-mews bend them through the spray—
- The beauty-freighted barges bound afar
- To the soft music of the gay guitar. . . . . .
-
- * * * * *
-
- The olive children of the Indian Sea.
-
- * * * * *
-
- That rayless realm where Fancy never beams—
- That Nothingness beyond the Land of Dreams.
-
- * * * * *
-
- Folded his arms across his sable vest
- As if to keep the heart within his breast.
-
- * * * * *
-
- ——Violets lifting up their azure eyes
- Like timid virgins whom Love’s steps surprise.
-
- * * * * *
-
- And all is hushed—so still—so silent there
- That one might hear an angel wing the air.
-
- * * * * *
-
- ——There are times when the sick soul
- Lies calm amid the storms that ’round it roll,
- Indifferent to Fate or to what haven
- By the terrific tempest it is driven.
-
- * * * * *
-
- The dahlias, leaning from the golden vase,
- Peer pensively into her pallid face,
- While the sweet songster o’er the oaken door
- Looks through his grate and warbles “weep no more!”
-
- * * * * *
-
- ——beauteous in her misery—
- A jewel sparkling up through the dark sea
- Of Sorrow.
-
- * * * * *
-
- Delirium’s world of fantasy and pain,
- Where hung the fiery moon and stars of blood
- And phantom ships rolled on the rolling flood.
-
-“_Isabelle or The Broken Heart_” occupies some 40 pages, and is fully as
-good as “The Child of the Sea”—although in a very different way. There
-is less elaboration, perhaps, but not less true polish, and even more
-imagination.
-
-The “Miscellaneous Poems” are, of course, varied in merit. Some of them
-have been public favorites for a long time. “My Study,” especially, has
-been often quoted and requoted. It is terse and vigorous. From “The
-Beleagured Heart” we extract a quatrain of very forcible originality:
-
- I hear the mournful moans of joy—
- _Hope, sobbing while she cheers_—
- Like dew descending from the leaf
- The dropping of Love’s tears.
-
-The volume is most exquisitely printed and bound—one of the most
-beautiful books of the season.
-
- * * * * *
-
- _The History of England, from the Accession of James II. By
- Thomas Babington Macaulay. New York: Harper & Brothers. Vols. 1
- and 2. 8vo._
-
-No person, of whig or tory politics, could in the present age, propose
-to himself the task of writing the history of England, without feeling
-the delicacy and responsibility of his undertaking, and the necessity of
-exercising a different class of powers from those which may have given
-sparkle and point to his partisan efforts. The importance of the
-principles involved in the events and characters coming under his view,
-and their wide applications to contemporary controversies, would be sure
-to bring down upon the unlucky advocate a storm of moral and immoral
-indignation. It would seem on the first blush that Macaulay, with all
-his vast and vivified erudition, was not a writer calculated to
-experience the full force of a historian’s duties, or to display in the
-analysis and judgment of events that intellectual conscientiousness
-which is a rare quality even in powerful minds. His historical essays
-bear as unmistakable marks of partisanship as ability, and are
-especially characterized by a merciless severity, which, in the name of
-justice, too often loses the insight us well as the toleration which
-come from charity. Sir James Macintosh, toward the commencement of his
-career, referred to him as “a writer of consummate ability, who has
-failed in little but in the respect due to the abilities and character
-of his opponents.” Though as a partisan, Macaulay was a partisan on the
-right side, on the side of liberty and truth, the unmeasured scorn he
-poured, hot from his heart, on tyrants and bigots, and the fierce, swift
-sweep of his generalizations, often made his cooler readers suspicious
-of his accuracy when most dazzled and delighted by his brilliancy. In
-the present history a great change is manifest. The petulance, the
-flippancy, the dogmatism of the essayist, are hardly observable, and in
-their place we have the solid judgment of the historian. There is a
-general lowering of the tone in which persons and principles are
-considered, consequent upon the change in the writer’s position from an
-antagonist to a judge. The style, while it has no lack of the force,
-richness, variety, directness and brilliancy, which characterized the
-diction of the essayist, has likewise a sweetness, gravity and composure
-which the essayist never displayed. Though the writer’s opinions are
-radically the same as ever, they are somewhat modified by being seen
-through a less extravagant expression, and by being restored to their
-proper relations. In fact, the history presents Macaulay as a wiser and
-more comprehensive man than his essays, and if we sometimes miss the
-generous warmth and intensity, and the daring sweep of his earlier
-compositions, we also miss their declamatory contemptuousness and mental
-bombast.
-
-The volumes which the Harpers have given to us in so elegant a form,
-(vulgarized a little by Dr. Webster’s ortho-graphical crotchets,) close
-with the proceedings of the Convention which gave the crown to William
-and Mary. A long historical introduction, containing a view of English
-history previous to the reign of James II., and a view of England, in
-its manners, customs, literature and people at the time of his
-accession, occupy the larger portion of the first volume, and are almost
-unmatched, certainly unexcelled, in historical literature, for the
-combination of condensed richness of matter with popularity of style.
-Then follows the narrative of the three years of folly and madness which
-produced the revolution of 1688, and hurled James II. from his throne.
-This narrative is detailed with a minuteness which leaves nothing untold
-necessary to the complete apprehension of the subject in all its
-bearings, and it evinces on almost every page not only singular felicity
-in narration, but great power of original and striking observation.
-Masterly generalization, and sagacity in seizing and luminousness in
-unfolding the principles of events. The whole history has the interest
-of a grand dramatic poem, in which the movement of the story and
-delineation of the characters are managed with consummate skill. The
-portraits of Charles II., James II., Danby, Rochester, Sunderland,
-Godolphin, Halifax, Churchill, and especially William of Orange, are
-altogether superior to any which have previously appeared. Halifax and
-King William seem to be Macaulay’s favorites, and he has surprised many
-of his readers by his comparative coolness to Russell, Sydney, and the
-whig patriots generally.
-
-The history closes with an eloquent passage on the “glorious” Revolution
-of 1688. It appears to us that the meanness and lowness which Macaulay
-has developed in the actors in the event, impress the reader with a
-different notion of it. The whole thing has a jobby air, in which no
-commanding genius is observable, and no sacrifices seem to have been
-made. Indeed Macaulay himself, in one of his essays, remarks truly that
-the only sacrifices made in the Revolution, “was the sacrifice which
-Churchill made of honor and Anne of natural affection.” That the
-Revolution, in its results, was one of the most glorious recorded in
-human annals, there can be little doubt, but it had its birth in such
-odious treachery, and was conducted by men so deficient in elevation of
-mind or even common honesty, that its story is little calculated to
-kindle sympathy, or awaken admiration.
-
- * * * * *
-
- _The History of England from the Peace of Utrecht to the Peace
- of Paris. By Lord Mahon. Edited by Henry Reed, Professor of
- English Literature in the University of Pennsylvania. New York:
- D. Appleton & Co. 2 vols. 8vo._
-
-The author of this history is all English nobleman of large historical
-acquirements, who has managed to produce two or three valuable works
-demanding great study and research, without interfering with his duties
-as a member of Parliament, though, doubtless with some interference with
-his pleasures as a member of the English aristocracy. The present work
-is valuable for its accuracy, and interesting from its giving a
-connected view of the history of England during a period but little
-known except by the empty abstracts of stupid compilers, or the
-brilliant but prejudiced letters and memoirs of contemporary writers and
-statesmen. It comprehends the administrations of Harley and Bolingbroke,
-of Stanhope, Walpole, Carteret, Newcastle and Chatham, thus including
-the latter years of the reign of Queen Anne and the reigns of George I.
-and II. The period covers a wide field of characters and events, and
-Lord Mahon has been especially successful in unraveling the threads of
-the foreign policy of England, and indicating the difficulties
-experienced by her statesmen in sustaining the House of Hanover on the
-throne. In a narrative point of view the best portions of the history
-are those relating to the rebellions of 1715 and 1745. It is almost
-needless to say that Professor Reed has added much to the value and
-interest of the work by his elucidative notes.
-
-But the richness of Lord Mahon’s materials and the interest of his
-subject cannot conceal the fact that he lacks both the heart and the
-brain of an able historian, and that he is essentially a common-place
-man. The reflections he appends to some of his narratives are commonly
-such obvious truisms, or such poor apologies for reason, that the reader
-is made painfully aware of his being in the company of a mediocre
-gentleman, who, while he always means well, never means much. Lord Mahon
-is deficient equally in historical science and historical imagination,
-and his work equally barren of profound principles and vivid pictures. A
-moderate tory, he holds the hearsays of his creed with a lazy
-acquiescence, without sufficient passion to be a bigot, and without
-sufficient logic to be a sophist. When he is tempted into historical
-parallels, or disquisitions on the changes of parties, as in that
-passage where he essays to prove that a modern whig is synonymous with a
-tory of Queen Anne’s day, he adopts the argumentation of Fluellen rather
-than Chillingworth—shows that “there is a mountain in Wales and a
-mountain in Macedon,” and leaves the reader to mourn over the
-misdirection of the human faculties. In his estimate of literature he is
-still worse. The disquisition on the literature of Queen Anne’s time, in
-the present history, is a medley of mingled commonplace, which has been
-worn to rags, and critical nonsense, which has been long exploded. His
-history, therefore, must be considered simply as a useful narrative of
-important events, and carefully distinguished from those of Guizot and
-Thierrey, of Hallam and Macaulay, of Prescott and Bancroft.
-
- * * * * *
-
- _Leaves from Margaret Smith’s Journal in the Province of
- Massachusetts Bay, 1678-9. Boston: Ticknor, Reed & Fields. 1
- vol. 16mo._
-
-This beautifully printed volume sustains both the reputation of its
-publishers for printing handsome books, and its reputed author for
-writing good ones. It is generally attributed to Whittier, and it
-certainly displays throughout the shrewdness with which that poet
-observes, and the facility with which he idealizes events. Here is a
-volume bringing up to the eye with the vividness of reality the scenes
-and characters of a past age, and making us as familiar with them as if
-we had ridden by the side of Margaret in her journey from Boston to
-Newbury, and yet through the whole book runs a vein of pure poetry,
-lending a consecrating light to scenes which might possess but little
-interest if actually observed. The quaint spelling undoubtedly adds to
-the illusion of its antiquity, but what makes it really seem old is its
-primitive sentiment and bold delineations. Margaret herself is a most
-bewitching piece of saintliness, with the sweetness and purity of one of
-Jeremy Taylor’s sermons, and as full of genial humanity as of beautiful
-devotion. Placed as she is amid the collision of opposite fanaticisms,
-the austere fanaticism of the Puritan and the vehement fanaticism of the
-Quaker, she shines both by her own virtues and by contrast with the
-harsh qualities by which she is surrounded. The book provokes a
-comparison with the Diary of Lady Willoughby, and that comparison it
-will more than stand, being superior to that charming volume in the
-range of its persons and events, and equal to it in the conception of
-the leading character. The author has shown especial art in modifying
-every thing, by the supposed medium of mind through which it passes—the
-heroine telling the whole story in her own words—and at the same time
-preserving every thing in its essential life. This is a difficult and
-delicate process of representation, but Whittier has performed it.
-
- * * * * *
-
- _Democracy in France. By Monsieur Guizot, Late Prime Minister.
- New York: D. Appleton & Co._
-
-This little volume is well worthy the reputation of one of the greatest
-historians, philosophers and statesmen at the age—in other words, of
-the reputation of Guizot. It is marked by preeminent ability in
-statement, analysis, argumentation and composition, and we doubt not
-will exert some considerable influence on the politics of France. In his
-preface the author avers that nothing in the volume bears the impress of
-his personal situation, and he adds, “While events of such magnitude are
-passing before his eyes, a man who did not forget himself would deserve
-to be forever forgotten.” The book justifies the author’s assertion. It
-is simply an examination of things without regard to persons, and is as
-philosophic in its tone as in its method. The chapters on The Social
-Republic and The Elements of Society are masterpieces of analysis and
-statement, and well deserve the attentive study of all who think or
-prattle on social science. It seems to us that the present volume is
-sufficient to convince all candid minds, that whatever may be the faults
-and errors of Guizot as a statesman, he has no equal among the men at
-present dominant in France. Since his fall that country has been
-governed, or misgoverned, by soldiers and sentimentalists, with a pistol
-in one hand and the Rights of Man in the other, and is a standing
-monument of the madness of trusting the state to men of “second rate
-ability and first rate incapacity.” The Red Republicans have principles;
-M. Guizot has principles; the legitimists have principles; but the
-present dynasty has the peculiar character of being, in an intellectual
-sense, the most thoroughly unprincipled government that French ingenuity
-could have formed.
-
- * * * * *
-
- _Oregon and California. By J. Quinn Thornton. New York: Harper &
- Brothers, 1849._
-
-A pleasant book, well written, and containing much information just now,
-peculiarly valuable in relation to Oregon and California. Many strange
-phases of life in the wilderness and prairie, are described by one who
-knows its peculiar hardships and pleasures. The terrible sufferings, the
-awful stories told of the early emigrants, are faithfully given, and, if
-official accounts be true, are scarcely exaggerated. A valuable appendix
-on the gold country is added, undoubtedly to be relied on. The book is
-well illustrated in wood.
-
- * * * * *
-
- _The Parterre, a Collection of Flowers Culled by the Wayside. By
- D. W. Belisle. Philadelphia: J. B. Lippencott & Co., 1849._
-
-A pretty looking volume, very creditable to the publishers in a
-typographical point of view, and containing a number of poems of various
-lengths, on a variety of subjects. The longest, Wallenpaupack, is an
-attempt, and a very creditable one also, to commemorate an incident of
-the history of the North American Indian, a source of poetical subjects
-too much neglected. The book is well worth attention. It may not be
-uninteresting to state that the type has all been set up by the author.
-
- * * * * *
-
- _Roland Cashel. By Charles Lever. Illustrated by Phiz. New York:
- Harper & Brothers._
-
-This is probably the best novel of one of the most popular novelists of
-the day. Lever has not much solidity of mind, and accordingly never
-produces any masterpieces of characterization or passion, but he has a
-quicksilver spirit of frolic and drollery, and an intensity of mirthful
-feeling which have made some critics place him on a level with Dickens.
-The present volume will more than sustain the reputation which his
-former frolicksome audacities have attained.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- EDITOR’S TABLE.
-
-
- “GRAHAM” TO “JEREMY SHORT.”
-
-
-MY DEAR JEREMY,—In my last I promised you a reminding hint, a sketch
-reflective and suggestive of mining operations, as an offset to the
-brilliant visions of “Gold Placers,” which haunt the mind, sleeping and
-waking, of Uncle Sam’s children. While multitudes are making haste to
-grow rich, by going around the Horn, and at the terminus of their long
-voyage will find themselves coming out of the little end of it, you and
-I may amuse ourselves over a subject somewhat kindred—a retrospective
-folly—feeling the while a good deal like the boy on getting rid of the
-jumping tooth-ache—“a _heap_ better” are we, “now it is over.”
-
-_Copper!_ You have heard of it before, I believe? and may have about you
-a memorandum of a few thousands, entered on the credit side, not
-available now at your bankers. It was a very happy delusion, was it not?
-I’ll warrant me that you had already planned your cottage orné and had
-the walks laid out, and the shrubbery planted quite tastefully and
-imaginatively picturesque. Several castles, with steeples rather airy,
-of my own, were toppled down, and elegantly bronzed as they were, are
-quite useless now for purposes of reproduction, so that we may say, that
-we have had some of the advantages of wealth without a present care in
-disposing of it. The servant girl who wished for riches “that she might
-ride in her carriage and feel like missus,” had the delights of
-anticipation only, poor soul! while ours are embodied in the delicious
-reflection of having passed that “missus” on the road, with a pair of
-fast trotters—taking the air with quite an air, at the rate of “two
-forty.”
-
-“Come easy, go fast,” was the remark of an old German Uncle, who, having
-made a fortune by hard knocks at the anvil, looked with a quiet smile at
-these thousands in perspective. In regard to the _horses_, the old
-gentleman was right—but as the _money_ never came, I think his premises
-were altogether wrong. One thing is certain, real estate rose very
-rapidly in our vicinity at that time, and as several lots went off at
-spanking prices, to be kept out of our clutches, we may be said to have
-been benefactors to the sellers and conveyancers. So that _copper_—the
-vilest of metal—may, in some crucibles, be transformed into gold. But
-not to anticipate.
-
- * * * * *
-
-_Grubemout_ had been upon the mountain-side, which overlooks the
-delightful village of Fleeceington, for a month or more, making careful
-chiselings from rocks, and excavations at their sides. UPTOSNUFF carried
-his pick-axe and his basket. The “collection” gradually swelled upon
-their hands, until it became quite formidable; and the “choice
-specimens,” were without number, rich, and without reason, _rare_.
-DRAWITWELL, the host of “The Hawk and Buzzard,” had his eye upon their
-movements, and always made it a point to take a peep at their basket
-when they descended in the evening. He was an open-eyed sort of an old
-lark, who had had his own way in the village at election times and at
-trainings, by virtue of a colonelcy and aidship to the governor—a cheap
-sort of payment for service rendered—and he felt as if nothing of
-importance ought to transpire in the place, unless he had a hand in it.
-Drawitwell did not like the air of mystery with which his lodgers
-slipped the covered basket up stairs, after they had performed their
-ablutions; nor the roaring noise made overhead, as the “specimens” were
-poured into the two great chests, previously prepared; and he was just
-the man to get at the bottom of a mare’s nest. So, by virtue of
-appliances best known to himself, he contrived to get a look at the
-collected specimens, and made up his mind at once that the thing was too
-slily managed by half, and that if there was wealth in the rocks he
-would have a finger in the transaction. “_He would at any rate._”
-
-Crispin, the village cobbler, had thrown _his_ eyes from his lapstone,
-across the creek, and up the hill-side, to take note of the motions of
-“the wandering stone-crackers,” as he called them, and his brain was in
-a pother.
-
-The blacksmith had sharpened their pick more than once, which had put on
-edge his curiosity, and had “contrived to pick their brains, while they
-pecked the rocks,” as he jocosely remarked, and _he_ had smelt metal in
-their movements.
-
-Over their evening ale, at the tavern, the probabilities and
-possibilities of gold or silver being found in the mountain, were
-discussed with various degrees of profundity, and the certainty that
-something of the kind was there, was most sagely resolved on. Time, in
-whose crucible all doubts are solved, soon confirmed their sagacity by a
-“copper button” presented to the landlord with the compliments of
-Uptosnuff, with hints, but not positive injunctions as to secrecy. He
-knew his man.
-
-“What do you think of that?” asked Drawitwell, of his cronies the same
-evening, with an air of authority, holding up the copper button. “What
-_do_ you think of that, my lads?”
-
-“_Hellow!_” exclaimed the bewildered cobbler, “landlord, why—why is
-_that goold_?”
-
-“Gold, you fool! No, it’s _not_ gold—but it’s a precious sight more
-valuable—because there is a great deal more of it used.”
-
-“Why what on earth is it, then?” asked the blacksmith, in amazement.
-
-“It’s _Copper_! my lads! COPPER!!”
-
-“COPPER!!”
-
-“Yes, I reckon it is!—and the genuine metal, too! And the mountain is
-as full of it as an egg is of meat! Only melt down one of the rocks up
-there, and you’ll see how it will fly out!”
-
-To have stopped the spread of such information as this, would have
-surpassed the ingenuity of our clerical friend, who was opposed to the
-Magnetic Telegraph, as “a device of the devil.” There was a California
-excitement in a village, with California itself in their own mountain.
-_He_ would have been a lucky traveler, who could have had his horse shod
-for a guinea, or a bridle-rein mended for double the amount.
-
-“You see, my lads!” says Drawitwell, haranguing the crowd, “they are
-going to do the fair thing by us, they have bought the land, and are
-getting their act of incorporation ready, and we are all to have shares
-in it at a reasonable rate—and I reckon I’ll have a _few_, or money
-must be scarce in Fleeceington. There’ll be high times at the “Hawk and
-Buzzard”, _now_, I should say, when every man in this prosperous village
-can be an owner, for a small sum, in one of the richest mines on the
-face of the earth. You see it’s going to be most unconscionable high,
-too—it’s now twenty-two cents a pound—for the government is
-advertising for it in the newspapers—no doubt to make bullets with to
-match the infernal poisonous Mexicans. Gad, we’ll give the rascals a
-taste of their own physic, _now_, I reckon! And then don’t they make
-water-pipes with it now, and sheetings. And don’t they cover houses with
-it, and ships; and I guess the time is not far off when government will
-have her mint on this spot—and what’s to hinder us, _then_ from
-spending our own coppers, bran new, ha! ha! If any body here has got a
-farm for sale, I’m his man!”
-
-As for buying farms, the thing was perfectly absurd now, and Drawitwell
-should have known it; for who could tell that there was not a
-copper-mine under every one of them. It was not to be supposed either
-that the good people of Fleeceington could keep the knowledge of such
-extraordinary wealth all to themselves, and our usually quiet city was
-all agog, with the wondrous stories of the extent and richness of the
-mines; and to confirm its truth, Grubemout and Uptosnuff were here with
-the charter, and the script elegantly engraved, and any number of
-specimens, and copper-buttons confirmatory.
-
-In a day or two a few shares were in the market at “a slight advance on
-the original cost.” Capitalists had been up who thought they “knew a
-thing or two”—and gudgeons began to nibble, the knowing ones among the
-number. The market advanced. One, two, three, four hundred per cent. was
-quickly achieved as competitors increased; and considering that the
-first cost was perhaps a dollar an acre, for an unwooded, untillable,
-rocky hillside, curved up and set down at a dollar per square foot as
-“original cost,” the profit was tempting—the market active—ditto the
-original holders. There was a fierce avidity for a stock which advanced
-at such rapid strides, and the reckless became crazy, the cautious
-reckless and visionary. “The Board”—knowing dogs—looked on for a while
-doubtfully, but in amazement. The “Outsiders” indulged in ecstasies and
-fanciful millions. Thousands were added up upon stock-books, as if they
-were “trifles light as air”—_and they were_. Merchants cut the
-shop—lawyers the red tape and sheep-skin—editors told the messenger
-for copy to “go to the devil”—and all became “gentlemen on ’change.”
-Healths were drunk “to the United Copper-Heads”—and champagne and
-Havanas “suffered some.” Fun and puns flashed fast and furious—and all
-this the while the great bubble rose up, expanding and beautifying as it
-ascended.
-
-It was not to be expected that a single mountain should contain all this
-good luck exclusively, and in various quarters envious copper-rocks
-poked their noses out, quite seductively to anxious companies, who
-formed upon the spot. One gigantic intellect proposed the formation of a
-company to shovel the sand off of the whole State of New Jersey, so as
-to get at the substratum, at once and emphatically. Copper became
-substantially the _great_ business of life—the _only_ business of the
-board—the _board_ being in fact rather a small affair while _copper_
-abounded.
-
-Sharp occupied _his_ time in buying up superfluous real estate, which
-seemed to have been infected by copper, and showed a disposition to
-_rise_—and he was afraid it might go up and never come down again. The
-conveyancers assured him that he ought to take it—like a sportsman—on
-the wing, right and left. He did, and clapped a heavy mortgage on it to
-keep it steady.
-
-That disturbed the figures on Flat’s memorandum—for he hoped to have
-bought and paid for it with his expected profit on copper, and to have
-staggered somebody else’s property with a mortgage from the surplus. It
-was provoking.
-
-Jones and Wilkins resolved to “take a shy at the copper anyway, while it
-was going;” but the stock of all the companies seemed shy of them. They
-“bid ten dollars through a broker”—it was twelve. “Bid twelve”—it was
-fourteen. Wilkins had had enough of it. He believed it was “only a
-bubble blown up to catch the eyes of fools. He was done with it.” But
-Jones was down in the morning, as merry as a lark, and as early. He
-“knew some of the outsiders, and thought he would catch some of them
-before the morning was over.” He did—and went home to dinner, having
-made “a fortunate hit.”
-
-“Five hundred shares,” said he, “at fifteen, and the last sale ‘after
-board,’ nineteen and a half! Four dollars and fifty cents per share.
-Five aught is _naught_; five fives are twenty-five, five fours are
-twenty, and two are twenty-two. Twenty-two hundred and fifty
-dollars—that will do for one day, _I_ should say. Wilkins would like me
-to give _him_ half, as we were to have gone in together yesterday, but I
-wonder what Wilkins ever did for me, that I should give _him_ eleven
-hundred and twenty-five dollars! Not _quite_ so green!”
-
-The next morning Grubemout brought down some specimens, which “he
-thought” would yield forty per cent. _if they were assayed_, and thought
-that they ought to make an assessment of a dollar a share, so as to put
-on more hands and drive out the ore. Jones said that “that was right
-enough.”
-
-The assessment was called in, at which the stock hesitated for a day or
-two—made a start and went on—but a second installment being urged, it
-faltered a little, and then stopped. At the third it “_declined_ a
-shade,” at which the “bears” gave a shake and a growl.
-
-But Grubemout had—in the nick of time—“just received a letter from the
-mines of the most important nature, which it would not do to show in
-‘the street,’ or the stock would be balooning it—Uptosnuff had _just
-made a cross-cut_.”
-
-“The deuce he has!” exclaimed Jones, rather nervously. “What is _that_?”
-
-“A cross-cut, you see,” says Grubemout, “is nothing more than ‘a shaft’
-run at right angles past the old one we have been working. He struck
-some glorious ‘deposites,’ and—”
-
-“Why I thought you always said there was _a vein_, Grubemout? These
-deposites are confoundedly leaky and treacherous affairs.”
-
-“And so there _is_ a vein, my boy, and we are just getting into it;
-deposites are always the first thing we look for in copper mining. As
-long as we have them we get on swimmingly; but you are so confoundedly
-skittish! I was just going to tell you, that in making the ‘cross-cut,’
-Uptosnuff has struck ‘_the master vein_!’ and found an old ‘_drift_’ in
-the mountain, which you will see after a while, is important. In it he
-found old hatchets, and hammers, and images in copper, supposed to have
-been the rude efforts at mining and smelting by the Indians long
-ago—say before the Dutch had taken Holland, or achieved the renowned
-name of Knickerbockers, and had gone home copper-fastened.”
-
-Information so desirable as this would work its way out somehow, and
-gentlemen would now bet you a trifle—say champagne and cigars—that a
-dividend of twenty-five per cent. would be declared on the stock the
-first year; or would _give_ you a hundred dollars for agreeing to pay
-the annual dividend on a hundred shares.
-
-Jones is “satisfied _now_,” and forthwith buys five hundred shares more,
-as do other Joneses, and Browns, and Greens. Outsiders became as plenty
-as gooseberries, and as verdant; and it would seem, from the number of
-shares reported _at_ the Board, and “_after_,” that certificates had
-quadrupled, and never _could_ multiply fast enough to supply the demand.
-Indeed, as one old gentleman was heard to end a prolonged whistle, by
-exclaiming—“GAS!” the market became so inflated that the Joneses,
-Browns, and Greens, declined the attempt of _cornering_ the stock, in
-despair.
-
-“The company,” called for an additional installment at once. “Why, what
-the deuce,” asks Jones, “does the company want with _more_ installments?
-Haven’t they got copper enough!”
-
-“Copper _ore_, my dear fellow,” responded Grubemout. “Yes, _lots_ of it.
-But Uptosnuff wasn’t brought up in a Cornish mine for nothing. The
-furnaces at Baltimore and Boston want it for half-price, but as they are
-nearly _out_, we intend to make them _smoke_, ha! ha! But we must go to
-the expense of an “_adate_” in the meanwhile.”
-
-“Why, what’s the use of _that_—what good will that do?” asks Jones.
-“What _is_ an _adate_, anyway?”
-
-Poor Jones had a good deal yet to learn about copper-mining, and felt
-naturally alarmed at these ominous terms. The “cross-cut” was the
-beginning of puzzlers. He had yet to see—I may as well say he
-ultimately did see, “the drift,” to help along “the pumps,” as well as
-the adate with installments, and to become familiar with a variety of
-mining lore, which assists knowledge in its acquisition, by obligingly
-allowing us to pay for it. But I believe he never _did_ understand “what
-they wanted with so many work-shops—_he_ thought they were _miners_!”
-
-“An _adate_, Jones, is only a drain to relieve the mine when it is
-overcharged with water.”
-
-“Oh! is that all!”
-
-But this calling in of installments seems to be a sort of patent
-condenser in the stock market, and shows with how much force a given
-quantity of air can be squeezed into a given compass.
-
-Grubemout was as active as a bee at sunrise, and offered his advice
-gratuitously—but “confidentially”—to any number of anxious
-_inquirers_—but some of _them_ having a copper-mine of their own, by
-the attractive and _taking_ name of “_Penny_-wise Company,” and others
-having taken a snap with the “Alligator Mountain Company,” and not
-liking the bite they received, shook their heads at Fleeceington and
-looked knowing—the “New Jersey” chaps were quite sprightly, for as
-their _title_ covered the whole State, they had a fair chance of
-_realizing_ something when the “Mammoth Shoveling Company” got to work,
-and lifted the crust off.
-
-Grubemout assured them—“on his honor”—that “the Company did not intend
-to sell an ounce of its ore to the furnaces. They intended to have ‘_a
-crushing machine_’ of their own erected at once, and proceed in a style
-that would soon settle the whole business.”
-
-Jones was “ready for any number of crushers or mashers, grinders or
-pounders. Head up the creek—dam it! Put up the water-works and the
-mill-wheel, and give it to the _blasted_ furnaces! Carry the war into
-Africa!” said he.
-
-The installment to carry on the adate was paid, though it depressed the
-stock, but Jones could not see how having paid the company five thousand
-dollars in installments should depress _his_ stock in the market. “Hang
-it!” said he, “the company is that much richer in property and
-excavations, and don’t I belong to the company—haven’t I a thousand
-shares? It’s only paying money out of one pocket, and putting into the
-other. Wilkins may laugh, but he’s a fool! That’s a capital idea about
-the furnace. You’re a boy, Uptosnuff—_you_ are?”
-
-The installment for _crushing_ purposes was soon called in also, and
-paid, though the stock looked sickly, and trembled as if it had the
-ague, or had passed through a crushing process on its own hook. It was
-just composing itself when Uptosnuff discovered that it was of the
-highest importance to the company to have a small engine and an iron
-pump erected at the mines at once, _as the richest ore is always found
-below water level_!
-
-Jones—the active, energetic Jones—“had no doubt of it at all. The
-Cornish miners assured him, when he was up, that as soon as they got
-below water level, they would come to something that couldn’t be trifled
-with. If Wilkins wasn’t a fool he would go in soon, before it gets out.”
-
-Uptosnuff, too, had had a quantity of the late ore assayed, and
-Professor Stuffemwell, Geologist to Her Majesty, thought it would _do_
-bravely. If ore that yielded fifty per cent. would not, he would like to
-know how her majesty’s subjects got rich, after paying the miners, on
-mines that yield but fifteen per cent.
-
-Copper buttons now replenished the pockets of dealers, and the stock
-made several violent gasps and starts for a desirable existence. But it
-was consumptive—evidently going into a rapid decline. The crushing
-process and the iron pump having depressed its spirits, and exhausted
-still further its vital energy.
-
-Grubemout thought that if the buttons were pressed into _bars_, and
-shown upon Change it might be encouraging, and mitigate the violence of
-the disease; but some wag of a broker suggested that it was “_a_ BAR
-_sinister_;” which remark sinister ruffled the backs of the _bars_,
-caused the bulls to toss their horns unpleasantly, and shook still
-further the liveliness of the stock, which drooped visibly under the
-imputation.
-
-Even _Jones_—the ardent, trustful Jones—got earnestly anxious about
-the state of the patient, and “suggested a consultation.”
-
-_Brown_ was full of good intentions, but “pleaded debility of the
-pocket, which, under heavy depletion, was rather low.”
-
-_Green_ was a little vivacious, and “suggested a new _cross-cut_.”
-
-_Grubemout_ was pleased with the idea, and hinted at “a new
-installment.”
-
-_Uptosnuff_ had “missed the stage, and was unable to get down to the
-meeting.”
-
-_Wilkins_, in answer to a pressing invitation to “_come in_,” was “busy
-selling goods.”
-
-_Sharp_ would not attend—“he had never had any thing to do with the
-rascally copper, and found his real estate bad enough just now.”
-
-_Flat_ “had enough of copper stock—it was not very heavy, to be sure,
-having rather a tendency to dissolve into air, its original element, but
-he was satisfied.”
-
-_The Stock_ grew feebler after consultation, as patients are apt to, in
-critical cases, from want of remedy.
-
-_The Bulls_ looked surly, as if they had been disappointed in pasture.
-
-_The Bears_ were as frisky as it is possible to be on a frosty morning,
-and were so much in their own element, that you looked involuntarily
-around for floating icebergs—and copper in this temperature of the
-atmosphere sunk into a torpor.
-
-_On Change_, in this changing world of ours, copper looked blue.
-
-_The Outsiders_ had rubbed out their pencil-marks on stock memorandums,
-and dissipating the written evidence of thousands that had vanished into
-air, they themselves vanished. It was needless to say any thing to
-_them_ about copper, they “never had any thing to do with it, beyond a
-hundred shares or so, which they sold out before the bubble looked like
-bursting.” Stockdom was desolate, save that a few of the bears showed
-their teeth, and grinned as furiously as if they had just arrived fresh
-from the Polar regions, and had brought any quantity of wet blankets
-with them. Yet they looked as if they would rather than not that any
-dealer in copper should take hold of them. The bulls were more
-plentiful—looked savage but knowing, but showed no disposition to dash
-at imaginary enemies in scarlet, having rather a taste left for their
-friends, the Browns and the Greens, who were urgently entreated to “come
-_in again_, and help sustain the market.”
-
-The case was desperate, and desperate remedies were resolved on. It was
-deemed advisable to “ask _the opinion_ of the directors!”
-
-The directors “_have_ no opinion of the stock! They never _had_,” of
-their own. They trusted to Grubemout, to Uptosnuff, to the Cornish
-miners. Their geological and mineralogical education, had been
-shockingly neglected in their youth, and they have verified the fact, by
-having on their hands, a thousand shares apiece at high prices, by
-having assisted to sustain the market in the various stages of the
-experiment. But “they _would_ like to know who were the ‘original’
-stockholders of the company who did them the honor to elect them.”
-
-Grubemout “thought it of the highest importance that they _should_ know,
-and as the original book of minutes was up at the mines and as he was
-going up by the next stage, would write and send them.”
-
-It would be, perhaps, as well to give his letter:
-
- _Fleeceington, Dec. 10, 18—._
-
- GENTLEMEN,—I arrived safely at the mines last evening, after
- rather a fatiguing journey by stage, and found, to my
- unspeakable amazement, that Uptosnuff had exhausted the vein,
- and that as no more deposites are to be found he had thought it
- advisable to abandon the mine. The tools, viz., four pickaxes,
- three shovels, and two wheelbarrows—rather dilapidated—the
- property of the company, I have put under shelter, to preserve
- them from the weather—subject to your order or disposal. The
- iron pump I should have removed also, but being rather heavy in
- the absence of the hands—who have gone back to their farms—I
- found it impossible to take in. It cannot, however, suffer from
- rust more than ten per cent., and as the original cost was but
- seventy dollars, the loss to the company will be inconsiderable.
- There is a trifle of two hundred dollars due, for boarding the
- hands, to the host of the “Roaring Lion,” who will forward you
- his account by this mail. As Uptosnuff and myself have suffered
- a great deal from anxiety, and exposure in the mines of the
- company, we deem it proper to seek a more genial clime. Any
- little complimentary remuneration which you may see proper to
- bestow on us, you will please enclose to Mr. Drawitwell, of the
- Hawk and Buzzard, to whom we are indebted for various little
- civilities, in the shape of breakfast, dinner and supper, for
- the past six months, and which no doubt the generosity of your
- complimentary donation will amply cover.
-
- Enclosed are “the original minutes.” Uptosnuff wishes to be
- remembered _by_ you. I join in the same prayer.
-
- Yours, as ever,
- CHRISTIAN GRUBEMOUT, _Pres’t._
-
- * * * * *
-
-To the Directors, Stockholders, etc.
-
-P. S. Please ask Jones to think of us. Not that it is any of our
-business, but would like to know whether he ever divided with
-Wilkins—it would be civil, you know. Regards to the Bulls. Uptosnuff
-says ditto to the Bears, for there is no knowing when one may want a
-friend, and civility costs nothing.
-
- C. G.
-
- * * * * *
-
-MINUTES, FIRST MEETING.—At a large and enthusiastic meeting of the
-joyous and delighted inhabitants of the charming and romantic village of
-Fleeceington, held at “The Hawk and Buzzard Hotel,” to elect officers
-for the newly discovered, freshly chartered, and highly valuable and
-productive Copper Mine, just incorporated by an act of the Legislature,
-under the name, style and title, to wit:
-
- * * * * *
-
- “_The Grand Open Sesame and United Catchem Copper Mining,
- Crushing, Stamping, Pumping and Smelting Company_,”
-
- Christian Grubemout, Eliakim Uptosnuff, J. Drawitwell, T.
- Crispin and John Smith, the original incorporators of the
- Company, after regaling themselves, proceeded to the election of
- officers, and knowing that in the goodly city of Philadelphia
- there were a number of persons by the names of Jones, Brown and
- Green, and not a few Sharps and Flats, they, in order to avoid
- giving offence, placed in a hat the whole of the names, as
- above, found in the _Directory_, (significant of the office they
- were to hold,) and drew the following first three names, A.
- Jones, B. Flat, C. Green, _directing_ them to supply vacancies,
- and to fill additions to the number of five; adding in the
- meanwhile the names of the first two corporators, as
- _ex-officio_ directors, to conduct silently the operations of
- the mines, and to enlighten the others as to the true plan of
- working copper-mines profitably and efficiently.
-
- (Signed) C. GRUBEMOUT, _Pres’t._
- E. UPTOSNUFF, _Sec’ry._
-
- * * * * *
-
-The cleverness and explicitness of the whole transaction showed that it
-had _been done_ neatly; and the Directors with singular unanimity felt
-themselves included in the operation.
-
-There can be no doubt that Grubemout and Uptosnuff are among the
-“placers” in California. The one being undeniably the man who sold the
-two barrels of brandy, by installments of a thimblefull at a time, for
-$14,000—the other, with positive certainty, we aver to have been the
-man who “confidentially” communicated the following _item_ to the
-newspaper press, and he must have been there to have seen it:
-
- * * * * *
-
- “_The Biggest Lump Yet?_—The following is about the latest news
- from the gold diggins that we have seen recorded in the
- ‘papers:’ A runaway soldier is said to have discovered a lump or
- a rock of gold that weighed 889 pounds and 11½ ounces; he was
- afraid to leave it, and mounted guard upon it, and at the latest
- dates he had sat there 17 days; had offered $27,000 for a plate
- of pork and beans, but had been indignantly refused, and laughed
- at for the niggardliness of his offer, by parties going further
- on, where this article was said to be _more abundant_!”
-
- * * * * *
-
-Jones is among the lame ducks, and pretty roughly plucked at that. But
-he still avers that if the furnaces had only paid a good price for the
-ore at the outset, or Wilkins had only helped him to sustain the market
-when he asked him, he should have been the master of a pretty snug
-little fortune. If he only had it _now_, he would charter a steamer, and
-take his own freight and passengers for the gold mines.
-
-The Hawk and Buzzard appears to have been “_pidgeoned_,” for the last
-time I passed that way the house was shut up. The business having amused
-itself by stepping over to the Roaring Lion, while the Hawk and Buzzard
-had flown to the city, “to watch the market.”
-
-Crispin “would only like to have one of those fellows tied for a while,
-until he had expressed his opinion on him with a stirrup.”
-
-Smith appears to be solicitous to “make them intimately acquainted with
-the red-hot end of a poker—he’d _smelt_ ’em, _dam_ ’em, and _crush_ ’em
-too!”
-
-The “Dam,” the “Drift,” the “Cross-Cut,” the “Iron Pump” and the
-“Adate,” you can see as you go wood-cock shooting next August—but the
-“Steam-Engine” and the “Mill-Wheel” never arrived, owing to some
-informality in the order given to the mechanics.
-
-“THE CRUSHER,” it is supposed, is in California with its friends.
-
- G.R.G.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-
-
- ADIEU, MY NATIVE LAND.
-
-
- WORDS BY D. W. BELISLE.
-
- ARRANGED FOR THE PIANO, BY JAMES PIPER.
-
-[Illustration]
-
- My native land adieu;
- Ye blooming, sunlit hills,
- Ye mountains tipped with blue,
- And lovely, dancing rills,
- My
-
-[Illustration]
-
- heart is sad to part with scenes like you,
- Ye much loved haunts of youth, adieu, adieu.
-
-
- SECOND VERSE.
-
- Sweet Memory, how my soul
- Beats at thy magic touch!
- ’Tis strange that thy control
- Can make us bear so much;
- For, while my thoughts in sadness turn to you,
- My heart in silence breathes a fond adieu!
-
- * * * * *
-
-Transcriber’s Notes:
-
-Archaic spellings and hyphenation have been retained. Grammar has been
-maintained as in the original. Punctuation has been corrected without
-note. Other errors have been corrected as noted below. For
-illustrations, some caption text may be missing or incomplete due to
-condition of the originals available for preparation of the ebook.
-
-Page 217, in the “Scientfic Halls,” ==> in the “Scientific Halls,”
-Page 219, and platted his long ==> and plaited his long
-Page 219, nicely platted queues ==> nicely plaited queues
-Page 222, courtiers whom Lí ==> courtiers with whom Lí
-Page 222, assidiously _rubbing his_ ==> assiduously _rubbing his_
-Page 224, I hav n’t it ==> I haven’t it
-Page 225, has no othe ==> has no other
-Page 227, to entercept the ==> to intercept the
-Page 227, below. Unforfortunately, the ==> below. Unfortunately, the
-Page 236, many rejuvinated forests, ==> many rejuvenated forests,
-Page 238, and wild-geraneum flowers ==> and wild-geranium flowers
-Page 239, fair daugher of the ==> fair daughter of the
-Page 241, be poweful to cheer ==> be powerful to cheer
-Page 244, fly-leaves was writen ==> fly-leaves was written
-Page 251, was therefor, and ==> was therefore, and
-Page 254, free and unbiassed ==> free and unbiased
-Page 256, beloved and rewared ==> beloved and rewarded
-Page 269, T’is hence that ==> ’Tis hence that
-Page 275, Havn’t they got ==> Haven’t they got
-Page 276, number off five; ==> number of five;
-Page 276, The Bigest Lump ==> The Biggest Lump
-
-
-
-
-
-End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Graham's Magazine, Vol. XXXIV, No. 4,
-April 1849, by Various
-
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-<pre>
-
-The Project Gutenberg EBook of Graham's Magazine, Vol. XXXIV, No. 4, April
-1849, by Various
-
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most
-other parts of the world 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. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have
-to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook.
-
-Title: Graham's Magazine, Vol. XXXIV, No. 4, April 1849
-
-Author: Various
-
-Editor: George R. Graham
- J. R. Patterson
- J. B. Taylor
-
-Release Date: January 13, 2017 [EBook #53957]
-
-Language: English
-
-Character set encoding: UTF-8
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK GRAHAM'S MAGAZINE, APRIL 1849 ***
-
-
-
-
-Produced by Mardi Desjardins & the online Distributed
-Proofreaders Canada team at http://www.pgdpcanada.net from
-page images generously made available by Google Books
-
-
-
-
-
-
-</pre>
-
-<div class='figcenter'>
-<img src='images/cover.jpg' alt='' id='iid-0000' style='width:375px;height:auto;'/>
-</div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-top:1.5em;font-size:1.9em;font-weight:bold;'>GRAHAM’S MAGAZINE.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-top:1.5em;font-size:1.2em;font-weight:bold;'><span class='sc'>Vol. XXXIV.</span> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;April, 1849. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No. 4.</p>
-
-<div class='literal-container'>
-<p class='toch'>Table of Contents</p>
-<div class='literal'>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#poet'>The Poet Lí</a></p>
-<p class='toc' style='margin-left: 2em'><a href='#h_1'></a></p>
-<p class='toc' style='margin-left: 2em'><a href='#h_2'></a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#naval'>The Naval Officer</a></p>
-<p class='toc' style='margin-left: 2em'><a href='#h_3'></a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#vic'>Victory and Defeat</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#mother'>To Mother</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#ring'>On a Diamond Ring</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#recluse'>The Recluse. No. I.</a></p>
-<p class='toc' style='margin-left: 2em'><a href='#h_4'></a></p>
-<p class='toc' style='margin-left: 2em'><a href='#h_5'></a></p>
-<p class='toc' style='margin-left: 2em'><a href='#h_6'></a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#rome'>Rome</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#miss'>The Missionary, Sunlight</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#ther'>Thermopylæ</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#lost'>Lost Treasures</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#bro'>The Brother’s Temptation</a></p>
-<p class='toc' style='margin-left: 2em'><a href='#h_7'></a></p>
-<p class='toc' style='margin-left: 2em'><a href='#h_8'></a></p>
-<p class='toc' style='margin-left: 2em'><a href='#h_9'></a></p>
-<p class='toc' style='margin-left: 2em'><a href='#h_10'></a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#relic'>The Unsepulchred Relics</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#rem'>Reminiscences of a Reader</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#gipsy'>The Gipsy Queen</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#lament'>The Brother’s Lament</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#mach'>Sonnet to Machiavelli</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#dar'>The Darsies</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#mask'>The Unmasked</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#morm'>Mormon Temple, Nauvoo</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#rose'>Rose Winters</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#zop'>The Zopilotes</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#men'>History of the Costume of Men</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#earth'>The Beautiful of Earth</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#bird'>Wild-Birds of America</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#jenny'>Jenny Lind</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#storm'>Storm-Lines</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#books'>Review of New Books</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#table'>Editor’s Table</a></p>
-<p class='toc'><a href='#adieu'>Adieu, My Native Land</a></p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'><a href='#notes'>Transcriber’s Notes</a> can be found at the end of this eBook.</p>
-
-<hr class='pbk'/>
-
-<div class='figcenter'>
-<a href='images/i001f.jpg'><img src='images/i001.jpg' alt='' id='iid-0001' style='width:425px;height:auto;'/></a>
-</div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:left;margin-left:0em;'><span style='font-size:smaller'>Anaïs Toudouze</span></p>
-
-<div class='lgc' style=''> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'><span style='font-size:larger'><span class='bold'>LE FOLLET</span></span></p>
-<p class='line'>Boulevart S<sup>t</sup>. Martin, 61.</p>
-<p class='line'><span class='it'>Robes de M<sup>me.</sup></span> Bara Bréjard, <span class='it'>r. Laffitte, 5—Coiffures de</span> Hamelin, <span class='it'>pass du Saumon, 21</span>.</p>
-<p class='line'><span class='it'>Fleurs de</span> Chagon ainé, <span class='it'>r. Richelieu, 81—Dentelles de</span> Violard, <span class='it'>r. Choiseul 2<sup>bis</sup></span></p>
-<p class='line'>8, Argyll Place, Londres.</p>
-<p class='line'>Graham’s Magazine</p>
-</div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='pbk'/>
-
-<div class='figcenter'>
-<img src='images/i002.jpg' alt='' id='iid-0002' style='width:650px;height:auto;'/>
-<p class='caption'><span style='font-size:smaller'>D. Bydgoszcz, pinx. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A.L. Dick</span><br/> <br/><span class='bold'>THE BRIDGE &amp; CHURCH <span style='font-size:smaller'>OF</span> S<sup>T</sup>. ISAAC.</span></p>
-</div>
-
-<hr class='pbk'/>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-top:1.5em;font-size:1.9em;font-weight:bold;'>GRAHAM’S MAGAZINE.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk100'/>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:1.2em;font-weight:bold;'><span class='sc'>Vol.</span> XXXIV. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;PHILADELPHIA, April, 1849. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class='sc'>No.</span> 4.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk101'/>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' title='217' id='Page_217'></span><h1 class='nobreak'><a id='poet'></a>THE POET LI.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1em;font-weight:bold;'>A FRAGMENT FROM THE CHINESE.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY MRS. CAROLINE. H. BUTLER, AUTHOR OF “RECOLLECTIONS OF CHINA,” “MAID OF CHE-KI-ANG,” ETC.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<h2 class='nobreak' id='h_1'>PART I.</h2>
-
-<div class='blockquote0r9'>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Do not draw upon you a person’s enmity, for enmity is
-never appeased—injury returns upon him who injures—and
-sharp words recoil against him who says them.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:right;margin-right:2em;margin-bottom:1em;'><span class='it'>Chinese Proverb.</span></p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>On the green and flowery banks of the beautiful
-Lake Tai-hoo, whose surface bears a thousand isles,
-resting like emeralds amid translucent pearl, dwelt
-Whanki the mother of Lí. <span class='it'>The mother of Lí!</span> Ah
-happy distinction—ah envied title! For where, far
-or near, was the name could rank with Lí on the
-scroll of learning—receiving even in childhood the
-title of the “Exiled Immortal,” from his skill in
-classic and historical lore!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Moreover, he was of a most beautiful countenance,
-while the antelope that fed among the hills
-was not more swift of foot. Who like Lí could
-draw such music from the seven silken strings of the
-Kin! or when with graceful touch his fingers swept
-the lute, adding thereto the well-skilled melody of his
-voice, youths and maidens opened their ears to listen,
-for wonderful was the ravishing harmony.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Yet although the gods of learning smiled upon this
-youthful disciple of Confucius, poverty came also
-with her iron hand, and although she could not crush
-the active mind of Lí, with a strong grip, she held him
-back from testing his skill with the ambitious <span class='it'>literati</span>,
-both old and young, who annually flocked to the
-capital to present their themes before the examiners.
-For even in those days as the present, money was
-required to purchase the smiles of these severe
-judges. They must read with <span class='it'>golden</span> spectacles—or
-wo to the unhappy youth who, buoyant with hope
-and—<span class='it'>empty pockets</span>, comes before them! With
-what contempt is his essay cast aside, not worth the
-reading!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Sorely vexed, therefore, was poor Lí—and what
-wonder—to know that he might safely cope with any
-candidate in the “<a id='halls'></a>Scientific Halls,” yet dare not for
-the lack of <span class='it'>sycee</span> (silver) enter their gates, lest disgrace
-might fall upon him.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Yet Lí was of a merry heart—and, as all the world
-knows, there is no better panacea for the ills of fortune
-than the spirit of cheerfulness. Thus, although
-poverty barred the way to promotion, it could not
-materially affect his happiness—no more than the
-passing wind which for a moment ruffled the surface
-of the lake, yet had no power to move its depths.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Now it happened that one day taking his nets Lí
-went down to the lake, and as he cast them within
-the waters, not knowing any one was near, he broke
-forth into a merry song, which sent its glad burthen
-far off to the lips of mocking Echo, like Ariel, seeming
-to “ride on the curled clouds.” Now it also
-chanced, that within a grove of the graceful bamboo,
-which skirted the path down which Lí had passed on
-his way, walked the great Mandarin Hok-wan.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“<span class='it'>Hi!</span> by the head of Confucius the fellow sings
-well!” he exclaimed, as the song met his ear, (for,
-as we have said, Lí had a voice of rare melody,) and
-forthwith issuing from his concealment, Hok-wan
-seated himself upon the bank and entered into conversation
-with the young fisherman.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>If the mere melody of the voice had so charmed
-the mandarin, how much more was he captivated by
-the wit and learning of the youth, who, thus poorly
-appareled, and humbly employed, seemed to share
-wisdom with the gods! Hok-wan stroked his eye-brows
-in astonishment, and then bidding Lí leave his
-nets, he bore him off as a rare prize to his own house,
-where he that day feasted a numerous company.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>First conducting Lí to an inner apartment, he presented
-him with a magnificent robe richly embroidered,
-together with every article necessary to complete
-the toilet of a person of distinction, and when
-thus appareled, introduced him into the presence of
-<span class='pageno' title='218' id='Page_218'></span>
-his guests. And truly Lí walked in among them
-with all the stateliness and hauteur of a man who
-feels that he is conferring an honor, instead of being
-honored, as no doubt Lí should have considered himself,
-in such an august assemblage of grave mandarins.
-With what an air he seated himself at the
-sumptuously loaded table! where, according to Chinese
-custom of the higher classes, the various dishes
-of meats, soups, fish, preserves, etc., were all nearly
-hidden by large bouquets of beautiful flowers, and
-pyramids of green leaves.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And now no sooner had Hok-wan delivered with
-all customary formality the speech of welcome, and
-drained to the health of his guests the tiny goblet of
-crystal, embossed with gold, than rising to his feet,
-and joining his hands before his breast, in token of
-respect to his host, Lí called a servant, and bidding
-him take a part from all the good things spread before
-him, said:</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Carry these to the dwelling of Whanki, the mother
-of Lí. Say to her that as the sands on the lake
-shore, countless are the blessings of the gods, who
-have this day smiled upon her son. Bid her eat—for
-although from hunger he should gnaw his flesh,
-and from thirst drink his blood, yet not one morsel of
-this banquet shall pass the lips of Lí unless his aged
-mother be also sustained by the same delicacies.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>At hearing which, all the mandarins, and Hok-wan
-himself, loudly expressed their admiration. Such is
-the esteem which the Chinese entertain for filial
-piety.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>This duty discharged, Lí attacked the dainties before
-him like a hungry soldier, yet seasoning all he
-said and did with so much wit and humor, that the
-guests laid down their chop-sticks and listened with
-wonder. With the wine, Li grew still more merry—his
-wit cut like hail-stones wheresoe’er it lighted,
-and at his jovial songs the grave dignitaries forgetting
-their rank, (somewhat washed away by copious
-draughts of <span class='it'>sam-shu</span>,<a id='r1'/><a href='#f1' style='text-decoration:none'><sup><span style='font-size:0.9em'>[1]</span></sup></a>) snapped their fingers, wagged
-their shorn heads, and even rising from the table
-embraced him familiarly. At length, when after an
-interval of a few hours their hilarity was somewhat
-abated, during which the guests walked in the beautiful
-gardens, or reclining upon luxuriant cushions,
-regaled themselves with their pipes, or in masticating
-their favorite betel-nut, Lí made bare his bosom before
-them, and to their astonishment they found it
-was only a needy scholar whose praises they had
-been shouting.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>A needy scholar!</span></p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>How firmly they clutched their fobs, lest a <span class='it'>candareen</span><a id='r2'/><a href='#f2' style='text-decoration:none'><sup><span style='font-size:0.9em'>[2]</span></sup></a>
-might jump into the pocket of the needy scholar.
-But of advice they were as profuse as grass-hoppers
-in August.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Go to the capital—go to Kiang-fu,” (Nankin the
-ancient capital of the empire,) “thou wilt perplex
-the learned—thou wilt bewilder the ignorant!” said
-one.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“<span class='it'>Hi!</span> this fellow Lí will yet stand with honor before
-the emperor,” cried another.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Appear boldly in the ‘Scientific Halls’ before
-the Examiners,” said a third, “and never fear but
-thy name shall be cried at midnight from the highest
-tower in the city,<a id='r3'/><a href='#f3' style='text-decoration:none'><sup><span style='font-size:0.9em'>[3]</span></sup></a> as the successful Lí, with whom
-no other candidate can compete!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“When the wind blows over the fields does not
-the grass bend before it!” said Hok-wan. “When
-the great Ho speaks will not inferiors obey! the
-learned academician Ho is my brother—to him then
-you shall go—one word from him, and even the
-judges themselves shall cry your name.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Ivory does not come from a rat’s mouth, or gold
-from brass clippings,” thought Lí, as he listened to
-these remarks—“a few candareens now would be
-better for me than all this fine talk—truly I must be
-a fool not to know all this stuff before. Yet by the
-sacred manes of my ancestors, I <span class='it'>will</span> go to the capital,
-and that, too, ere another sun ripens the rice-fields—furnished
-with a letter to the illustrious Ho, I
-may dare admittance.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Giddy with wine, and with the excitement of high
-hopes for the future, at a late hour Lí was borne in a
-sumptuous palankeen to the humble dwelling of
-Whanki.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The poor old soul at first knew not the gay gallant
-who stood before her, so much had the gift-robes of
-the mandarin changed his appearance.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“<span class='it'>Heigh-yah!</span> but, Lí, thou art as fine as a magpie,”
-quoth she, raising her head from the pan of
-charcoal, over which she seemed to be simmering
-something in a small dish—“<span class='it'>Heigh</span>—and now I look
-at you again, I see you have drank of that cursed
-<span class='it'>sam-shu</span>—forever abhorred be the name of I-tih!<a id='r4'/><a href='#f4' style='text-decoration:none'><sup><span style='font-size:0.9em'>[4]</span></sup></a>
-with all thy wit dost thou not know the wise saying
-of Mencius—‘<span class='it'>Like a crane among hens is a man
-of parts among fools</span>.’ (It may be inferred, I
-think, that the good old Whanki was something of a
-scold.) And while thou hast been guzzling, see what
-I have prepared for thee—what had <span class='it'>I</span> to do with
-birds-nest soup, and with shark’s fins, and with
-pigeon’s eggs from the table of Hok-wan! My poor
-Lí will be too modest to eat with the great company,
-I said to myself, and I will not eat them, but warm
-them up to comfort him when he comes back—look,
-here they are,” (lifting the dish from the fire) “and
-yet thou comest home like a well-fed, stupid swine!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Now tu-h, mother,” answered Lí, “if thy son
-has been drinking with fools, they wore fine feathers—and
-now embrace me, for I am going to the
-capital.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Lí, thou art drunk—go to bed—the capital indeed!
-Ah cursed, cursed I-tih!” exclaimed the old
-woman.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>But when at length Lí convinced her that he was
-neither drunk nor crazy, but in reality about to start
-for Nankin, as a candidate for honors in the Scientific
-Halls, and with a letter to the great Ho in his pouch,
-Whanki knocked her head reverently before the
-shrine of the household gods in token of gratitude.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The remainder of the night was passed in preparations
-<span class='pageno' title='219' id='Page_219'></span>
-for the journey, and just as the golden ripples
-of the lake danced in the rays of the rising sun, Lí
-tenderly embraced his aged parent, and set forth on
-foot for Nankin, more than a hundred miles distant.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Ah, the blessed bug,” quoth the old woman,
-gazing after him so long as she could catch a glimpse
-of his large bamboo hat, “he will not want for rice
-any day—no <span class='it'>sycee</span> has he in his pockets, but such a
-tongue in his head, as will bring him food and
-honors.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Whanki was right. In every hamlet he passed
-through—in every cottage by the wayside, Lí found
-a shelter and a welcome—the good people considering
-themselves amply repaid for their hospitality if
-the young stranger would but touch the strings of
-the <span class='it'>pipa</span>, or recite to them odes from the Shoo-king.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>In this manner he reached the capital, and crossing
-the marble bridge over the great canal, upon the
-eastern side, entered the city at the Gate of Extensive
-Peace. Going into the first barber’s shop which
-offered, Lí carefully plucked <span class='it'>out</span> his beard, (hear this,
-ye exquisites of modern days!) shaved his head
-anew to the crown, and <a id='plait'></a>plaited his long black hair
-with red ribbons. Then entering an adjoining tavern,
-he exchanged his dusty, travel-worn garments for
-the rich dress presented him by Hok-wan, which he
-had preserved with great care for the occasion, and
-holding up his fan, to shield his eyes from the sun,
-stepped forth into the busy streets, to look for the
-dwelling of the illustrious Ho.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And next, within the Hall of Ceremony, in the elegant
-mansion of Ho, behold Lí in the presence of the
-great man himself—for with the same audacity which
-marked his behavior at the dinner of Hok-wan, had
-Lí given the door-keeper a vermilion card, leading
-Ho to expect a visiter of rank. Advancing three
-steps to meet him, Ho bows low to his stranger guest—then
-with graceful ease Lí also advances three
-step, and bows still lower—Ho again gravely steps
-forward and makes another salutation—upon which
-Lí again does the same—with a still lower bending
-of the body, Ho once more advances—whereupon
-Lí, nearly touching the marble pavements with his
-forehead, steps forward yet another three steps! By
-this time their united and solemn paces had brought
-them near the couch upon which visiters are expected
-to repose themselves. And here again the
-same formalities were gone through with, as to who
-should first be seated thereon. But <span class='it'>being</span> seated, Lí
-at once burst forth with such a flow of wit and fancy,
-that Ho was completely captivated ere he knew the
-name or business of the daring youth!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Now this was a capital stroke of Lí. For the
-academician cared not so much for any dignitary
-under the Emperor Supreme, as he did for a man of
-learning, or even for one who could tickle the moments
-as they flew with witty jests, provoking laughter.
-Ho saw at once that Lí not only possessed this
-recommendation, but that his knowledge could also
-ring on as many topics as there were bells to the
-Porcelain Tower. When, therefore, he had perused
-the letter of Hok-wan, which, after securing his
-ground, Lí put into his hand, and after having listened
-to the history which the youth gave of his hard struggles,
-of his poverty, and earnest desire to come before
-the judges on the day of examination, than Ho,
-embracing him, bade him be of good cheer.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Now, by the sacred Budha!” he exclaimed,
-“learning like thine shall win its crown without the
-aid of propitiatory gifts, save to the gods themselves.
-Know, O Lí, that Yang and Kau, who enjoy the
-smiles of the great emperor, are this year the examiners.
-To them shalt thou go, with no favor but my
-name—humble as it is, it shall cause thine to be enrolled
-among the <span class='it'>literati</span> of the Imperial Academy!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>No doubt Ho manifested great vanity in this, in so
-much as hinting that his “<span class='it'>humble</span>” name could
-balance with gold in the scales of avarice! Nevertheless
-Lí was delighted, and immediately set about
-piling up such a cloud castle as spread over his
-whole heaven of glory.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And now the day of examination approached, and
-confident of success, Lí boldly presented himself for
-admission.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Offering the memorial of Ho, which was to insure
-him, as he supposed, the favor of the judges, he was
-much surprised to see those great men, Yang and
-Kau, after turning over the missive with elevated
-noses, expressive of their contempt, cast it from them
-with scorn.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“<span class='it'>Heigh!</span> the academician Ho thinks to cheat us
-with bubbles! He sends us a scrawl devoid of meaning,
-to bespeak our favor for an upstart without degree
-or title! Yes—<span class='it'>we will remember the name of
-Lí!</span>” Saying which, they cast looks of bitter disdain
-upon the needy scholar.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Then commenced the tedious formula of the examination.
-The candidates, hundreds in number,
-were all obliged to undergo the strict search of the
-officers in attendance. Their robes, pockets, shoes,
-and even their nicely <a id='plait2'></a>plaited queues were examined,
-to see they had not secreted some essay or composition
-of some kind, which they might substitute for
-one written on the spot without preparation, when
-the examiners should command them. This done,
-they were all seated on long benches with their paper
-and pencils ready for the trial—the doors and windows
-in the meanwhile being closely barred and
-guarded, that no one from without should have the
-power of smuggling any written paper into the hands
-of the students.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>At a signal-gun the theme for composition was
-given out, and, like the velvet feet of butterflies, the
-pencils of the rival candidates glided smoothly and
-fleetly over the tinted paper. With perfect composure
-and ease, Lí wrote off his essay in the most
-beautiful characters, without a single erasure or
-omission—handling the subject with great skill and
-judgment, and gave it into the hands of Yang.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“<span class='it'>Heigh!</span>” said Yang, without giving himself
-even the trouble to glance over it, but drawing his
-pencil derisively over the fair and beautiful characters,
-“I remember the name of Lí! What stuff is
-here—why the fellow is only fit to grind my ink!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“To grind your ink!” quoth Kau, “say rather he
-is only fit to lace my buskins!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='pageno' title='220' id='Page_220'></span>
-And laughing loudly at their own wit, the great
-judges Yang and Kau turned their backs upon the
-unfortunate Lí.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Overwhelmed with mortification and rage, he
-rushed to the lower end of the hall, and there was
-obliged to remain until evening, as not until then
-could the doors be thrown open to give egress to any
-one. Here he had the vexation of listening to the
-jibes and sneers of those around him, and of seeing
-others promoted to honors, who were as far inferior
-to him as owls to eagles! What a bitter day for
-poor Lí! and when at length dismissed with renewed
-contumely from the Scientific Halls, he rushed into
-the presence of Ho, swearing loudly that he would
-one day ride over the necks of the proud Yang and
-Kau, “and by the head of Confucius when I do—<span class='it'>Yang
-shall grind my ink, and Kau lace up my
-buskins!</span>” he cried with bitterness.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Ho was terribly indignant at the treatment of his
-<span class='it'>protégé</span>, as well as incensed for the insult he imagined
-his own dignity had received. But, although
-he was himself high in favor with the emperor,
-Yang and Kau stood still higher, therefore he dissembled
-his anger, lest his head might pay the forfeit,
-should those two powerful courtiers incense the emperor
-against him.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>When he found Lí preparing to return home, he
-embraced him kindly, and bade him tarry yet another
-year in the capital.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“In the end thou wilt surely succeed, O Lí. The
-next year the examiners will not be the same, and
-thou may’st then be certain of success,” said Ho.
-“Remain with me until the time comes round—thy
-days and nights shall roll off bright and rosy as morning
-clouds—wine, wit, and music, yes, and the
-smiles of women, shall make thee forget the insults
-thou hast received.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>But Lí remembered his aged mother, sitting solitary
-in her humble home by the side of the lake, and
-his resolution strengthened.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Know, O Ho, that an old mother waits for Lí
-afar off. Summer and harvest will come, but Whanki
-has no one to sow her rice, and desolation will sit in
-her dwelling. The fish sport and gambol amid the
-waters of the lake—Whanki has no strength to draw
-them forth, therefore hunger and death will await
-her! What profit, O wise Ho, should I gain if my
-aged parent suffered! Would not the gods curse the
-race of Lí!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Noble youth, take this purse—it is heavy,” exclaimed
-Ho—“hasten to relieve the necessities of
-thy mother—a happy mother in so dutiful a son—then
-return without delay and await the examination.
-I promise thee, thou shalt not this time lack a present
-for the greedy judges—though, by Budha, I
-would like to give it them at the dagger’s point!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Accordingly Lí bade farewell to his generous
-friend, promising to return as speedily as possible.</p>
-
-<hr class='footnotemark'/>
-
-<div class='footnote'>
-<table summary='footnote_1'>
-<colgroup>
-<col span='1' style='width: 3em;'/>
-<col span='1'/>
-</colgroup>
-<tr><td style='vertical-align:top;'>
-<div id='f1'><a href='#r1'>[1]</a></div>
-</td><td>
-
-<p class='pindent'>A deleterious liquor distilled from rice.</p>
-
-</td></tr>
-</table>
-</div>
-
-<div class='footnote'>
-<table summary='footnote_2'>
-<colgroup>
-<col span='1' style='width: 3em;'/>
-<col span='1'/>
-</colgroup>
-<tr><td style='vertical-align:top;'>
-<div id='f2'><a href='#r2'>[2]</a></div>
-</td><td>
-
-<p class='pindent'>A Chinese coin.</p>
-
-</td></tr>
-</table>
-</div>
-
-<div class='footnote'>
-<table summary='footnote_3'>
-<colgroup>
-<col span='1' style='width: 3em;'/>
-<col span='1'/>
-</colgroup>
-<tr><td style='vertical-align:top;'>
-<div id='f3'><a href='#r3'>[3]</a></div>
-</td><td>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The custom of announcing the names of the successful
-candidates at the examination.</p>
-
-</td></tr>
-</table>
-</div>
-
-<div class='footnote'>
-<table summary='footnote_4'>
-<colgroup>
-<col span='1' style='width: 3em;'/>
-<col span='1'/>
-</colgroup>
-<tr><td style='vertical-align:top;'>
-<div id='f4'><a href='#r4'>[4]</a></div>
-</td><td>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The god of intoxicating liquors.</p>
-
-</td></tr>
-</table>
-</div>
-
-<h2 class='nobreak' id='h_2'>PART II.</h2>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';fs:0.9em;' -->
-<p class='line' style='font-size:0.9em;'>A man who has a tongue may go to Rome.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:right;margin-right:2em;margin-bottom:1em;font-size:0.9em;'><span class='it'>Chin. Prov’b.</span></p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<p class='pindent'>Within the “Tranquil Palace of Heaven,” Hwant-sung
-sat upon the Dragon’s Throne, with all his
-court prostrate before him.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>There was evidently “something rotten in the
-state of Denmark,” for the clouds which veiled the
-august features of the Celestial Monarch were black
-as night—thunder might soon be expected, and low
-in the dust his humble courtiers awaited the outpouring
-of his terrible wrath.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Before his footstool knelt the Premier Yang, bearing
-in his hand an official document inscribed with
-curious hieroglyphics.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“By my ancestors,” exclaimed the emperor, with
-a wrathful look from one to the other of his trembling
-courtiers, “a wise court is sustained by the
-bounty of Hwant-sung! say rather a pack of idiots,
-asses, dolts, fatted dogs! What! shall we become a
-jibe in the mouths of foreign nations! Shall barbarian
-kings mock the court of Nankin! <span class='it'>Hi!</span> Is
-there not one then of my learned counsellors—not
-one of my renowned warriors can decipher me this
-scroll! Tremble, then, ye hounds! Yang, I command
-thee to make known to us the purport of the
-missive which the foreign ambassadors have brought
-to our court.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>At this order well might Yang turn pale—for there
-was no more meaning to him in the characters on
-which his eyes were fixed, than in the slimy trail
-which the green lizard draws upon the sand. Over
-and over he turned it—now on this side, now on that—watched
-narrowly and jealously meanwhile by all
-around—for when was one high in favor with princes
-also the favorite with the mass! At length, nine
-times reverently knocking his head before Hwant-sung,
-Yang said:</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Let not the displeasure of Earth’s Glory, before
-whose frown the whole world stands affrighted, annihilate
-his slave that the gods have not granted him
-power to do the will of his majesty in this thing.
-He cannot read.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Then did Hwant-sung call up one after another of
-those whose scholastic lore was famed throughout
-the empire. In vain. Not one could understand the
-mysterious scroll. At which, becoming exceeding
-wroth, Hwant-sung swore that unless within three
-days his ministers could make known to him the signification
-of the embassy, their <span class='it'>offices</span> and <span class='it'>salaries</span>
-should all be taken from them—and if in six days
-they were still in ignorance, their <span class='it'>death</span> should release
-the empire from so many stupid owls!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Then did the academician Ho humbly present himself
-at the foot of the throne.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Will the emperor deign to open the ears of graciousness
-while the humblest of his slaves speaks?
-Know then, O mighty sovereign, there arrived last
-night at my house a man in whom all knowledge
-seems to centre. His mind, keen as the lightning,
-penetrates the most hidden mysteries—there is no
-science, no art, which he hath not already mastered.
-Command then that he appear before thee to make
-plain that which doth perplex thy majesty’s servants.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Hwant-sung rejoiced greatly at this information,
-and bade Ho bring the learned scholar at once into
-his presence.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='pageno' title='221' id='Page_221'></span>
-But when Ho, eager with joy, related to Lí the
-good fortune he had secured him, that audacious
-youth positively refused compliance with the commands
-of the emperor! offering as an excuse, that as
-he was but a poor scholar, without title or degree, he
-dared not presume to appear before so much majesty.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>With this answer then the unhappy Ho returned to
-the palace, not doubting but the rage of Hwant-sung
-would vent itself not only upon Lí, but also upon
-himself.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Kneeling before the monarch, Ho exclaimed reverently—</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Will your majesty once more graciously listen.
-At the last examination, this man of whom I have
-spoken was turned from the Scientific Halls in disgrace—his
-essay rejected by the Premier Yang and
-the General Kau. Will it then please thee to bestow
-some favor upon Lí, that he may with more propriety
-come into this august presence?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“It shall be done,” exclaimed the emperor. “We
-confer upon Lí the title of Doctor of the first degree,
-together with the purple robe and yellow girdle. Go
-bring him before us.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>With this mark of royal patronage, Ho retraced
-his steps with all the alacrity of a lover, and made
-known to Lí the gracious favors of the emperor, supposing,
-doubtless, that the student would rejoice as
-one long blind now suddenly restored to light, or as
-a famished man at a feast. But lo! coolly putting
-on the robes of office, as if he had but just cast them
-aside, with the air of a prince, Lí signified to the
-great academician Ho his readiness now to obey the
-mandate of the emperor.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Entering the hall of audience with all the grace and
-ease of a man bred in courts, Lí advanced to the
-throne, and after paying the customary homage, rose
-to his feet and looked proudly around upon the
-assembly of grave men and gallant courtiers.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The knees of the Premier Yang smote each other,
-as he recognized the youth he had treated with so
-much contumely now suddenly brought into notice—and
-well did Kau now <span class='it'>remember the name of Lí</span>—and
-it seemed as if hot pins tore his flesh, into such
-agitation did that name now throw him.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Hwant-sung received the new doctor with condescension,
-and placed in his hand the document which
-he was required to make plain.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>But Lí, casting a meaning glance upon Yang and
-Kau, said:</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Can an indifferent scholar like myself presume
-to know more than these learned men! Know, O
-mighty emperor, thy servant was deemed unworthy
-of favor by thy commissioners Yang and Kau—surely,
-then, they must be more wise than Lí.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Charmed with the boldness of the youth, the emperor
-graciously smiled upon him, and motioned the
-two mortified examiners to withdraw.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Then standing erect, his head thrown back, yet in
-an attitude of careless ease, Lí opened the important
-missive, and without even glancing his eye over it
-to understand more fully its nature, read it aloud
-from beginning to end, in a clear, melodious voice.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>It proved to be a demand from the king of Po-Hai,
-couched in the most insulting language, requiring
-the emperor to restore a part of Corea, consisting of
-no less than a hundred and eighty towns, and also
-demanding tribute from the time of its “<span class='it'>usurpation</span>”
-(as the memorial expressed it) by the Emperor of the
-Tang Dynasty. Thus, but for the skill of Lí, the
-empire would have been plunged in irretrievable
-disgrace through the ignorance of its ministers.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The countenance of Hwant-sung grew black as
-midnight as he listened to this insulting claim, and
-but for the bold remonstrance of Lí, he would have
-ordered the bearers of the embassy to instant death.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“May it please your majesty to summon the boorish
-ambassadors before us,” cried Lí boldly, “I will
-myself confer with them, and teach them how to respect
-the mighty Emperor Hwant-sung.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Immediately, therefore, the ambassadors were
-brought before Lí, who conversed with them in their
-own language with the same haughty bearing as if
-he himself were emperor, interpreting as he did so
-to the indignant Hwant-sung. At length Lí dismissed
-them, saying:</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“To-morrow his sovereign majesty, to whom
-your prince is but an earth-worm, will indite an
-answer to your insulting embassy. Retire—and
-tremble as ye walk! Thank the gods that the gracious
-emperor deigns ye to live.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The audience chamber rang with acclamation, as
-the ambassadors obsequiously withdrew in compliance
-to the orders of Lí, and all the courtiers pressed
-forward to compliment the young doctor—while the
-emperor, embracing him, conferred upon him at
-once the rank of academician, and ordered apartments
-to be prepared for him in the palace of the
-Golden Bell.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>With continued graciousness, he also directed a
-sumptuous banquet to be got in readiness, and at
-which all the learned men and wits of the court were
-expected to appear. Wine was poured for the guests
-by beautiful young girls of the “<span class='it'>golden lilies</span>”<a id='r5'/><a href='#f5' style='text-decoration:none'><sup><span style='font-size:0.9em'>[5]</span></sup></a>—ravishing
-music swept around them, while at intervals
-of the feast, the emperor sent from his own
-apartments a choice theatrical corps for their entertainment.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Now did it seem that all the trials of Lí were over,
-his poverty but a dream long past, and that now
-upon the pinnacle to which his ambition had pointed
-from early youth, he stood ready to hurl back in the
-teeth of his enemies the disgrace which, only a few
-months before, they had heaped upon the name of Lí.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The feast wore on even into the night—the wine
-circulated freely, and in the same breath the courtiers
-exalted the name of the emperor and of the young
-academician. What wonder that under the attendance
-of such charming cup-bearers Lí should have
-drank more freely than was consistent with his new
-dignity! How from such hands could he resist the
-tempting goblet!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The result was, that when the next morning the
-emperor repaired to the Hall of Audience to treat
-with the embassy from Po-Hai, the academician Lí
-was not in attendance—nay, did not make his appearance
-<span class='pageno' title='222' id='Page_222'></span>
-until after being twice summoned by royal
-mandate!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The courtiers <a id='with'></a>with whom Lí had feasted the night previous,
-shook their heads and looked significant. The
-Premier Yang and the General Kau resumed their
-usual boldness of demeanor, for no doubt this upstart,
-this vagabond Lí, would find the anger of their
-Celestial Monarch more than his head was worth—decapitation
-would certainly follow such contempt
-of royalty!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>To be <span class='it'>twice</span> summoned—what audacity!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>At length Li walked carelessly into the hall—his
-dress somewhat disordered, and his feet thrust negligently
-into slippers. But for those who were hoping
-his ruin, what rage to see the emperor not only extend
-his own royal hand in signification that he
-would raise him from the ground, but also condescend
-to inquire after his health!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I think, learned doctor, the wine was to thy
-fancy, yet methinks the fumes are still troubling
-thee! Ere we proceed to our public duties I would
-have thy wits clearer.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Saying which, Hwant-sung ordered a plate of hot-spiced
-fish-broth to be brought from the royal kitchens,
-that its effects might dissipate the evils of last night’s
-debauch.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And when with unprecedented condescension their
-sovereign even took the chop-sticks, and himself
-cooled it for the palate of Lí, amazement almost
-turned them to marble.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>When his majesty deemed the senses of his new
-favorite sufficiently restored, the ambassadors were
-summoned into the hall.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Upon the top of the platform, near the foot of the
-“Dragon’s Throne,” was placed, by the order of
-Hwant-sung, a cushion or divan of the Imperial
-Yellow, embroidered with gold and silver, and upon
-a tablet formed of mother-of-pearl, and richly set in
-a band of emeralds, was a cake of perfumed ink—a
-sheet of flowery paper—a hair-pencil set in a gold
-tube, together with a small <span class='it'>jade</span> stone, with which
-to rub the ink.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Waving his hand condescendingly to Lí, the emperor
-spoke: “Ascend the platform, learned doctor,
-and repose thyself upon the cushions at my feet,
-while I indite to thee our answer to these slaves.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“May it please your majesty,” replied Lí, “my
-feet are not in proper dress to approach so near the
-‘Glory of the Earth.’ Will it please thee to command
-new buskins to be brought thy servant, that he
-may with decency ascend the platform.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>This bold request was no sooner proffered than it
-was granted. And then, with a significant glance to
-the spot where stood Yang and Kau, pale with rage
-and envy, the audacious Lí again addressed the
-emperor:</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“The humblest of thy slaves would not be officious—but
-he has one more request to lay at the feet of
-his gracious sovereign. At the examination this
-year, thy servant was repulsed by Yang, and turned
-from the Scientific Halls in disgrace by Kau! Will
-it therefore please thee to command the Premier Yang
-to <span class='it'>grind my ink</span>, and the General Kau to <span class='it'>lace my
-buskins</span>!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Never, perhaps, was an audience-chamber so insulted!
-Even the awe which, in the presence of the
-Celestial Monarch, rendered the courtiers less men
-than jackals, failed in this case to suppress a murmur
-of indignation which passed from one end of the hall
-to the other.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>But Hwant-sung, well pleased to punish the injustice
-of his commissioners, immediately ordered
-them both to approach and do the bidding of Lí!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>To disobey was death. They wanted courage to
-die, therefore preferring disgrace, they obsequiously
-advanced. Kneeling, <span class='it'>Kau laced the buskins of
-Lí</span>, who then ascended the platform, and while reclining
-at his ease upon the soft cushion at the feet
-of the emperor, Yang stood at his side <a id='ass'></a>assiduously
-<span class='it'>rubbing his ink</span>!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Thus did Lí accomplish his revenge, and triumph
-over his enemies!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Taking the pencil, he now, with rapid and easy
-strokes, proceeded to indite the answer, which the
-emperor vouchsafed to the Po-Hai embassy, and
-while he did so, Hwant-sung bent over him in astonishment,
-beholding the characters which he traced
-with so much rapidity to be identical with those
-which had so perplexed his court.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Then standing erect upon the right hand of the
-“Dragon’s Throne,” in clear distinct tones, Lí read
-aloud the imperial answer—the ambassadors trembling
-with fear as they listened.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“And now return,” exclaimed Lí, “and teach
-your king that foxes may not war with lions, nor the
-cuckoo steal into the eagle’s nest! He is like a
-vexed grasshopper striving to combat the mighty
-chariot about to crush him, or like a fly in the jaws
-of the dragon! When the mighty Hwant-sung, at
-whose name fear sits in the hearts of all nations, shall
-send a handful of men to seize upon the petty territory
-of Po-Hai, blood shall flow a thousand <span class='it'>li</span>!”<a id='r6'/><a href='#f6' style='text-decoration:none'><sup><span style='font-size:0.9em'>[6]</span></sup></a></p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Kneeling reverently before the throne, and knocking
-their heads in token of submission, the ambassadors
-then withdrew to relate to their king that the
-“Celestial Empire was upheld by an Immortal from
-the skies!” who stood ever by the throne of the
-Dragon, and to whom all men did reverence.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>From that day the star of Lí was in the ascendent,
-and for many years he enjoyed the undivided confidence
-of the emperor, and attained a rank in the
-scale of letters, which renders the name of Lí celebrated
-in Chinese literature. Many volumes of his
-beautiful poems and other works are still preserved
-in the Imperial Libraries.</p>
-
-<hr class='footnotemark'/>
-
-<div class='footnote'>
-<table summary='footnote_5'>
-<colgroup>
-<col span='1' style='width: 3em;'/>
-<col span='1'/>
-</colgroup>
-<tr><td style='vertical-align:top;'>
-<div id='f5'><a href='#r5'>[5]</a></div>
-</td><td>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Small feet.</p>
-
-</td></tr>
-</table>
-</div>
-
-<div class='footnote'>
-<table summary='footnote_6'>
-<colgroup>
-<col span='1' style='width: 3em;'/>
-<col span='1'/>
-</colgroup>
-<tr><td style='vertical-align:top;'>
-<div id='f6'><a href='#r6'>[6]</a></div>
-</td><td>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Leagues.</p>
-
-</td></tr>
-</table>
-</div>
-
-<hr class='tbk102'/>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' title='223' id='Page_223'></span><h1><a id='naval'></a>THE NAVAL OFFICER.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY WM. F. LYNCH.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;font-size:1em;'>(<span class='it'>Continued from page 164.</span>)</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Mr. Gillespie and his daughter had retired below
-when the sweeps were gotten out, and had now returned
-to the deck. Unconscious of danger, they
-looked admiringly upon the shining and beautiful
-scene. Nearly abreast the island of Porto Rico, in
-full view, lay basking in the beams of the setting
-sun, the dark, rich green of its luxuriant growth of
-cane, here and there varied by groves of the cotton-tree,
-amid which were seen clustering the settlements
-of the planters. Astern, but farther distant,
-Cape Engano stretched far to seaward, while inland,
-ridge over ridge, wooded to their summits, rose the
-picturesque mountains of St. Domingo. The numerous
-vessels in sight, mostly running before the wind,
-varying in size, in rig, and in the color of their canvas,
-enlivened the view, while nearer, the frigate in
-her towering proportions was borne majestically toward
-them.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Oh, Edward! what a glorious sight!” said the
-maiden to her lover, who had stepped to her side, as
-she gained the deck. “Look, father! look at that
-splendid ship, doesn’t she cleave the waters ‘like a
-thing of life?’ But what is the matter, Edward?
-You are silent, and seem dejected, do tell me?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“In a moment, dearest,” he whispered, as he left
-her to approach the captain, who had beckoned to him.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Mr. Talbot,” said the last, “my little craft is in
-great peril, and less than an hour must decide her
-fate. The Spaniard will not be silent much longer,
-and I advise you to get the passengers below.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I was about to propose it,” replied Talbot, and
-returning to Miss Gillespie’s side, said, “summon
-your fortitude, Mary, the ship which you admire so
-much, is a Spanish frigate, and is endeavoring to
-capture the vessel we are in.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Oh, how unfortunate! and will they harm us?
-Can they hurt you and father and Frank? Good God!
-what is that?” and she shrieked as the ship luffed to
-the wind, and fired a shot, which went plunging
-across the bows of the schooner.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Come below, dearest! come quickly! Help me,
-Mr. Gillespie, for she has nearly fainted.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The maiden and her father were conducted to the
-most secure place below, when, resisting the entreaties
-of his mistress, Talbot returned to the deck,
-which Frank had refused to leave.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>At the first report of the frigate’s gun, the captain
-had called out, “Edge her away, quarter-master,
-keep her off a point; let the guns alone,” he added,
-addressing some of the crew, “let them be, it would
-be worse than useless to fire them—the ‘Bird’ must
-now trust to her wings alone.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The little vessel was in fact at the very crisis of
-her fate. The last shot had told that they were
-within reach of the guns of the enemy; they felt
-that their only avenue of escape was through a
-gauntlet of fire, and that the loss of a single spar
-would certainly insure their capture. It seemed perfect
-madness for such a wee thing to abide the wrath
-of the huge leviathan, panoplied in thunder, and possessing
-almost the power of annihilation. But, in
-the forlorn and desperate hope of sustaining the
-enemy’s fire for a few moments, without material
-injury her captain steadily pursued his way, but cut
-his anchors from the bow, and threw four of his guns
-overboard. If the wind had been light, the schooner’s
-chance would have been a fair one; but the breeze
-instead of lulling, seemed to freshen as the sun went
-down. As it was, however, there was a bare possibility
-of escape, for already the little vessel, lightened
-of so much weight, began to increase her velocity—still
-there was an abiding, a stunning fear of
-being sunk or disabled by the broadside of the frigate.
-The latter had already opened her fire, and near the
-chase, the fierce, iron hail had fairly lashed the water
-into foam, but the schooner was yet materially unharmed,
-when a voice more potent than that of gunpowder,
-hushed the loud artillery.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Unobserved by either, a light and fleecy speck,
-more like a wift of smoke than a fragment of a cloud,
-had risen over the land, and swift as a meteor shot
-across the sky. It was what sailors term a “white
-squall,” and it had caught the chaser and the chased
-wholly unprepared. Almost simultaneously it struck
-them both. The frigate's fore-mast and main-topmast
-went by the board, and every sail that was set, was
-blown into perfect shreds. The “Humming Bird,”
-light and resistless, felt the blast but to succumb before
-it—she was whirled over and capsized in an instant.
-A number of the crew, entangled in the sails
-and rigging were immediately drowned. The remainder
-clambered to the upper-rail, to which they
-clung with the tenacity that endangered life. In a
-paroxysm of anguish, Talbot had thrown himself
-down the cabin-hatchway as he felt the vessel going
-over, and at imminent hazard had rescued Miss Gillespie,
-but her father and the servant-maid perished.
-Frank had been saved by one of the seamen, who
-held him firmly with one hand, while with the other
-he clung to the shrouds.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>As soon as the survivors were assured of their
-immediate safety, they looked around to see if
-there were any hopes of being rescued from their
-position before the night set in. The frigate had
-driven past them, and under a single after-sail was
-hove-to, clearing her hull of the wreck. To the westward,
-distinct in the reflected light of the sun, which
-had descended, were several vessels again unfolding
-<span class='pageno' title='224' id='Page_224'></span>
-to the breeze the canvas which they had wisely furled
-to the passing gust. Some of the larger ones were
-again standing boldly out to seaward, while the others
-like affrighted wild-fowl, were hovering toward the
-shore. They were all too distant, and the air was
-fast becoming too obscure for them to see the wreck,
-or the unfortunate beings who were perched upon it.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>On the first recovery from her swoon, the grief of
-Miss Gillespie for the loss of her father was almost
-inconsolable. It required all the endearment and
-entreaties of her lover and her brother to prevail on
-her to struggle against the spasms which threatened
-her very existence.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The survivors strove to cheer each other, but the
-indiscreet cry of one that he saw the fin of a shark
-cleaving the surface of the water, led them to fear
-that they were environed by yet greater peril. In
-about two hours the moon arose, and her clear, chaste
-light silvered the crests of the waves, as they curled
-to the now gentle breeze. She had risen scarce more
-than her diameter, when the watchers on the wreck
-discovered two or three dark objects which seemed
-to creep upon the water. Their hopes and their
-fears were equally excited, but presently they heard
-the splash of oars, and they knew them to be boats
-from the frigate. As eager now to be taken as before
-to escape from capture, by shouts and cries they attracted
-the notice of those who sought them. They
-were soon removed to the frigate; the lady and her
-brother being led to the cabin, and the remainder, including
-Talbot, promiscuously confined on the lower
-deck.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Under jury-foremast and new main-topmast, the
-frigate was the next morning standing under easy
-sail, along the southern side of St. Domingo.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Repeatedly but ineffectually Talbot had endeavored
-to convey a message to Miss Gillespie, and spent
-the night in sleepless anxiety on her account. He
-knew not into whose hands she had fallen, and
-whether her youth and beauty might not, in the hands
-of unprincipled men, tempt to ruffianly treatment.
-Her brother was with her, it was true, but although
-spirited, he was young and feeble compared to the
-strong men around him.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Early in the morning, Talbot had asked to see the
-officer of the watch. He was told that he could not
-communicate with any one but through the officer
-of the marine guard, who would not make the rounds
-for three or four hours. Talbot impatiently waited
-for him, and it seemed an age before he made his
-appearance. When he did so, and was told that
-Talbot wished to speak to him, he superciliously
-asked, “Well, sir, what do you want?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I wish,” replied Talbot, “to communicate through
-you to the commander of this ship, that I hold a commission
-as lieutenant in the navy of the United States,
-and that with the family of Mr. Gillespie, I was a
-passenger on board of the privateer.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“This is a singular tale,” remarked the other, incredulously;
-“have you any proofs of your identity—where
-is your commission?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I <a id='have'></a>haven’t it; with all my baggage, it was, unhappily,
-lost in the schooner.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“This seems incredible,” said the officer, “your
-dress, too, does not indicate the position you claim.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I am aware of it,” replied Talbot, “for I scrupulously
-avoided wearing any part of my uniform, that
-in appearance even, I might not be classed among
-the complement of that unfortunate vessel. But here
-is her commander, who, as well as his crew, will
-bear testimony to what I say.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Let them answer for themselves,” was the abrupt
-reply. “If they escape being hung as pirates, they
-will fare well.” After a moment’s hesitation, he
-added, “I will state what you say to Count Ureña,
-our commander, although I do not myself believe it;
-but let me advise you not to rely upon the evidence
-of these wretches,” pointing to the prisoners, “if you
-have no other proof you will fare badly.” As he said
-this, he turned upon his heel and walked away,
-Talbot with difficulty restraining himself from throttling
-him for his coarse, unfeeling rudeness.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Again, hour after hour passed away in fruitless
-anxiety. Every step upon the ladder which led from
-above, exciting a thrill of hope, only the instant after
-to be crushed in bitter disappointment. At length,
-about 2 P.M., an orderly, with a file of marines came
-to conduct him to the commander. With alacrity he
-obeyed the summons, and when he reached the gun-deck,
-from habits of association, he felt cheered at
-the sight of the long lines of massive artillery, the
-stacks of muskets here and there, surmounted with
-their bristling bayonets, and the bright sheen of the
-sharpened cutlases. As the cabin-door was thrown
-open by the sentry stationed there, he cast a quick
-and searching glance around the apartment, in the
-hope of seeing his betrothed. She was not there,
-and but for the guns projecting from either side, he
-could not have realized that he stood in the cabin of
-a man-of-war, so rich was its furniture and so gorgeous
-its decorations. Gracefully festooned across
-its entire width, and partially concealing the white
-and highly polished lattice-work of the after-cabin,
-was a deep curtain of crimson embroidered and
-fringed with gold. On either side, in the recesses
-between the guns, were magnificent couches canopied
-and covered with the same material, intertwined
-with white. Between the forward and the after gun,
-on each side, were collections of flowers and fragrant
-plants. A large mirror in an arabesque frame, was
-inclined over a rose-wood sideboard, laden with
-massive plate and a profusion of crystal. A richly
-chased silver lamp was suspended over a table, the
-cover of which was of white cloth, like the curtain,
-fringed with gold. Around were a few rose-wood
-chairs, and from several cages were heard the cheerful
-and melodious notes of canary-birds. The deck was
-covered with the finest matting. On the couch, in the
-recess to the left, was seated a man of middle age and
-rather delicate features, except the chin and under
-lip, which were massive and sensual, and a peculiar
-glance of the eye, which gave a sinister aspect to an
-otherwise singularly handsome countenance. He
-was spare in figure, and to a casual observer, even as
-he sat, it was perceptible that he stooped, and his
-whole appearance indicated a frequent participant
-<span class='pageno' title='225' id='Page_225'></span>
-in the orgies of dissipation. Before him stood the
-officer of marines, who had just made his official report.
-At a signal from the latter, Talbot advanced
-toward the count, who said, “I understand, sir, from
-the officer of the guard, that you declare yourself to
-be a lieutenant in the navy of the United States, but
-that you have no evidence to sustain you. How can
-you expect me to credit the assertion of a stranger
-under such suspicious circumstances as you must admit
-your present position to be?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“You have a lady on board, sir, my affianced
-bride, who, with her brother, is here under the same
-circumstances with myself, they will tell you that I
-am not an impostor.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Your affianced bride,” said the count, not heeding
-what he had last said, “you are then the friend for
-whom she has been so restless and uneasy?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I knew that she would be so,” replied Talbot;
-“may I ask now to see her, that she may corroborate
-what I have said?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Not so fast,” exclaimed the count, “that you
-have gained the affections of the young lady is no
-proof of your being what you profess, indeed, you
-may have won them under an assumed name and
-character.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“It ill becomes you, sir,” cried Talbot, highly incensed,
-“it ill becomes you to insult a man who for
-the time being is in your power; but I warn you that
-if I, or those with me, are unnecessarily detained or
-harshly treated, you will be held to a severe accountability.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“And by whom, sir,” exclaimed the count, turning
-pale with rage, “by a man who has no <a id='other'></a>other vouchers
-to a most improbable tale, than a horde of pirates, a
-mere boy, and a love-sick maiden?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“The proofs are sufficient, sir, for any impartial
-mind, but I see plainly that you have some purpose
-in seeming to disbelieve them—what that purpose is
-your conscience best can tell.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“What mean you, sir, by this insolence; but I
-know how to curb and to punish it!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Insolence! and punish!” contemptuously answered
-Talbot, “those are words used by cowards
-when addressing slaves. I defy alike your malice
-and your power. You may maltreat me, but a day
-of reckoning will surely come. I demand to see
-Miss Gillespie and her brother,” he added, as his ear
-caught the sound of stifled sobs in the after cabin.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The count pulled a bell-rope by his hand, and at
-the summons, the sentry who had admitted him,
-opened the door and looked in, while from another
-door, the steward entered and stood obsequiously by
-his master. The latter, pointing to the door, said,</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Mr. Manuel, take out your prisoner and confine
-him apart from the rest; sentry, let them pass.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Talbot hesitated a moment, and then said, “I am
-unarmed and helpless, and it would therefore be
-madness to resist you—but, in the name of humanity,
-I ask you, can you listen unmoved to the distress of
-the unhappy lady within there; as a man, an officer,
-and a nobleman, I appeal to you in her behalf. She
-has recently lost her father, as you know, and, save
-myself, her young brother is now her only protector.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“She will be sufficiently protected, sir, without
-your interference—take out the prisoner, Mr. Manuel.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The above conversation had taken place in Spanish,
-which Talbot spoke fluently, but when he found that
-for some sinister purpose, he was not to be permitted
-to see Miss Gillespie, he advanced toward the lattice-work
-and called out in English, “Mary, dear Mary,
-be upon your guard! Frank, do not leave your
-sister for a moment; I fear that she is in the hands of
-a villain.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“That I will not,” cried the boy, who vainly tried
-to force the door, while his sister sobbed convulsively.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The count, who, although not understanding the
-language, comprehended the import of the words,
-with a gesture of frantic impatience, motioned the
-officer to lead his prisoner away.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Talbot, satisfied that the danger was lessened by
-the timely warning he had given, without resistance,
-submitted to be led from the apartment.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>When left alone, the count remained for some
-time in a thoughtful attitude. “If I could but speak
-their horrid language,” he said, soliloquizing with
-himself, “or if she understood mine, I should certainly
-succeed, for as to this would-be bridegroom,
-I can easily get rid of him, and of the brother also,
-if he prove intractable. Let me see! can I trust
-Gonzalez? From the expression of his eye sometimes,
-as well as from his never speaking of her, I
-fear that he knows all about his unhappy sister; and
-yet I must trust him, or abandon all, for he is the
-only interpreter we have. There is no help for it;
-I cannot give up the game so freshly started—but I
-will be wary and watch him closely.” He slightly
-touched the bell, “Send Gonzalez to me,” he said to
-the attendant, who obeyed the summons. A few
-moments after, a young man of 23 or 24 years of
-age entered the apartment, and bowing to the count,
-awaited his commands in silence. From his spare
-figure, he looked taller than he really was. His hair
-and moustaches were glossy black, curling in their
-rich luxuriance. His eye-brows, thick and bushy,
-formed one continuous arch, and the eye beneath,
-black and lustrous, was soft and subdued in its ordinary
-expression, but at times, in a single glance,
-would convey a startling idea of latent but indomitable
-energy. His features were almost femininely
-regular, and his voice musically clear and sweet.
-The count’s fears were not without foundation; his
-secretary, for such was the position of Gonzalez,
-knew his sister’s wrongs, and like a true Spaniard,
-thirsted for an opportunity to revenge them. His
-commander scanned him closely where he stood for
-some minutes, the young man at first returning his
-gaze with a look neither too humble, nor yet audacious,
-and then deferentially turned his eyes in another
-direction.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“What is the matter, Gonzalez? You seem of
-late unusually taciturn and moody.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I think, señor, that my health is suffering from
-long confinement to the ship. I need recreation on
-shore.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='pageno' title='226' id='Page_226'></span>
-“What mean you by long confinement—were you
-not on shore repeatedly last month in Havana?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“No, señor! If you will recollect, I applied
-several times to go, but on each occasion you had
-important letters or despatches to write.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Did you hear from home before we sailed?” and
-the count’s look became intensely riveted upon him.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The young man slightly colored, “I heard indirectly,
-señor, that all were well.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“From whom?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“From a muleteer who resides in the adjoining
-village.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Did he give you any particulars?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“None, señor, worth relating.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The count paused. He was dissatisfied, yet feared
-that by further questioning he might excite the very
-suspicions he wished to repress. Assuming a bland
-and conciliatory tone, he said, “I have been to blame,
-Gonzalez, and will make amends. When we reach
-port, you shall have ample opportunities to recruit
-on shore. Should you need funds, consider my
-purse at your service.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Thanks, señor! my salary is more than sufficient
-for all my wants.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Well, should you be in need, remember my
-offer; but come nearer, I have now something confidential
-to impart. You are aware that the lady
-brought on board last night is now in the after-cabin.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I am, señor.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“One of the prisoners, doubtless an impostor, assumes
-that she is his betrothed. I wish you to see
-her and ascertain how she is affected toward him.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“It is needless, señor. At the invitation of Lieutenant
-Flores, I accompanied him in his boat last
-night, and in rescuing the prisoners from the wreck,
-witnessed how tenderly that lady clung to the man
-you speak of.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“It may have been the convulsiveness of fear!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“If so, señor, it would have subsided with the
-occasion that gave it birth; but it continued to the
-last, and while she evinced for the lad the solicitude
-of an elder sister, she seemed to regard the American
-as her chosen and sole protector.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“How were they separated?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I understood, señor, by your orders,” replied the
-youth with an air of surprise.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I mean,” said the count, somewhat confused,
-“how did they bear it?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“He was at first disposed to resist, but a moment
-after submitted with an air of stern resignation.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“And she?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“She at first seemed bewildered, and could not
-comprehend the purport of the order; when she did
-so, she implored her lover, for such he must be, not
-to desert her, but after he had whispered a few words
-to her, she too submitted, and with such meek gentleness
-as moved the hardest hearts to sympathy.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Sympathy,” exclaimed the count, reddening;
-“where there is no real distress, there can be no occasion
-for its exercise. In common humanity, I am
-bound to protect her from the acts of an impostor.”
-There was a slight twitch of the secretary’s upper
-lip, but he said nothing.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“At all events, I wish you to converse with her,
-Gonzalez. Try if you cannot reconcile her to a
-short separation from her lover, and assure her that
-as soon as I am satisfied that he is what he represents
-himself, he shall be free.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The secretary bowed in acquiescence, and the
-count rising, led the way into the after-cabin. It
-was fit for the boudoir of a queen. A carpet of the
-richest Persian dyes and softest texture was under
-foot. Except in front, the whole apartment was
-lined with fawn-colored tapestries; the windows
-framed into the after ports had party-colored curtains
-of fawn and cherry colors. An ottoman and several
-chairs were covered with embroidered damask corresponding
-to the tapestry; a small, richly-carved
-book-case was filled with handsomely bound books.
-There was a pair of globes upon stands, and a harp,
-a guitar, mirrors and candelabra, with a few small
-but exquisite paintings completed the equipment of
-this cell of a Sybarite.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>With disheveled hair, and eyes inflamed with
-weeping, in all the abandonment of grief, Miss Gillespie
-lay with her head upon her brother’s breast,
-who, as the door was opened, threw his arms around,
-as if more perfectly to protect her. With a courteous
-air, and all the finished breeding of an artificial gentleman,
-the count advanced and paid his respects
-through the medium of the interpreter. “Had she
-sustained no injury from the accident of the night
-before? Had she recovered from her alarm?
-Had she slept well? Could he do any thing for
-her?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The three first questions she answered in monosyllables.
-At the fourth, she made an effort to speak,
-but maiden bashfulness overcame her, and she looked
-imploringly to her brother. The youth construed
-her feelings rightly, and said,</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“We wish, sir, to see our friend, Mr. Talbot, who
-was, with us, a passenger in the schooner.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“At present it cannot be,” answered the count,
-“but when we reach Havana, he will doubtless prove
-his character, and then you can be again united,
-but,” addressing her, “so much beauty should not
-be marred by untimely grief. A few days more and
-your friend will be restored to liberty. Here I
-cannot make any distinction between him and the
-other prisoners. Let me therefore entreat you, Miss,
-to dry up your tears, and let a smile once more
-wreath itself upon your lovely cheek.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Say to him,” asked Miss G., of the interpreter,
-“that I am in deep affliction. Yesterday I lost my
-father, and now, when I am most helpless, I am by
-his act,” (she looked toward the count) “separated
-from the friend whom that father had chosen as my
-protector through life. I am therefore in no mood to
-listen to compliments, which would be ill-timed from
-any one, most of all from him.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The count stifled his vexation and said, “I beg
-pardon for this intrusion. I will await a more seasonable
-time to express my sympathy and make a
-proffer of my services;” so saying, he withdrew,
-desiring Gonzalez to remain and gather the particulars
-of their history.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='pageno' title='227' id='Page_227'></span>
-An unprincipled man, in his sphere possessing
-almost unlimited power, he felt himself baffled by an
-unarmed prisoner and a helpless maid. “Till now,”
-he said to himself, “I thought Dolores beautiful, but
-her features want the intellectual grace and harmony
-of this northern houri. At all hazards, she must be
-mine. If all else fails, the drug must be resorted to.
-It is certainly the speediest and I know not but that
-it is the best; but I am neglecting my first precaution.”
-He rung the bell for the steward, a dark, swarthy
-Italian, with the body of a man surmounted on the
-legs of a dwarf.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Domingo,” said his master, “go into the secret
-passage and watch Gonzalez, who is now with the
-lady. Note every thing that he does, and try to
-gather the meaning of what he says.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The steward obeying, disappeared through a panel
-that opened with a spring.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>In about half an hour, Gonzalez came forth from
-the inner cabin, and stated what he had learned of the
-prisoners, which, as there was no concealment, is
-precisely what is known to the reader. When he had
-retired, at a peculiar signal from the count, the panel
-noiselessly flew open, and the steward reappeared before
-his master. His account was any thing but
-satisfactory, and the count’s brow was darkened
-with deep mistrust, as he listened to the recital.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>About sunset, Miss Gillespie, aroused by some incentive,
-sent to ask if her brother and herself might
-be permitted to walk on the upper deck. Assent
-was most graciously given, and the count himself
-escorted her. Finding that she would not converse,
-and that his presence was evidently irksome to her,
-he smothered his chagrin, and after a few turns, left
-the orphans to themselves.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>It was an hour and a scene fitted to captivate the
-eye and refresh the soul; and such was its soothing
-influences, that Miss G. frequently found her mind
-wandering from the contemplation of the perils which
-environed her. The night previous, the ship, driven
-before the blast, was whirled with resistless velocity
-along a bed of seething foam. Now, the gentle wind
-borne from the land, wafted fragrance on its wing,
-and the sea, slightly ruffled, seemed to enjoy the refreshing
-embrace of its sister element; the ship, too,
-under a cloud of canvas, snow-white and full distended,
-pressed majestically on, the spray, like fairy
-fret-work curling and combing beneath the bow and
-the rippling wake sparkled in the rays of the setting-sun.
-The gorgeous western sky was tinged with
-the hues of crimson and gold; the south was a boundless
-expanse of blue, the island of St. Domingo, lofty,
-picturesque and beautiful, bounded the northern and
-eastern horizon. The land, but little cultivated,
-seemed fertile in the extreme, and was covered with
-lofty and umbrageous trees, the tangled and luxuriant
-undergrowth seeming so interlaced as even at high
-noon to <a id='inter'></a>intercept the light of the sun. The near
-mountains were covered to their very summits with
-verdure, not the tawny verdure of a northern clime,
-but the brilliant green of the tropics, while the loftier
-mountains wreathed their bald and craggy tops with
-the clouds that floated in the distance.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The sun had gone down and the moon was up:
-still Miss Gillespie paced the deck with her brother.
-It was evident that she had some purpose in view,
-and by those who watched her, she was observed to
-cast frequent and furtive glances around. At length
-a figure that had been stealthily gliding along under
-the shadow of the bulwarks to leeward, suddenly
-stepped beside her, and whispered, “Lady, I have
-endeavored to see him, but failed. Some time tonight
-I will surely succeed. In the meantime there
-is but one resource. Take this powder, and when
-you go below, dissolve it, and take a part yourself,
-giving the remainder to your brother. If you would
-be safe, neither of you should sleep a wink to-night.
-Be careful of what you eat or drink. But, hush!
-there is a man’s head raised above the rail—he has
-been observing us. I must away—but do not forget
-this.” He handed a small folded paper as he spoke,
-and immediately disappeared.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Miss Gillespie had brought a book on deck with
-her, and by occasionally seeming to read it, had at
-first given a pretext for remaining. Into this book
-she inserted the paper, and soon after turned to leave
-the deck, when some one brushed rudely against her,
-and the book fell. The person, who, in her confusion
-she did not recognize, instantly picked it up,
-and in seeming eagerness to return it, let it fall a
-second time. Frightened almost beside herself, Miss
-G. now snatched it up and hurried below. <a id='unfor'></a>Unfortunately,
-the paper was not to be found. So dreadful
-seemed the fate before her, that with difficulty she
-restrained herself from shrieking aloud. Frank
-cheered her all he could, although he had but a faint
-conception of the danger. They determined to deny
-themselves food and liquids of every description,
-hoping thereby to avoid the administration of an
-opiate. Alas! they knew not the infernal arts of
-the demon in human shape, who had them in his
-power.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>That evening, as was his wont once a week, the
-count supped with his officers in the ward-room, and
-he remained until near midnight; but in the meantime
-his diabolical agent had not been idle.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>About 11 o’clock Frank and his sister were sensible
-that they were inhaling an aromatic and fragrant
-vapor. At first they enjoyed it; but it soon occurred
-to them that they were fast becoming drowsy. With
-desperate exertions they endeavored to force the
-doors, or to obtain assistance by their loud and vociferous
-outcries. The breeze had unfortunately freshened
-on deck, and there was much tramping and
-running overhead, so that they were unheard, or if
-heard, unheeded. One would suppose that this agitation
-and fear would have proved an antidote to the
-insidious effects of the drug; but no! gently, imperceptibly,
-they felt their systems relax; they soon
-began to wonder at their alarm; a delicious langour
-enthralled them, and as volume after volume of the
-scented vapor rolled into the apartment, they surrendered
-themselves to its influence, and pressed
-in each other’s arms, were soon wrapped in a profound
-and insensible sleep.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>About an hour before, Talbot, to whom the night
-<span class='pageno' title='228' id='Page_228'></span>
-previous had been a sleepless one, although racked
-with anxiety, had fallen into a light and fitful slumber,
-when he was instantly aroused by a hand being laid
-upon his chest, and a voice whispering in his ear,
-“Do not speak, but follow; imitate my motions as
-exactly as you can. For God’s sake be cautious, you
-know not how much is at stake.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The speaker, who was lying beside him on the
-deck, then rolled over toward the hatchway; but
-when the sentry turned in his round, he remained
-perfectly still. This he repeated, slowly and cautiously;
-Talbot followed his example, until they
-reached what sailor’s term the combings of the main-hatch,
-i.e. the elevated pieces around it, to prevent
-the water from running into the hold. He there
-waited for some time until he saw the sentry loiter at
-the furthest end of his round, when he quickly threw
-himself down the hatch, and crept on one side out of
-sight. As soon as Talbot had done the same, he led
-the way among the casks and barrels. When they
-had proceeded a little distance, he whispered, “The
-master’s-mate of the hold, who is a fellow-townsman
-of mine, had this passage opened for me to-day. Had
-he refused, and he hesitated for a long time, that
-villain in the cabin would inevitably succeed in his
-plans.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“What plans?” eagerly asked Talbot. “I know
-not who you are, or whither you are leading me—explain.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“You will soon know me; but let it content you
-now that I lead you to save your mistress. But that
-I feared the interference of that ruffian, the steward,
-I would have gone alone.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Lead on, then! lead quickly!” said Talbot, his
-fears strongly excited.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>They resumed their way, groping along in the
-dark, and taking every step with the greatest caution.
-In a short while they distinguished the faint light
-admitted from the deck above through the fore-hatch.
-As soon as they had gained this opening, Gonzalez,
-for it was he, taking the opportunity when the sentry
-was furthest off, and had his back toward him, sprung
-quickly up, and blowing out the light in a lantern
-which hung to an upright timber, immediately returned
-to Talbot’s side. As was anticipated, the
-sentry, supposing the light to have been extinguished
-by a flurry of wind, took the lantern down, and proceeded
-to the main-hatch, to relight the lamp. As he
-did so, they both, unperceived, succeeded in gaining
-first the gun and then the upper-deck. Then separating,
-each one quietly and undetected reached the
-quarter-deck, and again rejoining each other, they
-slipped through a port-hole to a narrow platform
-outside, called the main-chains, and there, in intense
-anxiety, concerted their future movements, for the
-most perilous part of their enterprise was yet before
-them.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-top:1em;'>——</p>
-
-<h2 class='nobreak' id='h_3'>CHAPTER III.</h2>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The convivial party in the ward-room had been
-broken up by a squall, and with the other sea-officers,
-the count had repaired to the quarter-deck. For a
-short time the wind blew with violence, and was succeeded
-by a heavy fall of rain. In less than an hour
-there was a perfect calm, and the sails flapped sluggishly
-against the masts as the ship moved with the
-undulations of a light ground-swell.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>In the cabin, the solitary lamp, suspended from a
-beam, through the gauze-like vapor shed its soft light
-upon the rich and costly furniture, and revealed the
-forms of the sleepers, whose deep breathing alone
-proclaimed their existence, so immovable was their
-position—so much deprived did their bodies seem of
-the watchful guardianship of the spirits within them.
-The faint and silvery light, the attenuated vapor, the
-fragrant odors wafted from the flowers in front, the
-boy, with his noble brow undimmed by sin or sorrow,
-the lovely maiden, one arm upon her breast, and one
-clasped around her brother, formed an atmosphere
-and a group in and around which angels might love
-to linger. But a serpent had stealthily glided in, and
-the count, with maddening pulse and gloating eye,
-looked upon his unconscious victim. Incapable of
-any feeling but that of a hardened libertine, no thought
-of the dire ruin he was about to inflict for one instant
-stayed his purpose. As the spider, after weaving its
-web, contemplates the struggles of the entangled fly,
-before clutching to devour it, so he stood, reveling
-in anticipation on the sensual feast before him. At
-length he approached, he gently touched, then breathed
-upon, and called them by their names, and then
-more rudely shook them. As he anticipated, they
-neither heard nor heeded him. The stillness was
-death-like and profound. He removed the boy from
-the girl's embrace, and she lay resistless at his mercy.
-For an instant longer he paused; he fondled her hand,
-he played with her tresses; he stooped to kiss her
-moist and parted lip.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The fiend-like purpose was frustrated: a crashing
-blow descended upon his head, and he rolled over
-and fell senseless on the deck. With one foot upon
-the prostrate form, and the massive bar again uplifted,
-Talbot stood over him, while from the doorway
-Gonzales looked on.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Hold!” said the last, as Talbot was about to repeat
-the blow, “Hold! another stroke may finish
-him, and that is a task reserved for me alone.” He
-advanced as he spoke, and proceeded to examine the
-wound. “It is a very severe contusion,” he added
-a moment after, “and if it had fallen a little more
-direct, the blow would have been a fatal one. He is
-now wholly insensible, and unless my skill in surgery
-fails me, he will remain, for some days at least, in a
-perfect stupor. It is most fortunate. We need not
-now attempt an escape, for no one can suspect us,
-and before he recovers, we shall probably be in Havana.
-Let us place him in his room and retire; the
-vile, pandering steward will not dare to enter during
-the night, and in the morning, I will be hovering near.
-It is useless, no human efforts can awake them now,”
-he added, as he saw Talbot endeavoring to arouse
-the maiden: “but they are safe, and that they may
-continue so, we must not lose a moment.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>With a sigh, Talbot relinquished the hand of his
-mistress, which he had clasped within his own, and,
-pressing his lips to her fair forehead, turned to assist
-<span class='pageno' title='229' id='Page_229'></span>
-Gonzalez in removing the wounded man. They
-then effaced all traces of their presence, and retired
-as they had come, through the window of the quarter-gallery.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The next morning the table in the forward cabin
-was spread for breakfast; the steward, in passing to
-and fro, grinned leeringly as from time to time he
-looked toward the after cabin. One of the midshipmen
-of the watch came to report 8 o’clock. The
-steward tapped lightly at the state-room door, but
-receiving no reply, and not presuming to disturb his
-master, took it upon himself to report to the officers
-that the count said “Very well”—the usual reply.
-By 9 o’clock, he began to be uneasy, not that he apprehended
-any thing to have happened to his master,
-but that the lady might awake before the count had
-left her apartment. At the lattice-work, and to the
-key-hole of his master’s door, he alternately placed
-his ear. At the last he thought that he distinguished
-a deep and smothered breathing; at the first he could
-hear no sound whatever. Satisfied that his master
-was in his state-room, he felt more easy.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>At 10 o’clock, the wonted hour, the drum beat to
-quarters for inspection. When the first lieutenant
-came to make his report, the steward intimated that
-the count was indisposed.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Has he directed that he should not be disturbed?”
-asked the officer.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The steward admitted that he had not.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Have you been summoned to him in the night?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“No, sir!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Then I must make my report.” He advanced
-to the door and knocked, at first gently, and then
-louder and more loudly still. There was no reply;
-and the officer, turning the bolt, to the surprise of the
-steward, the door yielded to his push, and flew open.
-(That their mode of entrance might not be suspected,
-Gonzalez had unlocked it before retiring.) The
-count was found with his wrapper on, lying in a
-profound stupor, the blood clotted thickly over the
-wound he had received. The orphans were buried
-in a sleep which the surgeon pronounced unnatural;
-and the steward was suspected of having drugged
-them, and afterward attempted the life of his master.
-This miserable wretch was thrown in irons as the
-supposed murderer of the man in whose contemplated
-villainy he had been a willing and a free participant.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Light and baffling winds detained the frigate, and
-on the evening of the fourth day after the incident
-above related, she had just cleared the windward
-passage, and with Cape la Mole astern, was standing
-along the northern shore of Cuba, for the port of
-Havana. The count had laid in a comatose state
-since his accident, and his constant heavy breathing
-and frequent moans, showed how much pressure
-there was upon the brain, and how much he suffered.
-In the course of this day his respiration had become
-more regular and less oppressive, and about 3 o’clock
-in the afternoon, he awoke to consciousness and
-a sense of pain. By degrees his recollection returned,
-and after making a few inquiries, to the surprise of
-every one, he ordered the steward to be released,
-and again summoned in attendance upon him. These
-two, the master, just rescued from the grave, and
-the servant who would have found an ignominious
-one had his master died, conferred for a long time
-together. After questioning his steward closely, the
-count said, “I am satisfied, Domingo, that it was
-not from your hand that I received the blow. I left
-you in the forward cabin, you could only have entered
-on the starboard side, and in that direction my head
-was turned, and I must have seen you. The blow
-was on the other side—probably from some one
-secreted there. Were you at any time absent from
-the cabin, after I went to the ward-room?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Not an instant, señor!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“It is strange! Could he have entered by the
-quarter-gallery?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“It must have been so, señor, although I can discover
-no marks.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I suspect Gonzalez,” said the count; “indeed, I
-am sure that he has been concerned, but then he had
-not the vigor to deal such a blow. That hateful
-American must have been the man. I will be deeply
-revenged!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Late that afternoon, as Talbot, sitting aloof from
-the other prisoners, was grieving that Mary’s persecutor
-had recovered his faculties before the arrival
-of the ship in port, and from which he feared the most
-serious consequences, he was accosted by the master’s-mate,
-who said, in passing, “Courage, my
-friend, you will soon be at liberty—take a cigar to
-cheer you.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Talbot thanked him, and was about to decline,
-when he caught the eye of the officer, and noticed
-that he pushed a particular one out from the small
-bundle he held in his hand; Talbot took it, and watching
-his opportunity, opened his cigar unobserved.
-It contained a small slip of paper within its folds
-with these words. “We are strongly suspected, if
-not discovered; I know it from the searching examination
-I have undergone. We must fly and reach
-Havana before the ship if possible. Be on the alert
-for any opportunity that may present to slip up the
-main-hatch ladder, near which I will be hovering.
-Do not hesitate! Here you are absolutely within the
-power of the tyrant. He will throw you into the
-Moro Castle as soon as we arrive, and before your
-case can be investigated, months must elapse, and
-in the meantime, the lady will be lost to you forever.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>This note agitated Talbot exceedingly. It was
-agonizing to think of leaving Mary and her brother
-in the hands of their unprincipled captor; and yet,
-from his own experience thus far, he felt sure, that if
-he remained, he would be kept separated from her,
-and most probably confined in a dungeon until her
-ruin was completed. His only consolation was, that
-the count could not recover sufficiently to renew his
-nefarious designs before the ship had reached her
-port of destination. This consideration determined
-him to make his escape if possible.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>There had been some water heated in the coppers,
-(anglice—boiler,) for the purpose of giving the count
-a prescribed bath. It so happened that while the
-cook’s attention was drawn another way, a piece of
-<span class='pageno' title='230' id='Page_230'></span>
-meat was thrown in, which rendered the water
-greasy and unfit for its destined use. The master’s-mate
-was therefore directed to have more drawn
-from the hold. Accordingly he came upon the lower
-or birth-deck, and as he stepped from the ladder,
-said, sufficiently loud for Talbot to hear, who was
-reclined beside it, “Look out!” and passed immediately
-on. The latter, taking the hint, but uncertain
-how to apply it, remained for a few moments in great
-suspense, when the master’s-mate called the sentry
-forward to hold the light for him. As the latter
-moved forward, Talbot availed himself of the opportunity,
-and instantly hurried up the ladder, although
-yet uncertain if such were the plan concerted by his
-friends. He was very soon assured, however, for
-nearly abreast of him, from the shadow between two
-of the guns, a figure advanced a few steps and immediately
-retired again. It proved to be Gonzalez, and
-together they clambered out over one of the guns,
-and found themselves by the small skiff of the privateer,
-which had been saved and hoisted up immediately
-under the anchor in the waist. Fortunately,
-the wind had hauled nearly ahead, and with the
-yards sharp-braced up, the ship was sailing sluggishly
-along, with her head rather diagonally inclined
-toward the shore.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“We must remain quiet here,” whispered Gonzalez,
-“until some movement be made on deck, in
-the noise of which we can lower the skiff undetected.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The wind was gradually freshening, and the ship
-began to plunge with the increasing swell. After a
-while the topgallant-sails were taken in, but it was
-an operation so quickly performed, that before the
-boat was lowered half the distance it was suspended
-from the water, the noise ceased, and they were
-obliged to hold on. In about half an hour after, which
-seemed to them an almost interminable space of time,
-they were cheered with the welcome order,</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Man the main clew-garnets and buntlines,” preparatory
-to hauling up the mainsail. As the men
-ran away with the ropes, and clued and gathered the
-large and loudly flapping sail to the yard, Talbot and
-Gonzalez lowered the boat, and casting her loose, the
-ship passed by without any one observing them and
-was soon lost to view in the obscurity of the night.
-They had exchanged apprehended evils from human
-malignity for instant and appalling danger. The
-moon, struggling through a bank of clouds and shorn
-of her brilliancy by the opposing mist, cast her furtive
-beams upon the fretted sea. Instead of the prolonged
-and easy swell of the mid-ocean, the gulf, as
-if moved by adverse tides, whirled its waves about
-like some huge Briareus, tossing his hundred arms
-in the wildest and most furious contortions. The
-skiff was so light, so frail, and so difficult of trim,
-that they were every moment in danger of upsetting.
-The swell rapidly increased, and as they sunk into
-the trough of the sea, and shut out the faint horizon,
-the succeeding wave overshadowed, and its crest
-seemed to curl in anger above them. Sometimes a
-wave, like some monster rising from the deep, looked
-down black and threatening upon the tiny boat, and
-then rolling its seething foam along the sides, it
-rushed ahead, and gathering into a mass, seemed to
-await her coming. Thinly clad, and soon wet to the
-skin, as they rode upon the tops of the waves, they
-suffered bitterly from the coldness of the wind. In the
-hollow of the sea, they were sheltered one moment
-only to be more exposed the next. Sometimes riding
-upon the broken crest of a wave, they felt upon their
-bed of foam, as insignificant and far more helpless
-than the gulls which, disturbed in their slumber,
-screamed around them. The oars were of little service,
-save to steady the boat in the dreadful pitchings
-and careerings to which it was every instant subjected.
-One managed the oars, or sculls rather, while
-the other steered and occasionally bailed. There
-could be no transfer of labor, for it was certain death
-to attempt a change of position. Although the
-current set along the land, the wind and the heave
-of the sea, drove them indirectly toward it. After
-five hours incessant fatigue, cold, cramped and
-wearied to exhaustion, they reached the near vicinity
-of the shore, and running along it for about a mile, in
-increased danger, for the boat was now nearly broadside
-to the sea, they made the mouth of a small
-harbor, into which, as their frames thrilled with gratitude,
-they pulled with all their might. As the peace
-and the joys of heaven are to the wrangling and contumelies
-of this world, so was the placid stillness of
-that sheltered nook to the fierce wind and troubled
-sea without. The transition was as sudden as it was
-delightful, and with uncovered heads and upturned
-gaze, each paid his heartfelt tribute of thankfulness.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>On one side of the sequestered little bay, through
-the dim and uncertain light, they discovered two or
-three huts, embowered and almost concealed by
-groves of the umbrageous and productive banana,
-whose large pendent-leaves waving in the wind,
-seemed at one time to beckon them on, and at another
-to warn them from approaching. It was evidently
-a fishing settlement, for there were some boats
-hauled up on the shore, and a long seine was hung
-upon a number of upright poles. Pulling toward
-what seemed the usual landing, their light skiff grated
-upon the pebbly beach, and they leaped, overjoyed,
-upon the silent shore—silent and mute in all that
-pertains to human action or the human voice, but
-eloquent, most eloquent, in the outpourings of a rich
-and teeming earth, and the gushing emotions of
-thankfulness it awakened in the bosoms of those two
-weary and persecuted men.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:right;margin-right:2em;margin-top:0.5em;'>[<span class='it'>To be continued.</span></p>
-
-<hr class='tbk103'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='vic'></a>VICTORY AND DEFEAT.</h1></div>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>To-day, with loud acclaim the welkin rings</p>
-<p class='line'>In praise of deeds the shout of <span class='sc'>Victory</span> brings:</p>
-<p class='line'>To-morrow, not e’en Echo will repeat</p>
-<p class='line'>The praise of deeds then canceled by <span class='sc'>Defeat</span>.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk104'/>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' title='231' id='Page_231'></span><h1><a id='mother'></a>TO MOTHER.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY ANNIE GREY.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>Oh! wake, my mother! wake! and hail</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;With me this dawning day;</p>
-<p class='line'>Oh wake, my mother! wake and list</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Thy daughter’s fervent lay.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>She comes to seek thy blessing,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And to whisper in thine ear—</p>
-<p class='line'>That warmer glows her love for thee</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;With every added year.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Wake, mother! wake! while faintly steal</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The sunbeams pure and bright,</p>
-<p class='line'>And playful throw around thy couch</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Their most bewitching light.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>For this is a hallowed day, mother!</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;A hallowed day to me;</p>
-<p class='line'>’Twas at its dawn, four years ago,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;That first I greeted thee.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>We love the sunbeams, mother,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And wheresoe’er they rest,</p>
-<p class='line'>We feel their sacred influence,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;As though some angel guest</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Concealed itself ’mid golden rays,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;That from God’s holy shrine</p>
-<p class='line'>Fall as night-dews or summer-showers,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Refreshing and divine.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>We love the sunbeams, mother!</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;What beauties they awake,</p>
-<p class='line'>When first from the clear eastern sky</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;All gloriously they break.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Oh! how the flowers delight to feel</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Their warm kiss from above,</p>
-<p class='line'>And brighten ’neath it as the heart</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Beneath a kiss of love;</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>And merrier dance the waters,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;When every ripple shows</p>
-<p class='line'>A sparkling crown like diamond gems,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;As carelessly it flows.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>But wake, my mother! wake and list</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The strain I have to sing;</p>
-<p class='line'>’Tis not of these glad sunbeams,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Though joy around they fling,</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>But of a sunbeam brighter,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;That cheers me all the while,</p>
-<p class='line'>And never knoweth change, mother!</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The sunbeam of thy smile.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>How often, oh! how often,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;When my heart feels lone and drear,</p>
-<p class='line'>Its thrilling presence banishes</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;All thoughts of grief or fear.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>How often, often, mother!</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;When I’ve mourned, but scarce knew why,</p>
-<p class='line'>I’ve hailed its light, and soon forgot</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The tear-drop and the sigh.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>For thoughts of sadness will intrude</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Upon my soul oft times;</p>
-<p class='line'>They come and bid me ne’er forget</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;That there are purer climes.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>And still I trust its radiance</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;May fall upon my soul</p>
-<p class='line'>Through all my future hours and days,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;As onward still they roll.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>And, mother! oh, my mother!</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;When this dream of life is o’er,</p>
-<p class='line'>When God calls back his wandering child</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;To Heaven’s unclouded shore,</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Amid the pure and golden beams</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;That fall around me there,</p>
-<p class='line'>The gentle stir of angel wings</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And harp-strings softly fair,</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>I’ll not forget thee, mother!</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Though fleeting years have flown,</p>
-<p class='line'>But come sometimes and watch o’er thee</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;When thou art all alone.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Thou wilt not see me, but I’ll come</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Upon the summer breeze,</p>
-<p class='line'>Or hidden lay amid the shade</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Of young, green summer leaves,</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>And whisper in thine ear, mother,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Of what I feel too well,</p>
-<p class='line'>But words of mortal dialect</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Can never, never tell.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>I’ll whisper of my fervent love,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And breathe low thanks to thee</p>
-<p class='line'>For all the tenderness and care</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Thou hast bestowed on me.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>And I shall hope to meet thee</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;In the sinless land on high,</p>
-<p class='line'>Where we can lisp in tones of love</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The language of the sky.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Oh! I shall be waiting, mother dear!</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And watching all the while,</p>
-<p class='line'>To greet again, with happy heart,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The sunbeam of thy smile.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk105'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='ring'></a>ON A DIAMOND RING.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY CHARLES E. TRAIL.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>Rare is the diamond’s lustre, and the mine</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;No richer treasure hath than yellow gold;</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Yet were its jewels of a price untold,</p>
-<p class='line'>Still dearer charms this little ring doth shrine.</p>
-<p class='line'>Circling thy taper finger, how divine</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Its lot; oft to thy fair cheek prest,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And by such contact past expression blest,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Or sparkling ’mid those sunny locks of thine!</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Oh! these are uses which might consecrate</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;The basest metal, or the dull, vile earth;</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Enhance the diamond’s price, or elevate</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;The clod to an inestimable worth.</p>
-<p class='line'>Would that so dear a gem, which thus hath shone</p>
-<p class='line'>Upon thy snowy hand, might ever bless my own!</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk106'/>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' title='232' id='Page_232'></span><h1><a id='recluse'></a>THE RECLUSE. NO. I.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY PARK BENJAMIN.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>In the series of papers (and they will have the rare
-merit of being short) which I am about to offer to the
-reader, I shall not so far follow the ill fashion of the
-day as to strive to be “original.” I do not mean by
-this remark to signify that I shall not give my own
-thoughts in my own way. But I shall not twist the
-English language out of all shape and comeliness;
-I shall not Germanize and Frenchize and Italianize;
-I shall express my ideas in the simplest possible
-words; I shall always choose the Saxon rather than
-the Norman; I shall endeavor to write so that “he
-who runs may read.” Were I a teacher of youth,
-I should recommend as the best models of style
-Swift and Southey, Addison, Steele, Channing, Sir
-James Macintosh, Irving, not Carlyle, Gibbon, Johnson,
-Emerson. I set plain Nature above gorgeous
-Art. The epithet “natural” conveys to my mind
-the highest praise of verse or prose. A style may
-indeed be eminently artistic, but still appear to be
-natural.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>I have said enough to show the manner in which
-I shall try to convey my ideas. Fewer words will
-set forth the character of my matter.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>I have no subject. I think, in my solitude, of
-many things. As thoughts occur to me I put them
-down. Though a Recluse, and having but little society
-except that of woods and fields, rocks and
-waters, I am fond of contemplating the events of the
-hour. Many of my topics will therefore be of immediate
-interest. They will at least have the charm
-of variety, and my “mode of treatment,” to use an
-expression of physicians, the merit of brevity.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>This is sufficient introduction. Courteous reader,
-I salute you.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-top:1em;'>——</p>
-
-<h2 class='nobreak' id='h_4'>I.—THE CROTON CELEBRATION.</h2>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Of all public displays, that which affected me most
-deeply was the celebration of the opening of the Croton
-river into the great city of New York. A day
-had been appointed by the powers in being. Arrangements
-were made for a mighty civic procession. It
-was a jubilee of Cold Water. The Temperance
-Societies figured chiefly on the occasion. Those
-trades which best flourish by the practice of temperance
-were numerously represented, bearing before
-them their symbols and instruments. I remember
-a printing-press on a platform, borne triumphantly
-along, working as it went, throwing off handbills, on
-which odes were printed, to the eager and amused
-crowd on both sides of the way. By the side of that
-printing-press sat, in smiling dignity, Colonel Stone,
-as everybody called him, then editor of the Commercial
-Advertiser. Kind-hearted, conscientious, hospitable,
-credulous, verbose gentleman! thou art sleeping
-as silently as those aboriginal lords of the soil
-whose lives thou commemoratedst!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>I have seen a great many multitudes, but never so
-quiet, so orderly, so well-dressed, so happy a concourse
-as that which filled the windows and balconies
-and doorsteps, and absolutely covered the sidewalks,
-on the morning of the Croton celebration.
-Throngs of gayly clad women and children moved
-merrily about; for there was not a solitary drunkard
-that day in all the streets of the city to molest or
-make them afraid. An individual under the influence
-of any liquor more potent than that which was
-gushing from a thousand fountains, would have been
-an anomaly too hideous to be borne. Braver than
-Julius Cæsar or Zachary Taylor must he have been
-who dared to took upon wine red in the cup on such
-a day as that.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>I well remember the reflections which passed
-through my mind as I stood gazing on that happy and
-soul-comforting scene. The treaty of peace, as it
-might well have been called, establishing the North-Eastern
-boundary of the United States, settling a
-<span class='it'>questio vexata</span> of long continuance, which had again
-and again threatened war, had just been concluded
-between this country and Great Britain—thanks to
-the pacific dispositions and noble talents of the negotiators.
-Thinking of this, as I looked at the mighty
-civic array, at the procession, which was like an
-endless chain of human beings, the head of it, after
-having traveled through six miles of streets, meeting
-the tail of it, which had not yet drawn an inch of its
-slow length along, below the Park—as I looked at
-the smiling faces and the sporting fountains—I exclaimed
-to myself, How glorious a scene is this!
-How much worthier of a free people than the martial
-triumphs of old! A great good has been done.
-Energy and Skill have effected a stupendous work.
-Thousands and thousands are met together on an appointed
-day, to commemorate an achievement which
-shall prove a blessing to many generations yet unborn.
-Indeed, indeed this is more to be desired
-than the most complete of victories.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>I went on thus with my cogitations. Let me suppose
-that these negotiations between two nations,
-strong in men and the resources of warfare, negotiations
-skillfully conducted to a most fortunate issue,
-and the establishment of a peace in which all the
-world is interested, had proved to be unsuccessful.
-Suppose that war had been declared, that we had no
-longer ago than yesterday received intelligence of a
-conquest on the sea, that a fierce battle had been
-fought, and that our ships had come into port laden
-with spoils and crowded with prisoners. How different
-to-day would have been our rejoicings! The
-outward demonstrations might, in some respects,
-<span class='pageno' title='233' id='Page_233'></span>
-have been the same. The streets would have been
-filled with multitudes of men; the bells of the churches
-(oh sacrilege!) would have pealed long and loudly;
-the flag of our country would have waved from many
-a house-top and “liberty-pole”—yet, in the midst of
-all this, there would have been distinguished the trophies
-of wo and of disaster. The cannon, which had
-dealed death to the brave, would have been borne
-through the streets, and the banners of the conquered
-trailed in the dust. Execrations would have mingled
-with shouts, and frowns of hatred with smiles of joy.
-Sorrow and anguish would have been comates with
-exultation and delight, and the hilarity of all hearts
-deeply subdued by the sad faces of many mourners.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And how different would have been our inward
-emotions! Instead of “calm thoughts regular as
-infant’s breath,” we should have experienced a
-tumultuous rapture, a demoniac triumph, an uneasy
-and restless joy, a trembling pride, a satisfaction
-with the present embittered by fears for the future.
-Now we rejoice with cheerful consciences. No
-“coming events cast their shadows before” to cloud
-the horizon of hope. We look upon a cloudless firmament
-above us and around us. We are indeed
-proud of the task which has been accomplished; but
-ours is a pride unmixed with any baser emotion—a
-pride honorable to humanity. Ah, how much more
-glorious is this than a victory! It is a sight to make
-the old young—a sight worthy of perpetual commemoration.
-It will be always recollected. We
-shall tell it to our children’s children. From time to
-time our authors shall write of it—so that it may
-always live in the memory of the age.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-top:1em;'>——</p>
-
-<h2 class='nobreak' id='h_5'>II.—ON A BIBLE.</h2>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>Could this outside beholden be</p>
-<p class='line'>To cost and cunning equally,</p>
-<p class='line'>Or were it such as might suffice</p>
-<p class='line'>The luxury of curious eyes—</p>
-<p class='line'>Yet would I have my dearest look</p>
-<p class='line'>Not on the cover, but the Book.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>If thou art merry, here are airs;</p>
-<p class='line'>If melancholy, here are prayers;</p>
-<p class='line'>If studious, here are those things writ</p>
-<p class='line'>Which may deserve thy ablest wit;</p>
-<p class='line'>If hungry, here is food divine;</p>
-<p class='line'>If thirsty, Nectar, Heavenly wine.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Read then, but first thyself prepare</p>
-<p class='line'>To read with zeal and mark with care;</p>
-<p class='line'>And when thou read’st what here is writ,</p>
-<p class='line'>Let thy best practice second it;</p>
-<p class='line'>So twice each precept read shall be,</p>
-<p class='line'>First in the Book, and next in thee.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Much reading may thy spirits wrong,</p>
-<p class='line'>Refresh them therefore with a song;</p>
-<p class='line'>And, that thy music praise may merit,</p>
-<p class='line'>Sing David’s Psalms with David’s spirit,</p>
-<p class='line'>That, as thy voice doth pierce men’s ears,</p>
-<p class='line'>So shall thy prayers and vows the spheres.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Thus read, thus sing, and then to thee</p>
-<p class='line'>The very earth a Heaven shall be;</p>
-<p class='line'>If thus thou readest, thou shalt find</p>
-<p class='line'>A private Heaven within thy mind,</p>
-<p class='line'>And, singing thus, before thou die</p>
-<p class='line'>Thou sing’st thy part to those on high.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<p class='pindent'>I have modernized the orthography of the foregoing
-quaint and beautiful stanzas, from the dress in
-which they are clothed in the second part of the
-Diary of Lady Willoughby, just published by John
-Wiley, bookseller, in New York. They are happily
-imitative of the style of the poets of olden time.
-They remind one of George Herbert—that “sweet
-singer in the Israel” of the English church, of Donne,
-of Wotton, and of other lyrists, who chanted the
-praises of our God. To my ear, much dearer are
-such simple, tuneful verses than the grandiloquent
-outpourings of the more modern muse. They come
-home, as it were, to one’s child-like sympathies.
-They awaken the thoughts of “youthly years;” they
-freshen the withered feelings of the heart, as heaven’s
-dew freshens the dried leaves in summer.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Let me recommend this most tender, most soul-touching
-of “late works”—these passages from the
-Diary of Lady Willoughby. It is not a <span class='it'>real</span> “aunciente
-booke,” but an imitation; yet, like certain
-copies of a picture by an old master, it may boast
-some touches better than the original. Chatterton’s
-forgeries were not more perfect in their way, though
-this be no forgery, but what it pretends to be—namely,
-an invention. I feared, when I took up the second
-part of this remarkable production, that it would deteriorate
-in interest, that the hand of the <span class='it'>artist</span> would
-become manifest. But it is not so. Here, throughout,
-is the <span class='it'>ars celare artem</span> in perfection.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>How touching a lesson do the feigned sorrows
-the Lady Willoughby present to her sex. What absence
-of repining! What reliance on the justice
-and mercy of God! What trust in the merits of her
-Redeemer! Her faith is never shaken. Her soul is
-never dismayed. With an expression holier than
-Raphael has imparted to his pictures of the Madonna,
-she looks upward and is comforted. Ever into the
-troubled waters of her soul descends the angel of
-peace. Perfect pattern is she for wives and mothers.
-Excellent example of a Christian woman.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-top:1em;'>——</p>
-
-<h2 class='nobreak' id='h_6'>III.</h2>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Are not some of the prophecies being fulfilled in
-these latter days? Trace we not in the decay of old
-empires the tempest of God’s wrath? Is not the arm
-of the Lord stretched out over the people and over
-the nations of the earth? Breaks he not thrones to
-pieces as if they were potter’s vessels? Where are
-the kings and princes who were born and chosen
-to rule over men? “How are the mighty fallen!”
-Even now, as by the mouth of his holy prophet,
-Isaiah, may the Lord say, “Is not <span class='it'>this</span> the fast that I
-have chosen. To loose the bands of wickedness, to
-undo the heavy burdened, and to let the oppressed
-go free, and that ye break every yoke?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Truly has my mind, shut out as I am from commune
-with the busy world—truly has my mind been
-deeply, solemnly affected by the wondrous events
-which are passing in those realms, the pages of
-whose history are printed in blood. I see the hand
-of God in all. I trace the fulfillment of prophecies
-<span class='pageno' title='234' id='Page_234'></span>
-contained in the Book of books. I am oppressed by
-a sensation of awe as I read the words of inspiration
-and discern their truth in these latter days.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Was not the heart of Louis Philippe before his
-sudden and terrible overthrow as stout as the heart
-of the King of Assyria? Did not he, too, say of his
-monarchy, his rule and his riches—not only to himself,
-but even to the stranger in his land—</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“By the strength of my hand I have done it and
-by my wisdom; for I am prudent; and I have removed
-the bounds of the people, and have robbed
-their treasures, and I have put down the inhabitants
-like a valiant man; and my hand hath found as a
-nest the riches of the people.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And was he not likewise cast down? Was not a
-burning kindled under his glory like the burning of a
-fire? “And behold at evening-tide, trouble, and
-before the morning he <span class='it'>was</span> not.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“This is the portion of them that spoil us,” shouted
-the people of France at the overthrow of the family
-of Orleans. “This is the portion of them that spoil
-us, and the lot of them that rob us.”</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk107'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='rome'></a>ROME.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY R. H. STODDARD.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>In the heart of Rome eternal, the Coliseum stands sublime,</p>
-<p class='line'>Lofty in the midst of ruins, like a temple built to Time.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Vast, colossal, ’tis with piles of broken arches reared on high,</p>
-<p class='line'>But the dome is gone, and nothing roofs it but the summer sky.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>And the walls are rent, and gaping wide, and crumbling fast away,</p>
-<p class='line'>And the columns waste, but moss and grasses cover their decay.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>When the sky of June was bluest, melting as the eye of love,</p>
-<p class='line'>And the breezes from Campagnia bore the city’s hum above;</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Poring o’er the rich and classic authors of the Age of Gold,</p>
-<p class='line'>Virgil, Horace, Terence, Plautus, Livy and historians old,</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>I imagined Rome restored as in the glorious days of yore,</p>
-<p class='line'>Peopled by the great and mighty, as it shall be nevermore.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>I beheld the Past before me, and the fallen circus rose,</p>
-<p class='line'>And the leaning columns righted, and the ruins seemed to close;</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Flags were streaming on the lofty walls, and standards of renown,</p>
-<p class='line'>Plucked from out some hostile army, or some sacked and burning town;</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Proud patricians filled the boxes, judges, senators, in white,</p>
-<p class='line'>Consuls from remotest provinces, and hosts of ladies bright;</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>And the emperor sat among them, in his regal purple proud,</p>
-<p class='line'>And below a countless sea of heads, the common plebeian crowd;</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Wrestlers struggled in the ring, and athlete and equestrians bold,</p>
-<p class='line'>And the steeds and dashing chariots raised a cloud of dusty gold;</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Troops of sworded gladiators, Dacian captives, fought and bled,</p>
-<p class='line'>And the lists were strewn with wretches lying on their bucklers dead;</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>And in the arena Christian saints and martyrs, old and gray,</p>
-<p class='line'>Were trampled in the dust, and torn by savage beasts of prey.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Sick of this, I turned and looking out the arches in the street,</p>
-<p class='line'>I beheld a mighty multitude, a crowd with hurrying feet;</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Nobles with their flowing togas, simple artisans bedight</p>
-<p class='line'>In their holyday attire and badges, maids with eyes of light,</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Waving hands to lovers distant, and the little children clung</p>
-<p class='line'>To their mother’s gowns, and nurses held aloft their infants young,</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>And afar and pouring through the city gates a long array,</p>
-<p class='line'>And in front, in his triumphal car, the hero of the day;</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>And his coursers champed their frosted bits and pranced, but all in vain,</p>
-<p class='line'>Braced he stood, with streaming robe, and checked them with a tightened rein;</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>And a mournful group of kingly captives, dusty, drooping low,</p>
-<p class='line'>Followed, fettered to his chariot, gracing his triumphal show;</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Augurs and soothsayers, flamen, tribunes, lictors bearing rods,</p>
-<p class='line'>And gray-bearded priests, with olive boughs and statues of the gods,</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Shaking from their brazen censers clouds of incense to the skies,</p>
-<p class='line'>Leading lowing steers, in wreaths and garlands decked, to sacrifice.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Sacred nymphs from temples near, in spotless white, and vestal throngs</p>
-<p class='line'>Followed solemn, dancing mystic dances, singing choral songs.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Cohorts of the Roman soldiers conquering legions marched behind,</p>
-<p class='line'>With their burnished armor shining and their banners on the wind;</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>And, with distance faint, the brattling drums, the trumpet’s mighty blast,</p>
-<p class='line'>And the clarion rung and sounded like an echo from the Past.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>All at once the glorious vision melted, faded in the air,</p>
-<p class='line'>Like a desert exhalation, leaving all its ruin bare.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>And, in place of glory and the beauty of the olden day,</p>
-<p class='line'>I beheld the Queen of Cities wasted, fallen in decay.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk108'/>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' title='235' id='Page_235'></span><h1><a id='miss'></a>THE MISSIONARY, SUNLIGHT.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY CAROLINE C——.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';fs:0.9em;' -->
-<p class='line' style='font-size:0.9em;'>&ensp;&ensp;“Her presence makes thick darkness light—</p>
-<p class='line' style='font-size:0.9em;'>&ensp;&ensp;Hope’s rainbow spreadeth o’er her path;</p>
-<p class='line' style='font-size:0.9em;'>Through her, weak souls are filled with might,</p>
-<p class='line' style='font-size:0.9em;'>&ensp;&ensp;And Mercy triumphs over Wrath.”</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<p class='pindent'>A sweet Sister of Charity, a faithful, never-wearying
-missionary, is the beautiful Sunlight, daughter of
-the proud monarch who reigns supremely over the
-broad dominions of the “upper blue!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Six long, tedious months in her father’s gorgeous
-palace, had the lovely maiden been constrained to
-mingle in the festal scenes which enlivened the
-monarch’s dwelling during that dreary time when
-the poor earth lay helplessly beneath the iron hand
-of winter. How often from the palace-windows
-had she looked with eyes dimmed with tears, and
-most melancholy glances on the world that was subject
-during all those months to a <span class='it'>natural</span> kind of
-heathenish slavery! Despoiled of their rich garments
-the old princes of the forests stretched forth their
-naked arms toward her in supplication of her presence
-and charitable aid. A voice, to no ear audible
-save her own, crept up from beneath the winding-sheets
-which envelopes streamlet and river; and a
-wail that broke forth from the poor in their agony
-and want, reached her gentle heart, and her tears fell
-afresh. And even the children of gayety and fashion
-felt an irresistable yearning in their hearts to listen
-once more to her soft and gentle teachings!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>But “’tis always the darkest the hour before day;”
-and while Sunlight was half-despairingly revolving
-in her mind all possible means by which she might
-again, without the utmost danger of sudden death,
-be enabled freely to wander over earth to beautify
-and bless it, the discerning old king, her father, saw
-how pale her cheek was growing, and how dimness
-was creeping over her bright eyes. He knew she
-wearied of, and longed heartily to escape from the
-heartless pomp and magnificence which surrounded
-her; so he resolved to carry into immediate execution
-a plan he had long been contemplating. He
-would make a sudden and strong attack on his old
-foe who was lording it so magnificently over earth!
-He would teach the rough, boorish chieftain, in a
-way he could not mistake, that there were other and
-mightier powers in existence than his own.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>So he fought long and valiantly, and won the
-victory—a glorious one it was, too. In a few days
-many sharp, fierce conflicts had taken place, the
-glittering crown of winter was broken, his staff of
-office taken from him, and the disagreeable old gray-beard
-was forced to skulk away in silence and shame
-and confusion of face, to his bleak and fitting home
-at the North Pole.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>(Would he were wise enough not to attempt again
-another short-lived triumph! But he is so Napoleon-ish
-in his nature, we may well have our fears
-on this point.)</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>When the king had returned to his palace the night
-of the last decisive victory—after he had thrown
-aside his golden armor, though weary from the conflict,
-he paused not a moment to rest till he had summoned
-his young daughter to his presence, and thus
-made known to her his will.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“To-morrow, my child, put on thy most beautiful
-and radiant garments, and let the bright smile come
-back once more to thy face, for I have work for thee
-to do. I have subdued the army of King Winter,
-and now it shall be thine to make joy in the place
-where he has sown desolation. It is thine, to restore
-order and comfort and happiness and beauty in
-the dwelling place where he reigned in such a rude,
-uncivilized, mobocrastic manner. Ah! that light in
-thine eye tells me it is no ungrateful task I set for thee!
-it is very plain now, the cause of all thy sighing and
-tears for so long back; the old bloom will revisit thy
-cheek again I see. But remember, thy mission is
-one all-important. Do all things well, and nothing
-hastily—and now to rest! This shall be no gala-night,
-thou needest all thy strength for thy work; so haste to
-thy couch, and be stirring early in the morn.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>When the maiden was thus assured of the fulfillment
-of her greatest hope, she bended down at the
-king’s feet and said, joyfully, “Oh, my father, I bless
-thee for thy goodness. The dear earth, she shall
-swiftly know thy mercy, and array herself in glorious
-garments in which to honor her deliverer! To-morrow,
-to-morrow shall see that if thou, my father,
-art strong to make free, thy daughter is loving, and
-patient, and full of good-will to help and adorn the
-miserable captives thou hast delivered from bondage.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And early the next morning the lovely princess
-went forth alone, rejecting all offers of a body-guard,
-a most devout and devoted missionary, whose end
-and aim was to make glad the waste-places, and to
-cause the wilderness to blossom.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>There were as yet, here and there, stubborn patches
-of snow on the ground, and a vindictive, sharp-voiced
-wind, a wounded straggler belonging to the
-white king’s retreating army, and his chief object
-seemed to be to exhaust the patience of all who were
-within hearing wherever he moved, by his rude insulting
-speeches. But totally unmindful of him,
-and maintaining a most dignified silence, Sunlight
-passed by him, well knowing that he too would
-<span class='pageno' title='236' id='Page_236'></span>
-speedily be compelled to follow whither his master
-had gone.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Sometimes dark, threatening clouds would flit before
-her eyes, for a moment totally obstructing her vision,
-but a brave heart was that maiden’s, and when these
-petty annoyances were passed, she continued on her
-way patiently and hopefully as before. An apparently
-hopeless and endless task was that Sunlight had undertaken.
-She must, as it were, perform the part of
-resurrectionist. She must breathe life into a breathless
-body, and call the seemingly dead forth from
-their graves. The labor seemed too vast for her
-gentle hand, it appeared almost impossible that she
-should accomplish it. She was alone, too, in a
-strange, unpleasant kind of silence. There was not
-the voice of even a bird to cheer her on, and stiff and
-mute the brooklets lay in their coffins of ice.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>But she is very far from despairing. And her strength
-is, indeed, perfectly wonderful. Stealing with quiet
-steps along the banks of the little streams, she speaks
-to them some words apparently powerful as the
-“open sesame,” for the waters begin to open their
-eyes, faintly the pulse begins to throb, and the heart
-to beat, and ere long they have wholly thrown off
-that cold shroud which enveloped them, while it in
-turn becomes part and parcel of their own rejoicing
-life. Then they set forth rejoicing in their strength,
-and glorying in their newly-gained liberty, careering
-through the just awakening fields, and astonishing
-them by the beautiful soft songs of thanksgiving they
-unremittingly sing. The princess is not alone then—one
-class of prisoners she has released, and their glad
-voices cheer and encourage her in her work of love.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Day after day she returns unweariedly to the great
-field of her pleasant labor, and day by day perfects
-the evidence of her progress. A most efficient co-worker
-whom she arouses and entices to join her in
-her work, is the gentle spirit of the summer wind.
-Encouraged and excited by her smile, he takes the
-oath of fealty, and heartily strives to aid his mistress.
-From the brow of earth he wipes away the tears the
-stars have wept, and multitudinous are his kind unceasing
-offices, for she has promised him a dominion
-which shall spread over many <a id='rejuv'></a>rejuvenated forests,
-and freshly garmented fields!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>In the old woods she lays her hand upon the
-myriad branches, and on the softening ground beneath
-which lie the buried roots. From every bough
-she calleth forth the tender buds, and ere long she
-spreads with kindly hands a rich, green mantle over
-all the forests. And in those “leafy-pavilions,” the
-returning birds she has summoned from the south,
-build their nests, and sing merrily through the long,
-happy days.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Quickened into life by her presence and word, over
-all the barren fields the soft and tender grass springs
-up; the moss becomes aspiring, too, even the humble
-moss, and disowning its gray garments, it dons the
-more beautiful and universal green livery. A thousand
-thousand insects spring into sudden existence—the
-voice of the croaking frog is once more found in
-tune. Violets bud and blossom, the air grows increasingly
-more mild; even the wind learns a sweeter
-song; the heavens finding it impossible to resist the
-general rejoicing which follows the most successful
-labor of the missionary, put on a brighter and a more
-resplendant garment, and the dear Sunlight is filled
-with unfeigned rejoicing when she sees how speedily
-the regenerating influences of her glance are recognized.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>It is spring-time then!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Weeks pass on, but Sunlight does not tarry in her
-work; the grand commencement she has made, but
-the work of perfecting is yet to be done.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Gradually she spreads a richer green over all the
-meadows; all along the banks of streams and lakes
-the grass grows long and soft—the leaves hang heavier
-and fuller on the forest boughs—a softer voice whispers
-through the day-time and the night—flowers
-blossom more richly and abundantly, and the air is
-filled with their fragrance. Sunlight has spread the
-perfection of beauty over earth, and filled with unutterable
-affection for the world she has beautified,
-more warm and tender grow her embracings—and
-in return the voices of all the earth go up in a fervent
-declaration of love and gratitude to the fair
-missionary who has so generously, so gloriously labored
-for them. The good, beautiful Sunlight! no
-wonder all creation loves her, and blesses her; no
-wonder that innumerable objects, on all other subjects
-dull and voiceless, discover a way in which to
-sing her praises!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>It were idle to attempt a detail of all the <span class='it'>homes and
-hearts</span> that even in one day she blesses and enlivens
-by her presence; but let us for a few moments follow
-her in her wanderings, perhaps thereby we may gain
-a proper appreciation of the labors of this good angel.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>It is morning, and she has just alighted on the
-earth; and see now where her light feet are first
-directed. On yonder hill there stands a lofty building—secure
-as a fortress, made of stone, and brick, and
-iron. It is a gloomy, comfortless looking place; the
-windows, though it is a warm summer morning, are
-fast closed, and bars of iron stretch over them! It is
-a prison-house; but, though its inmates are guilty
-criminals, the pure and high-born Sunlight does not
-disdain to visit them. She is looking through all those
-grated windows fronting us—will you also look in?</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>There is a criminal condemned to death—a hardened
-villain, whose unbridled passions have worked
-his ruin. He is yet far from old, not a gray hair is
-there in all that thick black mass which crowns his
-head! From his youth up his life has been a life of
-sin, and little remorse. Heaven has at last overtaken
-him, and he will soon fearfully expiate, in
-part, his guilt.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Yesterday, justice delivered to him the sentence;
-he listened to it as though he heard it in a trance, and
-ever since they brought him from the presence of
-the excited court, he has sat on that hard pallet, immoveable
-as now. His food is untouched—he has
-no time to feel the wants of nature; his arms are
-closely, convulsively folded upon his breast; the
-black, large eyes, have a fixed and stony glare, in
-which it would seem few tears had ever gathered;
-firmly compressed are the pale lips; no prayer or
-<span class='pageno' title='237' id='Page_237'></span>
-sigh, or moan shall issue from them! He knows
-there is no way of escape for him—that on such a
-day, at such an hour, he will perish by the executioner’s
-hand; and that dreadful fact it is which is
-constantly staring in his face, and writing such a record
-of shame and terror in his heart.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>He feels no penitence—nothing but anger, that he
-has stupidly suffered himself to be overtaken by the
-hand of the law—that his crimes have been detected.
-It is not the fear of God that is before his eyes; it is
-not dread of the hereafter which so overpowers him,
-but hatred of his fellow men, and a desire to wreak
-his vengeance on them who have brought to light
-his guilt!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Through all the long, dark hours he has rested on
-his hard bed, listening to the “voices of the night,”
-and not one softening thought has entered his heart,
-not one repentant sigh has he breathed. It seemed
-then as though nothing could arouse him as he so
-coldly beheld the reality, death staring him in the
-face. But now see, there is a faint glow on the
-narrow window-pane, and it grows brighter and
-brighter. Creeping slowly along the wall it reaches
-him at last—it falls upon his breast—it glances over
-his hard face, where sin has written her signature
-with a pen, as of iron—it looks into his stern eyes—that
-light arouses him, and while he returns the
-piercing gaze of the sunbeam, human feelings are
-aroused in his breast once more. He rises from the
-place where in his rage he had flung himself—he
-gazes round the contracted, miserable cell in which
-he is secured! Alas! and he has fallen so far that
-humanity acknowledges the justice of immuring him
-in a prison! and as he gazes on the gentle spirit
-whose presence fills his cell with light, the recollections
-of his far-off, innocent childhood—of his early
-home, from whence not a great many years ago he
-went with the blessing of his old mother sounding in
-his ears, steals over him—his heart is softening—his
-lips tremble—the stolid, hardened look has passed
-from his countenance—he is human again—he weeps!
-Blessed Sunlight! Fairest and holiest of the missionaries,
-who come from the halls of heaven to purify
-the earth, she has subdued him! Oh, we will hope
-that now, since the heart of stone has been changed
-to one of flesh, the good, redeeming work may not
-stop there; we will hope that when he is standing in
-his last hour upon the scaffold, when she comes to
-him again, it may be with a faith-supported heart
-that he will behold in her brightness a token of the
-blissful rest which awaits his repentant, pardoned
-spirit!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Close adjoining this cell there is another which
-likewise has its guilty inmate—a miserable, abandoned
-woman. She is sleeping. For her violation
-of the laws both of God and man she is now imprisoned.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>She is sleeping, but hers is a troubled slumber,
-for conscience is at work night and day in the mind
-of that woman, accusing and condemning—yet she
-sleeps. She is dreaming of the husband of her early
-years—of the child in whom, when she was young
-and innocent, and of contented mind, her hope and
-joy centered; she is dreaming of her maiden home—of
-her bridal morning. The voices of her former,
-youthful friends are ringing in her ears; the innocent
-thoughts and hopes of girlhood fill her heart again.
-She wakens weeping—for in imagination she is
-standing once more beside the death-bed of her
-mother, listening to the words of warning and counsel
-that mother forces herself to speak when she beholds
-with all a parent’s agony that the girl of her hopes
-is treading in the wild paths of shame and sin.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>She wakens in tears, with a strange feeling of
-contrition that she has seldom or never felt before
-agitating her bosom, to see the Sunlight looking
-down with pitying glance upon her—to see the good
-spirit whose mission it is to make glad and bright the
-earth, deigning to creep through those prison-bars to
-speak a word of counsel and hope to her. Thoughts
-of her husband, on whose honest name she has cast
-such dishonor, and of her deserted, innocent child,
-come to her full of most sorrowful reproach. A longing
-for the restoration of her lost virtue—a conviction
-of the peacefulness and happiness and exceeding
-reward attending goodness, ever make her unsealed
-tears flow more freely. Beside that narrow bed, on
-the stone floor of her cell, she kneels down in her
-sorrow and contrition, and on her knees she breathes
-forth such a prayer as never before went from her
-heart. And the dear Sunlight is witness of that
-prayer! She looks upon the kneeling penitent with
-joy—and from that now hallowed place she does not
-steal forth hastily, leaving the cell dreary and comfortless
-as before; she is there when the woman rises
-from her supplication, as though to assure of the
-smile of Heavenly forgiveness, which may yet await
-her. She remains to give encouragement to the hope
-that the corroding stains now resting on her soul
-may be ere long effectually wiped away—that reconcilement
-and love and peace, are yet for her on
-earth.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Near this woman’s cell there is another where a
-youth, unjustly accused, singularly blameless and innocent
-in his life, is singing a morning hymn of
-praise and adoration. Hemmed in as he is by the
-prison-wall, deprived of that freedom which is the
-good man’s <span class='it'>best</span> possession, confined with guilty men,
-and bearing himself the heavy imputation of crime,
-yet is he supported by the comforting knowledge of
-his innocence, and by the assurance that the eye
-which is strong to pierce the secrets of the heart,
-knows his innocence. The dreariness of his confinement
-does not fill his soul with terror; his faith
-is strong in the power and goodness of his Maker, and
-so it is with patience he performs the labor apportioned
-him, looking confidently for the hour of his
-release, and the honorable conviction of his uprightness
-in the minds of all honest men.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And when the kindly Sunlight appears before <span class='it'>him</span>,
-her presence but serves to foster these hopes. It is
-a sweet message of patience and faith she whispers
-to him, and after she has departed, through all the
-long day its remembrance strengthens and cheers
-him. Blessed be the good spirit who remembers to
-visit these sad, afflicted, guilty ones in the hour when
-<span class='pageno' title='238' id='Page_238'></span>
-they are well-nigh forgotten of all the world, and by
-their own kin!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Beyond the prison, on the same range of elevated
-grounds, just without the city, there is a cemetery—a
-quiet place where the dead sleep in peace. And
-thither Sunlight bends her golden, sandaled feet.
-How brightly her shadow lies on the white monuments,
-and on the grass and flowers. How quiet
-and holy is this place, there is no sound of the tread
-of living feet to disturb the rest of the slumberers;
-no human form at this early hour is treading in this
-solitary place to muse on the “vanity of all earthly
-things,” or to weep over the departed! Oh, yes!
-there, by that newly-made grave, where the sod has
-been placed so recently, there, where the print of the
-feet of the funeral-train is yet fresh on the loosened
-ground, there stands a child with flowers in her
-hand; she has come to lay them on the grave of her
-mother! The Sunlight knew that she would meet
-her there, for every morning since the day the funeral-train
-paused there, and laid the loving mother in the
-dark, cold, “narrow house,” the little girl has visited
-that grave, bringing with her to beautify it, and make
-it seem a rest more sweet and cheerful, the flowers
-from her little garden, which early in the spring her
-mother planted there. When the child goes back to
-the city, the vast crowds of life will have awakened,
-and the rush, and jar, and strife, will have begun;
-happy were it for all those multitudes, if a voice,
-gentle and holy in its teaching as has spoken to that
-young girl, whispered also to them, ere they mingled
-in the whirlpools of business and pleasure!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Then amid the dwellings of the city Sunlight
-wanders next. And by no means is she sure to honor
-first with her presence the mansions of the rich; for
-at such an early hour she would hardly receive a
-welcome there; perhaps, however, this is not the
-sole reason why the very first place which she
-chooses to enter is the cot of the humble laborer.
-Gently does she lay her fair hand on his rude,
-weather-worn frame, and tenderly she kisses his
-hard-browned face, as a loving mother embraces
-her infant. And if the man does not at once awaken
-at the call of her royal highness, she does not go
-away and leave him in <span class='it'>humanly</span> anger, but yet
-more lovingly does she caress him, thinking meanwhile
-to herself, “poor man, he was worn out by
-his hard work yesterday.” And so at last by her
-patient gentleness she succeeds in awakening him—and
-when he rubs his eyes, and sees her waiting for
-him there, with her soft hand, on which the regal
-ring is glistening, resting so lovingly upon him, how
-he reproaches himself that he has dared to sleep
-while she was honoring his poor roof by her presence!
-and how fervent is the blessing with which
-his heart blesses her, as he hastens away to his labor
-with a light heart and renewed courage.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Later in the day, peeping into the small windows
-of the unpretending school-room, she beckons to the
-little children to come out and ramble with her among
-the fields, to hunt for the ripe strawberries in the
-grass, and to gather the violets, and lilies, and <a id='wild'></a>wild-geranium
-flowers which grow in the shady woods.
-A beautiful song she sings to the merry youngsters—a
-song whose burden has more of wisdom in it than
-many gather from their books in the coarse of years—a
-lesson of reverence of freedom, and of innocent
-love for nature.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Sunlight is not content with merely resting like
-a <span class='it'>visible blessing</span> on the head of the gentle girl
-whose breast is throbbing with a “love for all things
-pure and holy,” she steals into her guileless heart,
-and makes <span class='it'>that</span> glorious by her smiling there; and
-the little one laughs while she lingers, because she
-fancies that all the future to which she looks forward,
-will prove as bright and joyous as the unclouded
-present. And as for the king’s daughter,
-she knows when she hears that joyous ringing laugh
-which always welcomes her presence, that it is
-indeed more blessed to give than to receive!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The bright-eyed maiden <span class='it'>loves</span> children, with all
-the earnestness of her soft, true heart, and how
-earnestly they return her love, let every man and
-woman and child answer! She is, indeed, like a
-kind and gentle elder friend to them—like a friend
-whose heart has not grown cold or hard from much
-mingling with the world, who knows how to sympathize
-with them in their simple joys, who listens to
-their merry voices with a tender interest, which
-time has not been enabled to make cold or false.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Well may the children love her, whose smile is
-the grand main-spring of their joy—the constant inspirer
-of their never-ceasing hope!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Look for a moment into this alms-house. Poor
-people, the wretchedly poor, who were rendered at
-last, by long destitution utterly unable to work with
-the rude elements of life, which lay like broken useless
-tools around them, are gathered here for rest, that
-they may gain strength for a renewal of their conflict!
-For a few weeks, and perhaps a longer time,
-they may dwell in this comfortable shelter, and partake
-of food, <span class='it'>not</span> gathered from the refuse of rich
-men’s tables—they may partially rest from their hard,
-unsatisfactory, unproductive labor. Let us hope
-that Sunlight may not speak vainly to them now, as
-every day she livens up their new home, let us hope
-they may understand the cheering messages she
-brings to them, and as they learn more of the goodness
-and justice of their Creator <span class='it'>than they have ever
-yet had time</span> to learn, perhaps with more of hope and
-resignation they will endure their burden. It were
-well to go through necessity to a poor-house, even
-if we can find no other school in which to learn the
-grand lesson of endurance and continuance in well-doing;
-there, perhaps, it would not be impossible to
-understand the messages dear Sunlight delivers every
-day to our unappreciating, slow-hearing minds.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Notwithstanding all our boasted democracy, there
-is scarcely a being on the face of the earth who embraces
-with quite such heartiness its principles, and
-so understands its precepts as—Sunlight. How graciously
-her hand is laid on the matted locks of those
-children of want; how lovingly and earnestly is her
-kiss imprinted on their toil-grimmed faces—how
-radiantly her smile envelops them. Ah! well-a-day!
-would there were in human hearts as much of genuine
-<span class='pageno' title='239' id='Page_239'></span>
-love! No sham-tenderness, nor aristocratic, cold-blooded,
-<span class='it'>repelling</span> fondness, is there in her embracing,
-stronger than a <span class='it'>human</span> heart’s beating is that
-which proclaims the life that is in <span class='it'>her</span>!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>See now in this other place, where helpless orphans
-are collected and cared for, children whose parents
-have died and left them helpless and dependent on
-the bounty of the world; Sunlight has not forgotten
-them either. Kindly hands and charitable hearts
-have gathered these little ones from hovels of sin,
-and sorrow, and shame, and nurtured by the good
-and the wise, in early manhood and womanhood they
-will be prepared to struggle for themselves, and to
-bear their own life-burden.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Day after day the affectionate Sunlight visits these
-assembled little ones, and adds her cheerful blessing
-to that which God has already pronounced on them,
-whose love has prompted them out of their abundance
-to support and comfort the destitute and friendless.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And there is another place teeming with human
-life, where this good friend of earth and her children
-comes daily, but where there are very few who may
-welcome her smiling approach, but few to know
-certainly of her departure when she is gone. This
-is the home for the blind.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>How many are the fair young faces and graceful,
-gentle forms and innocent hearts, how frequent are
-the kindly words in that place; and yet, alas! how
-small the power to see and know the beauty of the
-world; how few the eyes to behold the approaching
-of the fair <a id='dau'></a>daughter of the sun! The blind live there,
-but Sunlight does not shun them! When she enters
-their dwelling-place unsummoned, and only attended
-by that glory with which God has adorned her, they
-may, it is a fact they often do, know that something
-blessed and heavenly is nigh, because they feel it in
-their enlivening senses, in the warmth of her caressing.
-But they may not touch her hand; and when
-they speak to her she does not answer them; and
-so they know she is not a mortal, but a spirit who
-may not speak with an audible voice to them—a
-spirit though which loves and blesses them!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Let us follow on further in her path, where polished
-doors are fastened against the intruding world. It is
-a home of fashion, but from the parlor windows no
-token of life are seen. The blinds are closed—the
-dwelling looks uninhabited. But there <span class='it'>is</span> life within,
-ay, and death, too! Around the silver door-knob, and
-circling the door-bell handle, where the hands of the
-wealthy and gay have so often rested, (but very rarely
-those of the poor and needy,) there is wound a scarf
-of crape, and mournfully the death-token flutters in
-the morning air. For two days scarcely a form has
-entered those doors; the sufferers within, however
-much they may have rejoiced in display in former
-days, have no wish that there may be spectators to
-their sorrow.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Yet there is one—a not often heeded guest, though
-a seldom failing one—who comes to them now they
-cannot shut her out; she longs to utter some soothing
-and consoling word. She penetrates to the very
-scene of their grief. She looks into the silent chamber
-where the father and mother are weeping over their
-only child—the child of whom they had made an
-idol, whom God, who hath said “thou shalt have <span class='it'>no</span>
-gods but me,” hath taken away from them. They
-have with their own hands laid their child in her coffin,
-ere long they will see her borne away from them
-forever; so it is with unutterable sorrow they stand
-beside that little one and gaze on her pale face. The
-blinds are closed, and the curtains partly drawn, but
-through an open shutter the Sunlight enters the
-darkened room, and drawing near to the bereaved
-parents, she lays her hand, oh, so gently on the forehead
-of the child!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The clustering curls which fall upon that brow
-seem almost illuminate beneath the pressure of that
-hand—and the mother’s tears fall faster as she looks
-on the beautiful little one that will be so soon hidden
-away from the pleasant day-light and the hopes of
-life. But as the father looks, his sorrow is abated,
-his voice is lifted up, there is hope in its tone, he
-says, “Mary, let us weep no longer over our child,
-her spirit has already won a brighter crown than that
-the sunlight lays upon her head.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And the mother’s grief becomes less wild, and
-humble is the voice with which she makes answer,</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“God help us, it was his to take away who gave.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And now with more of submission under their
-affliction, with much of hope that cheered even in
-the midst of their bereavement, they will see their
-child laid in the funeral-vault to meet their eyes no
-more until the resurrection morning—and with
-chastened hearts, and more thoughtfully they will
-tread the path set before them, feeling convinced
-and thankful that sorrow has taught them a lesson of
-wisdom they never could have learned in a life like
-that they had lived.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Through the opened Gothic windows of the old
-church she is speeding, for what? To make beautiful
-by her presence the temple of the Lord. See! before
-the altar there is gathered a little group, and a
-maiden and a youth are answering the binding, “I
-will,” to a question than which none more fraught
-with deep and solemn meaning was ever propounded
-to mortal man and woman.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The bridegroom has placed upon his companion’s
-finger the uniting ring—she is his wife. You see she
-has arrayed herself gayly; it is the great festival of
-her life—may it not prove the adornment has been
-for the ceremony of the sacrifice of all the dearest and
-best hopes of her trusting young heart! Around these
-happy ones are gathered their most familiar, dearest
-friends; before them the “solemn priest,” and, hark!
-with mingled words of warning, and of counsel, and
-of blessing, he pronounces them now man and wife.
-And upon the newly-wedded ones is resting the congratulatory
-smile of Sunlight! She bids them joy in
-their love, and gives the bridegroom the comforting
-assurance that his will not prove a cross and turbulent
-bride, for his wedding-day is calm and bright,
-and over all the sky there is not one speck of cloud!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>But why does the Sunlight linger when the bridal
-party has gone forth? She is about the altar and
-chancel, as though there were others yet who would
-need her presence and her blessing there.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='pageno' title='240' id='Page_240'></span>
-Ah! there are steps—another group is approaching
-the awaiting “holy man of God.” A woman comes,
-bearing in her arms a child for baptism. The font
-containing the regenerating waters is there in readiness.
-Troops of invisible angels are nigh to listen
-to and make record of the solemn vows now to be
-made, and the spirit of the living God is there also,
-a witness, merciful in his omnipotence.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>There are but few who accompany the woman—she
-comes in no pomp and state to dedicate her child
-to God in baptism; neither is the offering she brings
-adorned with the pride of wealth. The mother is
-poor—the child an heir of poverty. But will He
-therefore spurn the gift? “He that cometh to me I
-will in no wise cast out.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The father of the child, the husband of the mother
-is dead—and her widow’s weeds but “faintly tell
-the sorrow of her heart.” Therefore it is with so
-much the more trustful confidence she has come with
-her child to the altar, she will give him into the
-watchful care of the Almighty Father of the fatherless!
-With what a solemn earnest voice she takes upon
-herself, for the child, the vow of renouncement of
-the world and its sinful desires; and when the sign of
-the cross is laid upon the brow of her infant, and the
-holy waters which typify its regeneration are poured
-upon his head, it is with heartfelt gratitude she lifts
-her heart to heaven, with heartfelt confidence she
-implores his watchful love and care. And all the
-while on the uncovered head of the child the glance
-of the sunlight has rested, as if in token of the acceptance
-of the offering the mother has made, in
-token that the blessing and mercy of God would be
-upon that child for whom a holy vow was registered
-in heaven, which he must one day redeem, or else
-pay the fearful penalty.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And now the mother with her child and friends
-have left the church, and a sacred quiet reigns there
-once more; yet the priest lingers by the altar, still
-arrayed in his robes of office, and Sunlight also remains.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And, hark! once more the “deep-toned bell” is
-ringing now—tolling mournfully—no wedding-peal
-of joy is that, from out the heart of the strong iron is
-rung the stern tale that another mortal hath put on
-immortality! Now they come, a long and silent
-train, and foremost move the bearers treading
-heavily; “it is a man they bear”—an aged man, the
-measure of whose cup of life was well filled, reaching
-even the brim; and following after them are the
-children, and grandchildren, and great-grandchildren
-of the deceased, and the procession is closed by his
-many friends and neighbors. Of all that lengthened
-train there is not one who set out on the path of life
-with the dead man. One by one his early companions
-passed away, there are none who retain a
-recollection of that aged face when it was smooth,
-and of those locks now so very white and thin, as
-they were in earlier years; not one who shared the
-hopes of his childhood with him—few who mingled
-with him in the scenes remembered now as of the
-old, old time. Yet the mourners weep, and the bells
-toll mournfully.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The old man has finished his course with honor
-and with joy. Reverenced and loved, he has gone
-down to the grave—no, I must not say that, he has
-gone upward <span class='it'>to rest on the bosom of his Father</span>! In
-boyhood he was wild, and fearless, and reckless—his
-manhood, generous and upright, nobly redeemed
-his early days—and happy, and peaceful, and honorable,
-was his “green old age.” And now he has
-“gone to his reward”—his race well run, his labor
-all fulfilled, it seems strange that any should weep.
-They have laid back the coffin-lid that the assembled
-people may once more look on their venerated
-friend. Oh, how peacefully he sleeps, and lovingly,
-as on the unconscious infant, the Sunlight, that messenger
-of consolation, looks upon the calm, cold face,
-and the mourner’s grief is stayed as they behold the
-brightness which once more illuminates those lifeless
-features.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Upon the infant, dedicated to God in the days when
-he lies helplessly at the portal of life, on the maiden
-and the youth, entering on a state of existence, either
-supremely blessed or supremely cursed in its <span class='it'>eventuation</span>,
-and on the dead old man, whose race so
-long, and of mingled pleasure and hardship, is over
-at last; on these the faithful Sunlight has pronounced
-her blessing within the walls of the old church. But
-now all the human beings have gone away, the
-minister with the funeral train to the burial, and the
-sexton has fastened the church-doors and gone too;
-but still the Sunlight remains, and it seems as though
-she were kneeling before the altar now, craving God’s
-blessing on all those who have this day stood within
-His courts, and before His altar, brought there by joy
-or sorrow to rejoice or to weep.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Not, however, within the sanctity of walls alone
-does the Sunlight make herself visible. Through byways,
-and in the open street, where the stream of
-life goes rushing on violently, does she tread, brightening
-up by her presence dark and dismal corners,
-and enlivening the gloomiest and dreariest places.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>In the intervening places between the high brick
-dwellings and stores she stations herself; there, like
-a priestess, she stands to pronounce a benediction
-on all who pass by her. On the blind old beggar, led
-by a little child, who pause a moment to rest in the
-sunshiny place, for they have walked on wearily
-amid a heartless crowd, that had but little feeling for
-the poverty-stricken old man, whom Heaven deprived
-of sight; and on the gaudily decked form of
-the shameless woman, as a reproach and condemnation;
-on the proud, hard man, whose haughty head
-and iron heart care little for the Sunlight or for Sorrow,
-whose honorable name has safely borne him
-through the committal of sins and crimes, which,
-had he been poor and friendless, would have long
-ago secured for him a safe place among convicts and
-outlaws! Little recks <span class='it'>he</span> of Sunlight. A blessing
-so freely bestowed on all, as is her smile, is not what
-he covets; so through shade and light he hastens, and
-soon enough he will arrive at the bourne. What
-bourne?</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>There go by the wandering minstrels, men from
-Scotland with their bagpipes—Italians with hurdy-gurdy—girls
-with tamborines, and boys with violins
-<span class='pageno' title='241' id='Page_241'></span>
-and banjoes—there are professors of almost all kinds
-of instrumental music, and vocal too, a great many
-of them there are, but sure, almost all of them, of
-winning coppers from some who would bribe them
-into a state of quietude, and from other some, harmony-loving
-souls, who delight in the dulcet sounds
-such minstrels ever awaken and give utterance to!
-And Sunlight blesses <span class='it'>them</span>!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And here comes an humble, tired-looking woman—a
-school teacher she is, whose days are one continued
-round of wearying, and most monotonous
-action. You would scarcely err in your first guess
-as to her vocation—it speaks forth in her “dress a
-little faded,” but so very neat, but more loudly still
-in that penetrating glance of her eye, and in the patient
-expression of her features. Though she is evidently
-hurried, for she has been proceeding at a most
-rapid pace along the streets, you could tell she has
-some appreciation of the glory of Sunlight, for how
-she lingers whenever she comes near the places enlivened
-by her presence! Her feet, too, press less
-heavily the pavement, perhaps she feels as though
-she were treading on sacred ground!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Then, there comes another, a little, frail, youthful
-creature, with bright, black eyes, (which have obviously
-a quick recognization power for “every
-thing pretty,”) a person of quick and nervous movement,
-a seamstress. She has not time often to pause
-and take note of the beautiful. Her weeks have in
-their long train of hours only twelve of daylight she
-may call her own! She, too, steps slowly, almost
-reverently, over the flags where the princess is stationed,
-and with an irresistible sigh thinks of earlier
-and happier days, when a merry country child she
-rejoiced in her delightful freedom, though clad she
-was then in most unfashionable garments, and almost
-she regretted the day that sent her into the great,
-selfish city to fashion dresses for the rich and gay.
-Poor girl! before she has half passed over the shady
-place which succeeds the glimpse of Sunlight, she
-has forgotten the hope which for a moment found
-refuge in her breast, wild as it was, that one day she
-might indeed go into the country again, and find there
-a welcome and a home; for must not Miss Seraphina’s
-and Miss Victoria’s dresses be finished that very
-night in time for the grand party; and the flounces
-are not nearly trimmed, and numberless are the
-“finishing touches” yet to be executed.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Alas! before night comes again, when she will go
-alone, and in the darkness, through the noisy street,
-in her weariness and stupidity, (for continued labor,
-you know very well, reader, will make the brightest
-mind stupid and weak,) she will hurry to her bed,
-forgetful of her bright dream of the morning, unmindful
-of her prayers, in the haste to close her
-weak and tired eyes. But in the morning, perhaps,
-the Sunlight will give to the overworked girl another
-gleam of hope, another blessing.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And now goes by an interesting, white-gloved
-youth, fresh from “the bandbox,” as you perceive.
-Let him pass on; for there is but little chance that
-Sunlight will be recognized by <span class='it'>him</span>, and so <span class='it'>we</span> will
-not waste our comments, for could he even see
-where lies the brightness, I cannot say but the inevitable
-eye-glass might be raised, and such a glance of
-idiocy and impudence be directed toward the gentle
-daughter of the mighty king, as would warrant her
-in annihilating him at once with a powerful <span class='it'>sunstroke</span>!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Here comes another, a benevolent, but solemn-featured,
-portly gentleman, who seems in musing
-mood, for he goes slowly along with head bent down.
-He is a judge, proceeding toward the scene of his
-trying duties, feeling the responsibility which rests
-upon him, and nerving himself to meet the solemn
-and affecting scenes and circumstances which may
-await him. Oh may it be that as he passes by those
-small illuminated places, that a stronger voice than
-he has ever heard before may find utterance in his
-heart, charging him to remember that the highest
-attributes of the Heavenly Judge are mercy and
-love, and that only as he employs them in his decisions,
-can he justly imitate his Divine prototype!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And now there is another going by, whose disappointment
-is legibly written on his face. Either of
-two doleful things has happened to him. His prayers
-have been unheard by his “lady-love,” and she
-looks coldly upon him, or—scarcely less to be dreaded
-climax—his first attempt at literature has met with
-unqualified failure. Let him but bear in mind that
-“faint heart never won fair lady,” or honor in the
-“literary world;” let him take one intelligent look
-at the sweet Sunlight, as so patiently she stands there
-before him, and small will be the danger of his ultimate
-defeat.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>But—but how fast the crowd increases—it is growing
-late, and between the increasing crowd of fashionables,
-and of people of all sorts and conditions, we
-are really in danger of being soon unable to distinguish
-who of all the host stop for the blessing of Sunlight,
-and who unmindful pass by her. And indeed
-it were an endless task to impose on one’s self the
-attempt to speak, or even to think, of the myriads
-who in their hours of sorrow, despondency, tribulation
-or joy, have had occasion to be thankful for the
-cheerful smile of glorious Sunlight!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Her mission—ay, never was there one so blest—and
-never was there so faithful a missionary! She
-comes with a message of love for the whole world!
-How perfectly she has learned that lesson taught her
-by our own, as well as her Almighty Father! How
-nobly has she obeyed his sublime precepts, how truly
-is she the joy-diffuser of the human race!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And now what remaineth to be said? But one
-thing only.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>In a necessarily more contracted sphere of action
-may there not from <span class='it'>our</span> faces, and <span class='it'>our</span> hearts, go
-forth a beam of light that shall be <a id='power'></a>powerful to cheer
-up a desponding spirit, or to encourage a drooping
-heart, or to give comfort to a sorrowing soul, or to
-increase the faith and courage of a lonely life?</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Cannot the sunshine of a human face, in the dark
-forest of a sad heart, have power to make the old
-trees bud, and the birds to sing, and the violets to
-spring up and bloom, and the ice-bound streamlets to
-go free? From many a love-lit eye, from many a
-<span class='pageno' title='242' id='Page_242'></span>
-brow from which tender hands have erased the
-record of care, from many a rejoicing heart lightened
-of its dread burden, there comes to me an answer,
-“Yes—oh yes!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Blessed forever be the sweet Sister of Charity,
-the angelic, untiring Missionary, the lovely princess—daughter
-of the Sun!—and, also, blessed forever be
-that human heart which doth not disdain to learn the
-heavenly lesson Sunlight teaches, ay, twice blessed
-of God, and of man!</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk109'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='ther'></a>THERMOPYLÆ.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY MRS. MARY G. HORSFORD.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>’Twas night; the gleaming starlight fell</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;On helmets flashing high;</p>
-<p class='line'>The glancing spears and torrent swell</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Of armed men sweeping by.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>No clarion’s voice was on the breeze,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;No trumpet’s stormy blast;</p>
-<p class='line'>The hollow moan of distant seas</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Was echoed as they past.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>With measured step and stealthy tread,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;In stern and proud array,</p>
-<p class='line'>They sought the camp in silence dread</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Where the slumb’ring Persian lay.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Then long and loud the battle-shout</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Rung on the startled air,</p>
-<p class='line'>There was fitful torch-light flashing out</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And sudden arming there.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>The shriek of death and wild despair,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And hasting to and fro,</p>
-<p class='line'>When like the lion from his lair</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The Spartan charged the foe.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Then hand to hand and spear to spear</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The hostile armies stood;</p>
-<p class='line'>The tempest’s note rung loud and clear</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And shook the solitude.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>And ’mid the fearful tide of fight,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Where thousands met to die,</p>
-<p class='line'>The lances gleamed athwart the night</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Like lightning in the sky.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>On! on they swept their land to bless,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And fast around their way</p>
-<p class='line'>The Persians gathered numberless</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;As leaves in summer’s day.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Morn dawned upon that battle-field,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And shivered spear and lance,</p>
-<p class='line'>And banner torn and broken shield</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Reflected every glance.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>But where were they—those patriots bold,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Of bright and fearless eye?</p>
-<p class='line'>Each noble heart in death was cold,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Each spirit in the sky.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Fair Greece! of glorious deeds the clime</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;By dauntless valor wrought;</p>
-<p class='line'>Of daring minds, and souls sublime,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The pioneers of thought!</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>No marvel that thy skies should boast</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;A fairer, sunnier blue—</p>
-<p class='line'>Departed day illumes the west</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;With many a radiant hue.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk110'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='lost'></a>LOST TREASURES.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY P. D. T.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>I am coming, I am coming, when this fitful dream is o’er,</p>
-<p class='line'>To meet you, my beloved ones, on that immortal shore,</p>
-<p class='line'>Where pain and parting are unknown, and where the ransomed blest</p>
-<p class='line'>Shall welcome treasures left on earth, to Heaven’s eternal rest.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>I am with you, I am with you, in the visions of the night,</p>
-<p class='line'>I feel each warm hand pressing mine, I meet each eye of light.</p>
-<p class='line'>Oh these are precious seasons! they bring you back to me,</p>
-<p class='line'>But morning dawns, and with it comes the sad reality.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>I dare not trust my thoughts to dwell on blessings that were mine,</p>
-<p class='line'>Or, “hoping against hope,” believe one ray of joy can shine</p>
-<p class='line'>Across my path, so dreary now, that late was bright and gay,</p>
-<p class='line'>But, meteor-like, hath left more dark the track which marked its way.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Yet I feel that thou art near me! my guardian angels thou,</p>
-<p class='line'>Who fain would chase all sorrow and sadness from my brow.</p>
-<p class='line'>For thou hadst strewn my pathway so thick with thornless flowers,</p>
-<p class='line'>I quite forgot that <span class='it'>Death</span> could come to revel in our bowers.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>But now, I’m oh so lonely! my “household gods” are gone,</p>
-<p class='line'>And though my path’s a dreary one, I still must journey on.</p>
-<p class='line'>Yet Faith steps forth and whispers—Time flies, look up and see,</p>
-<p class='line'>For in his wake swift follows on a blessed eternity.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk111'/>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' title='243' id='Page_243'></span><h1><a id='bro'></a>THE BROTHER’S TEMPTATION.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY SYBIL SUTHERLAND.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<h2 class='nobreak' id='h_7'>CHAPTER I.</h2>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“You look sad to-night, Alice,” was the remark
-of Mr. Colman as his young wife entered the sitting-room,
-and took a seat beside him with a countenance
-expressive of unusual dejection; “and where is
-Maggie this evening that you have been obliged to
-take upon yourself the duty of nursery-maid to our
-little ones?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Maggie has gone upon an errand of mercy—to
-watch over a sick and suffering fellow creature,” replied
-Mrs. Colman. “It is a long story,” she added,
-in answer to the look of inquiry which her husband
-cast upon her, “but I will endeavor to relate it if you
-will listen to it patiently. This morning, Harry, after
-you had left home, I resolved to set forth in search
-of a seamstress who was making some dresses for
-our little girl. She had failed to bring them home at
-the time appointed, and as I had never employed her
-before, and knew nothing of her character, I felt
-rather anxious concerning the safety of the materials
-I had given her to work upon, and determined to go
-to the dwelling which she had described as her residence
-and learn the cause of her disappointing me.
-The house was in a miserable street some distance
-from here, and I hurried along till I came to it. It
-was a wretched-looking dwelling, such as none but
-the very poorest class would have chosen. The door
-stood open, and several ragged little Irish children
-were playing upon the steps. I inquired of them if
-Mrs. Benson, the seamstress lived there? They did
-not seem to recognize the name—but they told me
-that a young woman who took in sewing hired the
-back rooms of the third-story. Following their direction,
-I ascended three flights of stairs and found
-myself at the door of the apartment, where I knocked,
-and a faint voice bidding me enter, I unclosed the
-door and stood upon the threshold. What a strange
-and unexpected sight now met my gaze! Upon the
-floor, almost at my feet as I entered, lay a young and
-very beautiful girl apparently bereft of all consciousness.
-She looked so thin and pale that at first I
-thought her dead, and starting back in horror I was
-about to leave the place, when a feeble voice, the
-same which told me to come in, besought me to stay.
-Looking round to discover whence it proceeded, I
-saw the emaciated form of a man reclining upon a
-couch in a distant part of the room. Hastily I approached
-him, for I felt it to be my duty to render
-what aid I could. As I drew nearer to his bedside, I
-read the tale of confirmed disease in that pallid face
-and in the wild sunken eyes whose gaze met my
-own. In a few words he informed me that the
-maiden who lay there senseless was his daughter.
-While busily engaged at her work about an hour
-previously, she had fallen from her seat and remained
-thus in a state of unconsciousness. He said that his
-limbs being palsied he was unable to help her, and so
-he had lain upon his couch agonized by the thought
-that his child was dead, or that she might die for want
-of proper assistance. And he now besought me to
-endeavor to discover if there were any signs of life,
-and if possible to restore her to her senses. The appeal
-was not in vain. I turned from him to his inanimate
-daughter, and raising that light and fragile
-form in my arms, placed her upon a couch in a small
-closet-like apartment adjoining the one I had first entered.
-For a long time every means of restoration
-were vainly tried—but at length my strenuous efforts
-were rewarded, and the young girl once more unclosed
-her eyes. But she evidently recognized nothing
-about her—those dark and strangely beautiful
-orbs glared wildly around, while a few broken, incoherent
-sentences burst from her lips, and as she sunk
-again upon the pillow the bright fever flushes rushed
-to her cheek, and I knew that her brain was suffering.
-Great was her parent’s joy that she once more
-breathed—but my heart was full of sadness, for I
-could not help feeling that her life was in jeopardy.
-It was my wish to have a physician summoned, but
-I knew not how this was to be done, for I dared not
-leave my charge, and there was no one near to help
-me. At this moment I heard footsteps in the hall,
-and quickly opening the door, beheld a boy ascending
-the stairs. The promise of a piece of silver easily
-procured his assent to go for the nearest doctor, and
-accordingly he set off, while re-entering the room I
-resumed my station by the sick girl’s bedside. In a
-few minutes the physician arrived and my suspicions
-of the nature of the young girl’s disorder were confirmed,
-for he pronounced it to be a fever of the
-brain, and said that his patient would require constant
-watching and careful nursing. The father listened
-anxiously and attentively to the doctor’s words.
-His countenance fell as he caught the last sentences,
-though he said not a word. It was not till after
-giving his prescription, the physician left, promising
-to call early on the morrow, that he spoke what was
-passing in his mind.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“‘Julie must die!’ he said, bowing his head upon
-his hands, while bitter, hopeless anguish was depicted
-upon his face, ‘for I have no means of obtaining
-for her the care she needs.’ It was all that passed
-his lips, but it spoke volumes to my heart, and my
-resolution was instantly taken. I told him that I
-would not desert his child, that I would continue
-with her part of the day, and when I was obliged to
-leave that I would send some one to take my place.
-Oh, Harry! if you could only have seen how grateful
-that poor invalid looked! Most amply repaid was I
-by that glance for whatever I had undertaken. I remained
-<span class='pageno' title='244' id='Page_244'></span>
-with the sick girl several hours longer, and
-in the intervals when she slumbered, I had time to
-observe the appearance of things around me. The
-furniture was mean and scanty. There were but two
-chairs in the room, and the carpet was worn almost
-threadbare. Every thing betokened extreme poverty—but
-neatness was plainly perceptible in the arrangements
-of the apartment, and I felt from the appearance
-of its occupants that they had seen more prosperous
-days. A book lay upon a table close at hand,
-I took it up, and discovered it to be a volume of
-Bryant’s poems. On looking over the pages, I found
-several of the most beautiful passages marked. Upon
-one of the fly-leaves was <a id='write'></a>written, ‘To Julie—from
-her father.’ The book was evidently the young girl’s
-property. There was also a small portfolio of drawings
-upon the table, which evinced signs of both
-talent and cultivation. For an hour after the physician’s
-departure the parent of Julie—for by her name
-I may as well call her—showed little disposition to
-converse. He seemed exhausted by the emotions of
-the day—but I knew that though he said nothing, his
-gaze was often upon me when he imagined that I did
-not observe him. At last he roused himself to answer
-some inquiries which I thought it necessary to
-make. He told me that he was very poor, and that
-for more than a year, during which his infirmity had
-appeared and increased, his daughter had maintained
-him by the proceeds of her needle. He said also that
-two years previously he had resided at Baltimore as
-one of its wealthiest merchants—but having failed
-under circumstances that cast a cloud upon his character,
-though he was in reality innocent of intentional
-wrong, he had left the city of his birth and hastened
-with Julie, his only child, to New York, where he
-would be sure of never more meeting the scornful
-gaze of those who had been his friends ere misfortune
-overlook him. Here he hoped to procure employment—but
-fate seemed against him. Shortly
-after his arrival in this city, he was seized with a
-dangerous illness which left him in his present helpless
-condition, and his lovely and accomplished child
-found herself very unexpectedly thrown upon her
-own resources for her support and that of her invalid
-parent. Bravely for many months had she borne the
-burden, but continued anxiety concerning the means
-of obtaining life’s necessaries had at last done its
-work—and in the delirium of fever, the fair and noble
-girl now tossed restlessly upon her bed, a mere wreck
-of what she had once been.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“This brief sketch of their history, as you may
-imagine, dear Harry, interested me greatly. And
-when, at its conclusion, the speaker again expressed
-his fears for the future and his doubts as to the recovery
-of his child, for whom he had no power to provide
-necessary attendance, I again assured him that
-I would watch over her until she became quite well,
-and that after this I would endeavor to find some
-more healthy and suitable employment for her than
-that in which she had latterly been engaged.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Toward the close of the afternoon, being desirous
-of going home for awhile, I dispatched the boy whom
-I have once before mentioned, for Maggie, that she
-might supply my place as attendant upon the sick
-Julie, until evening, when I proposed to bear her
-company and resume my post at the bedside. She
-came, and her sympathies were soon all enlisted by
-the tale which I hurriedly repeated to her. But she
-decidedly opposed my wish to return—reminded me
-of my late indisposition, and declaring that I was not
-strong enough to bear the fatigue of sitting up all
-night, insisted upon being allowed to exercise her
-skill as nurse without any other assistance. I
-thanked her for her consideration, while I felt that
-she was right. So I left her and proceeded home,
-where, as you may suppose, I was welcomed most
-joyfully by little Willie and his sister, who had mourned
-incessantly over mamma’s protracted absence.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“And now, Harry, that I have finished my somewhat
-lengthy narrative, tell me whether you approve
-of what I have done and promised to do?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Certainly, dearest Alice,” replied Mr. Colman,
-affectionately pressing the little hand that rested
-within his own, “while you continue to follow, as
-you have hitherto done, the dictates of your own
-pure, loving heart, I can never do aught but applaud
-you. The present objects of your benevolence, are
-I am sure from the account, well worthy of whatever
-you may do for them, and I would advise you to persevere
-in your efforts for their welfare. But you
-quite forgot to tell me, my dear, if you discovered in
-your <span class='it'>protégé</span> the seamstress for whom you were
-searching.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“No, indeed,” she replied, while her countenance
-wore a look of vexation, “<span class='it'>my</span> seamstress was a very
-different sort of a being from this beautiful Julie. Nor
-do I think that I shall ever discover her, for just before
-I returned home I made inquiries as to whether
-a person answering her description lived in that
-house, and was assured that no one of that name had
-ever dwelt there. How foolish I was to trust those
-dresses to an entire stranger.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“And pray what may be the name of the family
-whose history has interested you so deeply?” asked
-Mr. Colman.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“The father’s name is Malcolm—Walter Malcolm,
-as he informed me. With the daughter’s I believe
-that I have already acquainted you.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Walter Malcolm! Julie Malcolm! And you say
-they are from Baltimore?” As he spoke Mr. Colman’s
-cheek grew suddenly pale, and rising from his
-seat he paced the apartment with a hasty and agitated
-step.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Why, what is the matter, Harry?” exclaimed his
-wife in a tone of the deepest solicitude, as she sprung
-to his side, “pray tell me what has moved you
-thus?” But it was some moments ere he seemed
-able to reply. At length with emotion he said—</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Alice, what if I were to tell you that this man—this
-Walter Malcolm is my brother—the brother who
-in my early youth drove me away from his luxurious
-home, an orphan and unprotected, to seek my
-fortune in the wide, wide world?” Alice Colman
-started and raised her eyes wonderingly to her husband’s
-face, and after a brief silence he resumed with
-a sternness unusual to him—</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='pageno' title='245' id='Page_245'></span>
-“In that hour, Alice—in that hour of utter desolation,
-when lonely and uncared for I left my brother’s
-roof forever, a fierce, burning desire for revenge
-took possession of my soul. In the first bitterness of
-despair I called upon Heaven to avenge my wrongs.
-I wished that Walter’s wealth might take to itself
-wings—that one day he might come to me for bread;
-and I resolved were this ever the case, to give him—a
-stone! My desire has been fulfilled, and my proud
-and unfeeling brother is now a beggar at my door!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>He paused—while his wife shuddered and looked
-appealingly up into his face.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Harry!” she exclaimed in a low, earnest tone,
-“you surely do not mean that you will not forgive
-the sorrow your brother’s conduct once caused you—that
-you will now look exultingly upon his woes, and
-turn a deaf ear to the wants of his sweet and suffering
-child?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The reproving expression of the dear face now
-anxiously upturned to his, at once recalled the husband
-to a sense of error, and drawing the form of the
-beloved one closer to his side, he said—</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Oh! how fervently should I thank Heaven who
-has given to me such a monitor in the hour of temptation!
-Pardon me, my Alice, if by giving way to
-impulse I have wounded your sensitive spirit, and
-that in the moment when passion held its sway, I
-slighted the divine lesson of forgiveness, through
-your influence first impressed upon my soul. Nay,
-dearest, look not thus surprised, for it was really by
-your means that the wish to quell the thirst for revenge
-upon my brother, entered my heart; and if you
-will listen a few seconds I can explain to you the
-words that at present may well seem mysterious.
-You will doubtless remember, Alice, that some
-months before our marriage, I experienced a severe
-fit of illness. One pleasant Sabbath evening shortly
-after I was declared convalescent, I was reclining
-upon a sofa in the sitting-room at your uncle’s residence.
-My spirits were just then very much depressed—I
-felt inwardly fretful and uneasy—and as
-is not uncommon at such a time, many little circumstances
-which before had been almost forgotten, rose
-up in my mind, and woke anew in my bosom sensations
-according to their nature, of pain, anxiety, or
-indignation. Among other things came forcibly to
-view the memory of the grievous wrong I had received
-at the hands of him who should have been a
-parent to me; and a feeling of the deepest hatred toward
-my brother stole to my heart, together with a
-hope that at some future time a chance might be
-mine of returning him measure for measure of the
-unkindness which he had so unsparingly dealt out to
-me.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“At that instant, Alice, you re-entered the room
-from which you had been a few minutes absent, and
-at the request of your uncle, opened the family Bible
-and began your usual Sabbath-evening duty of reading
-a series of chapters from the holy book. There
-was a passage in the first which you read that affected
-me strangely—for it came as a reproof from Heaven
-delivered to me through the medium of one of earth’s
-angels. It was the following—‘Avenge not yourselves,
-but rather give place unto wrath, for it is
-written, vengeance is mine; I will repay saith the
-Lord. Therefore, if thine enemy hunger, feed him;
-if he thirst, give him drink; for in so doing thou shalt
-heap coals of fire on his head.’ The sentences awed
-me, coming upon my ear as they did at a period
-when my spirit needed the precious warning and rebuke
-contained in them, and I breathed a silent
-prayer to Heaven for strength to enable me to heed
-it. The hour of my trial has arrived, and to-day
-have I again felt the promptings of the tempter. You
-cannot imagine with what force these old feelings
-have been driven back upon my soul, but, Alice, your
-voice has once more stilled the tempest, and I know
-that I have passed the ordeal in safety.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Harry Colman ceased, and this time as his gaze
-met that of his companion he saw that her eyes were
-full of tears—but they were tears of grateful joy.
-For a little while there was silence between them,
-but at length Mr. Colman continued:</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Let me recount to you, Alice, as briefly as possible,
-a few circumstances connected with my early
-history. I have never done so before, because the
-effort was a painful one, and there was no exact necessity
-for the repetition. As you are aware, I was
-so unfortunate as to lose my father when I was a
-mere infant, and my mother lived only till I had attained
-my twelfth year. I was the child of her
-second marriage, and she had one son by a previous
-union who was many years my senior. At the period
-of my mother’s death, my brother, Walter Malcolm,
-had been married nearly five years, and was
-now a widower and the father of one little girl, who
-had just reached her third summer. Upon her death-bed
-my parent left me beneath his care, desiring
-Walter to attend to my wants and to be kind and
-gentle to me when she was no more. As soon as the
-funeral was over, my brother took me with him to
-his own dwelling. I was now entirely dependent
-upon him for maintenance. Walter Malcolm was
-wealthy, for a large estate had descended to him from
-his father, who had also left my mother a life-annuity,
-which while she lived had supported us. At her
-death I was of course unprovided for, for my own
-father had possessed no worldly goods to bequeath
-me. My new home seemed very different to me
-from the hearth of my early, sunny childhood. I was
-lonely and desolate—for between Walter and myself
-brotherly love had never existed. Not that <span class='it'>I</span> would
-have denied him his meed—but I was too proud to
-award the gift that I was confident would never be
-valued, for my memory could not boast a single instance
-wherein he had evinced for me the slightest
-regard. Nay, I even felt that I was an object of dislike
-to him, though I knew not the cause. During
-my mother’s life I had been greatly indulged, and it
-was scarcely to be wondered at that I was frequently
-very wayward. Upon such occasions, a word of
-love had always been sufficient to control my passionate
-nature; but when the sweet affectionate tones
-that ever had power to calm me, were hushed in the
-tomb, my faults were met by my new guardian with
-harshness and contempt, and this never failed to
-<span class='pageno' title='246' id='Page_246'></span>
-rouse a spirit of continued opposition. There was
-but one voice in my brother’s household that ever
-spoke lovingly to me. It was that of his child—the
-little Julie. From the first hour of my residence beneath
-Walter’s roof, the little creature had conceived
-a passionate attachment to me, preferring my presence
-to that of her nurse or even her father. And,
-as you may imagine, Alice, I did not slight her proffered
-affection, and during the three years that we
-dwelt together the little one was the sole sunbeam
-upon my shadowed life-path. How gladly did I
-greet her graceful bounding step! How dear was
-the sound of her clear ringing laughter as I joined in
-her sports!—and more precious still were the moments
-when weary of play, she would steal to my
-side, and twining her tiny arms about my neck, murmur
-forth, in lisping accents, her sweet child-like
-terms of endearment.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I had reached my fifteenth year when the incident
-occurred that separated me from my brother.
-An error was laid to my charge of which I was
-really guiltless—and as I proudly refused to acknowledge
-and repair the fault—Walter Malcolm turned
-me from his dwelling, declaring that thenceforth and
-forever he disowned me! Time was merely given
-me to collect a few little articles that I could really
-call my own—I was not allowed to bid farewell to
-the child whom I yearned to look upon once more
-before I went—and so, an outcast, I passed from that
-stately mansion. Alice, I dare not linger over a description
-of my sensations in that hour of anguish—for
-it might perhaps arouse them again within my
-soul. You know the rest of my history—the circumstance
-of my adoption by your uncle who was
-then visiting Baltimore, and first beheld me in a store
-where I had entered in quest of employment. To him
-I confided the facts relating to my former life; he pitied
-and sympathized with me, and bore me with him to
-his own home in this city, and from that day was in
-every respect to the lonely orphan all that a kind
-and generous parent could be to his only son.”</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-top:1em;'>——</p>
-
-<h2 class='nobreak' id='h_8'>CHAPTER II.</h2>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The morning succeeding the events last recorded,
-at an early hour, Mrs. Colman was on her way to the
-dwelling of the now destitute and infirm Walter
-Malcolm. She had new motives for the advancement
-of her charitable purposes, and her interest in
-the sick girl had deepened since she knew her to be
-the one whose infant steps her own husband had
-guided. Hastening up the stairs she knocked at the
-door, which was soon opened by Maggie, who looked
-weary enough with the fatigue of the past night.
-The young girl had been very restless, she said, and
-she believed that the fever was rapidly progressing.
-“But is she not a beautiful creature?” remarked
-Maggie to her mistress, as she bent over the couch
-and parted the rich curls from the fevered brow,
-“ah, ma’am, I have nursed many a one before this
-in sickness—but never a person whose appearance
-so won upon me as hers has.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Alice Colman did not wonder at the observation—but
-as she now glanced round the room she met the
-gaze of Julie’s father, and her morning salutation to
-him was full of gentleness and sympathy.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Through the whole of that day Mrs. Colman maintained
-her station in the chamber of sickness and poverty.
-The physician came at the appointed hour,
-and gave it as his opinion that Julie was growing
-rapidly worse and that there were even doubts
-whether in any case her life would be spared. Oh!
-how the thought of her dying affected Mrs. Colman.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Let every thing be done that may be of benefit to
-her,” she said anxiously to the doctor, “spare no expense
-whatever if you think you can by any means
-preserve her from the grasp of death. I will be answerable
-for whatever remuneration you may require.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And not even content with his advice, she sent for
-her own family physician determined to try all the
-means she could for the preservation of the life of
-her husband’s niece. She noticed that Walter Malcolm
-looked very pale all day, but attributed it to
-anxiety for his daughter. He seemed too languid to
-converse—but once, as she handed him a glass of
-water, he said—“Lady, Heaven will reward your
-kindness to the suffering.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>That evening when Alice Colman returned home,
-her husband surprised her with the intelligence that
-Walter Malcolm was aware of her relationship to
-him. Before she went there in the morning, Mr.
-Colman had advised her on no account to allow his
-brother to suspect from whom he received the needful
-aid, for he feared that Walter still entertained
-against him the old feeling of hatred, and that it would
-awaken unpleasant emotions in his heart if he knew
-that the brother he had deserted was now destined to
-be his chief reliance. But the caution to his wife
-was unnecessary. Walter Malcolm had made inquiries
-of Maggie concerning the family to whom he
-was indebted, and from their minuteness Harry Colman
-was confident that he had been recognised.
-And that his brother had not forgotten his former
-aversion to him he deemed evident from the fact that
-he had said nothing of his discovery, during the day,
-to Mrs. Colman. The latter however thought differently.
-Julie’s father had spoken his thanks for that
-draught of water too earnestly for her to join in her
-husband’s belief, and she expressed her conviction
-that he repented his past conduct, and that he merely
-wanted courage to confess his penitence.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>But day after day passed on, and yet there was no
-allusion to the subject on the part of Walter Malcolm.
-Meanwhile his daughter had passed the crisis of the
-fever and was declared convalescent. If the appearance
-of Julie Malcolm in the hour of delirium had
-attracted the fancy of Alice Colman and her nurse,
-how much more were they drawn toward her when
-her mind was freed from the chains that bound it—for
-gentle and loving-hearted, her grateful spirit
-manifested itself in various little touching ways toward
-those who had watched over her during her
-dangerous illness. When she grew stronger and was
-able to enter into conversation, a perfect understanding
-arose between Mrs. Colman and herself that they
-were always to be friends. Alice Colman felt that
-<span class='pageno' title='247' id='Page_247'></span>
-she already loved Julie dearly—and the latter was
-not slow in returning the affection of one whose
-timely succor had saved her life. Still the young girl
-suspected not that they were kindred by law as in
-heart.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>It was soon settled that when Julie became entirely
-recovered, she should undertake the duties of
-governess to Mrs. Colman’s children, and this new
-office was to afford her the means of support. A
-more suitable residence had been sought by Alice
-Colman for Julie and her father, and they were to remove
-into it as soon as the former had gained sufficient
-strength to bear the fatigue. Two more weeks
-elapsed ere this last project was effected—and they
-were then comfortably settled in their new abode.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And still there was no sign from Walter Malcolm
-that he knew of his brother’s agency in the change
-wrought in his affairs. He was now generally reserved
-when Mrs. Colman was near, and his countenance
-often wore a deep shade of gloom.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-top:1em;'>——</p>
-
-<h2 class='nobreak' id='h_9'>CHAPTER III.</h2>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The first day that Julie Malcolm felt equal to the
-exertion was spent at the house of her new friend,
-and then it was that for the first time since her childhood,
-Harry Colman beheld his niece. So strongly
-impressed upon his mind was the recollection of her
-early fondness for him, and the soothing influence
-which her winning, affectionate ways had possessed
-over his spirit, that had he now obeyed the voice of
-impulse he would fain have clasped Julie once more
-to his heart; for though he now looked upon a beautiful
-and graceful maiden of eighteen, he could
-scarcely view her in any other light than as the darling
-child whose caresses had so often comforted him
-when greeted by every other voice with coldness.
-Yet recalling the fact that their relationship could not
-be breathed to her by himself, he was obliged to meet
-her with the reserve of a perfect stranger. But all
-formality between them soon vanished, and an hour
-after their introduction found them conversing together
-with the ease of old acquaintanceship. Nor
-had Julie forgotten, in her own frank earnest manner,
-to thank him again and again for the services his
-family had rendered her father and herself—while her
-soft dark eyes filled with tears as she spoke of the
-debt which by gratitude only she could repay.
-Harry Colman longed to tell her that <span class='it'>he</span> was the
-debtor—and that by his wife’s attention to her, Julie
-had but been rewarded for the love she had accorded
-him when all other hearts were steeled against him.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Mrs. Colman saw with delight her husband’s increasing
-predeliction for his niece—for by renewing
-his former affection for Julie, she hoped to make the
-young girl at some future day, the instrument of reconciliation
-between the estranged brothers.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The day of Julie’s visit to the Colmans was a
-happy one to all parties. Even little Effie Colman
-and her brother Willie, though at first rather shy of
-the lady, who, as they were told, was to initiate
-them into the mysteries of the primer, had become
-very fond of her, and were exceedingly loath to let
-her go when the time appointed for her return home
-arrived. Then, with her arms entwined about Julie’s
-neck, little Effie besought her to say when she was
-coming to them daily—and the following week was
-accordingly named for the commencement of her
-career as preceptress to the children.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-top:1em;'>——</p>
-
-<h2 class='nobreak' id='h_10'>CHAPTER IV.</h2>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The morning agreed upon by Julie and Mrs. Colman
-for the beginning of the former’s labors arrived,
-but the young girl did not appear. Knowing well
-her eagerness to enter upon her new duties—the eagerness
-of a noble spirit to throw off the yoke of dependence—Alice
-Colman might well feel anxious at
-Julie’s non-fulfillment of her promise. For the first
-time a thought crossed her mind that the suspicions
-of her husband concerning his brother’s continued ill-feeling
-toward him, might be just, and that Walter
-Malcolm had resolved to oppose his daughter’s constant
-association with them. But not long would she
-allow herself to imagine thus. Perhaps Julie was ill
-again—or some unforeseen circumstances had prevented
-her coming. So Mrs. Colman determined to
-wait till the following day, when if the object of her
-solicitude was still absent, and she received no message
-from her, she felt that she would then be more
-capable of judging the matter.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>It was not until near the close of the afternoon
-that she was relieved of uncertainty upon the subject
-by the reception of a note from Julie. The latter
-stated that her father was very ill of a dangerous
-fever, brought on, as the physician averred, by distress
-of mind—and that it was doubtful whether in
-his enfeebled condition he could live a week longer.
-She added that only a few hours previously he had
-informed her that their benefactress was the wife of
-his brother, and also of the unfeeling treatment which
-that brother had received from him. And Julie said
-that from the hour when he had learned the circumstance
-of their relationship, remorse and the knowledge
-of his unworthiness to accept assistance from
-the one whom he had injured, preyed upon her father’s
-spirits, and at last caused the fever that threatened
-soon to terminate his existence. His last
-earthly wish now was to see his brother and ask forgiveness
-of the past—and Julie concluded by begging
-Mrs. Colman to use all her influence in order to
-bring her uncle to her parent’s couch, if it were possible,
-that very evening.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And that evening Mr. Colman, accompanied his
-wife to the abode of Walter Malcolm. The meeting
-between the brothers was a painful one. There
-was mingled shame and penitential sorrow on the
-part of the elder, while the countenance of the
-younger was expressive of the deepest agitation as
-he stood by the bedside of him who had cast so dark
-a cloud upon his youth. Harry Colman had yielded
-to the entreaties of Alice for this interview, while he
-felt that it would have been wrong to have denied it—but
-it was not until he looked upon Walter’s pallid
-face, and heard that once stern and familiar voice
-supplicating forgiveness, even with the humble
-avowal that it was undeserved, that the lingering
-spark of resentment was entirely extinguished within
-<span class='pageno' title='248' id='Page_248'></span>
-his breast—and when he breathed the much-desired
-word of pardon they were truly heart-felt.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And by returning good for evil he had indeed
-“heaped coals of fire” upon the head of his brother.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“From your birth, Harry, you were the object of
-my bitterest envy and hatred,” was the confession
-of Walter Malcolm, “for upon you was freely lavished
-the love of that mother whose affection I had
-never possessed. She had been forced by her family
-into a union with my father while her heart was another’s—and
-when her husband died and she was
-free to wed again, she married the one who had first
-gained her regard. This was the key to your superior
-claim upon our mother’s love. I will not now
-blame her for the wrong of partiality, though it was
-the basis of my demeanor toward yourself. I should
-have had sufficient strength of mind to have resisted
-its influence—but in this I was sadly deficient. To
-the last hour of her life my mother’s chief thought
-was of you. Yes, even in her dying moments her principal
-anxiety was for <span class='it'>your</span> future happiness, while
-there was but little reference to the welfare of her
-eldest child. When she was no more, and you came
-to dwell beneath my roof, I scrupled not openly to
-show the sentiments which during our parent’s life-time
-I was obliged to conceal. And I had now an
-additional cause of dislike. I secretly accused you
-of robbing me of the affection of my little girl, who,
-as you will perhaps remember, always manifested a
-decided preference for your society. I did not reflect
-that my manner toward her was often cold and distant,
-and widely different from your own; and with
-such feelings of jealousy concerning you in my
-heart, it was scarcely to be wondered that I seized
-the first opportunity of ridding myself of your presence.
-Though I knew you to be guiltless of the
-fault for which I blamed you, I drove you from my
-dwelling, refusing from that moment to own you as
-a brother. Nor did I then experience the least remorse
-for the act—and during the years that followed
-I strove to forget that you had ever existed.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“It was only within the past twelvemonth, when
-surrounded by poverty, and the victim of an incurable
-malady, that as I lay restlessly upon my bed, the
-memory of my cruel conduct toward my innocent
-brother has pressed heavily upon my mind. Often
-have I busied my brain with vain conjectures respecting
-your fate—whether you still lived—and if
-you had escaped the whirlpool of crime and sin
-within which the young and unadvised are but too
-frequently engulfed. When I thought, as I sometimes
-did, that you might have fallen—my sensations were
-those of the most acute anguish, for I felt that the sin
-would all be mine, and that at the judgment day I
-should be called to the throne of God to hear him
-pronounce the fearful penalty for the murder of a
-brother’s soul.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“At length, through the illness of my daughter, who
-was very unexpectedly thrown upon the benevolence
-of your wife, I obtained from your servant some information
-concerning the family to whom I owed so
-much, and discovered in the hand stretched forth to
-aid my child, the wife of my discarded brother. It
-would be vain to attempt a description of my emotions
-as I learned this fact. Joy that you were not
-forever lost, predominated—and then was added
-shame, and a consciousness of my own unworthiness
-to receive the benefits which henceforth you daily
-conferred upon me, as I felt that you must have
-recognized me—for I had given to your wife an account
-of my previous life. Each successive service
-lavished upon my family by your own, sunk like a
-weight of lead upon my heart, while as I saw how
-generously you repaid me for the evil I had committed
-against you, I longed to cast myself at your feet
-and supplicate forgiveness. But one thought deterred
-me. It was the fear that you might deem me actuated
-by interested motives—by the desire to leave my
-daughter at my death under the care of her now
-wealthy uncle. And so, for a time, I set aside the
-yearning for a reconciliation. But it returned with
-double force when this, which I know will be my
-last illness, came upon me, and I felt that I could not
-die happily without hearing from your lips a pardon
-for my misdeed.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The weeping Julie had stood by the bedside listening
-attentively as her father spoke, one hand resting
-affectionately in her uncle’s, while the other was
-clasped in that of his wife. Though scarcely six
-years old when Harry Colman was dismissed from
-his brother’s house, she had ever retained a vivid recollection
-of the event. She remembered how passionately
-she had wept when told by her nurse that
-she would probably never again behold her favorite,
-and how indignant she had felt when they said that it
-was owing to his own naughty conduct he had been
-sent away—while her ignorance of the fact that her
-uncle’s name was not the same as her father’s prevented
-a recognition of him when they again met.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk112'/>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Walter Malcolm survived a week after the scene
-just described. Having made his peace with earthly
-objects, his last hours were devoted to solemn preparations
-for a future state, looking trustfully for the
-mercy of Him who listens kindly to the prayer of the
-penitent. His brother was constantly with him till
-his eyes were forever closed in the death-slumber;
-and from the day when the remains of her father
-were borne to their last resting-place, the orphan
-Julie found a home with her uncle, to whose pleasant
-hearth she was lovingly welcomed, while by every
-kind and sympathizing attention her relatives strove
-to alleviate the sorrow for a parent’s loss, which at
-first seemed almost insupportable.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk113'/>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' title='249' id='Page_249'></span><h1><a id='relic'></a>THE UNSEPULCHRED RELICS.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY MRS. L. S. GOODWIN.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='blockquote0r9'>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Far out of the usual course of vessels crossing that ocean, they discovered an unknown island, covered with majestic
-trees. The captain, with a portion of the crew, went on shore, and after traversing its entire circumference
-without seeing a solitary representative of the animal kingdom, were about to return to their ship, when the skeleton
-of a man was found upon the beach, and beside it lay a partially constructed boat.”</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>Bleaching upon the sands that pave</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;An unknown islet strand,</p>
-<p class='line'>Where surges bear from mermaid cave</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The music of her band,</p>
-<p class='line'>A clayey temple’s ruin lies—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Of that grand pile a part</p>
-<p class='line'>Whereon the Architect Divine</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Displayed His wondrous art;</p>
-<p class='line'>Its tenant long since hath obeyed</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The summons to depart.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Mysterious, as dire, the doom</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;That cast a death-scene where</p>
-<p class='line'>Deep solitude converts to gloom</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;What else were brightly fair:</p>
-<p class='line'>Perchance wild waves that made a wreck</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Of some ill-fated bark,</p>
-<p class='line'>Giving his valiant comrades all</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;To feast the rav’nous shark,</p>
-<p class='line'>Swept hither this lone mariner,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;For misery a mark.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Yon half-completed boat his lot</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;In mournful tones doth tell;</p>
-<p class='line'>With what assiduous zeal he wrought</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Upon that tiny cell,</p>
-<p class='line'>Which promised o’er the billows broad</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The worn one to convey</p>
-<p class='line'>Within compassion’s genial realm,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Where woes find sweet allay;</p>
-<p class='line'>’Twere better e’en the sea should whelm</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Than thus with want hold fray.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Believe you not that in his pain,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;His agony of soul,</p>
-<p class='line'>Flew o’er the dark engirding main</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The thoughts which spurn control?</p>
-<p class='line'>Abiding with the cherished ones</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Who blest a far-off home;</p>
-<p class='line'>O how his sinking spirit yearned</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;To view once more that dome;</p>
-<p class='line'>To hear young voices gayly shout</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;For joy that he had come.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>He mused how love with pining frame</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Her grief-fount would exhaust,</p>
-<p class='line'>As on time’s laggard wing there came</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;No tidings of the lost.</p>
-<p class='line'>Ah! who may speak the bitter pangs</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;That exile’s bosom knew.</p>
-<p class='line'>As, day by day, and hour by hour,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Faint, and yet fainter, grew</p>
-<p class='line'>The hope that erst had nerved him on</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;His labor to pursue.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>To ply their wonted task, at length,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Refused his weary hands;</p>
-<p class='line'>His form was stretched, bereft of strength.</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Upon the burning sands.</p>
-<p class='line'>Haply his latest wish besought</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;’Mong kindred dead to lie;</p>
-<p class='line'>But fate denied the boon, and death</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Seized him ’neath stranger sky;</p>
-<p class='line'>While mercy drew a mystic veil</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;’Twixt him and friendship’s eye.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk114'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='rem'></a>REMINISCENCES OF A READER.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY THE LATE WALTER HERRIES, ESQ.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>Oh! the times will never be again</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;As they were when we were young,</p>
-<p class='line'>When Scott was writing “Waverlies,”</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And Moore and Byron sung;</p>
-<p class='line'>When “Harolds,” “Giaours” and “Corsairs” came</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;To charm us every year,</p>
-<p class='line'>And “Loves” of “Angels” kissed Tom’s cup,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;While Wordsworth sipped small beer.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>When Campbell drank of Helicon,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And didn’t <span class='it'>mix</span> his <span class='it'>liquor</span>;</p>
-<p class='line'>When Wilson’s strong and steady light</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Had not begun to flicker;</p>
-<p class='line'>When Southey, climbing piles of books,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Mouthed “Curses of Kehama;”</p>
-<p class='line'>And Coleridge, in his opium dreams,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Strange oracles would stammer;</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>When Rodgers sent his “Memory,”</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Thus hoping to delight all,</p>
-<p class='line'>Before he learned his mission was</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;To give “feeds” and invite all;</p>
-<p class='line'>When James Montgomery’s “weak tea” strains</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Enchanted pious people,</p>
-<p class='line'>Who didn’t mind poetic <span class='it'>haze</span>,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;If through it loomed a <span class='it'>steeple</span>.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>When first reviewers teamed to show</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Their judgment without mercy;</p>
-<p class='line'>When Blackwood was as young and lithe</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;As now he’s old and pursy;</p>
-<p class='line'>When Gifford, Jeffrey, and their clan,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Could fix an author’s doom,</p>
-<p class='line'>And Keats was taught how well they knew</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;To kill <span class='it'>à coup de plume</span>.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Few womenfolk were rushing then</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;To the Parnassian mount,</p>
-<p class='line'>And seldom was a teacup dipped</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;In the Castalian fount;</p>
-<p class='line'>Apollo kept no <span class='it'>pursuivant</span>,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;To cry out “<span class='it'>Place aux Dames</span>:”</p>
-<p class='line'>In life’s round game they held <span style='font-size:smaller'>GOOD</span> <span class='it'>hands</span>,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And didn’t strive for <span class='it'>palms</span>.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Oh! the world will never be again</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;What it was when we were young,</p>
-<p class='line'>And shattered are the idols now</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;To which our boyhood clung;</p>
-<p class='line'>Gone are the <span class='it'>giants</span> of those days,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;For whom our wreaths we twined,</p>
-<p class='line'>And <span class='it'>pigmies</span> now <span class='it'>kick up a dust</span></p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;To show the <span class='it'>march of mind</span>.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk115'/>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' title='250' id='Page_250'></span><h1><a id='gipsy'></a>THE GIPSY QUEEN.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY JOSEPH R. CHANDLER.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-top:1.5em;margin-bottom:1.5em;font-size:0.9em;'>[SEE ENGRAVING.]</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Power, consequence, importance, greatness, are
-relative terms; they denote position or attainment,
-comparable with some other. And hence a queen is
-a queen at the head of a band of gipsies as much as
-if she sat upon a throne, at the head of a nation
-whose morning drum beats an eternal <span class='it'>reveille</span>. It
-was <a id='there'></a>therefore, and for another cause yet to be told,
-that I lifted my hat with particular deference when
-I opened suddenly upon the head woman of a gipsy
-tribe, as I was passing through a small piece of
-woodland. Though, truth to say, I had been looking
-at her for some time, an hour previous, as she was
-giving some directions to one or two of her ragged
-and dirty train. Now I had known that woman in
-other circumstances. I had seen her in the family,
-had heard her commended by the men for her graceful
-movements, and berated by the women for exhibiting
-those movements to the men, and being as
-free with her tongue in presence of her female superiors
-as she had been with her feet before her male
-admirers. But neither the admiration of the men nor
-the rebuke of the women produced any effect. All
-that this woman received from a long sojourn with
-the people of the village, was a little loss of the darkness
-of the skin, and a pretty good understanding of
-the wants and weaknesses of society. Everybody
-knew that she had been left in exchange for a healthful
-child—and some years before it had been discovered
-that the healthful child would be worth nothing
-to the gipsies, and the gipsy girl would, at the
-first opportunity, return to her “brethren and kindred
-according to the flesh.” And such was the skill
-which she manifested on her return, such her ability
-to direct, such her knowledge of the wants of the
-villagers, and her power to take advantage of these
-wants, that she became the head of the tribe with
-which she was associated, and might have directed
-numerous tribes, could they have been collected for
-her guidance.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>I could not learn that there was much of a story
-connected with the life of the queen, much indeed
-that would interest the general reader. But she was
-a woman—and her heart, a mystery to the uninitiated,
-would, if exposed, have been worth a world’s perusal.
-A woman’s heart—alas! how few are admitted
-to loose the seals and open that secret volume!
-How very few could understand the revelation if it
-were made. I could not, I confess; and it is only
-when a peculiar light is thrown upon here and there
-a pace, that I can acquire even a partial knowledge
-of what is manifested. The Queen of the Gipsies,
-though elevated by right, and sustained by knowledge,
-was no less a woman than a queen. She could and
-did command male and female, old and young. She
-was treated with all that marked distinction which,
-even among her rude people, continues to be paid to
-preeminence. And while she sought to do the best
-for all, she received all this homage with that ease,
-and that apparent absence of wonder, which denote
-the right to distinction—this was a part of her queenly
-character admirably sustained, natural, easy, dignified.
-But the queen was a <span class='it'>woman</span>. I had heard her
-give orders, which sent certain of the most active of
-the young, male and female, to the other side of the
-village, and then she gave employment to the old and
-the young in the moving hamlet, and seeing the first
-depart, and the last busy, she left the camp, and took
-her way through the wood. I followed her and
-traced her rapid steps to the burying-ground of the
-town, which stood a distance from any dwelling.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Seating myself out of view, I saw the queen walk
-directly to a recently sodded grave, upon which she
-looked down for a moment, and then clasping her
-hands wildly above her head she threw herself with
-a subdued cry upon the grave. I was too far from
-her to distinguish all the words of her lament, but
-they were wild and agonizing.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>After a short time the woman arose, and said with
-a distinct, clear voice, “With thee and for thee I
-could have endured the mockery of their boasted
-civilization, and suffered the ceremonies of their
-tame creed. With thee and for thee I would have
-foregone my native tribe and my hereditary rights.
-So persuasive was thy affection that I could have
-forgotten—or at least would not have boasted—that
-I was of the glorious race that knows no manacles of
-body or of mind, but what it chooses to impose. But
-thou art gone, and with thee all my attraction to the
-idle, wearisome life of thy race. I have returned to
-my people, and I may lead them, and power and
-activity may for a time weaken my agony. I need
-no longer sacrifice my love for my race—but yet one
-sacrifice I will make, and thy grave shall be the
-altar. With thee my heart is buried. To thee do I
-here swear an eternal fidelity—and year by year
-will I lead my tribe hither, that I may pour out my
-anguish upon the sod that rises above thee. And I
-may hope that such devotion may lead the spirit that
-made our race for future happiness as for present
-freedom, to give thee back to me when I enter on
-my world of changeless love and glorious recompense.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Kneeling again, the Gipsy Queen kissed the grave,
-and gathered a few blades of grass and one or two
-flowers, shook away the tears which she had let fall
-upon them, and placing them in her bosom turned
-and left the burying-place, and proceeded toward the
-camp. I left my position by the other route, and
-<span class='pageno' title='251' id='Page_251'></span>
-passing through the wood I met her. Her face was
-cleared from every cloud, no trace of a tear was evident;
-she had prepared herself to meet her party in
-a way to excite no inquiry.</p>
-
-<div class='figcenter'>
-<img src='images/i077.jpg' alt='' id='iid-0003' style='width:500px;height:auto;'/>
-<p class='caption'><span class='bold'>THE GIPSEY QUEEN.</span><br/> <br/>Engraved expressly for Graham’s Magazine</p>
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The little that I knew of the Gipsy Queen previous
-to that day, and what was told me by one who had
-lived in the village very long, I have set down. I
-never saw her after I passed her in the woods. But
-she made an impression on my mind that will not be
-easily removed. And she bore in her heart motives
-for action which few but herself and me will ever
-know.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk116'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='lament'></a>THE BROTHER’S LAMENT.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY MRS. AMELIA B. WELBY.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>One moment more, beneath the old elm, Mary,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Where last we parted in the flowing dell—</p>
-<p class='line'>One moment more through twilight tints that vary,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;To gaze upon thy grave, and then, farewell!</p>
-<p class='line'>Ere from this spot, and these loved scenes I sever,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Where still thy lovely spirit seems to stray—</p>
-<p class='line'>One look—to fix them on my soul forever—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;And then away!</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Mary, I know my steps should now be shrinking</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;From this sad spot—but on my mournful gaze</p>
-<p class='line'>A scene floats up that sets my soul to thinking</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;On all the dear delights of other days!</p>
-<p class='line'>I’m gazing on the little foot-bridge yonder</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Thrown o’er the stream whose waters purl below,</p>
-<p class='line'>Where I so oft have seen thee pause and ponder,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Leaning thy white brow on thy hand of snow.</p>
-<p class='line'>I’m standing on the spot where last we parted,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Where, as I left thee in the fragrant dell,</p>
-<p class='line'>I saw thee turn so oft—half broken-hearted—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Waving thy hand in token of farewell.</p>
-<p class='line'>I start to meet thy footstep light and airy—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;But—the cold grass waves o’er thy sweet young head;</p>
-<p class='line'>Would that the shroud that wraps thy fair form, Mary,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;Wrapped mine instead!</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>In vain my heart its bitter thoughts would parry,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;An adder’s grasp about its chords seem curled,</p>
-<p class='line'>For you were all I ever thought of, Mary—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Were all I doted on in this wide world!</p>
-<p class='line'>And yet, I’d sigh not while thy fate I ponder,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Did memory only bring thee to my eyes</p>
-<p class='line'>Pale as thou sleepest in the church-yard yonder—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Or as an angel dazzling from the skies!</p>
-<p class='line'>I then at least could treasure each sweet token</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Of thy pure love—and in life’s mad’ning whirl</p>
-<p class='line'>Steel my crushed heart—had not thine own been broken,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;Poor hapless girl!</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>But, Mary—Mary, when I think upon thee,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;As when I last beheld thee in thy pride—</p>
-<p class='line'>And on the fate—oh God!—to which he won thee—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;I curse the hour that sent me from your side!</p>
-<p class='line'>Oh why wert thou so richly, strangely gifted</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;With mortal loveliness beyond compare?</p>
-<p class='line'>The look of love beneath thy lashes lifted—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Its fatal sweetness was to thee a snare!</p>
-<p class='line'>Yet sleep, my sister—I will not upbraid thee—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Thou wert too sweet—too innocently dear;</p>
-<p class='line'>But he—the exulting demon who betrayed thee—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;He lives, he lives, and I am loitering here!</p>
-<p class='line'>Even now some happier fair one’s chains may bind him</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;In dalliance sweet—but I’ll avenge thee well!</p>
-<p class='line'>Avenge thee?—Yes! a brother’s curse will find him,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Though he should dive into the deeps of hell!</p>
-<p class='line'>I swear it, sister—as thou art forgiven—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;By all our wrongs—by all our severed ties,</p>
-<p class='line'>And by the blessedness of yon blue heaven,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;That gives its world of azure to mine eyes!</p>
-<p class='line'>By all my love—by every sacred duty</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;A brother owes—and by yon heaving sod,</p>
-<p class='line'>Thine early grave—and by thy blighted beauty,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Thou sweetest angel in the realms of God!</p>
-<p class='line'>I swear it, by the bursting groans I smother,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And call on Heaven and thee to nerve me now.</p>
-<p class='line'>Mary, look down!—behold thy wretched brother,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;And bless the vow!</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Sister, my soul its last farewell is taking,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And I for this had thought it nerved to-night,</p>
-<p class='line'>But every chord about my heart seems breaking,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And blinding tears shut out the glimmering sight.</p>
-<p class='line'>One look—one last long look to hill and meadow—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;To the old foot-bridge and the murmuring mill,</p>
-<p class='line'>And to the church-yard sleeping in the shadow—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Cease tears—and let these fond eyes look their fill!</p>
-<p class='line'>One look—and now farewell ye scenes that vary</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Beneath the twilight shades that round me flow!</p>
-<p class='line'>The charm that bound my wild heart here, was Mary—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;And she lies low!</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk117'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='mach'></a>SONNET TO MACHIAVELLI.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>FROM THE ITALIAN OF MAMIANI.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>Thou mighty one, whose winged words of yore</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Have spread on history’s page Italia’s wars,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The sad mischances of intestine jars,</p>
-<p class='line'>Like beacons blazing where the breakers roar.</p>
-<p class='line'>Still canst thou glance out civil discords o’er?</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Some solace for us canst thou not divine?</p>
-<p class='line'>Canst thou not oil on troubled waters pour,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And soothe each petty tyrants ruthless mind?</p>
-<p class='line'>Why else unveil the falsehood of our land,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Which sees not why its tale thou deign’st to tell?</p>
-<p class='line'>Why else didst thou with an unsparing hand</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Make bare the wounds whose angry scars will tell</p>
-<p class='line'>The lasting shame of ignomy’s brand,</p>
-<p class='line'>All petrified at history’s command?</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk118'/>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' title='252' id='Page_252'></span><h1><a id='dar'></a>THE DARSIES.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY EMMA C. EMBURY.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='blockquote0r9'>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>Don Pedro.</span> I pray you, hold me not responsible for all these travelers’ tales. I am but the mouthpiece of others:
-therefore, if I question the infallibility of the Pope, summon me not before the Inquisition; if I speak treason against
-the king, clap me not up in the Tower; and if I utter heresy against the ladies, let me not be flayed alive by the nails
-of enraged damsels. <span class='sc'>Old Play.</span></p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“There is no use in wasting words, Cousin
-Charles; you never can persuade me that men love
-more devotedly than women.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“How can you be so unreasonable, Anne? I only
-want to convince you that affection being an essential
-part of woman’s nature, she cannot help loving
-something or somebody all her life. The most she
-does, even in her most intense devotion, is to <span class='it'>individualize</span>
-the general sentiment which pervades her
-character; but when men love, they actually take up
-a new nature, and concentrate upon it all their
-strength of mind and force of character.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“You have certainly a droll method of reasoning,
-cousin; because women are <span class='it'>loving</span> creatures, therefore
-they cannot love as well as the rougher sex.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“You are willful, Anne, and are determined not
-to understand me. I mean that love is usually a
-habitude with women, while with men, if it exists
-at all, it is a positive, determinate thing—a graft, as
-it were, upon their sturdy natures, and partaking
-therefore of the strength of the stock which nourishes
-it.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“How can you say so when men are always in
-love, from the time they quit the nursery until they
-are gray-headed, or <span class='it'>married</span>?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Such attachments are mere fancies.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Pray, how is one to distinguish between a fancy
-and a fact in so delicate a matter?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“It is difficult to decide at first, because in their inceptive
-state they are much alike; but time is the
-true test. A fancy, a mere intoxication of the senses,
-is scarce worth talking about; but in a genuine manly
-love there is a depth, a fervor, a disinterestedness, a
-devotion, such as woman can never feel—nay, which
-they can rarely appreciate.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Heresy—rank heresy—Cousin Charles. I appeal
-to Uncle Lorimer, who has heard our whole discussion,
-if you do not deserve excommunication with
-‘bell, book and candle,’ for holding such opinions.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The cousins were sitting together in the twilight,
-and, as the shadows of evening deepened around
-them, the light of the soft-coal fire in the polished
-grate gave a beautifully cheerful look of home comfort
-to the pleasant apartment. An old gentleman,
-whose silver hair glittered in the fire-light, had been
-sitting in the chimney-nook, and, thus appealed to by
-his merry niece, he smiled good-humoredly as he
-replied—</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“If you submit the dispute to me, I must decide
-against both.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Why so?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Because you are both too generalizing in your
-remarks. In this work-a-day world of ours there is
-a daily and hourly need of the tender, watchful,
-kindly ministry of sympathy and affection; now the
-peculiar attributes of woman’s nature are such as fit
-her for this ministry; and whether it be a mere
-habitude or not, it is the quality most needed by men
-and most generally possessed by women.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Anne clapped her hands, and looked triumphantly
-at her cousin; but Uncle Lorimer continued—</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I must agree with Charles, however, that when
-men give out their whole strength to a genuine affection,
-it is a more unselfish, magnanimous and higher
-emotion than ever could dwell in the bosom of
-woman. The same qualities which make her the
-gentler half of man mingle their leaven in her affections.
-For instance, a woman will make any sacrifice
-for one whom she loves, she will bear all kinds
-of privation and suffering for his sake, but earth
-holds not the creature more pitilessly exacting of
-affection than she is, or more jealously awake to
-every whisper of distrust. Another weakness in her
-character is vanity; and I must confess I never yet
-found a woman so much in love with her lover, that
-she would not curl her hair and dress in her best to
-meet the eyes of other men.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Oh! uncle. You are worse than Charles.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“But perhaps you will like to hear my whole
-opinion, Anne. I have said that women possess
-most of the quality which is required in daily life;
-as I am not one of those who pretend to despise <span class='it'>good
-habits</span> because they are not <span class='it'>heroic virtues</span>, I think
-you ought to be satisfied with my decision.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“But you attribute so much nobler a quality to
-men.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“That is true, but let me comfort you by just
-whispering in your ear, that not one man in a thousand
-is capable of such an affection. True sentiment
-is the rarest thing upon earth. To use the
-language of your favorite poet—</p>
-
-<div class='blockquote0r9'>
-
-<div class='poetry-container' style=''><div class='lgp'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line0'>Accident, blind contact, and the strong necessity of loving,</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end poetry block --><!-- end rend -->
-
-</div>
-
-<p class='noindent'>often bring together hearts which habit afterward
-keeps united. Few, very few, create an ideal in
-their youth and see it substantialize into a reality
-as life goes on. Still fewer of those men who
-are capable of real love ever bestow its treasures
-upon one who can appreciate them. I think I have
-never known a single instance of such an attachment
-being reciprocated and rewarded.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Did you ever know more than one man who possessed
-this faculty of loving, uncle?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='pageno' title='253' id='Page_253'></span>
-“In the course of my long life I have known <span class='it'>three</span>;
-and if you choose I will tell you the history of one
-of these, to prove my theory.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Among my earliest school friends and playmates
-were Edgar and Herbert Darsie. They were twin-brothers,
-the only children of a widow, whom I remember
-as a tall, pale lady in close mourning, which
-she never laid aside till the day of her death. There
-was little of that resemblance between the twins
-which generally makes the pleasant puzzle of mothers
-and nurses in similar cases; for, though alike
-in feature and height, and even in their peculiarity
-of gait and manner, yet Edgar had the fair complexion,
-blue eyes, and light silken hair of his mother;
-while Herbert’s olive complexion, dark eyes,
-and curling black locks betrayed the French blood
-which he derived from his father. They were cheerful,
-happy-tempered boys, and possessed a certain
-natural sweetness of manner, which made them universal
-favorites with old and young. Their mother
-lived in the retired but handsome style which, in
-those days, was considered the proper mode of
-showing respect for the memory of a husband. She
-kept up the establishment exactly as it had been
-during Mr. Darsie’s life, and seemed to find her only
-pleasure in doing precisely as he would have wished.
-She was apparently in the enjoyment of a handsome
-income, kept her carriage, and had a number of servants,
-while the house and grounds exhibited taste
-as well as no stint of expense.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“The boys were about twelve years of age, when
-an accident happened to Herbert, which, though apparently
-slight at first, finally led to the most disastrous
-consequences. While skating, he fell and received
-some injury, which, after months of suffering, finally
-developed itself in an incurable disease of the spine,
-entailing upon him a life-time of pain, and branding
-him with frightful deformity. The tall, lithe, graceful
-boy, whose step had been as light and free as the
-leap of the greyhound, was now a dwarfed and distorted
-cripple. As soon as he was able to leave his
-sick-room, Mrs. Darsie placed Edgar at boarding-school,
-and sailed for Europe, with the intention of
-giving Herbert the benefit of all the modern discoveries
-in medicine. She designed to be absent a year,
-but, led on by fallacious hopes, she traveled farther,
-and remained much longer than she had anticipated.
-Three years elapsed before her return, and to all appearance
-Herbert had derived little benefit from the
-various experiments to which he had been subjected.
-He was still dependent on his crutch, and his gnarled
-and stunted figure presented a pitiable contrast to the
-tall and well-knit form of his brother. But his health
-was somewhat improved; his paroxysms of pain
-were less frequent, and he could now enjoy weeks
-of comparative ease and comfort.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“The brothers had early been remarkable for their
-affection for each other, and their unbroken concord,
-but their long separation had not been without its
-effect upon them. Edgar was gay, active, volatile,
-and not destitute of a leaven of selfishness; while
-Herbert had become grave, quiet, gentle in manner,
-and most thoughtful and considerate for others. To
-him suffering had been a teacher of all good things,
-and the misfortune of being cut off from fellowship
-with the world had taught him to find resources
-within himself. He could not and did not expect
-Edgar to sympathize in all his tastes, for he was
-conscious that their paths must henceforth be divided
-ones. He schooled himself to overcome the pang
-which this reflection gave to his sensitive spirit, and
-tried to find in his brother’s enjoyments of outer life,
-a pleasure which he could only receive from the
-reflection of another’s joy.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Soon after their return from Europe, Mrs. Darsie
-received into her family the orphan child of a poor
-clergyman, partly from charity, partly with a view
-to furnish a companion and attendant for Herbert.
-Jessie Graham was a pale, delicate-looking child,
-about twelve years old, when she took up her abode
-with her benefactress. Her thin and almost transparent
-cheek, her bloodless lips, and large gray,
-timid-looking eyes, spoke of fragile health, and of a
-certain shyness of character which might be the result
-of early anxieties, or perhaps denoted feebleness
-of mind and indecision. But she was a sweet-tempered,
-gentle little girl, and her compassion for
-Herbert’s melancholy condition soon dissipated her
-shyness toward him, though to every one else, even
-to Mrs. Darsie, she was as timid as a startled fawn.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“To divert his lonely hours Herbert undertook her
-instruction. He was but a boy of fifteen, but sorrow
-had given him the stability of manhood; and never
-did a more discreet, tender, and watchful Mentor
-attempt the training of a female mind. Jessie was
-docile and intelligent, quickly acquiring every thing
-which called forth the perceptive faculties, but utterly
-incapable of abstract reasoning or profound reflection.
-Her mind possessed a certain activity, and a kind of
-feminine patience that enabled her to do full credit
-to her teacher, without ever attaining to his high
-reach of thought. To cultivate her mental powers,
-to impart to her a portion of his accomplishments,
-and to train her moral sense, now became Herbert’s
-chief occupation. That such employment of heart
-and mind saved him from bitterness and misanthropy
-there can be no doubt; but whether he did not pay
-dearly for his exemption we shall see in the sequel.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Time passed on without making any great change
-in the affairs of the Darsies. Edgar went through
-college rather because it was necessary to a gentlemanly
-education than from any love for study, and,
-immediately after graduating, he set off on the tour
-of Europe. In the meantime Herbert continued to
-lead his usual quiet life, driving out in his low pony-carriage
-every day, teaching Jessie all she would
-learn, and surrounding himself with pictures of his
-own painting in the intervals of his severer studies.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“It was on the anniversary of their birth—the day
-they attained their twenty-first year—that the brothers
-again met upon their own hearth-stone. Mrs. Darsie’s
-health had begun to fail, and Edgar, at Herbert’s
-suggestion, had unwillingly torn himself from the
-enjoyments of Parisian life to return to his quiet
-home. He found his mother sadly changed, and
-evidently suffering from the insidious disease which
-<span class='pageno' title='254' id='Page_254'></span>
-so slowly saps the foundations of health and life.
-Herbert, like all deformed persons, had early lost the
-freshness of youth, and he was not surprised, therefore,
-to find him looking at least ten years older than
-himself, but he was astonished at the intellectual
-beauty which seemed to radiate from his noble countenance.
-To the shapeless form of a stunted tree he
-united the head of a demi-god. The beauty of his
-classical features, the splendor of his deep, dark eyes,
-and rich glossy hair curling in heavy masses round
-his temples, gave him the appearance of a magnificently
-sculptured head joined on to some distorted
-torso.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“But if Edgar was startled at the change in his
-mother and brother, how was he amazed and bewildered
-when he saw Jesse Graham! The pale,
-puny, frightened-looking little girl had expanded into
-one of the very loveliest of women. At eighteen
-Jessie had all that delicate yet fresh beauty which a
-painter would select as his model for a youthful
-Hebe. “A rose crushed upon ivory” was not too
-extravagant a simile for her cheek; her lips were
-like the berry of the mountain-ash; and her eyes so
-soft, so tender, with just enough of their former shyness
-to make them always seem appealing in their
-expression, were like nothing else on earth.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“You are extravagant, Uncle Lorimer; pray how
-did you avoid falling in love with such a creature?”
-asked Anne, saucily.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“By the best of all preventives—<span class='it'>pre-occupation</span>.
-But my story has to do with others, not with me.
-Soon after Edgar’s return, his mother took an opportunity
-to inform him of her plans with regard to
-Jessie. She had watched the progress of Herbert’s
-attachment to his young pupil, and she believed it to
-be fully reciprocated by the docile girl. She had,
-therefore, as she thought, fully provided for Herbert’s
-future happiness; and, lest Edgar should be attracted
-by Jessie’s loveliness, she hastened to tell him that in
-the beautiful orphan he beheld his brother’s future
-wife. Mrs. Darsie was a weak woman, though
-kind-hearted and affectionate. She proceeded to
-inform Edgar how the idea first came into her head—how
-she had told Herbert of it—how she had been at
-first shocked at the thought of sacrificing Jessie’s
-youthful loveliness to such a union—how she discovered
-his secret love even from his heroic self-denial—how
-she had finally succeeded in persuading
-him that Jessie really loved him better than any one
-in the world—and how he had at last consented to
-entertain the hope and belief that Jessie might become
-his wife without repugnance. To Edgar’s
-very natural question, whether Jessie was really
-willing to marry Herbert, his mother replied that as
-yet Jessie knew nothing of their plans, Herbert
-having forbidden her to use her influence in the
-matter, being determined that if he won Jessie, it
-should be through her own free and <a id='bias'></a>unbiased will.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Whether it arose from that perverseness in human
-nature, which teaches men to value a thing just in
-proportion to its difficulty of attainment, or whether
-Jessie’s loveliness was irresistible to a man of Edgar’s
-temperament, I cannot determine; but certain it is,
-that from that time he looked upon her with far different
-eyes than he had at first regarded her. Edgar
-was precisely the kind of man who is always successful
-with women. His talents and accomplishments
-were all of the most superficial kind, but he
-danced well, sung beautifully, played the guitar
-gracefully, and withal was exceedingly handsome.
-His voice was perfect music, and when he bent down
-in a half-caressing manner over a lady’s chair, flinging
-back his bright, silken hair, and gazing in her
-face with eyes full of dangerous softness, while his
-rich voice took the sweetest tone of deference and
-heart-felt emotion, it was next to impossible for any
-woman to resist his fascinations.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Was his character a perfectly natural one, uncle,
-or was this exquisite manner the result of consummate
-art?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“It was natural to him to wish to please, and he
-aided his natural attractions by a certain devotedness
-of manner, which made each individual to whom he
-addressed himself <span class='it'>appropriate</span> his tenderness as her
-own right. Jessie had lived in such close seclusion
-that she knew nothing of the world or its ways. It
-is probable that had Herbert asked her to become his
-wife before the return of Edgar, she would have
-easily consented, for she certainly loved him very
-dearly, and long habit of associating with him had
-accustomed her to his deformity. To her he was not
-the shapeless dwarf, whose crippled limbs scarce
-bore the weight of his crooked body. He had been
-her ideal of excellence—the friend, the Mentor who
-had made her orphaned life a blessing, and she could
-imagine no stronger, deeper affection than that which
-he had long since inspired.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“But after Edgar had been at home a few months,
-she was conscious of a great change in her feelings.
-She loved Herbert as well as ever, but she had
-learned the existence of another kind of affection.
-Edgar’s sweet words and honied flatteries were unlike
-any thing she had ever heard before, and unconscious
-of any disloyalty to Herbert, she gave herself up to
-the enjoyment of this new sensation of happiness.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Herbert was tried almost beyond his strength, for
-it was when his mother lay on what was soon to be
-her death-bed that he first suspected the fatal truth
-respecting his brother and Jessie. A lingering illness,
-protracted through many weeks (during which time
-Herbert was his mother’s constant companion, while
-Edgar enjoyed the opportunity of unrestrained companionship
-with Jessie,) finally terminated in Mrs.
-Darsie’s death; and, as Herbert closed her eyes, he
-could not but feel that sinking of the heart which told
-him that he was now alone upon earth. Immediately
-after his mother’s funeral he was taken alarmingly
-ill, and for several days his life was considered in
-imminent danger. It was not until his recovery that
-he again saw Jessie Graham, who, in compliance
-with the world’s notions of decorum, had left the
-home of her childhood on the decease of her benefactress.
-She had found her temporary abode in the
-family of a friend in the neighborhood, and Herbert’s
-sick-bed had known no other attendance than that of
-the housekeeper and servants. In his first interview
-<span class='pageno' title='255' id='Page_255'></span>
-with Jessie after his convalescence, he drew from
-her a confession, or rather an admission of her love
-for Edgar. The manner in which she confided this
-to him—the frank, sisterly feeling which seemed to
-animate her, stung him to the heart. But he possessed
-great self-command, and Jessie never suspected the
-actual state of <span class='it'>his</span> feelings while she confided to him
-her own.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“As soon as practicable after Herbert’s recovery,
-his mother’s will was opened, and then arose a new
-subject of wonder and dissatisfaction. No one but
-Mrs. Darsie and her lawyer had known that she had
-been merely in the enjoyment of a life interest in her
-fortune; but it was now ascertained that her husband’s
-estate had been very trifling, and that her
-large income was the product of a handsome fortune
-bequeathed to Herbert by an old uncle, in consideration
-of his physical misfortunes. The yearly product
-was given to Mrs. Darsie during her life, but at
-her death the whole reverted to Herbert. His father’s
-property, amounting only to a few thousand dollars,
-was bequeathed solely to Edgar, and a legacy of five
-hundred dollars, (to purchase her wedding-dress, as
-the will stated,) marked the testator’s wishes regarding
-her protégé, Jesse Graham. Every body was
-surprised at this development, but no one more so
-than the brothers. Why their mother had left them
-in such close ignorance of their affairs, it is impossible
-to say, but they certainly had no suspicion of
-the facts until they were thus legally made known.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“One of the first wishes of Herbert’s heart was to
-see Jessie placed in her proper position, and he therefore
-nerved himself to speak to Edgar on the subject.
-What was his surprise, therefore, when his brother
-treated the whole thing as a boyish affair, and avowed
-his determination to spend his pittance (as he termed
-it) abroad, and then to repair his fortunes by a wealthy
-marriage! If ever the gentle spirit of Herbert entertained
-a feeling of abhorrence for any living creature,
-it was at that moment. His own hopes had been
-ruthlessly blighted, and Jessie’s heart estranged from
-him, merely to gratify a <span class='it'>boyish fancy</span>!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“What he suffered, and what he felt, however, it is
-not for me to attempt describing. He had garnered
-up all his treasures of affection in Jessie and his
-brother. Now Jessie was lost to him, and Edgar
-was a villain. How he, with his delicate sensibility,
-his high sense of honor, and his stern principles of
-duty, must have suffered, I leave you to imagine.
-But his love for Jessie conquered all other feelings.
-He knew that her happiness depended on her union
-with Edgar, for she was precisely that kind of
-character, which, though infirm of purpose in the
-outset, yet have a certain tenacity of feeling when
-once a decision has been made for them. He revolved
-many schemes in his mind before he could form a
-practicable one, and at last he suffered his frank and
-candid nature to lead him with its usual directness
-to his object. He asked Edgar to be more explicit in
-his confidences, and when Edgar declared that had
-he been the heir of wealth he would gladly make
-Jessie his wife, but that nothing would ever induce
-him to tie himself down to a life of privation and
-poverty, Herbert’s decision was at once made. He
-proposed dividing his income with Edgar, on condition
-that his brother should marry Jessie, and reside
-in the home of their childhood, while he himself
-should travel into distant lands. But Edgar, with
-the quick-sightedness of selfishness, saw how deeply
-Herbert’s soul was interested in the matter. Pretending
-a jealousy of his brother’s influence over
-Jessie—a jealousy of which he declared himself
-ashamed, yet which he could not subdue—he said
-that if he had the means he would marry Jessie, and
-take her far from all her early associations, but that
-he would never let her live in Herbert’s house, or in
-a place where she might at any time be subject to
-his visits.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Pained as he was by this appearance of distrust,
-Herbert’s conscience accused him of cherishing a
-wicked love for one who was about to become his
-brother’s wife, and he therefore submitted meekly to
-this new trial. What terms were finally decided upon
-could only be known at that time to the two brothers.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Six months after Mrs. Darsie’s death Edgar was
-united to Jessie Graham, in the little village church,
-and immediately after the ceremony, the wedding-party
-left for New York, from whence they sailed a
-few days afterward for Havre.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Herbert dismissed the greater part of the servants,
-shut up all except one wing of the large house, sold
-off the carriage and horses, (reserving only the little
-pony-carriage, without which he would have been
-deprived of all means of locomotion,) and restricted
-his expenses within such narrow limits, that people
-began to consider him mean and miserly. He withdrew
-entirely from society, and lived more utterly
-alone than ever. His books, his pictures, his music,
-were now his only companions. Yet he did not forget
-that earth held those to whom even he might
-minister. The door of the poorest cottages often
-opened to admit the distorted form of the benefactor
-and friend, but the sunlight on the rich man’s threshold
-was never darkened by his shapeless shadow.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Edgar Darsie went to Paris with his beautiful wife,
-and there he lived in luxury and splendor, surrounded
-by every thing that could minister to his love of
-pleasure. Only himself and one other, the lawyer
-who had drawn up the papers, knew whence his
-wealth was derived. Even Jessie never suspected
-that Herbert was living with the closest economy in
-order that the poor should not suffer from the lavish
-generosity which had induced him to secure to his
-brother more than three-fourths of his whole income
-as a bribe to insure her happiness.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Ten years passed away, dragging their weary
-length with the lonely and suffering Herbert, winging
-their way on golden pinions to Edgar, weaving their
-mingled web of dark and bright to the womanly heart
-of Jessie. She had witnessed the changes of a fickle
-nature in her husband—she had learned to endure
-indifference, and to meet with fitful affection from
-him—she had borne children, and laid them sorrowing
-in the bosom of mother earth—she had drunk of
-the cup of pleasure and found bitterness in its dregs;
-and now she stood a weeping mourner beside the
-<span class='pageno' title='256' id='Page_256'></span>
-dying bed of that faithless but still beloved husband.
-Edgar Darsie had inherited his mother’s disease,
-together with her beauty. His excesses had hastened
-the period of its development, and ten years after his
-marriage he was withering like grass before the
-hunter’s fire, beneath the touch of consumption. Day
-after day he faded—his stately form became bowed,
-his bright face changed, his silken locks fell away
-from his hollow temples. Health was gone, and
-beauty soon departed.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“With the approach of death came old memories
-thronging about his heart, and filling his sick chamber
-with fantasies and spectres of long by-gone days.
-“Take me home! take me home!” was the bitter
-cry. But his “<span class='it'>home-wo</span>” came too late. Never
-again would he leave his bed until he was carried
-to the house appointed for all living. At the first
-tidings of his illness Herbert had sailed for Havre,
-and traveled with all speed to Paris; but when he
-arrived there his heart failed him. He remembered
-Edgar’s avowed jealousy of him, and the wild, fierce
-joy which thrilled his heart when he found himself
-once more near to Jessie, taught him that he was not
-entirely guiltless toward his brother. He accordingly
-took lodgings in the same hotel, that he might
-be near Edgar, in case he should wish to see him,
-well knowing that the mode of life in Paris secured
-him the most perfect privacy. He made known his
-present abode to a certain business-agent, through
-whose hands letters had usually been sent to him
-from Paris, and thus he received from Jessie’s hand
-constant tidings of his brother’s condition.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“But this state of things could not last long. His
-impatience to be with Edgar led him to seize upon
-the first faint intimation of a wish to see him, and he
-soon found himself welcomed with tears of joy by
-Jessie while Edgar thanked him with his eyes—those
-tender eyes—for his thoughtful kindness in coming
-without waiting for a summons. During three months
-Herbert shared with Jessie her care and watchfulness
-over the invalid. All the lovable qualities of Edgar’s
-nature were brought out by his sickness, and Herbert
-could not help feeling the full force of those
-fascinations which had won for him the love of every
-one. Weakened in mind as well as in body by his
-disease, he was like a lovely and gentle child, so
-docile, so affectionate, so helpless, so tender, and so
-altogether lovely did he appear, as the dark wing of
-death flung its shadow broader and deeper above his
-couch.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“He died with penitence for past misdeeds deep-rooted
-in his heart, and prayer for pardon lingering
-on his lips. He died clasping his brother’s hand in
-his, and the last act of his life was a vain attempt to
-unite Jessie’s hand in the same grasp. There was
-no time for the indulgence of selfish feeling at such
-a moment. The presence of death had hushed the
-whispers of earthly passion, and the grief of both the
-brother and the widow was the genuine tribute of
-affection to the departed.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“As soon as Edgar’s affairs could be arranged, the
-widow, with her only surviving child, returned to
-America under the protection of Herbert. Ignorant as
-a child about pecuniary affairs, Jessie left every thing
-to Herbert, and consequently never knew at what
-sacrifice he rescued Edgar’s good name from obloquy,
-and paid his enormous debts. Nor did she ever know
-that the money which had supported their extravagant
-expenditure in Paris, was the free gift of Herbert.
-But daily and hourly did she experience Herbert’s
-considerate kindness. Fearing to awaken her suspicions
-relative to his agency in her marriage, he
-determined to continue to her an allowance similar
-to that which he had bestowed upon his brother.
-But to do this required new retrenchments, and the
-sacrifice of a fine landed property; for Edgar’s lavish
-prodigality had cost him so large a portion of his
-fortune that it now needed the most careful and
-judicious management.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“If Herbert hoped to marry his brother’s widow, he
-at least determined to leave her free to choose for
-herself. Jessie found herself pleasantly domiciled in
-a new home, with a handsome provision for herself
-and child, and surrounded by all the appliances of
-American comfort before she had yet recovered from
-the dull torpor of her grief. For fifteen years Herbert
-had lived but for her. During the five years preceding
-her marriage his whole soul had been devoted
-to her; and when afterward he tried to banish her
-image, he found though he might dethrone the idol,
-the sentiment of loyal love, like a subtile perfume,
-had diffused itself through his whole being. Was it
-strange, then, if he should once more dream that his
-love and faith might do more than remove mountains—that
-his devotion might veil the unsightliness of his
-person—that he might yet be beloved and <a id='reward'></a>rewarded?</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Now tell me, Annie, how do you think my story
-is going to end?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“In the marriage of Jessie to the devoted Herbert,”
-replied Annie. “It is not in the nature of woman to
-be insensible to such devotion.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Remember that Jessie knew nothing of his
-pecuniary sacrifices, had no suspicion of his agency
-in bringing about her marriage; did not dream of his
-self-denying, self-forgetting love.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“But no woman could doubt the true meaning of
-all his devotedness.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“He had never flattered her with gentle words;
-never wooed her in courtly phrase; never played the
-lover in the most approved fashion. He had been
-the adviser, the Mentor, the steady friend; love had
-been the pervading and animating soul of all he
-thought and all he did, but his very magnanimity had
-been as a cloak to conceal his affections. Do you
-think a woman like Jessie—an ordinary woman,
-lovely and gentle, but withal having no perception
-of that inner life which so few can penetrate—do you
-think she could see through this magnanimous reserve,
-and detect the hidden love?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Surely, surely!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Recollect that she had early learned to pity him
-for his personal defects, and though ‘pity’ may be
-‘akin to love’ in our sex, yet no woman ever loves
-a man she must look down upon with compassion.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“But his nobler qualities must have commanded
-her respect.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='pageno' title='257' id='Page_257'></span>
-“Suppose they were so far above her perceptions
-as to inspire her with <span class='it'>awe</span> instead of respect? A
-woman never loves the man she <span class='it'>pities</span>, nor will she
-love the man whose superiority she <span class='it'>fears</span>. Jessie
-compassionated Herbert’s bodily weaknesses, and
-she had a vague terror of his stern, uncompromising
-ideas of right and wrong.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Nevertheless, I am sure she married Herbert,
-uncle.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“You are mistaken, Annie. Herbert continued
-his devotion for years; he learned to love her child
-as if it were his own, and gave proofs of disinterestedness
-and tenderness such as no woman could misinterpret;
-but he never offered her his hand.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Why not?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Because he <span class='it'>knew</span> it would be rejected, and he
-preferred being a life-long friend, to occupying the
-position of an unsuccessful suitor.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Then I suppose she never married again.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“You are wrong again, Annie. At forty years of
-age, when her beauty was faded, and her character
-had deteriorated amid the follies of society, she
-married a man some ten years her junior, who,
-tempted by the income which <span class='it'>Herbert</span> had bestowed
-upon her, flattered her into the belief that she had
-inspired him with the most passionate love.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“And her child?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Was adopted by Herbert Darsie, and at his death
-inherited his estate.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Poor, poor Herbert!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“He suffered the penalty which all must pay who
-give to earth the high and holy sentiment which is
-only meant to make us companion with the angels
-in heaven. Not one in a thousand can love thus, and
-that one always finds that in the world’s vast desert,
-he has expended his strength in vain—‘hewn out
-broken cisterns which can hold no water.’”</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk119'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='mask'></a>THE UNMASKED.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY S. ANNA LEWIS.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>The struggle is over—my pulses once more</p>
-<p class='line'>Leap free as the waves on the surf-beaten shore;</p>
-<p class='line'>And my spirit looks up to that world of all bliss,</p>
-<p class='line'>And heaves not a sigh for the faithless in this.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>’Twas in Sorrow’s bleak night, when the sky was all dark,</p>
-<p class='line'>And the tempest shrieked loud round my storm-beaten bark,</p>
-<p class='line'>That arose, ’mid the darkness, thy radiant form,</p>
-<p class='line'>Like the rainbow illuming the brow of the storm.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>An angel thou seemedst, that had come to the earth,</p>
-<p class='line'>To guide me—to nourish my heart in its dearth;</p>
-<p class='line'>And blindly, as Paynim kneels down to his god,</p>
-<p class='line'>I have loved thee—have worshiped the earth thou hast trod.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>But this waste of affection—this prodigal part—</p>
-<p class='line'>Is over—the mask has been torn from thy heart—</p>
-<p class='line'>And back with affright and amazement I shrink—</p>
-<p class='line'>At a fount so unholy my soul cannot drink.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk120'/>
-
-<div class='figcenter'>
-<img src='images/i095.jpg' alt='' id='iid-0004' style='width:600px;height:auto;'/>
-<p class='caption'><span class='bold'>Mormon Temple, Nauvoo</span></p>
-</div>
-
-<hr class='tbk121'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='morm'></a>MORMON TEMPLE, NAUVOO.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-top:1.5em;margin-bottom:1.5em;font-size:0.9em;'>[SEE ENGRAVING.]</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>By permission of Mr. J. R. Smith, we have caused
-a view of the Mormon Temple at Nauvoo to be
-engraved from his splendid Panorama of the Mississippi,
-and we give the engraving in this number.
-As the building has been recently destroyed by fire,
-our engraving, the first ever published, acquires additional
-value. We copy from Mr. Smith’s description
-of the Panorama, the following account of
-Nauvoo and the Temple:</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“<span class='it'>Nauvoo.</span>—A Mormon city and settlement, now
-deserted. It is one of the finest locations for a town
-upon the river, it being situated at the second and last
-rapids below the Falls of St. Anthony, which extend
-from this place to Keokuk, a distance of 12 miles.
-The great Mormon Temple stands out conspicuous.
-It is the finest building in the west, and if paid for
-would have cost over half a million of dollars. It is
-built of a white stone, resembling marble, 80 feet
-front by 150 deep; 200 feet to the top of the spire.
-The caps of the pilasters represent the sun; the base
-of them, the half moon with Joe Smith’s profile. The
-windows between the pilasters represent stars. A
-large female figure with a Bible in one hand is the
-vane. An inscription on the front, in large gilt letters,
-reads as follows:</p>
-
-<div class='blockquote0r9'>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“The House of the Lord, built by the Church of Jesus
-Christ of the Latter Day Saints. Commenced April 6,
-1841. Holiness to the Lord.”</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>There is in the basement of the temple a large stone-basin,
-supported by twelve oxen of colossal size,
-about fifteen feet high altogether, all of white stone
-and respectably carved. A staircase leads up to the
-top of the basin. It is the font where all the Mormons
-were baptized. It is seen in the Panorama
-standing aside the Temple, <span class='it'>but in the basement is its
-real situation</span>.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk122'/>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' title='258' id='Page_258'></span><h1><a id='rose'></a>ROSE WINTERS.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1em;font-weight:bold;'>A TALE OF FIRST LOVE.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY ESTELLE.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I shall never have another hour’s happiness as
-long as I live!” exclaimed Rose Winters, weeping
-passionately. “You wouldn’t let me marry him,
-father, and now he’s gone to sea, and said he should
-never come back.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Don’t believe it, Rose,” said Mr. Winters.
-“He’ll be glad enough to come back, I’ll warrant
-you—and the longer he stays away the better, I’m
-thinking, it will be for you.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“It’s not like you, father, to be so unfeeling,” said
-Rose, sobbing almost hysterically.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Nonsense, child—unfeeling, indeed! ay, ay, it
-may be so in your judgment, I dare say, but I must
-judge with the head, and not with the heart.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I think I ought to be allowed to judge for myself,
-now I’m of <span class='it'>age</span>,” answered Rose, with sudden
-spirit. “I was eighteen my last birthday.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“True, Rose, you have had great experience of
-mankind, no doubt. But come, now, just tell me
-what you could have done if you had married Bob
-Selwyn, with no fortune yourself, and he nothing to
-depend on but his hands?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“We could have done as other people do,” said
-Rose—“we could have worked. Have I not always
-worked at home, father?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“To be sure you have. You have been a good,
-industrious girl, Rosy, that I sha’n’t deny; but your
-work at home was not like pulling continually at
-the rowing oar, which would have been your portion
-all your life, I’m afraid, with Robert. I can’t see,
-for my part, what you wanted to marry him for.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Because I loved him, and he loved me. Didn’t
-you and mother marry for love, father?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Mr. Winters could not forbear laughing at this question,
-notwithstanding Rose’s grief—and his natural
-droll humor struggled with his former seriousness as
-he replied, “Well, I must try to remember. It is
-nearly twenty years ago, now—so long that you have
-come of <span class='it'>age</span> in the meanwhile, and fancy you are
-wiser than your father. But I can tell you one thing,
-Rose, if we did marry for love, we had something to
-begin the world with, which is quite as necessary.
-You know the old proverb, ‘When poverty comes
-in at the door, love flies out of the window.’”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I don’t believe any such thing, father. Whoever
-wrote that proverb never knew what love was. It
-was a mean thing in any man to say so; and what
-would never have come from a woman, I’ll be
-bound.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Well, well, Rosy, you may dry your eyes. I
-wish I was as sure of a fortune for you, as I am that
-Robert will be back with the ship, if his life is spared;
-but if that shouldn’t be the case, you will be young
-enough then, and pretty enough, too, to get another
-beau.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I wont have any other!” exclaimed Rose. “I
-am determined to wait for him, if he stays twenty
-years!”—and with this resolution she hastily turned
-away and ran to her own room, where, secure from
-observation, she might give free vent to her full
-heart in a long fit of weeping.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>We are at a loss to imagine what sort of an impression
-our rustic heroine, Rose Winters, has made
-on the minds of our readers, from her unceremonious
-introduction to them through the foregoing dialogue:
-but at all events, she is deserving of a more detailed
-description. She was the daughter of a respectable
-farmer on Long Island, who resided in a country
-village, situated on the Atlantic ocean, and near a
-large seaport town. Mr. Winters was a shrewd,
-practical man, of strong natural powers of mind, and
-excellent plain common sense. Rose was his eldest
-and favorite child, and inherited his independent
-spirit and natural gifts of understanding, which had
-been improved in her by a useful and solid education
-at a first-rate country school. She was not,
-perhaps, strictly beautiful, but her cheeks were bright
-with the hue of health, and her dark-blue eyes sparkled
-with animation, and the joyousness of a young heart,
-over which a lasting shadow had never passed, until
-her lover left her to try his fortunes on the sea. Her
-figure was small, but of exquisite proportions, and
-her steps sprang elastic with the unchecked spirits of
-happy childhood. She was always agreeable and
-entertaining without effort, for her words flowed in
-the easiest manner possible, from a mouth which nature
-had made perfect; and then there was nothing on
-earth more inspiring than her merry laugh, which
-seemed like the very chorus of joy, and insensibly
-imparted a portion of her own gayety to all around
-her. Rose had but little of imagination in her heart or
-feelings. She was a young, gay creature, full of
-spirits and activity, and only actuated by the every-day
-scenes of life, from which she extracted mirth
-and enjoyment to diffuse unsparingly among all who
-came within her influence. There was also a truthfulness
-and integrity in her nature, which could not
-fail to give beauty, strength, and elevation to her
-thoughts and character. The visions of romance
-which so often pervert the minds of the young, and
-throw a false coloring over the world, were all unknown
-to Rose. She had been nurtured amid scenes
-where there was but little to excite or enrich the
-imagination, but much to awaken bold and lofty
-sentiments. Born and brought up within sight and
-sound of the grand and magnificent ocean, she delighted
-<span class='pageno' title='259' id='Page_259'></span>
-to gaze on its rolling and breaking billows,
-and listen to its ceaseless sounding roar, which had
-often been the solemn lullaby to her nightly slumbers.
-The wide and level fields outspread before her native
-home, and the few bare hills which skirted here and
-there the distant outline, were but little calculated
-to inspire those enchanting, but unreal dreams, which
-seem insensibly to arise amid the mountain scenery
-so wildly beautiful and picturesque in many parts of
-our western world.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Rose had never been twenty miles from her
-father’s dwelling. All that she knew of the world
-had been learned in her own village, which was an
-occasional resort for a small number of strangers
-during the heat of summer; but its situation was too
-remote to be very generally visited before there were
-either railroads or steamboats to facilitate and add
-comfort and convenience to traveling. Communication
-with New York, which was the nearest city,
-was at that time tedious and fatiguing, as the road
-lay for many miles through sandy woods, or over a
-bleak and rough country. By water, the journey
-was performed in sloops, taking from three days to
-a week to accomplish the voyage. In consequence
-of these disadvantages, the transient sojourners in
-the village consisted chiefly of sportsmen, who
-sought its solitary retreat for the purpose of enjoying
-the game which was formerly found there in great
-abundance. The birds were seldom frightened away
-from the lanes and meadows, excepting by the gun
-of the stranger, who, having once found his way to
-that lonely yet delightful part of the country, returned
-again and again, not only to scare the plover from
-their haunts, but to enjoy the refreshing and invigorating
-breezes from the ocean, and revel in the luxury
-of freedom from fashion and restraint. There was
-a primitive simplicity in the manners of the inhabitants
-of the village which was peculiarly pleasing;
-and in which school Rose had received her first model.
-She was easy and unaffected, because seeking to
-appear no higher nor better than she really was.
-Among her associates, she was a universal favorite.
-Her presence was sure to be in requisition at all the
-balls or merry-makings in the neighborhood, for nothing
-of the kind could go off well, unless Rose Winters,
-with her quick wit, irresistible good humor, and
-gay spirits, made one of the party. Her father, though
-a man of severe morals and true piety, was far from
-being puritanical in his views or feelings. He
-loved to see Rose happy, and enjoyed the sunny
-atmosphere which her never-failing cheerfulness and
-vivacity spread around the household dwelling.
-The bright sallies which flashed from her lips, instead
-of being checked by the farmer, frequently occasioned
-a repartee of wit from him, which gave Rose
-a habit of sharpening her own against her father’s
-weapons. Thus it was that she learned to respect
-her parent without fearing him. She knew him to
-be possessed of the most inflexible principles of
-truth and rectitude; and that his jocose and lively
-temperament could never induce him to swerve for
-a moment from the straight-forward course of honesty
-and honor. In his judgment she placed the most
-unbounded confidence; and it was only in the one
-instance in which her heart rebelled against it, that
-she yielded to its mandate with bitter and unsatisfied
-feelings. Her mother, whom we have not yet mentioned,
-had been dead several years; and three sisters,
-considerably younger than herself, partook more of
-her care than her confidence. It thus happened that
-her father had been her companion, more than is
-usually the case in such relationships. She had been
-accustomed to consult him in all affairs of consequence;
-and self-dependent as she was by nature, she
-durst not incur the responsibility of acting in direct
-opposition to his counsels. In this slight sketch we
-have endeavored to give a faint outline of the character
-of our heroine, unlike, we are sensible, to the
-usual heroines of romance; but the portrait is drawn
-from real life, with its beauties unflattered, and its
-blemishes unconcealed; and we leave it as it is to
-make what impression it may on the opinions of
-others.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Robert Selwyn was a native of the same village.
-He was a few years older than Rose, but had been
-accustomed to mingle in all the country pleasures
-and amusements of which she had been for a time
-the principal attraction. His handsome form, his
-manly and pleasing countenance, and his gay and
-careless manners, were his only passports to favor.
-He had no fortune to assist him in winning his way,
-but he had energy and ambition, which were yet to
-be aroused into action. There was a distant connection
-between the families of Winters and Selwyn,
-which served as a plea for frequent and familiar intercourse.
-Rose called him Cousin Robert, and under
-that name he was received as a sort of privileged
-guest at her father’s house. The farmer always
-welcomed him; and Rose chatted and laughed and
-flirted with him, until at last the flirtation ended in a
-serious attachment. Mr. Winters, with all his habitual
-foresight, had not looked for this result. To
-part with Rose, was an event for which he had made
-no calculation, and he could not persuade himself to
-believe that her affections were irrevocably engaged.
-The application of her lover, therefore, for his consent
-to their marriage, was met by a decided refusal.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Pooh, pooh, Robert,” said he, in answer to his
-solicitation, “I wonder what you would do with a
-wife. Tell me first, how you expect to make a
-living for yourself, let alone Rose?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Why, if I can do nothing else, sir,” said Selwyn,
-“I can follow the sea, and at least get a living out of
-the whales. You know others here have got rich
-that way.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Yes, yes, Robert, but it’s a hard life, and not
-much to your taste, I reckon.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“It might not be my choice, Mr. Winters; but
-I’m not afraid of hardships any more than other men—and
-I should think nothing hard with Rose.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Oh, that’s the way all young men talk when
-they’re in love; but have you no other plan than that?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Yes, sir—I thought of either setting up a store,
-or trying to get the school, as the old master is going
-away. I believe I know about as much as he does.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Mr. Winters laughed as he replied, “Very likely
-<span class='pageno' title='260' id='Page_260'></span>
-you may, Robert, and be no Solomon either; but it
-wont answer. Set up a store on credit, and break
-next year; and as for school-keeping—no, no, I must
-see some surer prospect of your being able to support
-a wife, before you can have Rose with my
-consent.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“But, Mr. Winters, none of our girls here expect
-to marry rich. I wonder where they’d find husbands,
-if they looked for money! not in this town, I
-am sure.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“There must be something to look to, though,
-either money or business. Take my word for it,
-young man, you would find love but light stuff to live
-upon without something more substantial along
-with it.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Selwyn was silent for a few moments, and then
-said in a tone of severe disappointment, “Well, I
-must say, sir, that I did not look for this refusal. You
-never objected to my visits to Rose.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“No, but I wish I had, since neither of you have
-as much sense as I thought for. I have been to blame,
-and am sorry for it; but there has been enough said
-now, Robert—all the talking in the world will not
-alter my mind at present.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>It was after this conversation that Selwyn, finding
-the farmer inflexible, and Rose determined to sacrifice
-her love rather than disobey her father, formed the
-resolution to go out in a whaling ship, just about to
-leave the port. Rose sought in vain to dissuade him.
-He told her his mind was made up. “If you wont
-have me, Rose,” said he, “I may as well be on the
-ocean as the land, for I shall never marry any one
-else; but I shall not hold you bound—for most likely
-I shall never return.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I didn’t expect to hear you say such a thing as
-that, Cousin Robert,” answered Rose, with her eyes
-full of tears; “but you may hold me bound or not,
-just as you please, I shall wait for you. If you should
-forget me, I could never believe in the love of any
-man afterward.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The ship sailed unexpectedly, and Selwyn, much
-to his disappointment, was obliged to depart without
-again seeing Rose; and the sudden news that he had
-gone, occasioned the burst of feeling in her, with
-which our story opened.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>We must now pass over a few anxious and tedious
-years. Rose waited and dreamed of her lover’s return,
-until her spirits flagged, and her young heart
-grew sick with “hope deferred.” Mr. Winters was
-puzzled and confounded. He had mistaken his
-daughter’s disposition, and was not prepared for the
-depth of feeling and affection which she had garnered
-in her bosom. That his bright and merry
-Rose should suddenly become the reflective and
-thinking being, and perform her household duties
-with methodical and earnest care, instead of flying
-like a bird from room to room, and singing or laughing
-off a thousand grotesque mistakes, which before
-were continually occurring under her management,
-was to him a matter of serious consideration. In
-truth he did not much like the change; for what was
-gained in order and regularity in his house, was
-lost in that inexhaustible fund of animating gayety
-which had been wont to beguile him at sight of the
-fatigue of daily labor, and cast an unfailing charm
-over his retired dwelling. Not that Rose had altogether
-sunk into the sober and serious mood—that it
-was not in her nature to do—but an indescribable
-change had passed over her former manner, which
-had somewhat of a depressing influence on her
-family. She could not help laughing and being lively,
-any more than she could help the beating of her
-pulse, or the breath that came without her will or
-agency; but there was something missing in the inward
-spring from which her spirits flowed. It was
-the heart’s happiness—and the spring, in consequence,
-sometimes yielded bitter waters.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Three years had fulfilled their annual revolutions,
-before the ship returned in which Selwyn had embarked,
-and then, alas! it returned without him.
-The voyage had been a most disastrous one. They
-had been nearly shipwrecked, after being but a few
-months out, and had been obliged to put in at one of
-the islands in the Pacific to repair and refit. This
-operation necessarily detained them a long time; and
-the second year of the voyage, Selwyn got sick and
-discouraged, and left them at a port where they had
-stopped to winter, and went to London. It was
-hinted that he was wild and reckless, and would
-never do any thing for want of stability and perseverance.
-Rose was indignant at these innuendos.
-Her sense of justice and generosity spurned the
-meanness of traducing the absent, and her woman’s
-love shielded him in her own mind from every attack
-on his reputation. She received a letter from
-him shortly afterward, the first he had written since
-his departure. The general tone of it was sad and
-desponding, but it breathed the most unabated affection
-toward herself, while at the same time it set her
-perfectly free from her engagement to him.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I cannot ask you, dear Rose,” he wrote, “to
-wait for me, when it is so uncertain if I ever can
-return to claim your promise. I have made nothing
-by this voyage, and am determined never to see
-your father again until I can give him a satisfactory
-answer to his question of ‘how I am to support a
-wife.’”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Rose wept over the letter, and then consigned it
-to her most secret hiding-place, and returned with
-unshaken resolution to her usual train of duties. She
-had lost none of her beauty, for the healthful exercise
-of necessary and constant employment, preserved
-the bloom on her cheek, and kept her from
-giving way to useless repining. Among the beaux
-of the village, she continued to have her full share
-of admirers; and there was one of the number,
-Edward Burton, an enterprising and promising young
-man, who sought earnestly to gain her hand. It was
-all in vain. Rose was deaf to his entreaties, and
-laughed at his remonstrances, until he was obliged
-to give up his suit.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>In the meanwhile Robert Selwyn was seeking encouragement
-and advancement from a foreign people.
-He continued to follow the sea, but without returning
-to his native place. He went out from London, and
-had risen by the usual gradation of ship-officers,
-<span class='pageno' title='261' id='Page_261'></span>
-lastly to captain. At the expiration of three more
-years, Rose received another letter from him; but
-the time of meeting seemed still further and further
-in the future. He knew not when he should return.
-His employers kept him constantly engaged, and he
-hoped in the end to realize an independence; but it
-might be long yet before it was accomplished.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Such was the burden of the letter, and Rose decided
-promptly on a new course of action for herself.
-She had long had it in her mind to leave home.
-Her eldest sister was fully competent to take her
-place in the management of the house, and the other
-two were old enough to be companions and assistants;
-but Rose felt that she should have to encounter the
-opposition of her father. She therefore determined
-on making all her arrangements to go before apprising
-him of her intention. Much, indeed, then, was the
-farmer astonished when Rose took her seat by his
-side, after he had finished his evening meal, and addressed
-him as follows:</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Father, I am going to New York to live.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Going to New York to live!” repeated he, slowly,
-as if unable or unwilling to comprehend her words,
-“Why what has put that notion in your head, Rose?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“I’ve been thinking of it for a year, father, but
-put off telling you till the time came. Last summer,
-when Mrs. Sandford was here, she often advised me
-to go to New York; and a few days ago I had a letter
-from her. She says she can get me a situation as
-teacher in a school, where I shall have many advantages,
-and I have made up my mind to accept it.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“You ought to have consulted me about it first,
-Rose; I’m doubtful if it will be for the best.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Well, I shall do it for the best,” answered Rose,
-“and if it shouldn’t turn out so, I can’t help it. You
-know I’m too much like you, father, to give up any
-thing I judge to be right; and I hope you wont blame
-me for leaving home now, since Betsey is quite as
-good a housekeeper as I am.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Mr. Winters bent his eyes downward, and was
-silent. It was not his habit to betray any outward
-emotion, but there was grief in his heart. His fortitude
-was sorely tried. The departure of Rose
-would cause a sad break in his home enjoyments,
-and the philosophy of the man was destroyed for the
-moment, by the feelings of the father. Inwardly he
-struggled, till unable to control himself longer, he
-rose quickly, and snatching his hat, went out from
-the house.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>After some time, he returned calm and composed,
-and simply remarked to his daughter, “You say
-you’ve decided to go, Rose, so there’s no use in
-arguing—but you’ll find a great change in a city life.
-If you shouldn’t like it, come back to your old home—that’s
-all. Now call the girls in to prayers—it’s
-nigh bed-time.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Rose did as she was bid—and that night the farmer
-prayed earnestly and fervently for the child who was
-about to quit his protection, and committed her to
-the watchful care of Him who neither slumbers nor
-sleeps. The prayer over, he retired immediately to
-his pillow, which was wet before morning with an
-old man’s unwonted tears.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>In the course of the following month, Rose was
-duly installed in the authority of her new station.
-Her active and energetic mind, on which the useful
-branches of education had been thoroughly grounded,
-soon comprehended all the mysteries of her office,
-while her sprightliness and good humor, joined to her
-unusual decision of character, fitted her admirably
-for her occupation. The first term of her initiation,
-however, passed wearily away. Her spirit pined in
-the confinement to which she had voluntarily subjected
-herself—and with a feeling of <span class='it'>home-sickness</span>
-gnawing at her heart, she repaired to her patroness,
-Mrs. Sandford, to tell her that she could remain no
-longer. “I get thinking of my father,” said she,
-“when I ought to be attending to the lessons—and
-sometimes my mind gets so confused, that I almost
-imagine myself mad, and the school a bedlam. Indeed,
-Mrs. Sandford, I cannot engage for another
-quarter. I find I was not made for a city life, after
-all. The confusion distracts me, and the high houses
-and narrow streets, make me gloomy and low-spirited.
-I feel as if I couldn’t breathe in the smoke and dust
-here. Oh, if you only knew how I long for the
-pure air of the country, and the sight, once more, of
-the wild, free ocean.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“But, my dear child,” said the lady, “you cannot
-think of returning now, in the depth of winter. The
-communication by water is closed, and you know it
-is a three days’ journey by land in the best of traveling.
-At present, they say the roads are nearly impassable.
-Come, take my advice and content yourself
-till spring. Believe me, you will not find every
-thing as you expect when you return to the country.
-A short absence from home, often produces a great
-change in our own minds, and we are led to view
-the same objects in a different light. New impressions
-of life and manners frequently destroy the
-power of old associations to bring back past happiness;
-and we are left to experience a painful disappointment,
-without being at first sensible that the
-change is in ourselves. We can never be again what
-we were before.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Rose listened attentively, and though far from being
-fully convinced by the reasoning of Mrs. Sandford,
-she bent her will to a seeming necessity, and consented
-to remain. Naturally buoyant, she rallied her
-spirits, and overcame her transient depression. Interested
-continually in receiving as well as imparting
-knowledge, she said no more about returning home
-until the summer vacation left her at liberty to revisit
-her native town. Then it was that she understood
-the change which the more experienced woman
-of the world had sought to picture to her imagination.
-She was once more in the bosom of her family; on
-the very spot where life had opened to her with such
-bright anticipations of happiness. The same scenes
-were around her. The extended range of level
-country, and “The sea, the open sea,” with its
-mountainous and heaving billows, presented itself,
-as in former days, to her unobstructed view. What
-then was lost? It was the simple taste, the unsophisticated
-mind, the feelings untainted with the
-world, and, most of all, the heart at peace! She
-<span class='pageno' title='262' id='Page_262'></span>
-was no longer contented. The quietude and sameness
-of the country left her too much time for thought;
-and her restless spirit wandered again to the thronged
-and bustling city, and the ceaseless routine of her
-labors in the school as a sort of necessary means of
-relief. The sight of the ocean grew painful to her,
-from its reminding her too forcibly of her absent lover.
-Selwyn wrote not, came not. Some said he was married
-in London, and there came not a word from himself
-to contradict the report.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Edward Burton took advantage of it to renew the
-offer of his hand to Rose.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“No,” answered she, decidedly, “if Cousin
-Robert is really married, as people say, my faith in
-man’s love is destroyed forever. I hope you will
-never ask me again, Edward, for my answer will
-always be the same.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>So Burton gave her up, and consoled himself by
-marrying another; and Rose returned to New York,
-and again devoted herself to the arduous task of
-teaching, which often filled her heart with weariness;
-yet no one would have imagined her to be a disappointed
-girl. <span class='it'>Love-sick</span> she was not; she had too
-much strength of mind—but she was true-hearted
-and constant. Nine years had elapsed since she had
-heard a word of Selwyn, and she knew not whether he
-were living or dead. They had been parted <span class='it'>fifteen
-years</span>; and who will wonder that time had robbed
-her of some of her early bloom; but there was an
-added expression of intellect in her countenance,
-and a certain refinement of manner imperceptibly
-acquired, which she had never possessed in her
-father’s house: so that altogether she was more attractive,
-more to be admired at thirty-three years of
-age, than when she first appeared at eighteen as a
-country belle.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>And where was Robert Selwyn, while by slow
-gradations from year to year this change had been
-silently wrought in his heart’s first idol. His migrations
-in the meantime had been many, and his fortunes
-varied. Profits and loss were for some years
-nearly balanced in his accounts, but at length the
-brighter side predominated. Misfortunes and mishaps
-were cleared away from his horizon, and his
-sails swept onward through a tide of unexpected
-success. It was then that he began to weary of his
-long, self-imposed exile, and turn his thoughts and
-wishes to home and “native land.” Energetic in
-purpose, and prompt in action, he no sooner formed
-the resolution of returning than it was put in execution.
-The voyage, quickly accomplished, he once
-more found himself among his old friends and townsmen,
-who shook him heartily by the hand, and welcomed
-him back with right good will. Some author
-remarks, that “one of the greatest pleasures in life,
-is to be born in a small town, where one is acquainted
-with all the inhabitants, and a remembrance clings
-to every house.” He no doubt felt this on his first
-arrival, and his satisfaction was unalloyed; for, like
-Rose, he had yet to know himself as he now was.
-Most of his youthful companions were married, and
-settled down into steady, sober-minded, every-day
-sort of people—having made but little improvement
-either in mind or manners; but they were not slow
-to perceive that the Selwyn who had just returned,
-was quite a different man from the Selwyn they had
-formerly known. There was certainly a change in
-him, but in what it consisted, they found it impossible
-to decide. He lacked nothing in cordiality—he
-assumed no airs of superiority—he was neither
-<span class='it'>elegant</span> nor <span class='it'>fashionable</span>—but he was not what he
-used to be. Perhaps it was that he had acquired
-more manliness of character; and there was the least
-bit more of dignity in his manners; he was the
-smallest possible degree more guarded in his expressions;
-and his frank and easy address was entirely
-free from the most distant approach to awkwardness.
-It is true, he was still the gay and jovial
-sailor, noble-spirited and generous to a fault—but he
-was more the gentleman, more the man of the world
-than before he went to foreign parts; and upon the
-whole, the conclusion was that he was greatly improved,
-and would most likely turn out to be quite a
-credit to the town. He had certainly grown handsomer,
-as he had grown older. His face wore no
-traces of any inward discontent or disappointment,
-and it is probable that he had worn his love either
-lightly or hopefully in his heart. His first inquiry,
-after his return, however, was for Rose; and hearing
-she was in New York, he hastened thither to meet
-her. It was at the close of a summer afternoon
-when he found himself at the door of the house where
-he was told she boarded. He inquired for her,
-walked in, and sat down in the parlor in the dim
-light of the fading day, which was rendered more obscure
-in the shadow of the curtained windows.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Rose had gone to her room fatigued and somewhat
-dispirited. The name of her visiter was unannounced,
-and as she descended with a languid step
-to the parlor, she was little prepared for the surprise
-that awaited her.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Selwyn rose at her entrance with a confused and
-doubtful air. “I beg your pardon, madam,” said he,
-“I called to see Miss Winters—Rose Winters—I
-understood she was here.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“And so she is, Cousin Robert!” exclaimed Rose.
-“She is before you, and yet you do not know her.
-Am I altered so very much, then?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The question was accompanied with a painful
-blush, from the consciousness that the bloom of youth
-in which he had left her, had passed away forever.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Selwyn sprang toward her and caught her hand.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Rose, my own dear Rose,” said he, with real
-feeling, “forgive me. No, you are not altered; but
-if you were, I should know your voice among a
-thousand.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Ah, I know I have grown old, cousin,” said
-Rose, struggling to recover herself, “how could it
-be otherwise, when so many years have passed since
-we met.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Well, Rosy, look at me! Has my age stood still,
-do you think? Look at the crow’s feet and the gray
-hair, and tell me if you love me the less for them.
-You would be the same to me, if you were twice as
-old as you are; for you see I have come back for
-no earthly reason but to marry you, unless your own
-<span class='pageno' title='263' id='Page_263'></span>
-consent is as hard to obtain now as your father’s
-was before.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Why, your friends said you were married in
-London.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“No, not my <span class='it'>friends</span>, Rose. It must have been
-my <span class='it'>enemies</span> who said that; but <span class='it'>you</span> knew better.
-Didn’t I tell you I would never marry any one
-but you?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Yes, fifteen years ago, Cousin Robert—but the
-promise might be outlawed by this time, for all I
-knew. You do not pretend to say that you thought
-my faith in your word would hold out, without even
-receiving a line from you the last nine years.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Why not pretend to say it, coz, when I know it
-has. Deny it now if you can.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“But why didn’t you write to me, Robert?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Because I’m no writer, and meant to come myself.
-You said you’d wait for me—and I knew you
-never broke your word. So now, my sweet little
-flower, I’ve come to claim you, like a blunt sailor,
-as I am, with few words, but a heart full of love,
-and what is better, something to live on beside.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“You are in a great hurry now,” said Rose,
-laughing and blushing. “Suppose you wait a little,
-seeing you learnt the art so well in your absence.
-Why I have not had a chance yet to ask you what
-kept you away so long.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Never mind that, coz. There ’ill be plenty of
-time hereafter. Answer my question first, whether
-you mean to have me or not, and let me know
-which way to shape my course. If you’ve changed
-your mind, and lost your affection for me, just say
-so at once, and I’m off to sea in the first ship. You’ll
-never be troubled with me again.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“What an unreasonable man you are,” said Rose,
-“just as impatient and headstrong as before you
-went away.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“You knew all my faults, dearest, long, long ago,”
-said Selwyn. “They did not hinder you from loving
-me once. Love me still, Rose, as you once did.
-Be mine, as you promised you would before we
-parted, and you shall make me what you please.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Rose was silent. Her lover’s arm was around
-her, and memory was holding its mirror to her mind:
-and when she did speak at length, her voice was low
-and indistinct, and her words nearly unintelligible.
-The spirit of them may be guessed, however, from
-the fact that Selwyn did not go to sea, and she resigned
-her situation as teacher, and returned with
-him to her former home. The wedding was soon
-after celebrated with the sanction of her father, and
-but one source of regret to Rose, that the old minister,
-who in her youthful days was the pastor of her
-native village, had been removed in the meanwhile
-to another world, and the ceremony of her marriage
-was performed by a stranger.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk123'/>
-
-<div class='figcenter'>
-<img src='images/i108.jpg' alt='' id='iid-0005' style='width:600px;height:auto;'/>
-<p class='caption'><span class='bold'>THE MINIATURE.</span></p>
-</div>
-
-<hr class='tbk124'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='zop'></a>THE ZOPILOTES.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY FAYETTE ROBINSON.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='blockquote'>
-
-<p class='pindent'>[A Mexican soldier, being grievously wounded in one of the battles of Hidalgo, was deserted by his victorious companions.
-Unable to defend himself against the numerous Zopilotes, or vultures, which hovered around him, he put an
-end to his life with his own hand.]</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>I feel the motion of each heavy wing—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;I hear the rustling of the air they cleave—</p>
-<p class='line'>The shadows they, like sombre phantoms, fling</p>
-<p class='line'>Closely around and o’er me, hovering,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Beget wild fears, which busy fancies weave</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;Into a dreadful certainty.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>I hear the war-cry on the distant field!</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;I see the dust, by charging squadrons cart;</p>
-<p class='line'>The cannon’s blaze, the flash of burnished steel;</p>
-<p class='line'>Bright banner’s wave, the rapid march and wheel,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Where every step may be, perhaps, the last</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;A soldier e’er may take.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Closely, more closely, still I see them sweep,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Their wings are furled, and eagerly, they tread,</p>
-<p class='line'>Yet silently, as one who walks in sleep,</p>
-<p class='line'>Swiftly, as tyrant monsters of the deep</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Rush on their helpless prey, which seems to dread</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;Far, far too much to fly.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Ye whom I loved, my brethren of the sword,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;With whom I left my distant mountain-home,</p>
-<p class='line'>Come, come to me. Alas! no single word</p>
-<p class='line'>I speak will ever by your ears be heard,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Where battle cries, the trump and stirring drum,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;Salute your victory.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Was it for this I left my mother’s side,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And bade to her I loved a last adieu,</p>
-<p class='line'>The dark-eyed girl I won to be my bride?</p>
-<p class='line'>Was it to watch this warm, empurpled tide</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Of life come gurgling, like a fountain, through</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;My rent and gaping breast?</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Wounded, alone, upon the field of strife,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;The shouts of victory upon mine ear,</p>
-<p class='line'>My comrades joyous, or bereft of life,</p>
-<p class='line'>Martyrs, with fame and glory ever rife—</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;I do not dread to die alone e’en here,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;As yon brave men have died.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>But oh, great God! I would not feel the beak</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Of yon dark vulture tear away my heart;</p>
-<p class='line'>Not that I wish my failing strength to eke—</p>
-<p class='line'>A soldier’s death it was my joy to seek,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Wounded, alone, I have no other art</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;To save me. Let me die.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk125'/>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' title='264' id='Page_264'></span><h1><a id='men'></a>HISTORY OF THE COSTUME OF MEN,</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1em;font-weight:bold;'>DURING THE EIGHTEENTH AND THE BEGINNING OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY FAYETTE ROBINSON.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;font-size:1em;'>(<span class='it'>Continued from page 198.</span>)</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Nor does the following present a much greater
-difference, and, but for the ear-rings and knee-breeches,
-would pass muster even now amid our
-infinite varieties of <span class='it'>palelots</span>, <span class='it'>sacks</span> and <span class='it'>Hongroises</span>.
-The boot-black represented in the cut is a miniature
-<span class='it'>bonnet-rouge</span>.</p>
-
-<div class='figcenter'>
-<img src='images/i114.jpg' alt='' id='iid-0006' style='width:375px;height:auto;'/>
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>It is worth while to state that costumes, like
-opinions, reproduce themselves. As the ideas which
-were once in vogue, and have been abandoned, return
-and resume their influence and orthodoxy, so
-do the costumes of other days continually reappear,
-it is true, with a difference often striking enough, for
-men no longer wear either coats of mail or inexpressibles
-of velvet, yet the Norman cloak of the
-Black Prince, and the <span class='it'>sack</span> of Lauzun, the handsome
-French colonel, who, during our own Revolutionary
-war, turned the heads and carried away the
-hearts of half the women of Philadelphia, are still
-every day to be seen.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The same thing is observable in female costume.
-The long waists, tight sleeves and full skirts of old
-times have returned, and even the ungainly ruffs of
-Queen Elizabeth’s age have shown a disposition to
-return. The mode of dressing the hair is also retracing
-itself, so that there is little real difference
-between the traditional court-dress of former times
-and that of every-day life worn at present, except
-the train.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='pageno' title='265' id='Page_265'></span>
-The following is a caricature of that day, but
-scarcely more outré than the bearded creatures from
-time to time seen in our own streets. It may be remarked
-that the passion for hair on the face always
-is consequent on a war. In the time of Henri IV,
-all the world was bearded; so during the days of
-Cromwell were his ironsides, and now men who
-never saw a shot fired, force the sublime into the
-ridiculous, by parading a moustache in every thoroughfare
-throughout the country.</p>
-
-<div class='figcenter'>
-<img src='images/i115.jpg' alt='' id='iid-0007' style='width:375px;height:auto;'/>
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Who knows but that our own Mexican war may
-exert an influence on dress, and that some day the
-Ranchero’s striped blanket and broad-brimmed hat
-may become the fashion. Men will stalk about the
-streets in boots of cow-hide, and instead of hunting
-with dogs and rifles, the <span class='it'>lazo</span> or <span class='it'>lariette</span> will be
-adopted universally. All the world knows that immediately
-after the return of the army of the Duke
-of Wellington to England, from Waterloo, the military
-black stock was adopted, and it may be that the
-green pantaloons with the brown stripe, now worn,
-are an imitation of the dress of the Mexican veterans
-who were defeated at Cherebusco. The same may
-be said of the cloth caps, with the covers of oil-skin,
-now so much in vogue. It may be remarked that
-this article of dress has always followed the <span class='it'>tenue</span> of
-the army, the flat cap replacing the hussar’s, as the
-latter did the old gig-top leather apparatus.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Other nations of Europe did not participate in the
-French Revolution, but became imitators of the costumes
-it created. We have now come to the period
-of the Directory, which exerted its influence on costume,
-or rather the influence of which was reflected
-by the costume of the day.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The Directory and Consulate saw all France seized
-with fury for the antique. These were the days of
-the <span class='it'>Romaines</span> and <span class='it'>Atheniennes</span>, when David was
-toiling with the pencil to effect a reform of costume,
-and when Talma sought to introduce correct ideas
-of dress on the stage. The men of Paris still adhered
-to the English costume, which, fortified by
-their <span class='it'>fiat</span>, became that of the world. They compromised
-their English predilections, however, so far as
-to wear their hair <span class='it'>à la Titus</span> or <span class='it'>à la Caracalla</span>,
-what that was may be seen from the following
-engraving.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='pageno' title='266' id='Page_266'></span></p>
-
-<div class='figcenter'>
-<img src='images/i117.jpg' alt='' id='iid-0008' style='width:375px;height:auto;'/>
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>They seemed, however, to struggle to make this
-costume as unbecoming as possible, wearing the
-coats loose, the collars immense, the breasts small,
-and such pantaloons and <span class='it'>shocking bad</span> hats as were
-never seen before or since. The costume of a dandy
-of 1798 consisted of a blue coat, a white waistcoat,
-open in the breast, a finely worked shirt-bosom,
-fastened with a diamond pin, a huge muslin cravat,
-Nankin pantaloons, with black stripes down the
-seams, and thrust into the boots. (In society the boot
-was replaced by a small and pointed shoe.) The
-everlasting bludgeon was as indispensable in the
-street as the boots and the hat. To young Thelusson,
-when thus dressed and armed, Madame de Stael,
-who wore an oriental <span class='it'>toilette</span>, said, “Citizen, you
-bear the sceptre of ridicule.” “Madame,” replied
-he, “you are certainly competent to award it to
-whom you please.” Never were there so many
-strange costumes seen in any one city as in Paris
-at that time, when <span class='it'>peruques</span>, powder, hair <span class='it'>à la
-Titus</span>, cocked and round hats all were mingled together.
-Costume was indeed republican if the government
-was despotic.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:right;margin-right:2em;margin-top:0.5em;'>[<span class='it'>Conclusion in our next.</span></p>
-
-<hr class='tbk126'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='earth'></a>THE BEAUTIFUL OF EARTH.</h1></div>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>All Nature’s beauteous forms, of light, of earth, or air, or sky,</p>
-<p class='line'>Compare not with the flexile frame, the lustrous, speaking eye;</p>
-<p class='line'>The opening flower, the rainbow tint, the blue and star-lit dome,</p>
-<p class='line'>Are things of naught, in contrast with the angels of our home:</p>
-<p class='line'>All gentle acts, all noble thoughts, of Heaven-directed birth,</p>
-<p class='line'>Are centered in the fair and good, the beautiful of earth.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk127'/>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' title='267' id='Page_267'></span><h1><a id='bird'></a>WILD-BIRDS OF AMERICA.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY PROFESSOR FROST.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='figcenter'>
-<img src='images/i119.jpg' alt='' id='iid-0009' style='width:300px;height:auto;'/>
-<p class='caption'><span class='bold'>CAROLINA OR MOCKING WREN.</span></p>
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>This interesting bird is strictly southern in its
-habits, being rarely found north of Maryland and
-Delaware, while it abounds during the whole year
-in the warmer states. Occasionally it strays to the
-vicinity of Philadelphia and even of New York;
-but this is so seldom that the indefatigable Wilson
-never found its nest north of the Maryland line.
-Like the House-Wren it is a sprightly, industrious
-and familiar bird, and a general favorite in the neighborhood
-where it abounds. Other qualities render
-its nature so ambiguous that some have hesitated to
-place it among the Wrens. One of the most remarkable
-of these is its power of imitating the songs
-of other birds. With much sweetness and accuracy it
-blends its own notes with the simple twittering of the
-Ground-Robin, the harsh noise of the Woodpecker,
-the trilling of the Blackbird and Warbler, and the
-whistling of the Cardinal. These are its favorite
-imitations; but its powers of mimicry embrace the
-songs of almost all our forest-birds. But notwithstanding
-this capriciousness in sounds, the Carolina
-Wren is said to have a favorite theme, repeated
-more regularly than any other. Nuttall thus pleasantly
-describes it. “This was the first sound that
-I heard from him, delivered with great spirit, though
-in the dreary month of January. This sweet and
-melodious ditty, <span class='it'>tsee-toot</span>, <span class='it'>tsee-toot</span>, <span class='it'>tsee-toot</span>, and
-sometimes <span class='it'>tsee-toot</span>, <span class='it'>tsee toot-seet</span>, was usually uttered
-in a somewhat plaintive or tender strain, varied
-at each repetition with the most delightful and delicate
-tones, of which no conception can be formed
-without experience. That this song has a sentimental
-air may be conceived from its interpretation by the
-youths of the country, who pretend to hear it say,
-<span class='it'>sweet-heart</span>, <span class='it'>sweet-heart</span>, <span class='it'>sweet</span>! nor is the illusion
-more than the natural truth, for, usually, this affectionate
-ditty is answered by its mate, sometimes in
-the same note, at others in a different call. In most
-cases, it will be remarked, that the phrases of our
-songster are uttered in 3s; by this means it will be
-generally practicable to distinguish its performance
-from that of other birds, and particularly from the
-Cardinal Grosbeak, whose expression it often closely
-imitates, both in power and delivery. I shall never,
-I believe, forget the soothing satisfaction and amusement
-I derived from this little constant and unwearied
-minstrel, my sole vocal companion through many
-weary miles of a vast, desolate, and otherwise cheerless
-wilderness.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The food of the Carolina Wren consists of the insects
-found in old timber, and along the banks of
-streams, places which it delights to frequent. It is
-found among the thick cypress swamps of the south
-even in the middle of winter. It can see well in the
-dark, sometimes searching food in caves, where to
-most other day birds objects would be undistinguishable.
-Its building places are a barn, or stable, some
-old decayed tree, or even a post-fence. The female
-lays from five to eight eggs, of a dusky white, mottled
-with brown. Two broods are raised in a season,
-and sometimes even three. The adult bird is five
-and a quarter inches long, of a chestnut brown, beautifully
-mottled with black and other colors. The
-female differs little in color from the male.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='pageno' title='268' id='Page_268'></span></p>
-
-<div class='figcenter'>
-<img src='images/i121.jpg' alt='' id='iid-0010' style='width:350px;height:auto;'/>
-<p class='caption'><span class='bold'>THE CARDINAL BIRD.</span></p>
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>This bird is known under the names of Virginia
-Red Bird, Virginia Nightingale and Crested Red
-Bird. It is one of the most beautiful of American
-songsters, and in power and sweetness of tone it has
-been compared with the Nightingale. The species
-belongs mostly to the United States and Mexico, but
-has been found in considerable numbers in the West
-Indies, Central America and Colombia. Although
-delighting in a southern clime, it is sometimes observed
-in Pennsylvania, and even New England.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Being migratory, it often flies in large flocks, presenting
-a splendid appearance, especially when
-moving in relief over a clear sky, and in the rays of
-the sun. At other times several of these birds are
-found associated with Sparrows, Snow-Birds and
-other half domestic species. When alone his favorite
-haunts are the corn-field, small clumps of trees, and
-the borders of shaded rivulets. Corn is their favorite
-food, in addition to which they eat seeds of fruit,
-grain and insects. They are easily domesticated,
-even when taken quite old, and require very little
-trouble in order to thrive well. Loss of color, however,
-has often been the result of long confinement,
-although with care this might perhaps be obviated.
-They are lively in the cage, and maintain their
-powers of song to the last. Numbers of them are
-carried to France and England, where they are
-highly esteemed. Their time of song lasts from
-March to September.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The Cardinal Bird’s song consists of a favorite
-stanza often repeated, with boldness, variety of tone
-and richness. Its whistling somewhat resembles that
-of the human voice, though its energy is much
-greater. In his native grove, his voice rises above
-almost every other songster except the Mocking-Bird.
-The powers of the female are almost equal to
-those of the male, of whom she is a most constant
-and affectionate partner.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Latham admits that the notes of the Cardinal “are
-almost equal to those of the Nightingale,” the sweetest
-of the feathered minstrels of Europe. But, says
-Nuttall, “the style of their performance is wholly
-different. The bold martial strains of the Red Bird,
-though relieved by tender and exquisite touches, possess
-<span class='pageno' title='269' id='Page_269'></span>
-not the enchanting pathos, the elevated and varied
-expression of the far-famed Philomel, nor yet
-those contrasted tones, which, in the solemn stillness
-of the growing night, fall at times into a soothing
-whisper, or slowly rise and quicken into a loud and
-cheering warble.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The Cardinal Bird measures eight inches in length,
-and eleven from the tip of one wing to that of the
-other. The whole upper parts are of a dull dusky-red,
-except the sides of the neck, head and lower
-parts, which are of a clear vermilion. The chin,
-front and lores black. The head is ornamented with
-a high pointed crest. The bill is coral red, and the
-legs and feet are pale ash color. The female is somewhat
-less than the male, and a little different in
-color. Both sexes are noted for affection to their
-young, and to each other; but so jealous are the
-males that they have often been known to destroy
-those of their own sex.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk128'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='jenny'></a>JENNY LIND.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY MISS M. SAWIN.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>A world’s sweet enchantress, unbounded in fame,</p>
-<p class='line'>O how shall I sing of so peerless a name—</p>
-<p class='line'>Thy tones, from the wilds of a picturesque land,</p>
-<p class='line'>The billows of ocean have borne to our strand;</p>
-<p class='line'>Though I ne’er have beheld thee, yet bound in thy spell,</p>
-<p class='line'>My bosom thine echoes still onward would swell—</p>
-<p class='line'>Would enshrine in my song the sweet soul of thy strains,</p>
-<p class='line'>Till fresh incense should rise from our mountains and plains.</p>
-<p class='line'>Though long on the altar thou’st kindled the fire,</p>
-<p class='line'>Oh how shall it burn on the strings of the lyre!</p>
-<p class='line'>’Tis the music of Nature sublimed in thy lays</p>
-<p class='line'>Which has won thee thy guerdon of lore and of praise;</p>
-<p class='line'><a id='tis'></a>’Tis hence that the depths of the spirit it thrills,</p>
-<p class='line'>That responses start forth from mountains and hills,</p>
-<p class='line'>That no barriers the flight of thine echoes can bind,</p>
-<p class='line'>Which are borne o’er the earth on the wings of the wind.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>There is glowing within us, all restless, a lyre,</p>
-<p class='line'>Which would swell like an angel’s its anthems of fire,</p>
-<p class='line'>But the shroud of mortality fetters its strings—</p>
-<p class='line'>Yet thou while on earth hast unfolded thy wings,</p>
-<p class='line'>Canst dwell with the fairies in chalice of flowers,</p>
-<p class='line'>And glide with the wood nymphs in deep sylvan bowers;</p>
-<p class='line'>Canst float with the moonbeams in dew-silvered trees,</p>
-<p class='line'>And rise on the wings of the morn’s fragrant breeze,</p>
-<p class='line'>While sunbeams are waking the rapturous lays</p>
-<p class='line'>Of dew-drops and birds, and yet all ’neath their blaze;</p>
-<p class='line'>Canst hover o’er ocean when storm it enthrones,</p>
-<p class='line'>And bear from the foam-crested surges their tones;</p>
-<p class='line'>When dark are the skies and the thunder-clouds lower,</p>
-<p class='line'>With the eagle’s bold flight to the mountain’s crest soar;</p>
-<p class='line'>The streams of the forest to their fountains canst wind,</p>
-<p class='line'>And caverns resounding in solitude find;</p>
-<p class='line'>Enshrined in thy spirit their voices canst keep,</p>
-<p class='line'>Sublimed by thine alchemy subtile and deep,</p>
-<p class='line'>At thy will from thy spirit their harmonies sweep,</p>
-<p class='line'>And I ween thou hast soared to the portals of Heaven,</p>
-<p class='line'>Or some angel a tone to thy praises has given.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>O, Jenny, the brightest cynosure below!</p>
-<p class='line'>The fount in thy bosom must here cease to flow;</p>
-<p class='line'>Like the sear leaves of autumn which shroud the old years,</p>
-<p class='line'>Thy harp-strings must perish ’mid wailings and tears;</p>
-<p class='line'>Thy lovers who bend at thy purity’s shrine,</p>
-<p class='line'>Enchained by the spells of thy carols divine,</p>
-<p class='line'>When no temple’s proud arches resound with thy strain,</p>
-<p class='line'>In the wilds of thy forests shall seek thee in vain;</p>
-<p class='line'>But when from thy tomb they despairing return,</p>
-<p class='line'>In lyres immortal thine echoes shall burn.</p>
-<p class='line'>Alas! that thy music should ever here die,</p>
-<p class='line'>Should leave the sad earth and ascend to the sky;</p>
-<p class='line'>Yet when thou art fled to the seraphim throng</p>
-<p class='line'>Will fancy yet list to thy glorified song,</p>
-<p class='line'>Will dream that no harp on the heavenly plains</p>
-<p class='line'>Has music so sweet as are there thy high strains.</p>
-<p class='line'>Though we never may list while on earth to thy lays,</p>
-<p class='line'>For the boon of thy being high Heaven we’ll praise;</p>
-<p class='line'>Where thy strains are ascending must Paradise be—</p>
-<p class='line'>Humanity’s scale is exalted in thee.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>There is a tone in my bosom as yet unexpressed,</p>
-<p class='line'>And fain would I bid it to ever there rest,</p>
-<p class='line'>But the woes of the earth for its utterance plead,</p>
-<p class='line'>Then may it go forth as a merciful deed:—</p>
-<p class='line'>O, Jenny, while shining so brilliant on high,</p>
-<p class='line'>Like the Lyrian star on the vault of the sky,</p>
-<p class='line'>While the peers of the realms bow in homage to thee,</p>
-<p class='line'>Dost never thy race in their miseries see?</p>
-<p class='line'>To the charm of thy music we ever would yield,</p>
-<p class='line'>By thee would be borne to Elysium’s field,</p>
-<p class='line'>And forgetful that wrong or that wo were on earth,</p>
-<p class='line'>Forever would list to thine angel-like mirth.</p>
-<p class='line'>But the heart fraught with sympathies true, must embrace</p>
-<p class='line'>The lowest as well as the stars of our race—</p>
-<p class='line'>Round the poor and the wretched in bitterness twine—</p>
-<p class='line'>On devotion’s wings rise to where pure seraphs shine;—</p>
-<p class='line'>In our pathway to Heaven we encounter the thorn,</p>
-<p class='line'>Each brother’s woes feel and the proud tyrant’s scorn—</p>
-<p class='line'>The way that our holy Redeemer has trod</p>
-<p class='line'>But leads us through tears to the throne of our God.</p>
-<p class='line'>I know that thine own gushing spirit is free</p>
-<p class='line'>As the winds that o’ersweep the high mountains and sea;</p>
-<p class='line'>Thy genius has burst from all species of chains,</p>
-<p class='line'>And freedom unbounded swells forth in thy strains;</p>
-<p class='line'>But while ever exulting on fetterless wing,</p>
-<p class='line'>Wouldst not the blest boon to each lorn spirit bring?</p>
-<p class='line'>Thy music, which thrills to the depths of the heart,</p>
-<p class='line'>Might bid us to deeds of true chivalry start;</p>
-<p class='line'>Might bid the kind fountain in proud bosoms flow,</p>
-<p class='line'>To heal the crushed hearts that are writhing in wo.</p>
-<p class='line'>Both Knowledge and Virtue like angels descend,</p>
-<p class='line'>The sad thralls of Sin and of Darkness to rend,</p>
-<p class='line'>Perchance that the tyrant may yield to thy charms,</p>
-<p class='line'>And avert the dread doom of the Future’s alarms,</p>
-<p class='line'>Till unwilling vassals no more bend the knee,</p>
-<p class='line'>But rise at his bidding and ever be free.</p>
-<p class='line'>And the gold thou hast won by the charm of thy name,</p>
-<p class='line'>To its splendor might add the philanthropist’s fame,</p>
-<p class='line'>Till many an oasis from deserts shall spring,</p>
-<p class='line'>When the arches of Heaven with thy praises shall ring.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk129'/>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' title='270' id='Page_270'></span><h1><a id='storm'></a>STORM-LINES.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;'>———</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;font-size:0.8em;font-weight:bold;'>BY J. BAYARD TAYLOR.</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1.5em;'>———</p>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>When the rains of November are dark on the hills, and the pine-trees incessantly roar</p>
-<p class='line'>To the sound of the wind-beaten crags, and the floods that in foam through their black channels pour:</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>When the breaker-lined coast stretches dimly afar, through the desolate waste of the gale,</p>
-<p class='line'>And the clang of the sea-gull at nightfall is heard from the deep, like a mariner's wail:</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>When the gray sky drops low, and the forest is bare, and the laborer is housed from the storm,</p>
-<p class='line'>And the world is a blank, save the light of his home through the gust shining redly and warm:—</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Go thou forth, if the brim of thy heart with its tropical fullness of life overflow—</p>
-<p class='line'>If the sun of thy bliss in the zenith is hung, and no shadow reminds thee of wo!</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Leave the home of thy love; leave thy labors of fame; in the rain and the darkness go forth,</p>
-<p class='line'>When the cold winds unpausingly wail as they drive from the cheerless expanse of the North.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Thou shalt turn from the cup that was mantling before; thou shalt hear the eternal despair</p>
-<p class='line'>Of the hearts that endured and were broken at last, from the hills and the sea and the air!</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Thou shalt hear how the Earth, the maternal, laments for the children she nurtured with tears—</p>
-<p class='line'>How the forest but deepens its wail and the breakers their roar, with the march of the years!</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Then the gleam of thy hearth-fire shall dwindle away, sad the lips of thy loved ones be still:</p>
-<p class='line'>And thy soul shall lament in the moan of the storm, sounding wide on the shelterless hill.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>All the woes of existence shall stand at thy heart, and the sad eyes of myriads implore,</p>
-<p class='line'>In the darkness and storm of their being, the ray, streaming out through thy radiant door.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Look again: how that star of thy Paradise dims, through the warm tears, unwittingly shed—</p>
-<p class='line'>Thou art man, and a sorrow so bitterly wrung, never fell on the dust of the Dead!</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Let the rain of the midnight beat cold on thy cheek, and the proud pulses chill in thy frame,</p>
-<p class='line'>Till the love of thy bosom is grateful and sad, and thou turn'st from the mockery of Fame!</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Take with humble acceptance the gifts of thy life; bid thy joy brim the fountain of tears;</p>
-<p class='line'>For the soul of the Earth, in endurance and pain, gathers promise of happier years!</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk130'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='books'></a>REVIEW OF NEW BOOKS.</h1></div>
-
-<div class='blockquote'>
-
-<p class='hang'><span class='it'>The Child of the Sea and Other Poems. By Mrs. S. Anna
-Lewis, Author of “Records of the Heart,” etc. etc. New
-York: George P. Putnam.</span></p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>A large edition of “Records of the Heart” was sold in
-a few months, and the fair author stepped at once into a
-very enviable position. “The Child of the Sea,” etc. will
-add much to her poetical fame. The poem which gives
-name to the volume, and occupies most of it, is a romantic
-and passionate narrative, and embodies all the main features
-of Mrs. Lewis’s thought as well as manner. The
-story is well conducted and somewhat elaborately handled;
-the style, or general tone, is nervous, free, dashing—much
-in the way of Maria del Occidente—but the principal
-ground for praise is to be found in the great aggregate of
-quotable passages. The opening lines, for example, are
-singularly vivid:</p>
-
-<div class='blockquote0r9'>
-
-<div class='poetry-container' style=''><div class='lgp'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line0'>Where blooms the myrtle and the olive flings</p>
-<p class='line0'>&ensp;&ensp;Its aromatic breath upon the air—</p>
-<p class='line0'>Where the sad Bird of Night forever sings</p>
-<p class='line0'>&ensp;&ensp;Meet anthems for the Children of Despair.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end poetry block --><!-- end rend -->
-
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The <span class='it'>themes</span> of the poem—a few lines farther on—are
-summed up in words of Byronic pith and vigor:—</p>
-
-<div class='blockquote0r9'>
-
-<div class='poetry-container' style=''><div class='lgp'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line0'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;——youthful Love,</p>
-<p class='line0'>Ill-starred, yet trustful, truthful and sublime</p>
-<p class='line0'>As ever angels chronicled above—</p>
-<p class='line0'>The sorrowings of Beauty in her prime—</p>
-<p class='line0'>Virtue’s reward—the punishment of Crime—</p>
-<p class='line0'>The dark, inscrutable decrees of Fate—</p>
-<p class='line0'>Despair, untold before in prose or rhyme.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end poetry block --><!-- end rend -->
-
-</div>
-
-<hr class='tbk131'/>
-
-<p class='pindent'>We give a few more instances of what we term “quotable”
-passages—thoughtful, vivid, pungent or vigorous:</p>
-
-<div class='poetry-container' style=''><div class='lgp'> <!-- rend=';fs:0.9em;' -->
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>Fresh blows the breeze on Tarick’s burnished bay—</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>The silent sea-mews bend them through the spray—</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>The beauty-freighted barges bound afar</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>To the soft music of the gay guitar.&nbsp;.&nbsp;.&nbsp;.&nbsp;.&nbsp;.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<hr class='tbk132'/>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>The olive children of the Indian Sea.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<hr class='tbk133'/>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>That rayless realm where Fancy never beams—</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>That Nothingness beyond the Land of Dreams.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<hr class='tbk134'/>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>Folded his arms across his sable vest</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>As if to keep the heart within his breast.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<hr class='tbk135'/>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;——Violets lifting up their azure eyes</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>Like timid virgins whom Love’s steps surprise.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<hr class='tbk136'/>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>And all is hushed—so still—so silent there</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>That one might hear an angel wing the air.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<hr class='tbk137'/>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;——There are times when the sick soul</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>Lies calm amid the storms that ’round it roll,</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>Indifferent to Fate or to what haven</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>By the terrific tempest it is driven.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<hr class='tbk138'/>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>The dahlias, leaning from the golden vase,</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>Peer pensively into her pallid face,</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>While the sweet songster o’er the oaken door</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>Looks through his grate and warbles “weep no more!”</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<hr class='tbk139'/>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;——beauteous in her misery—</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>A jewel sparkling up through the dark sea</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>Of Sorrow.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<hr class='tbk140'/>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>Delirium’s world of fantasy and pain,</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>Where hung the fiery moon and stars of blood</p>
-<p class='line0' style='font-size:0.9em;'>And phantom ships rolled on the rolling flood.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end poetry block --><!-- end rend -->
-
-<p class='pindent'>“<span class='it'>Isabelle or The Broken Heart</span>” occupies some 40 pages,
-and is fully as good as “The Child of the Sea”—although
-in a very different way. There is less elaboration, perhaps,
-but not less true polish, and even more imagination.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The “Miscellaneous Poems” are, of course, varied in
-<span class='pageno' title='271' id='Page_271'></span>
-merit. Some of them have been public favorites for a
-long time. “My Study,” especially, has been often
-quoted and requoted. It is terse and vigorous. From
-“The Beleagured Heart” we extract a quatrain of very
-forcible originality:</p>
-
-<div class='blockquote0r9'>
-
-<div class='poetry-container' style=''><div class='lgp'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line0'>I hear the mournful moans of joy—</p>
-<p class='line0'>&ensp;&ensp;<span class='it'>Hope, sobbing while she cheers</span>—</p>
-<p class='line0'>Like dew descending from the leaf</p>
-<p class='line0'>&ensp;&ensp;The dropping of Love’s tears.</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end poetry block --><!-- end rend -->
-
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The volume is most exquisitely printed and bound—one
-of the most beautiful books of the season.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk141'/>
-
-<div class='blockquote'>
-
-<p class='hang'><span class='it'>The History of England, from the Accession of James II.
-By Thomas Babington Macaulay. New York: Harper
-&amp; Brothers. Vols. 1 and 2. 8vo.</span></p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>No person, of whig or tory politics, could in the present
-age, propose to himself the task of writing the history of
-England, without feeling the delicacy and responsibility
-of his undertaking, and the necessity of exercising a different
-class of powers from those which may have given
-sparkle and point to his partisan efforts. The importance
-of the principles involved in the events and characters
-coming under his view, and their wide applications to
-contemporary controversies, would be sure to bring down
-upon the unlucky advocate a storm of moral and immoral
-indignation. It would seem on the first blush that Macaulay,
-with all his vast and vivified erudition, was not
-a writer calculated to experience the full force of a historian’s
-duties, or to display in the analysis and judgment
-of events that intellectual conscientiousness which is a
-rare quality even in powerful minds. His historical
-essays bear as unmistakable marks of partisanship as
-ability, and are especially characterized by a merciless
-severity, which, in the name of justice, too often loses the
-insight us well as the toleration which come from charity.
-Sir James Macintosh, toward the commencement of his
-career, referred to him as “a writer of consummate ability,
-who has failed in little but in the respect due to the abilities
-and character of his opponents.” Though as a partisan,
-Macaulay was a partisan on the right side, on the side of
-liberty and truth, the unmeasured scorn he poured, hot
-from his heart, on tyrants and bigots, and the fierce,
-swift sweep of his generalizations, often made his cooler
-readers suspicious of his accuracy when most dazzled and
-delighted by his brilliancy. In the present history a great
-change is manifest. The petulance, the flippancy, the
-dogmatism of the essayist, are hardly observable, and in
-their place we have the solid judgment of the historian.
-There is a general lowering of the tone in which persons
-and principles are considered, consequent upon the change
-in the writer’s position from an antagonist to a judge. The
-style, while it has no lack of the force, richness, variety,
-directness and brilliancy, which characterized the diction
-of the essayist, has likewise a sweetness, gravity and
-composure which the essayist never displayed. Though
-the writer’s opinions are radically the same as ever, they
-are somewhat modified by being seen through a less extravagant
-expression, and by being restored to their proper
-relations. In fact, the history presents Macaulay as a
-wiser and more comprehensive man than his essays, and
-if we sometimes miss the generous warmth and intensity,
-and the daring sweep of his earlier compositions, we also
-miss their declamatory contemptuousness and mental
-bombast.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The volumes which the Harpers have given to us in so
-elegant a form, (vulgarized a little by Dr. Webster’s ortho-graphical
-crotchets,) close with the proceedings of the
-Convention which gave the crown to William and Mary.
-A long historical introduction, containing a view of
-English history previous to the reign of James II., and a
-view of England, in its manners, customs, literature and
-people at the time of his accession, occupy the larger portion
-of the first volume, and are almost unmatched, certainly
-unexcelled, in historical literature, for the combination
-of condensed richness of matter with popularity of
-style. Then follows the narrative of the three years of
-folly and madness which produced the revolution of 1688,
-and hurled James II. from his throne. This narrative is
-detailed with a minuteness which leaves nothing untold
-necessary to the complete apprehension of the subject in
-all its bearings, and it evinces on almost every page not
-only singular felicity in narration, but great power of
-original and striking observation. Masterly generalization,
-and sagacity in seizing and luminousness in unfolding
-the principles of events. The whole history has the
-interest of a grand dramatic poem, in which the movement
-of the story and delineation of the characters are managed
-with consummate skill. The portraits of Charles II.,
-James II., Danby, Rochester, Sunderland, Godolphin,
-Halifax, Churchill, and especially William of Orange, are
-altogether superior to any which have previously appeared.
-Halifax and King William seem to be Macaulay’s favorites,
-and he has surprised many of his readers by his
-comparative coolness to Russell, Sydney, and the whig
-patriots generally.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The history closes with an eloquent passage on the
-“glorious” Revolution of 1688. It appears to us that the
-meanness and lowness which Macaulay has developed
-in the actors in the event, impress the reader with a
-different notion of it. The whole thing has a jobby air,
-in which no commanding genius is observable, and no
-sacrifices seem to have been made. Indeed Macaulay
-himself, in one of his essays, remarks truly that the only
-sacrifices made in the Revolution, “was the sacrifice
-which Churchill made of honor and Anne of natural
-affection.” That the Revolution, in its results, was one
-of the most glorious recorded in human annals, there can
-be little doubt, but it had its birth in such odious treachery,
-and was conducted by men so deficient in elevation of mind
-or even common honesty, that its story is little calculated
-to kindle sympathy, or awaken admiration.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk142'/>
-
-<div class='blockquote'>
-
-<p class='hang'><span class='it'>The History of England from the Peace of Utrecht to the
-Peace of Paris. By Lord Mahon. Edited by Henry
-Reed, Professor of English Literature in the University of
-Pennsylvania. New York: D. Appleton &amp; Co. 2 vols. 8vo.</span></p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The author of this history is all English nobleman of
-large historical acquirements, who has managed to produce
-two or three valuable works demanding great study
-and research, without interfering with his duties as a
-member of Parliament, though, doubtless with some interference
-with his pleasures as a member of the English
-aristocracy. The present work is valuable for its accuracy,
-and interesting from its giving a connected view of the
-history of England during a period but little known except
-by the empty abstracts of stupid compilers, or the brilliant
-but prejudiced letters and memoirs of contemporary
-writers and statesmen. It comprehends the administrations
-of Harley and Bolingbroke, of Stanhope, Walpole,
-Carteret, Newcastle and Chatham, thus including the
-latter years of the reign of Queen Anne and the reigns of
-George I. and II. The period covers a wide field of
-characters and events, and Lord Mahon has been especially
-successful in unraveling the threads of the foreign policy
-of England, and indicating the difficulties experienced by
-her statesmen in sustaining the House of Hanover on the
-throne. In a narrative point of view the best portions of
-the history are those relating to the rebellions of 1715 and
-1745. It is almost needless to say that Professor Reed
-<span class='pageno' title='272' id='Page_272'></span>
-has added much to the value and interest of the work by
-his elucidative notes.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>But the richness of Lord Mahon’s materials and the
-interest of his subject cannot conceal the fact that he lacks
-both the heart and the brain of an able historian, and that
-he is essentially a common-place man. The reflections he
-appends to some of his narratives are commonly such
-obvious truisms, or such poor apologies for reason, that
-the reader is made painfully aware of his being in the
-company of a mediocre gentleman, who, while he always
-means well, never means much. Lord Mahon is deficient
-equally in historical science and historical imagination,
-and his work equally barren of profound principles and
-vivid pictures. A moderate tory, he holds the hearsays
-of his creed with a lazy acquiescence, without sufficient
-passion to be a bigot, and without sufficient logic to be a
-sophist. When he is tempted into historical parallels, or
-disquisitions on the changes of parties, as in that passage
-where he essays to prove that a modern whig is synonymous
-with a tory of Queen Anne’s day, he adopts the argumentation
-of Fluellen rather than Chillingworth—shows that
-“there is a mountain in Wales and a mountain in Macedon,”
-and leaves the reader to mourn over the misdirection
-of the human faculties. In his estimate of literature he is
-still worse. The disquisition on the literature of Queen
-Anne’s time, in the present history, is a medley of mingled
-commonplace, which has been worn to rags, and critical
-nonsense, which has been long exploded. His history,
-therefore, must be considered simply as a useful narrative
-of important events, and carefully distinguished from those
-of Guizot and Thierrey, of Hallam and Macaulay, of Prescott
-and Bancroft.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk143'/>
-
-<div class='blockquote'>
-
-<p class='hang'><span class='it'>Leaves from Margaret Smith’s Journal in the Province of
-Massachusetts Bay, 1678-9. Boston: Ticknor, Reed &amp;
-Fields. 1 vol. 16mo.</span></p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>This beautifully printed volume sustains both the reputation
-of its publishers for printing handsome books, and
-its reputed author for writing good ones. It is generally
-attributed to Whittier, and it certainly displays throughout
-the shrewdness with which that poet observes, and
-the facility with which he idealizes events. Here is a
-volume bringing up to the eye with the vividness of reality
-the scenes and characters of a past age, and making us as
-familiar with them as if we had ridden by the side of Margaret
-in her journey from Boston to Newbury, and yet
-through the whole book runs a vein of pure poetry, lending
-a consecrating light to scenes which might possess
-but little interest if actually observed. The quaint spelling
-undoubtedly adds to the illusion of its antiquity, but
-what makes it really seem old is its primitive sentiment
-and bold delineations. Margaret herself is a most bewitching
-piece of saintliness, with the sweetness and
-purity of one of Jeremy Taylor’s sermons, and as full of
-genial humanity as of beautiful devotion. Placed as she
-is amid the collision of opposite fanaticisms, the austere
-fanaticism of the Puritan and the vehement fanaticism of
-the Quaker, she shines both by her own virtues and by
-contrast with the harsh qualities by which she is surrounded.
-The book provokes a comparison with the
-Diary of Lady Willoughby, and that comparison it will
-more than stand, being superior to that charming volume
-in the range of its persons and events, and equal to it in
-the conception of the leading character. The author has
-shown especial art in modifying every thing, by the supposed
-medium of mind through which it passes—the heroine
-telling the whole story in her own words—and at the
-same time preserving every thing in its essential life.
-This is a difficult and delicate process of representation,
-but Whittier has performed it.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk144'/>
-
-<div class='blockquote'>
-
-<p class='hang'><span class='it'>Democracy in France. By Monsieur Guizot, Late Prime
-Minister. New York: D. Appleton &amp; Co.</span></p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>This little volume is well worthy the reputation of one
-of the greatest historians, philosophers and statesmen at
-the age—in other words, of the reputation of Guizot. It
-is marked by preeminent ability in statement, analysis,
-argumentation and composition, and we doubt not will
-exert some considerable influence on the politics of France.
-In his preface the author avers that nothing in the volume
-bears the impress of his personal situation, and he adds,
-“While events of such magnitude are passing before his
-eyes, a man who did not forget himself would deserve to
-be forever forgotten.” The book justifies the author’s
-assertion. It is simply an examination of things without
-regard to persons, and is as philosophic in its tone as in
-its method. The chapters on The Social Republic and
-The Elements of Society are masterpieces of analysis and
-statement, and well deserve the attentive study of all who
-think or prattle on social science. It seems to us that the
-present volume is sufficient to convince all candid minds,
-that whatever may be the faults and errors of Guizot as a
-statesman, he has no equal among the men at present
-dominant in France. Since his fall that country has been
-governed, or misgoverned, by soldiers and sentimentalists,
-with a pistol in one hand and the Rights of Man in the
-other, and is a standing monument of the madness of trusting
-the state to men of “second rate ability and first rate
-incapacity.” The Red Republicans have principles; M.
-Guizot has principles; the legitimists have principles;
-but the present dynasty has the peculiar character of being,
-in an intellectual sense, the most thoroughly unprincipled
-government that French ingenuity could have
-formed.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk145'/>
-
-<div class='blockquote'>
-
-<p class='hang'><span class='it'>Oregon and California. By J. Quinn Thornton. New
-York: Harper &amp; Brothers, 1849.</span></p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>A pleasant book, well written, and containing much information
-just now, peculiarly valuable in relation to
-Oregon and California. Many strange phases of life in
-the wilderness and prairie, are described by one who
-knows its peculiar hardships and pleasures. The terrible
-sufferings, the awful stories told of the early emigrants,
-are faithfully given, and, if official accounts be true, are
-scarcely exaggerated. A valuable appendix on the gold
-country is added, undoubtedly to be relied on. The book
-is well illustrated in wood.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk146'/>
-
-<div class='blockquote'>
-
-<p class='hang'><span class='it'>The Parterre, a Collection of Flowers Culled by the Wayside.
-By D. W. Belisle. Philadelphia: J. B. Lippencott
-&amp; Co., 1849.</span></p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>A pretty looking volume, very creditable to the publishers
-in a typographical point of view, and containing
-a number of poems of various lengths, on a variety of subjects.
-The longest, Wallenpaupack, is an attempt, and a
-very creditable one also, to commemorate an incident of
-the history of the North American Indian, a source of
-poetical subjects too much neglected. The book is well
-worth attention. It may not be uninteresting to state that
-the type has all been set up by the author.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk147'/>
-
-<div class='blockquote'>
-
-<p class='hang'><span class='it'>Roland Cashel. By Charles Lever. Illustrated by Phiz.
-New York: Harper &amp; Brothers.</span></p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p class='pindent'>This is probably the best novel of one of the most popular
-novelists of the day. Lever has not much solidity of mind,
-and accordingly never produces any masterpieces of characterization
-or passion, but he has a quicksilver spirit of
-frolic and drollery, and an intensity of mirthful feeling which
-have made some critics place him on a level with Dickens.
-The present volume will more than sustain the reputation
-which his former frolicksome audacities have attained.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk148'/>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' title='273' id='Page_273'></span><h1><a id='table'></a>EDITOR’S TABLE.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1em;font-weight:bold;'>“GRAHAM” TO “JEREMY SHORT.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='sc'>My Dear Jeremy</span>,—In my last I promised you a reminding
-hint, a sketch reflective and suggestive of mining
-operations, as an offset to the brilliant visions of “Gold
-Placers,” which haunt the mind, sleeping and waking, of
-Uncle Sam’s children. While multitudes are making haste
-to grow rich, by going around the Horn, and at the terminus
-of their long voyage will find themselves coming
-out of the little end of it, you and I may amuse ourselves
-over a subject somewhat kindred—a retrospective folly—feeling
-the while a good deal like the boy on getting rid
-of the jumping tooth-ache—“a <span class='it'>heap</span> better” are we, “now
-it is over.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>Copper!</span> You have heard of it before, I believe? and
-may have about you a memorandum of a few thousands,
-entered on the credit side, not available now at your
-bankers. It was a very happy delusion, was it not? I’ll
-warrant me that you had already planned your cottage
-orné and had the walks laid out, and the shrubbery planted
-quite tastefully and imaginatively picturesque. Several
-castles, with steeples rather airy, of my own, were toppled
-down, and elegantly bronzed as they were, are quite
-useless now for purposes of reproduction, so that we may
-say, that we have had some of the advantages of wealth
-without a present care in disposing of it. The servant
-girl who wished for riches “that she might ride in her
-carriage and feel like missus,” had the delights of anticipation
-only, poor soul! while ours are embodied in the
-delicious reflection of having passed that “missus” on the
-road, with a pair of fast trotters—taking the air with quite
-an air, at the rate of “two forty.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Come easy, go fast,” was the remark of an old German
-Uncle, who, having made a fortune by hard knocks at the
-anvil, looked with a quiet smile at these thousands in perspective.
-In regard to the <span class='it'>horses</span>, the old gentleman was
-right—but as the <span class='it'>money</span> never came, I think his premises
-were altogether wrong. One thing is certain, real estate
-rose very rapidly in our vicinity at that time, and as several
-lots went off at spanking prices, to be kept out of our
-clutches, we may be said to have been benefactors to the
-sellers and conveyancers. So that <span class='it'>copper</span>—the vilest of
-metal—may, in some crucibles, be transformed into gold.
-But not to anticipate.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk149'/>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>Grubemout</span> had been upon the mountain-side, which
-overlooks the delightful village of Fleeceington, for a
-month or more, making careful chiselings from rocks,
-and excavations at their sides. <span class='sc'>Uptosnuff</span> carried his pick-axe
-and his basket. The “collection” gradually swelled
-upon their hands, until it became quite formidable; and
-the “choice specimens,” were without number, rich, and
-without reason, <span class='it'>rare</span>. <span class='sc'>Drawitwell</span>, the host of “The
-Hawk and Buzzard,” had his eye upon their movements,
-and always made it a point to take a peep at their basket
-when they descended in the evening. He was an open-eyed
-sort of an old lark, who had had his own way in the
-village at election times and at trainings, by virtue of a
-colonelcy and aidship to the governor—a cheap sort of
-payment for service rendered—and he felt as if nothing
-of importance ought to transpire in the place, unless he
-had a hand in it. Drawitwell did not like the air of
-mystery with which his lodgers slipped the covered basket
-up stairs, after they had performed their ablutions; nor
-the roaring noise made overhead, as the “specimens”
-were poured into the two great chests, previously prepared;
-and he was just the man to get at the bottom of
-a mare’s nest. So, by virtue of appliances best known to
-himself, he contrived to get a look at the collected specimens,
-and made up his mind at once that the thing was
-too slily managed by half, and that if there was wealth in
-the rocks he would have a finger in the transaction.
-“<span class='it'>He would at any rate.</span>”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Crispin, the village cobbler, had thrown <span class='it'>his</span> eyes from
-his lapstone, across the creek, and up the hill-side, to take
-note of the motions of “the wandering stone-crackers,”
-as he called them, and his brain was in a pother.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The blacksmith had sharpened their pick more than once,
-which had put on edge his curiosity, and had “contrived
-to pick their brains, while they pecked the rocks,” as he
-jocosely remarked, and <span class='it'>he</span> had smelt metal in their
-movements.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Over their evening ale, at the tavern, the probabilities
-and possibilities of gold or silver being found in the mountain,
-were discussed with various degrees of profundity,
-and the certainty that something of the kind was there,
-was most sagely resolved on. Time, in whose crucible
-all doubts are solved, soon confirmed their sagacity by a
-“copper button” presented to the landlord with the compliments
-of Uptosnuff, with hints, but not positive injunctions
-as to secrecy. He knew his man.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“What do you think of that?” asked Drawitwell, of his
-cronies the same evening, with an air of authority, holding
-up the copper button. “What <span class='it'>do</span> you think of that,
-my lads?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“<span class='it'>Hellow!</span>” exclaimed the bewildered cobbler, “landlord,
-why—why is <span class='it'>that goold</span>?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Gold, you fool! No, it’s <span class='it'>not</span> gold—but it’s a precious
-sight more valuable—because there is a great deal more
-of it used.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Why what on earth is it, then?” asked the blacksmith,
-in amazement.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“It’s <span class='it'>Copper</span>! my lads! <span class='sc'>Copper!!</span>”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“<span class='sc'>Copper!!</span>”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Yes, I reckon it is!—and the genuine metal, too!
-And the mountain is as full of it as an egg is of meat!
-Only melt down one of the rocks up there, and you’ll see
-how it will fly out!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>To have stopped the spread of such information as this,
-would have surpassed the ingenuity of our clerical friend,
-who was opposed to the Magnetic Telegraph, as “a device
-of the devil.” There was a California excitement in a
-village, with California itself in their own mountain. <span class='it'>He</span>
-would have been a lucky traveler, who could have had
-his horse shod for a guinea, or a bridle-rein mended for
-double the amount.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“You see, my lads!” says Drawitwell, haranguing
-the crowd, “they are going to do the fair thing by us, they
-have bought the land, and are getting their act of incorporation
-ready, and we are all to have shares in it at a
-reasonable rate—and I reckon I’ll have a <span class='it'>few</span>, or money
-must be scarce in Fleeceington. There’ll be high times at
-the “Hawk and Buzzard”, <span class='it'>now</span>, I should say, when every
-man in this prosperous village can be an owner, for a
-small sum, in one of the richest mines on the face of the
-earth. You see it’s going to be most unconscionable high,
-too—it’s now twenty-two cents a pound—for the government
-<span class='pageno' title='274' id='Page_274'></span>
-is advertising for it in the newspapers—no doubt to
-make bullets with to match the infernal poisonous Mexicans.
-Gad, we’ll give the rascals a taste of their own
-physic, <span class='it'>now</span>, I reckon! And then don’t they make water-pipes
-with it now, and sheetings. And don’t they cover
-houses with it, and ships; and I guess the time is not far
-off when government will have her mint on this spot—and
-what’s to hinder us, <span class='it'>then</span> from spending our own
-coppers, bran new, ha! ha! If any body here has got a
-farm for sale, I’m his man!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>As for buying farms, the thing was perfectly absurd
-now, and Drawitwell should have known it; for who
-could tell that there was not a copper-mine under every
-one of them. It was not to be supposed either that the
-good people of Fleeceington could keep the knowledge of
-such extraordinary wealth all to themselves, and our
-usually quiet city was all agog, with the wondrous stories
-of the extent and richness of the mines; and to confirm its
-truth, Grubemout and Uptosnuff were here with the
-charter, and the script elegantly engraved, and any number
-of specimens, and copper-buttons confirmatory.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>In a day or two a few shares were in the market at “a
-slight advance on the original cost.” Capitalists had been
-up who thought they “knew a thing or two”—and gudgeons
-began to nibble, the knowing ones among the
-number. The market advanced. One, two, three, four
-hundred per cent. was quickly achieved as competitors
-increased; and considering that the first cost was perhaps
-a dollar an acre, for an unwooded, untillable, rocky hillside,
-curved up and set down at a dollar per square foot
-as “original cost,” the profit was tempting—the market
-active—ditto the original holders. There was a fierce
-avidity for a stock which advanced at such rapid strides,
-and the reckless became crazy, the cautious reckless and
-visionary. “The Board”—knowing dogs—looked on for
-a while doubtfully, but in amazement. The “Outsiders”
-indulged in ecstasies and fanciful millions. Thousands
-were added up upon stock-books, as if they were “trifles
-light as air”—<span class='it'>and they were</span>. Merchants cut the shop—lawyers
-the red tape and sheep-skin—editors told the
-messenger for copy to “go to the devil”—and all became
-“gentlemen on ’change.” Healths were drunk “to the
-United Copper-Heads”—and champagne and Havanas
-“suffered some.” Fun and puns flashed fast and furious—and
-all this the while the great bubble rose up, expanding
-and beautifying as it ascended.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>It was not to be expected that a single mountain should
-contain all this good luck exclusively, and in various
-quarters envious copper-rocks poked their noses out, quite
-seductively to anxious companies, who formed upon the
-spot. One gigantic intellect proposed the formation of a
-company to shovel the sand off of the whole State of New
-Jersey, so as to get at the substratum, at once and emphatically.
-Copper became substantially the <span class='it'>great</span> business
-of life—the <span class='it'>only</span> business of the board—the <span class='it'>board</span>
-being in fact rather a small affair while <span class='it'>copper</span> abounded.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Sharp occupied <span class='it'>his</span> time in buying up superfluous real
-estate, which seemed to have been infected by copper,
-and showed a disposition to <span class='it'>rise</span>—and he was afraid it
-might go up and never come down again. The conveyancers
-assured him that he ought to take it—like a sportsman—on
-the wing, right and left. He did, and clapped a
-heavy mortgage on it to keep it steady.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>That disturbed the figures on Flat’s memorandum—for
-he hoped to have bought and paid for it with his expected
-profit on copper, and to have staggered somebody else’s
-property with a mortgage from the surplus. It was
-provoking.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Jones and Wilkins resolved to “take a shy at the
-copper anyway, while it was going;” but the stock of all
-the companies seemed shy of them. They “bid ten
-dollars through a broker”—it was twelve. “Bid twelve”—it
-was fourteen. Wilkins had had enough of it. He believed
-it was “only a bubble blown up to catch the eyes
-of fools. He was done with it.” But Jones was down
-in the morning, as merry as a lark, and as early. He
-“knew some of the outsiders, and thought he would catch
-some of them before the morning was over.” He did—and
-went home to dinner, having made “a fortunate hit.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Five hundred shares,” said he, “at fifteen, and the
-last sale ‘after board,’ nineteen and a half! Four dollars
-and fifty cents per share. Five aught is <span class='it'>naught</span>; five
-fives are twenty-five, five fours are twenty, and two are
-twenty-two. Twenty-two hundred and fifty dollars—that
-will do for one day, <span class='it'>I</span> should say. Wilkins would
-like me to give <span class='it'>him</span> half, as we were to have gone in together
-yesterday, but I wonder what Wilkins ever did for
-me, that I should give <span class='it'>him</span> eleven hundred and twenty-five
-dollars! Not <span class='it'>quite</span> so green!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The next morning Grubemout brought down some specimens,
-which “he thought” would yield forty per cent.
-<span class='it'>if they were assayed</span>, and thought that they ought to make
-an assessment of a dollar a share, so as to put on more
-hands and drive out the ore. Jones said that “that was
-right enough.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The assessment was called in, at which the stock hesitated
-for a day or two—made a start and went on—but a
-second installment being urged, it faltered a little, and
-then stopped. At the third it “<span class='it'>declined</span> a shade,” at
-which the “bears” gave a shake and a growl.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>But Grubemout had—in the nick of time—“just received
-a letter from the mines of the most important nature,
-which it would not do to show in ‘the street,’ or
-the stock would be balooning it—Uptosnuff had <span class='it'>just made
-a cross-cut</span>.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“The deuce he has!” exclaimed Jones, rather nervously.
-“What is <span class='it'>that</span>?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“A cross-cut, you see,” says Grubemout, “is nothing
-more than ‘a shaft’ run at right angles past the old one
-we have been working. He struck some glorious ‘deposites,’
-and—”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Why I thought you always said there was <span class='it'>a vein</span>,
-Grubemout? These deposites are confoundedly leaky and
-treacherous affairs.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“And so there <span class='it'>is</span> a vein, my boy, and we are just getting
-into it; deposites are always the first thing we look
-for in copper mining. As long as we have them we get
-on swimmingly; but you are so confoundedly skittish! I
-was just going to tell you, that in making the ‘cross-cut,’
-Uptosnuff has struck ‘<span class='it'>the master vein</span>!’ and found an old
-‘<span class='it'>drift</span>’ in the mountain, which you will see after a while,
-is important. In it he found old hatchets, and hammers,
-and images in copper, supposed to have been the rude
-efforts at mining and smelting by the Indians long ago—say
-before the Dutch had taken Holland, or achieved the
-renowned name of Knickerbockers, and had gone home
-copper-fastened.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Information so desirable as this would work its way out
-somehow, and gentlemen would now bet you a trifle—say
-champagne and cigars—that a dividend of twenty-five
-per cent. would be declared on the stock the first year; or
-would <span class='it'>give</span> you a hundred dollars for agreeing to pay the
-annual dividend on a hundred shares.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Jones is “satisfied <span class='it'>now</span>,” and forthwith buys five hundred
-shares more, as do other Joneses, and Browns, and
-Greens. Outsiders became as plenty as gooseberries, and
-as verdant; and it would seem, from the number of shares
-reported <span class='it'>at</span> the Board, and “<span class='it'>after</span>,” that certificates had
-quadrupled, and never <span class='it'>could</span> multiply fast enough to supply
-the demand. Indeed, as one old gentleman was heard to
-<span class='pageno' title='275' id='Page_275'></span>
-end a prolonged whistle, by exclaiming—“<span class='sc'>Gas!</span>” the
-market became so inflated that the Joneses, Browns, and
-Greens, declined the attempt of <span class='it'>cornering</span> the stock, in
-despair.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“The company,” called for an additional installment at
-once. “Why, what the deuce,” asks Jones, “does the
-company want with <span class='it'>more</span> installments? <a id='have2'></a>Haven’t they got
-copper enough!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Copper <span class='it'>ore</span>, my dear fellow,” responded Grubemout.
-“Yes, <span class='it'>lots</span> of it. But Uptosnuff wasn’t brought up in a
-Cornish mine for nothing. The furnaces at Baltimore and
-Boston want it for half-price, but as they are nearly <span class='it'>out</span>,
-we intend to make them <span class='it'>smoke</span>, ha! ha! But we must go
-to the expense of an “<span class='it'>adate</span>” in the meanwhile.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Why, what’s the use of <span class='it'>that</span>—what good will that
-do?” asks Jones. “What <span class='it'>is</span> an <span class='it'>adate</span>, anyway?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Poor Jones had a good deal yet to learn about copper-mining,
-and felt naturally alarmed at these ominous terms.
-The “cross-cut” was the beginning of puzzlers. He had
-yet to see—I may as well say he ultimately did see, “the
-drift,” to help along “the pumps,” as well as the adate
-with installments, and to become familiar with a variety
-of mining lore, which assists knowledge in its acquisition,
-by obligingly allowing us to pay for it. But I believe he
-never <span class='it'>did</span> understand “what they wanted with so many
-work-shops—<span class='it'>he</span> thought they were <span class='it'>miners</span>!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“An <span class='it'>adate</span>, Jones, is only a drain to relieve the mine
-when it is overcharged with water.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“Oh! is that all!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>But this calling in of installments seems to be a sort of
-patent condenser in the stock market, and shows with
-how much force a given quantity of air can be squeezed
-into a given compass.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Grubemout was as active as a bee at sunrise, and offered
-his advice gratuitously—but “confidentially”—to any
-number of anxious <span class='it'>inquirers</span>—but some of <span class='it'>them</span> having a
-copper-mine of their own, by the attractive and <span class='it'>taking</span>
-name of “<span class='it'>Penny</span>-wise Company,” and others having
-taken a snap with the “Alligator Mountain Company,”
-and not liking the bite they received, shook their heads at
-Fleeceington and looked knowing—the “New Jersey”
-chaps were quite sprightly, for as their <span class='it'>title</span> covered the
-whole State, they had a fair chance of <span class='it'>realizing</span> something
-when the “Mammoth Shoveling Company” got to
-work, and lifted the crust off.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Grubemout assured them—“on his honor”—that “the
-Company did not intend to sell an ounce of its ore to
-the furnaces. They intended to have ‘<span class='it'>a crushing machine</span>’
-of their own erected at once, and proceed in a style
-that would soon settle the whole business.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Jones was “ready for any number of crushers or
-mashers, grinders or pounders. Head up the creek—dam
-it! Put up the water-works and the mill-wheel, and give
-it to the <span class='it'>blasted</span> furnaces! Carry the war into Africa!”
-said he.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The installment to carry on the adate was paid, though
-it depressed the stock, but Jones could not see how having
-paid the company five thousand dollars in installments
-should depress <span class='it'>his</span> stock in the market. “Hang it!” said
-he, “the company is that much richer in property and excavations,
-and don’t I belong to the company—haven’t I
-a thousand shares? It’s only paying money out of one
-pocket, and putting into the other. Wilkins may laugh,
-but he’s a fool! That’s a capital idea about the furnace.
-You’re a boy, Uptosnuff—<span class='it'>you</span> are?”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The installment for <span class='it'>crushing</span> purposes was soon called
-in also, and paid, though the stock looked sickly, and
-trembled as if it had the ague, or had passed through a
-crushing process on its own hook. It was just composing
-itself when Uptosnuff discovered that it was of the highest
-importance to the company to have a small engine and an
-iron pump erected at the mines at once, <span class='it'>as the richest ore
-is always found below water level</span>!</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Jones—the active, energetic Jones—“had no doubt of
-it at all. The Cornish miners assured him, when he was
-up, that as soon as they got below water level, they would
-come to something that couldn’t be trifled with. If Wilkins
-wasn’t a fool he would go in soon, before it gets out.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Uptosnuff, too, had had a quantity of the late ore assayed,
-and Professor Stuffemwell, Geologist to Her Majesty,
-thought it would <span class='it'>do</span> bravely. If ore that yielded fifty per
-cent. would not, he would like to know how her majesty’s
-subjects got rich, after paying the miners, on mines that
-yield but fifteen per cent.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Copper buttons now replenished the pockets of dealers,
-and the stock made several violent gasps and starts for a
-desirable existence. But it was consumptive—evidently
-going into a rapid decline. The crushing process and the
-iron pump having depressed its spirits, and exhausted still
-further its vital energy.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Grubemout thought that if the buttons were pressed
-into <span class='it'>bars</span>, and shown upon Change it might be encouraging,
-and mitigate the violence of the disease; but some
-wag of a broker suggested that it was “<span class='it'>a</span> <span style='font-size:smaller'>BAR</span> <span class='it'>sinister</span>;”
-which remark sinister ruffled the backs of the <span class='it'>bars</span>, caused
-the bulls to toss their horns unpleasantly, and shook still
-further the liveliness of the stock, which drooped visibly
-under the imputation.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Even <span class='it'>Jones</span>—the ardent, trustful Jones—got earnestly
-anxious about the state of the patient, and “suggested a
-consultation.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>Brown</span> was full of good intentions, but “pleaded debility
-of the pocket, which, under heavy depletion, was
-rather low.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>Green</span> was a little vivacious, and “suggested a new
-<span class='it'>cross-cut</span>.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>Grubemout</span> was pleased with the idea, and hinted at “a
-new installment.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>Uptosnuff</span> had “missed the stage, and was unable to
-get down to the meeting.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>Wilkins</span>, in answer to a pressing invitation to “<span class='it'>come
-in</span>,” was “busy selling goods.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>Sharp</span> would not attend—“he had never had any thing
-to do with the rascally copper, and found his real estate
-bad enough just now.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>Flat</span> “had enough of copper stock—it was not very
-heavy, to be sure, having rather a tendency to dissolve
-into air, its original element, but he was satisfied.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>The Stock</span> grew feebler after consultation, as patients
-are apt to, in critical cases, from want of remedy.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>The Bulls</span> looked surly, as if they had been disappointed
-in pasture.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>The Bears</span> were as frisky as it is possible to be on a
-frosty morning, and were so much in their own element,
-that you looked involuntarily around for floating icebergs—and
-copper in this temperature of the atmosphere sunk
-into a torpor.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>On Change</span>, in this changing world of ours, copper
-looked blue.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='it'>The Outsiders</span> had rubbed out their pencil-marks on stock
-memorandums, and dissipating the written evidence of
-thousands that had vanished into air, they themselves
-vanished. It was needless to say any thing to <span class='it'>them</span> about
-copper, they “never had any thing to do with it, beyond
-a hundred shares or so, which they sold out before the
-bubble looked like bursting.” Stockdom was desolate,
-save that a few of the bears showed their teeth, and grinned
-as furiously as if they had just arrived fresh from the
-Polar regions, and had brought any quantity of wet
-blankets with them. Yet they looked as if they would
-<span class='pageno' title='276' id='Page_276'></span>
-rather than not that any dealer in copper should take hold
-of them. The bulls were more plentiful—looked savage
-but knowing, but showed no disposition to dash at imaginary
-enemies in scarlet, having rather a taste left for their
-friends, the Browns and the Greens, who were urgently entreated
-to “come <span class='it'>in again</span>, and help sustain the market.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The case was desperate, and desperate remedies were
-resolved on. It was deemed advisable to “ask <span class='it'>the opinion</span>
-of the directors!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The directors “<span class='it'>have</span> no opinion of the stock! They
-never <span class='it'>had</span>,” of their own. They trusted to Grubemout,
-to Uptosnuff, to the Cornish miners. Their geological
-and mineralogical education, had been shockingly neglected
-in their youth, and they have verified the fact, by having
-on their hands, a thousand shares apiece at high
-prices, by having assisted to sustain the market in the
-various stages of the experiment. But “they <span class='it'>would</span> like
-to know who were the ‘original’ stockholders of the company
-who did them the honor to elect them.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Grubemout “thought it of the highest importance that
-they <span class='it'>should</span> know, and as the original book of minutes
-was up at the mines and as he was going up by the next
-stage, would write and send them.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>It would be, perhaps, as well to give his letter:</p>
-
-<div class='blockquote'>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:right;margin-right:2em;'><span class='it'>Fleeceington, Dec. 10, 18—.</span></p>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='sc'>Gentlemen</span>,—I arrived safely at the mines last evening,
-after rather a fatiguing journey by stage, and found,
-to my unspeakable amazement, that Uptosnuff had exhausted
-the vein, and that as no more deposites are to be
-found he had thought it advisable to abandon the mine.
-The tools, viz., four pickaxes, three shovels, and two
-wheelbarrows—rather dilapidated—the property of the
-company, I have put under shelter, to preserve them from
-the weather—subject to your order or disposal. The iron
-pump I should have removed also, but being rather heavy
-in the absence of the hands—who have gone back to their
-farms—I found it impossible to take in. It cannot, however,
-suffer from rust more than ten per cent., and as the
-original cost was but seventy dollars, the loss to the company
-will be inconsiderable. There is a trifle of two hundred
-dollars due, for boarding the hands, to the host of the
-“Roaring Lion,” who will forward you his account by
-this mail. As Uptosnuff and myself have suffered a great
-deal from anxiety, and exposure in the mines of the company,
-we deem it proper to seek a more genial clime.
-Any little complimentary remuneration which you may
-see proper to bestow on us, you will please enclose to
-Mr. Drawitwell, of the Hawk and Buzzard, to whom we
-are indebted for various little civilities, in the shape of
-breakfast, dinner and supper, for the past six months, and
-which no doubt the generosity of your complimentary
-donation will amply cover.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Enclosed are “the original minutes.” Uptosnuff wishes
-to be remembered <span class='it'>by</span> you. I join in the same prayer.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:right;margin-right:10em;'>Yours, as ever,</p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:right;margin-right:2em;'><span class='sc'>Christian Grubemout</span>, <span class='it'>Pres’t.</span></p>
-
-</div>
-
-<hr class='tbk150'/>
-
-<p class='noindent'>To the Directors, Stockholders, etc.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>P. S. Please ask Jones to think of us. Not that it is
-any of our business, but would like to know whether he
-ever divided with Wilkins—it would be civil, you know.
-Regards to the Bulls. Uptosnuff says ditto to the Bears,
-for there is no knowing when one may want a friend, and
-civility costs nothing.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:right;margin-right:2em;'>C. G.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk151'/>
-
-<p class='pindent'><span class='sc'>Minutes, First Meeting.</span>—At a large and enthusiastic
-meeting of the joyous and delighted inhabitants of the
-charming and romantic village of Fleeceington, held at
-“The Hawk and Buzzard Hotel,” to elect officers for the
-newly discovered, freshly chartered, and highly valuable
-and productive Copper Mine, just incorporated by an act
-of the Legislature, under the name, style and title, to wit:</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk152'/>
-
-<div class='blockquote'>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“<span class='it'>The Grand Open Sesame and United Catchem Copper
-Mining, Crushing, Stamping, Pumping and Smelting
-Company</span>,”</p>
-
-<p class='noindent'>Christian Grubemout, Eliakim Uptosnuff, J. Drawitwell,
-T. Crispin and John Smith, the original incorporators of
-the Company, after regaling themselves, proceeded to the
-election of officers, and knowing that in the goodly city of
-Philadelphia there were a number of persons by the names
-of Jones, Brown and Green, and not a few Sharps and
-Flats, they, in order to avoid giving offence, placed in a
-hat the whole of the names, as above, found in the <span class='it'>Directory</span>,
-(significant of the office they were to hold,) and drew
-the following first three names, A. Jones, B. Flat, C.
-Green, <span class='it'>directing</span> them to supply vacancies, and to fill additions
-to the number <a id='off'></a>of five; adding in the meanwhile
-the names of the first two corporators, as <span class='it'>ex-officio</span> directors,
-to conduct silently the operations of the mines,
-and to enlighten the others as to the true plan of working
-copper-mines profitably and efficiently.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:right;margin-right:0em;'>(Signed) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;C. GRUBEMOUT, <span class='it'>Pres’t.</span></p>
-<p class='line' style='text-align:left;margin-left:5em;'><span class='sc'>E. Uptosnuff</span>, <span class='it'>Sec’ry.</span></p>
-
-</div>
-
-<hr class='tbk153'/>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The cleverness and explicitness of the whole transaction
-showed that it had <span class='it'>been done</span> neatly; and the Directors
-with singular unanimity felt themselves included in the
-operation.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>There can be no doubt that Grubemout and Uptosnuff
-are among the “placers” in California. The one being
-undeniably the man who sold the two barrels of brandy,
-by installments of a thimblefull at a time, for $14,000—the
-other, with positive certainty, we aver to have been the
-man who “confidentially” communicated the following
-<span class='it'>item</span> to the newspaper press, and he must have been there
-to have seen it:</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk154'/>
-
-<div class='blockquote'>
-
-<div style="position:absolute;margin-left:-.5em; font-size:150%;">“</div><p class='noindent'><img src='images/H.jpg' style='float:left;' alt='H'/><span class='it'>The <a id='big'></a>Biggest Lump Yet?</span>—The following is about
-the latest news from the gold diggins that we have seen
-recorded in the ‘papers:’ A runaway soldier is said to
-have discovered a lump or a rock of gold that weighed 889
-pounds and 11½ ounces; he was afraid to leave it, and
-mounted guard upon it, and at the latest dates he had sat
-there 17 days; had offered $27,000 for a plate of pork and
-beans, but had been indignantly refused, and laughed at
-for the niggardliness of his offer, by parties going further
-on, where this article was said to be <span class='it'>more abundant</span>!”</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<hr class='tbk155'/>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Jones is among the lame ducks, and pretty roughly
-plucked at that. But he still avers that if the furnaces
-had only paid a good price for the ore at the outset, or
-Wilkins had only helped him to sustain the market when
-he asked him, he should have been the master of a pretty
-snug little fortune. If he only had it <span class='it'>now</span>, he would charter
-a steamer, and take his own freight and passengers for
-the gold mines.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The Hawk and Buzzard appears to have been “<span class='it'>pidgeoned</span>,”
-for the last time I passed that way the house was
-shut up. The business having amused itself by stepping
-over to the Roaring Lion, while the Hawk and Buzzard
-had flown to the city, “to watch the market.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Crispin “would only like to have one of those fellows
-tied for a while, until he had expressed his opinion on him
-with a stirrup.”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>Smith appears to be solicitous to “make them intimately
-acquainted with the red-hot end of a poker—he’d
-<span class='it'>smelt</span> ’em, <span class='it'>dam</span> ’em, and <span class='it'>crush</span> ’em too!”</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>The “Dam,” the “Drift,” the “Cross-Cut,” the “Iron
-Pump” and the “Adate,” you can see as you go wood-cock
-shooting next August—but the “Steam-Engine” and
-the “Mill-Wheel” never arrived, owing to some informality
-in the order given to the mechanics.</p>
-
-<p class='pindent'>“<span class='sc'>The Crusher</span>,” it is supposed, is in California with
-its friends.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:right;margin-right:2em;font-size:0.9em;'>G.R.G.</p>
-
-<hr class='tbk156'/>
-
-<div><h1><a id='adieu'></a>ADIEU, MY NATIVE LAND.</h1></div>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1em;font-weight:bold;'>WORDS BY D. W. BELISLE.</p>
-
-<p class='line' style='text-align:center;margin-bottom:1em;font-weight:bold;'>ARRANGED FOR THE PIANO, BY JAMES PIPER.</p>
-
-<div class='figcenter'>
-<a href='images/i142f.jpg'><img src='images/i142.jpg' alt='' id='iid-0011' style='width:500px;height:auto;'/></a>
-</div>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>My native land adieu;</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Ye blooming, sunlit hills,</p>
-<p class='line'>Ye mountains tipped with blue,</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;And lovely, dancing rills,</p>
-<p class='line'>My</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<div class='figcenter'>
-<a href='images/i143f.jpg'><img src='images/i143.jpg' alt='' id='iid-0012' style='width:500px;height:auto;'/></a>
-</div>
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>heart is sad to part with scenes like you,</p>
-<p class='line'>Ye much loved haunts of youth, adieu, adieu.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<div class='literal-container' style=''><div class='literal'> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;&ensp;SECOND VERSE.</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Sweet Memory, how my soul</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Beats at thy magic touch!</p>
-<p class='line'>’Tis strange that thy control</p>
-<p class='line'>&ensp;&ensp;Can make us bear so much;</p>
-<p class='line'>For, while my thoughts in sadness turn to you,</p>
-<p class='line'>My heart in silence breathes a fond adieu!</p>
-</div></div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-<hr class='tbk157'/>
-
-<p class='line' style='margin-top:2em;font-size:1.1em;'><span class='bold'><a id='notes'></a>Transcriber’s Notes:</span></p>
-
-<p class='noindent'>Archaic spellings and hyphenation have been retained. Grammar has
-been maintained as in the original. Punctuation has been
-corrected without note. Other errors have been corrected as noted below.
-For illustrations, some caption text may be missing or incomplete due to condition of
-the originals available for preparation of the ebook.</p>
-
-<div class='lgl' style=''> <!-- rend=';' -->
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 217, in the “Scientfic Halls,” ==>&ensp;in the “<a href='#halls'>Scientific</a> Halls,”</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 219, and platted his long ==>&ensp;and <a href='#plait'>plaited</a> his long</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 219, nicely platted queues ==>&ensp;nicely <a href='#plait2'>plaited</a> queues</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 222, courtiers whom Lí ==>&ensp;courtiers <a href='#with'>with whom</a> Lí</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 222, assidiously <span class='it'>rubbing his</span> ==>&ensp;<a href='#ass'>assiduously</a> <span class='it'>rubbing his</span></p>
-<p class='line'>Page 224, I hav n’t it ==>&ensp;I <a href='#have'>haven’t</a> it</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 225, has no othe ==>&ensp;has no <a href='#other'>other</a></p>
-<p class='line'>Page 227, to entercept the ==>&ensp;to <a href='#inter'>intercept</a> the</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 227, below. Unforfortunately, the ==>&ensp;below. <a href='#unfor'>Unfortunately</a>, the</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 236, many rejuvinated forests, ==>&ensp;many <a href='#rejuv'>rejuvenated</a> forests,</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 238, and wild-geraneum flowers ==>&ensp;and <a href='#wild'>wild-geranium</a> flowers</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 239, fair daugher of the ==>&ensp;fair <a href='#dau'>daughter</a> of the</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 241, be poweful to cheer ==>&ensp;be <a href='#power'>powerful</a> to cheer</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 244, fly-leaves was writen ==>&ensp;fly-leaves was <a href='#write'>written</a></p>
-<p class='line'>Page 251, was therefor, and ==>&ensp;was <a href='#there'>therefore</a>, and</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 254, free and unbiassed ==>&ensp;free and <a href='#bias'>unbiased</a></p>
-<p class='line'>Page 256, beloved and rewared ==>&ensp;beloved and <a href='#reward'>rewarded</a></p>
-<p class='line'>Page 269, T’is hence that ==>&ensp;<a href='#tis'>’Tis</a> hence that</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 275, Havn’t they got ==>&ensp;<a href='#have2'>Haven’t</a> they got</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 276, number off five; ==>&ensp;number <a href='#off'>of</a> five;</p>
-<p class='line'>Page 276, The Bigest Lump ==>&ensp;The <a href='#big'>Biggest</a> Lump</p>
-<p class='line'>&#160;</p>
-</div> <!-- end rend -->
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-<pre>
-
-
-
-
-
-End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Graham's Magazine, Vol. XXXIV, No. 4,
-April 1849, by Various
-
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