As captured January 22, 2025

14 files changed, 6381 insertions, 3607 deletions

diff --git a/68424-0.txt b/68424-0.txt
index a0d630c..0791ff9 100644
--- a/68424-0.txt
+++ b/68424-0.txt
@@ -1,1470 +1,1095 @@
-The Project Gutenberg eBook of Magic words, by Emilie Maceroni

-

-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

-will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before

-using this eBook.

-

-Title: Magic words

-       A tale for Christmas time

-

-Author: Emilie Maceroni

-

-Illustrator: E. H. Wehnert

-

-Release Date: June 29, 2022 [eBook #68424]

-

-Language: English

-

-Produced by: Charlene Taylor, David E. Brown, and the Online Distributed

-             Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was

-             produced from images generously made available by The

-             Internet Archive/American Libraries.)

-

-*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MAGIC WORDS ***

-

-

-

-

-

-MAGIC WORDS.

-

-

-

-

-[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.]

-

-

-

-

-  MAGIC WORDS;

-

-  A Tale for Christmas Time.

-

-  BY

-  EMILIE MACERONI.

-

-  “Oh, many a shaft at random sent,

-  Finds mark the archer little meant;

-  And many a word at random spoken

-  May soothe or wound a heart that’s broken.”

-

-                                     _Scott._

-

-  WITH FOUR ILLUSTRATIONS BY E. H. WEHNERT.

-

-  [Illustration]

-

-  LONDON:

-  CUNDALL & ADDEY, 21 OLD BOND STREET.

-  M.DCCC.LI.

-

-

-

-

-  LONDON:

-  Printed by G. BARCLAY, Castle St. Leicester Sq.

-

-

-

-

-  TO

-  MRS. AUSTIN

-  This Little Volume

-  IS AFFECTIONATELY INSCRIBED.

-

-

-

-

-ILLUSTRATIONS.

-

-

-  LITTLE MARY AND HER FRIEND TROY             11

-

-  MARION TEACHING LATIN                       25

-

-  EDITH WATCHING THE DAWN                     39

-

-  MARION AND HER FATHER (_Frontispiece_)      53

-

-        _From Drawings by_ E. H. WEHNERT.

-

-

-

-

-MAGIC WORDS.

-

-

-

-

-CHAPTER I.

-

-

-It was the evening of Christmas Day. The hymn of “Peace upon earth,

-good-will towards men,” had been chanted by thousands of voices

-throughout the land, from the grand cathedral-choir to the simple

-singers of the village church. Charity had extended her munificent

-hand to the poor and needy, lighting up smiles on many a care-worn

-face. Hospitality welcomed the good, the beautiful, and the great to

-the lordly mansions of the rich. Love and Peace sat enthroned in many

-a happy home. Poverty, shivering at the present, was consoled by the

-glowing figure of Hope, pointing with radiant eyes to the future.

-Memory and Sorrow lingered around the grave of many a departed one;

-but of all mourners they were the saddest who were estranged from

-those they still loved. Yes, amid the pain, the sorrow, the suffering

-of life, _their_ hearts were the heaviest; for (to use the oft-quoted

-words of the poet) “to be wroth with those we love, doth work like

-madness in the brain;” and this hallowed season speaks strongest to our

-kindest feelings, and to the tenderness of our better nature.

-

-       *       *       *       *       *

-

-A train had stopped at a rough little village station about thirty

-miles from town, and a few country people, on their way home, leaned

-over the bridge above to admire the enormous red eyes of the monster

-as it moved slowly on through a deep cutting crowned with dark firs.

-They lingered yet a moment longer, to mark whom it had borne from the

-great city to their quiet village. A beautiful girl of fifteen, glowing

-with health and exercise, accompanied by two fine, rough-looking dogs,

-rushed down to meet her playfellows and friends. She was breathless

-with joy, and with her race over the heath; but her merry laugh and

-warm greeting sounded pleasantly enough as the noise of the train died

-away in the distance.

-

-A lady, wrapped in a warm plaid, who had been anxiously waiting for

-some time, took the arm of her husband, with a few low words of

-delighted welcome, and they walked briskly away. The dogs of the

-younger party barked with glee--were patted and caressed. One look at

-the dear heath and at the hills beyond, with a thrill of delight at

-the thoughts of a long ramble over them on the morrow, and the ponies

-were mounted, the dogs whistled to, and away flew the happy trio to

-the home-welcome, to the dear old hall, to all the joy of a Christmas

-meeting.

-

-Only two other passengers appeared, winding up the pathway--a gentleman

-of tall and commanding aspect, and a buxom, brisk-footed countrywoman,

-wrapped in her scarlet cloak, who passed him with a low curtsey and

-cheerful good night. She was thinking of the bright fireside, of the

-dear little faces round it anxiously awaiting her return, and of the

-enormous amount of joy contained in that wicker basket. An event of

-great marvel and wonderment is a poor woman’s visit to her friends in

-town, and she is ever in a tearful state of ecstasy and excitement on

-reaching home again; all of which becomes a matter of grave family

-history in the lowly household, and is recounted on many an occasion to

-eager and attentive hearers.

-

-She quickly disappeared up a winding path cut through the furze and

-heather, evidently leading to a low-roofed cottage on the skirts of a

-fir-wood. Lights twinkled in the casement, and joyful voices were soon

-heard approaching to meet and welcome her. The road was now perfectly

-solitary. A few deep-red clouds still hung over the west, and here and

-there a large bright star shone silently through the sharp, pure air.

-Dogs bayed in the distance; the sound came very pleasantly over the

-heather through the rough old pines.

-

-The gentleman walked briskly on, and lights began to appear in the

-valley beneath. He stopped as the merry notes of a flageolet struck

-his ear, proceeding from a cottage by the road-side. The blaze of a

-wood fire within illumined the little rustic porch and neat garden.

-Bright branches of glistening holly shone in the tiny casement. The

-tune ceased, and was followed by a light-hearted laugh and the sound of

-young voices.

-

-“How happy they seem!” said he. “It is such scenes as these which make

-the country so delightful, so cheering to sense and spirit!”

-

-And yet he sighed heavily as he walked on; and passing through an

-avenue of fir and larch leading to one of the prettiest and most

-picturesque cottages in the world, he paused when he reached the

-garden-gate. It seemed, too, a dear, quiet, sweet-smelling home. Lights

-shone from more than one of the windows; and more than one bright young

-face might be seen, by the gleam of its golden hair, flitting about

-in the uncertain light. A sweet young voice singing as sweet a tune

-ceased, as all young voices do, suddenly, when the bell rang out its

-summons, and a brisk, rosy little maid appeared, lantern and key in

-hand, to admit the traveller, and guide him through the long shadow of

-the firs to the house. A favourite dog bounded to meet and gambol round

-him with unrepressed joy. The children clustered into the porch to say,

-timidly, “How do you do?” and hold out their little hands to shake;

-while their mother, advancing with a kindly greeting, expressed her

-pleasure at his return. Even the maid looked pleased and happy to see

-him. But yet it was not his home.

-

-After a few minutes’ conversation, the traveller was seated in his own

-room, his dog, his sole companion, looking at him with glistening eyes,

-as his master fondly stroked his magnificent head. He was a man of

-twenty-eight or thirty years of age, with a sad and thoughtful cast of

-countenance, yet one that all who looked upon it _must_ instantly love

-and respect; it was at once so engaging and so noble. He looked round

-his little room at his sketches and his gun with evident pleasure,

-placed some books and papers which he had brought on a little table

-before him, and drawing his arm-chair close to the blazing pine-logs,

-sat watching the golden cones as they crumbled away, one by one, at

-the height of their brilliancy. But every reverie must have its end;

-and his was brought to a close by the appearance of coffee, borne by

-a bright-eyed country maid, smirking and smiling with pleasure, as

-country servants are wont to do at every fresh arrival.

-

-It would seem that the reverie by the bright fireside was not an idle

-one, but that among many revolving thoughts, some, at least, were

-considered worthy of preservation; for the coffee was soon despatched,

-the table covered with books and papers, and the stranger intently

-occupied with his pen.

-

-So absorbed did he become with it, that after one or two long, wistful

-glances, the fine hound lay down reproachfully on his comfortable rug,

-as if despairing of any further notice that night.

-

-The wind moaned heavily in the pine-branches round the cottage.

-Presently the writer paused and listened to the sound, so like the

-rushing of distant waters. He walked slowly to the window, and gazed

-long and earnestly into the night. It was moonlight, yet stormy;

-and large, glittering stars, looked down through the dark branches,

-when the hurrying white clouds had drifted over them. The distant

-clock of the old village church, slowly striking the hour, sounded

-mournfully over the river; and the lonely man at that little window

-thought of years that were gone, of the bright firesides in many a

-happy home that night, and turned and put away his papers with a sigh.

-He thought how differently he used to work years ago, when, with all

-the ardour of his nature and the energy of hope, and yet with intense

-fear and anxiety, he strove to render himself worthy of one idolized,

-one long-sighed-for object! He thought, too, of the bitterness, the

-agony of disappointment; and how long years of his young life would

-have been thrown away, had he not struggled hard to save himself from

-becoming a useless, melancholy being, given up to the indulgence of

-selfish regrets. He had succeeded,--there was some comfort in that

-reflection. He knew of what he was capable, and dared not throw away

-the power he had acquired, because it no longer availed the idol Self.

-So he still worked on. He had become distinguished for his literary

-labours, and for his contributions to the improvement and well-being

-of his fellow-creatures; but to fame and to the praises of the great

-he was now equally indifferent. His happiest hours were passed in his

-favourite village, where he was greatly beloved, although he dared not

-wholly give himself up to the quiet of a country life.

-

-He had had the old Gothic church restored, with all possible observance

-of its antique ornaments and its fine clustering ivy; and took a kind

-of Sir Roger de Coverley delight in seeing the country people, bettered

-and improved in every way, flocking to it on Sundays to hear his good

-tutor’s sermons, to which he used to listen with so much reverence in

-his boyish days. He had learned to believe that the word “happiness”

-signifies, the being reconciled to bear, still having courage to

-do, and gratitude to enjoy that which remains. Thus, he was usually

-cheerful in his various occupations; _but this was Christmas time_:

-a time when the lonely heart feels most desolate--a time when many a

-tender word spoken by the absent is remembered with sorrow--when all

-anger is forgotten in the feeling of peace and love which steals over

-the heart. And his head lay buried in his hands, his whole soul given

-up to an overwhelming agony of regret.

-

-[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.]

-

-“This day last year,” he muttered, “who could have believed the change?

-Oh, Edith!” he continued, taking up a miniature that lay beside him,

-“who could have thought then that we should now be as strangers to

-each other? Who could have thought that that bright face, those many

-noble qualities, could have wrought so much misery?” Again he looked

-at the lovely countenance, smiling on him a thousand of the tenderest

-remembrances, and a still gentler expression, a kindlier spirit, came

-over him. “Those eyes,” he said, “how softly they have looked on me!

-Perhaps even now a thought----but what folly! In the pride of

-beauty and prosperity, what is there to remind her of me?”

-

-A low tap at the door interrupted his meditations. For an instant he

-could not say, “Come in!” his heart was so very full; but quickly

-recovering himself, he turned with a smile to welcome a little village

-child, who timidly advanced to place both her tiny hands in his.

-

-She looked into his face with eyes beaming with love and gratitude; but

-the joyful, sparkling expression soon faded away, for she saw that he

-was sadder than usual; and with the quick sympathy and natural grace

-of childhood she sat down quietly on the rug, and taking the stately

-head of the hound on her lap, pensively stroked his long, shaggy coat.

-Presently she ventured to break the silence in her gentle way--“I am so

-glad you are come back, sir; I have missed you so!”

-

-Her companion’s countenance brightened, and he said with

-animation--“Have you, though, my poor little Mary? I thought you had

-forgotten me, being so long away.” And he stroked her bright brown hair.

-

-“You should not have thought that,” said the child, earnestly; “I

-always remember you, for you taught me all I know. I was longing to

-come yesterday, and all day to-day,” she continued, “to hear if you

-had arrived. To-day has been so happy that I could not stay away any

-longer, and so here I am,” she added, with her merry laugh, which

-sounded pleasantly in that usually silent room. These simple words,

-that mute caress, had restored the confidence of the two friends. Mary

-was herself again, full of fun and prattle. Seated on the extreme edge

-of a huge Gothic chair, she balanced her little feet on the back of

-her friend Troy, who, far from resenting the liberty, fixed his dark

-eyes lovingly on her sweet young face, while she talked on, full of

-the details of her simple life. How she had gathered pine-cones for

-several evenings, because she knew he loved their cheerful blaze and

-sweet smell. How poor Turpin, who was always in trouble, had hunted

-a rabbit, and been caught in a trap; of her mad race over the hills

-for help; how she nursed the poor, poor foot afterwards; and how

-the faithful patient cried because he could not accompany her that

-night; the relation of all which very much affected his kind little

-mistress. Presently she produced with great glee her “Christmas

-present,”--several little bundles of bark, peeled with great care, from

-the silver birch-trees, cut into slips, and tied with red worsted. “I

-burnt a little bit the other day,” said she, “and the smell was so nice

-I thought you would like it, so I got some to light your taper with--do

-try it;” and the little creature soon held a blazing piece in her hand.

-

-“It is delicious, Mary; and how good of you to collect it for me!”

-

-“I was very happy getting it,” said the child; “but I wish you had not

-thought I had forgotten you. I could not forget you!” she continued,

-after a pause; “you, who have been so good to me, and taught me so

-much! I never looked at a book before you came. Oh, I was sadly wild!

-Mother said I made more noise than the boys!” And she laughed heartily.

-

-The tutor laughed too, and told the often repeated story, which he knew

-she loved to hear, of how, in his walks, he had frequently listened to

-her little voice singing in a cornfield, while “minding” birds; how he

-had been surprised at her sudden disappearance on his nearer approach,

-and on making a voyage of discovery, had found her ensconced in the

-body of a broken-down post-chaise, that, singularly enough, lay between

-two old fir-trees at the foot of the wood! He did not describe to her

-how, in imagination, he had pictured the different and exciting scenes

-in which the once gay equipage might have borne its part; but went on

-to say how he had peeped in unobserved, and had seen her perched on

-one of the dilapidated seats, with a little piece of board on her lap,

-intently occupied in carving a morsel of meat into divers small pieces,

-which she divided, with impartial care, among three ragged starlings

-perched on the opposite beam, who watched her with glistening eyes!

-How merrily she talked to them, and how perfectly they seemed to love

-and understand each other! He reminded her of her surprise on being

-discovered, and her frank invitation to the intruder to “look in” on

-the wonders of the unique aviary, with its valuable illustrations of

-the “History of Red Riding Hood,” its bright jay’s feathers, and other

-childish treasures!

-

-Heartily the little Mary laughed; and so the Christmas evening passed

-on.

-

-“I must go now,” she said; “I promised to read mother the pretty story

-you gave me, ‘Simple Susan,’ and they will all sit up for it! Good bye!

-You will promise not to be so sad when I am gone as you were when I

-came in. You have been thinking of that pretty lady again!” she said,

-with a face of anxious love--pointing to the miniature--“that makes you

-so, I know! Why don’t you go to her?”

-

-“Because she does not love me, Mary,” was the faltering reply; “and you

-know we are not happy with those who do not love us.”

-

-“Are you _sure_ of that?” said the child, earnestly. “People often

-hide their kindest thoughts--and perhaps she hides hers from you; you

-must look for them, as I look for violets, in their thick leaves. Oh,

-I was so unhappy once!” she continued, tears starting into her eyes at

-the remembrance: “I quarrelled with my brother, and we did not speak

-all day--both were so proud: but do you know” (and the sweet little

-face sparkled) “that when I put my arms round his neck and kissed him,

-and said, ‘Good night, Harry!’ he kissed me, and cried too; and said

-how unhappy he had been _all_ the time. I had thought he would _never_,

-_never_ love me again! Oh! if my brother had died, as baby did, before

-we kissed each other that night!”

-

-Poor little Mary paused, her heart quite full at the bare idea of such

-a thing; but she turned again, with admiring eyes, to the miniature.

-“She looks very kind and good, and _so_ beautiful! Did you speak

-gently, and ask her to love you again: or were you proud?”

-

-The child did not notice the agitation of her companion, and little did

-she imagine that, long after her head lay softly on her happy pillow,

-the simple eloquence of those Magic Words was working powerfully in his

-heart!

-

-

-

-

-CHAPTER II.

-

-

-Over many a mile of hard, frosty road, by snow-clad fields and hills

-and woods, by many an ice-bound stream, must we lead the imagination

-of our reader on the evening of the same Christmas Day, and peep into

-another home, far from that we have just quitted.

-

-Undrawing the warm crimson curtains of a charming little room--half

-drawing-room, half library--the light of a lamp falls brightly on the

-figure of a lady reading to her husband. It is manuscript, and he puts

-the pages by for her as she goes on.

-

-She often pauses, to look up with a delighted smile at his praises, and

-he thinks that she never looked so beautiful before! She is very like

-Correggio’s Magdalen, and has the same lovely countenance and waving

-hair.

-

-Presently she came to the last page, and the praise was repeated.

-

-“I had no idea I could translate so well,” said she, “and am glad you

-like it, for that will give me spirits to go on: I may, in time, become

-quite useful to you.”

-

-“When are you not everything to me?” was the reply. “But, Marion, you

-must not work so hard; I cannot afford to see you look one bit less

-bright. Besides, it is a kind of reproach to me your working so much;

-indeed you must not!”

-

-“Nonsense!” said Marion, laughing; “you can’t think how happy I am

-when helping you, for I am sure you are often very weary! Poor Edward!

-what anxiety I have caused you! Now for a volley of protestations!”

-said she, laughing again. “But to be serious: I was thinking, to-day,

-how much we have to be thankful for; and that with all its anxieties

-how happy this year has been--how _infinitely_ happier, working and

-striving on together, than droning through an insipid life of ease,

-as some do. I don’t know what would become of me if you were ever

-to be rich,” she continued; “to be sure, one might always find some

-useful employment, some good to be done; but no one knows, except those

-who have experienced it, the delight of overcoming difficulties, and

-earning home comforts by one’s own exertions.”

-

-“True, dear Marion! I never knew, until I knew you, how little is

-necessary for happiness!”

-

-“I knew what life was--I had an anxious one at home, even from a

-little child,” said Marion, “and adversity taught me to know what is

-best worth knowing; what flowers to gather in this great garden, that

-many neglect, or do not perceive. How sweet are the uses of adversity!

-I love to linger on those words; and if ever I venture to write an

-essay,” said she, smiling, “it shall be on that subject. What does it

-not teach us?--the practice of almost every virtue.”

-

-“Nay, not quite so far, enthusiast,” said her husband, smiling;

-“remember the effect of almost constant sun on flowers; how splendid

-they become--how fully their beauty is developed!”

-

-“Yes; but they cannot bear the storm that _may_, that _must_ come.

-The stout old thistle, reared in cold and sleet, is much better

-off--much more useful, and protects many a little plant under its

-vigorous leaves. Now, only think what adversity really does for us.

-To begin with _my_ early life:--my father and mother treated me as

-their friend in all their troubles; I was accustomed to watch their

-anxious care-worn faces, to try to cheer them, and to rejoice when

-they brightened: this bound us together in the closest affection; I

-believe no child, no parents, were ever so dear to each other. No

-little home was ever so loved as mine; and I was quite broken-hearted

-when away from all its cares, even for a short time, although in the

-midst of what people called enjoyment. These were very different

-feelings from those of children nursed in the lap of affluence, who

-are frequently selfish, and often but little attached to those around

-them. I knew what it was to be deprived of many comforts, which made

-me grateful for those I had, and taught me to feel for the sufferings

-of others infinitely worse off than myself. Naturally impetuous, I

-grew up patient; for, as you know, my father was a man of eccentric

-genius, who failed in all his efforts to place us in the brilliant

-position he dreamed of. I felt and shared in his disappointments,

-until disappointment itself became powerless! Sympathy with those I

-loved roused me to exertion--taught me the value of time--the dignity

-of usefulness! But, above all, the frowns of the world, the sweet

-uses of adversity, made me feel the dear necessity of clinging to and

-loving one another, and of living in that ‘peace which passeth all

-understanding!’”

-

-Marion paused, and looked with inexpressible tenderness on her husband.

-

-“I do not believe we should have loved each other half so well if we

-had not borne so much anxiety together,” she presently continued,

-“although it would be a dangerous experiment for those to try, who

-never knew what care was! _We_ very coolly stepped into its troubled

-waters. What straits we have been in! There is really some amusement,

-though, in looking back to a hundred comical little difficulties,

-mingled with graver trials; in peeping into the crowded picture-gallery

-of one’s own life--grave and gay! Do you remember when we were so

-_very_ poor, and your father’s friends, the Saviles, condescended to

-drive over to luncheon with us?”

-

-“Oh, yes,” said Edward, laughing; “when poor old Jock behaved so

-inconsiderately!”

-

-“Inconsiderately, indeed,” said Marion, laughing too. “I shall never

-forget seeing him swallow the delicacies which I had prepared with so

-much care, in the coolest manner possible, looking me hard in the face

-all the time. I was in an agony to see the ham sandwiches disappear

-one after another down his huge throat (knowing there were no more in

-the house, too), while the capricious fine lady who took a fancy to

-feed him, drawled out, ‘the d-e-a-r d-o-g! _how_ he li-kes them!’ I

-should think he did, indeed, with his appetite! I do believe, though,

-Mr. Edward, that, like all men, you rather enjoyed the scene than

-otherwise; for you never offered to put the cruel old dog out of the

-room.”

-

-“How could I tear him from the flattering attentions of his Patroness?

-But let me see; how did you manage it, Marion? I dare say very

-ingeniously and gracefully. I remember how proud I felt of you that

-day.”

-

-“Oh, I appeared to enter into the amusement and drollery of his

-enormous appetite, but suggested, in the most affectionate manner

-possible, that he should _bow_ his thanks to the fair lady before

-tasting another morsel! Poor Jock, who had not the slightest

-acquaintance with any feat or accomplishment of the kind, was all

-amazement at my gestures and commands, and only stared hard for more;

-whereupon he was gently ‘_fie-fied_,’ and put out of the room for his

-obstinacy and ingratitude!”

-

-[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.]

-

-They both laughed heartily at the remembrance of Jock’s delinquency and

-its punishment; and Marion being in a very merry humour, recounted with

-much mirth many other similar incidents, which they _could_ laugh

-at now. “We never deceived each other but once,” said she; “the time

-when you were so ill, you know, from over-work, and I used to steal

-slily into the village to give your Latin lessons to those stupid boys

-you were ‘preparing!’ I often wonder how I took courage to ask their

-mother to let me take your place: yet I am glad I did, for I don’t know

-what we should have done without the money; and I studied the lessons

-so well myself, that I did no injustice to your pupils. But then

-the _dénouement_! I shall never forget your walking into that dingy

-library, pale as death, and your extreme surprise on finding me seated

-in the great chair, conjugating a tremendous Latin verb, while the

-poor little mamma looked on with amazement at my proficiency! _I_ was

-startled too, fully believing you to be quietly resting on the sofa,

-_while I took my walk_!”

-

-“We both looked very guilty for an instant.”

-

-“Yes, we did indeed; and I thought I never should cease laughing on

-our way home, especially as you were half inclined to be angry! But

-my mirth soon vanished when I saw how faint you were, and you rested

-your head on my shoulder as we sat on the stile. A terrible fear came

-over me,” continued Marion, shuddering, and drawing closer to her

-husband--“I never felt pain like that before!”

-

-Both were silent for some time; and Edward tenderly stroked the

-beautiful head bent down beside him. “Nay, look up, Marion,” he said;

-“I am quite well now, love, and you must not be so sad.”

-

-“I am not sad,” said Marion, raising her large eyes, and smiling

-gently. “I was thinking how grateful I am that you are better, and

-how happy this Christmas would be if you were but reconciled to your

-father.”

-

-“Every house has its spectre, Marion, and this haunts ours. I believe

-one always feels any kind of estrangement from those near to us most

-powerfully on days like these. They seem to have a strange mysterious

-power of calling up old recollections and early affections!”

-

-“Only those which ought never to be broken come at this holy time,”

-said Marion; “the gentle thoughts it brings with it seem to me like

-the soft warning of angel voices,--to be at peace ere it is too late!

-I wish you would read them so, and write to your mother again: she

-is of a gentler nature; but they must--yes, they both must, long to

-see you again!--Oh, if I could but persuade you!” she continued, with

-emotion: “we know not what a day may bring forth--even to the youngest

-and strongest among us; and Mrs. Hope says they both seem to ‘age’ very

-much. How deeply you would grieve through life if----”

-

-“Oh, Marion, say no more!” exclaimed her husband in an agitated voice,

-“it is that thought which so constantly haunts me. For myself, I could

-forget all; but their unkindness to you--to you, of whom they ought to

-have been so proud; I cannot forget that!”

-

-“Do not think of it,” said Marion, in a soothing tone; “we must not

-quarrel with people because they are unable to see things in the same

-light as ourselves. They knew very little of me, and thought, I dare

-say, that I prevented your being much happier with a wealthier bride:

-besides, they may love me yet when you have made your peace, as I know

-you will,” said she, smiling. “Remember, it is to your parents that you

-bend, and I never can feel happy while you are as a stranger to them.

-I suppose it would be my turn next,” said she, with her musical laugh,

-“if I were to venture to oppose your wishes, or to say a few angry

-words.”

-

-“Marion!” said her husband reproachfully.

-

-“Well, what security have I,” was the playful retort, “over one who

-could be contented under such circumstances? You owe to them infinitely

-more than you do to me--they loved you for years and years before I

-did. Oh, Edward! your own heart must tell you more than I could ever

-speak.”

-

-“We will not discuss the subject any further, dear Marion,” said he,

-and his voice faltered. “Sing to me, will you? The evening never seems

-perfect without a song from you.”

-

-Marion sang the following lines in a rich and lovely voice:--

-

-

-THE SPIRIT’S WHISPERINGS.

-

-  I roved one morn in a sunlit grove,

-  Where the mavis was singing his song of love,

-  Where the wild bee flew on her wing of light,

-  Flitting o’er moss-cup and blossom bright!

-  And Nature was blooming so freshly and fair,

-  Nought fading or dying was resting there;

-  Yet the light breeze sang, as it wafted by,

-  “Alas that the Lily and Rose should die!”

-

-         *       *       *       *       *

-

-  I sat by the side of a maiden bright,

-  Radiant with Beauty, and Hope’s soft light;

-  She sang a lay of our own loved isle,

-  And my heart beat proudly and high the while.

-  Fondly I gazed on that lofty brow--

-  “What can be lovelier--brighter now?”

-  Yet Echo replied to her lute’s soft lay,

-  “The sweetest and fairest must fade away!”

-

-         *       *       *       *       *

-

-  I wandered forth, ’neath the moon’s pale ray,

-  Where the dead in their last long slumbers lay;

-  Softly and coldly her pure beams shone

-  On the mouldering urn and the old grey stone;

-  And I sadly sigh’d, “Must the young and brave,

-  The loved and the honour’d, all share the grave?”

-  And a voice replied, in a hollow sigh,

-  “The bravest and fairest, all--all must die!”

-

-         *       *       *       *       *

-

-  I knew it was as the spirit said,--

-  That all we love on this earth must fade;

-  That gently they wither, and slowly decay,

-  Or are snatch’d in a moment--away, away!

-  And I said, in deep sorrow, “Alas that strife

-  Should breathe on this short--this uncertain life!

-  And, alas for those who, when Life hath fled,

-  Have Peace to ask of the silent Dead!”

-

-Marion’s beautiful voice trembled with emotion, and her eyes were

-filled with tears as she approached her husband. He leaned his head

-thoughtfully on his hand.

-

-Those Magic Words were thrilling in his heart.

-

-

-

-

-CHAPTER III.

-

-

-With the exception of the young and thoughtless, who only look

-forward to a season of festivity and enjoyment, and of the callous

-and indifferent, who seldom think of such matters at all, the varied

-feelings which hail the approach of Christmas may be compared to those

-occasioned by the contemplation of advancing age--of age so different

-in its aspects, whether we behold our fellow-mortals sinking down into

-the vale of years alone, neglected and unloved; alienated from kindred

-and friends, and still retaining the unholy animosities of earlier

-years; unsubdued by religion, unsupported by the contemplation of a

-useful and virtuous life; or, on the contrary, surrounded by loved and

-loving hearts, looking back with gratitude and pleasure to the past,

-and with hope and resignation to the future, in peace, and love, and

-charity with all! Many a family in embarrassed circumstances, many a

-poor widow with a “limited income,” looks on the increased expenses of

-this season of the year, on its bills and various claims, with the same

-feelings which anticipate the infirmities of declining years and sharp

-attacks of rheumatism and gout. Many look forward to increased domestic

-comfort, and brighter firesides. Many a mother smiles with delight on

-her children, all assembled round her once more. Many a father rejoices

-in their joyous laughter, or in the affection and reverence of maturer

-age. Many an old friend is welcomed to the social board. But, alas!

-there are many, too, who look back with a dreary regret to the years

-that are gone, and think, how different Christmas Day seems now to what

-it was!

-

-Such melancholy thoughts were revolving in the mind of a man of

-dignified and venerable aspect, pacing gloomily up and down the

-splendid library of a fine old mansion. It was almost dark, and the

-glare of the fire played over the rich volumes, and on the antique

-carving of the furniture. He looked with a sigh at the hearth, once

-crowded with happy faces. One only remained, and ah! how changed from

-the blooming figure of earlier days, which rose before him! How feebly

-that once beautiful head lay on the rich velvet cushion of her chair!

-How much suffering and sorrow might be traced on that furrowed brow! He

-felt that her reverie was as sad as his own; and truly too, for she was

-thinking of many a fair child that had gone down to the tomb in all the

-promise of early youth!--of the pride and joy of seeing them assembled

-at Christmas, well and happy!--of the joyous holiday-makings and merry

-meetings!--of the tearful partings, and the agony of those final ones,

-when the thin, small hand, pressed in its tiny grasp the last life

-greeting!

-

-Still she could think of the departed with the softened and resigned

-feelings which religion and time never fail to produce. But that which

-fell most heavily on her heart and darkened her declining years, was,

-that the last and only surviving one--the boy whom she had loved

-best--whom she had watched over with such intense fear and anxiety--was

-still a stranger from his father’s home. Month after month passed,

-and still both, in their pride, hung back from any attempt at a

-reconciliation. She felt that many more might not elapse before she

-would be far beyond the reach of mediation, and with a mother’s and

-a wife’s love she longed to see them united again ere she departed.

-Presently she walked to the window, and laid her thin white hand on the

-arm of her husband.

-

-“I see you still love to watch the rooks going to rest in the old

-elm-trees.”

-

-“Yes,” said Sir John, hastily; “it is amusing to watch their odd

-flights, and to imagine you can distinguish the croak of a particular

-bird.” He would not say that it was Edward’s favourite pastime when a

-boy, but his companion knew well that he _thought_ of the time when

-both used to stand there together. “But who is this coming up the

-avenue?” he said at length, as if willing to shake off the chain of

-thought. “Mrs. Hope, I fancy, by her black dress. I suppose she is

-come to tell us all about the dinner, as she promised.”

-

-No door ever opened on a better, or kinder, or more zealous village

-schoolmistress, than did this stately one on the spare, timid little

-body who now advanced. No one ever looked more placidly happy, and no

-one more pleased and grateful, when she was kindly placed in the most

-comfortable of chairs by Sir John, and welcomed with a cordial smile by

-his lady.

-

-“I came up to tell you, sir, that everything was done as you desired.

-The children were _so_ happy, it quite did one’s heart good to see

-them. They all came in the morning with evergreens and holly, and we

-made some beautiful wreaths to set off the room. Their new dresses

-look very nice, and they are truly thankful to you for your kindness.

-The coals and blankets, and other things, are all sent home too, and

-many say they shall thank Sir John for a happy Christmas; which they

-wish in return, with all their hearts, I am sure,” continued the good

-little woman, with emotion; “for, thank God, _very_ few among them are

-ungrateful.”

-

-Sir John’s benevolent countenance brightened with pleasure as he

-listened to the kind schoolmistress’s further recital of the village

-festivities, to which he had contributed so largely; and his wife

-marvelled how the heart of so good a man could be so unrelenting as she

-knew it was.

-

-Perhaps similar thoughts were passing in the mind of Mrs. Hope; for

-after she had told all she ostensibly had to tell, and felt that it was

-time for her to depart, she still lingered, and yet hesitated to speak.

-

-“Is there anything you wish to say to us, Mrs. Hope?” said the lady,

-kindly; “pray do not be afraid to mention anything in which we can be

-of service to you. Is your son----”

-

-“I thank your ladyship, I was not thinking of him then, but of some

-one very different. I thought you might like to know, and yet was

-not sure--but Mr. Edward and his lady came over to the school-house

-to-day,” said she, as if from a desperate resolution, “and my heart

-was quite full to see them come and go away again like strangers--just

-at Christmas time, too!” Poor little Mrs. Hope trembled, for she saw

-that Sir John’s brow darkened, and he drew back in his chair in an

-agitated manner; but an encouraging look from the lady re-assured her.

-“It was very pleasant to see him again,” she continued, “in the little

-parlour where he often used to sit years ago, and give the prizes out

-to the children, and speak encouragingly to them. I thought he had

-forgotten the old place, and all he was so good to; but he told me he

-had been longing to see it, and never could feel so happy anywhere

-else.”

-

-“Poor Edward!” said the lady, with emotion. “How does he look?”

-

-“Very pale and delicate, ma’am; but just the same as ever--just the

-same noble look,” said Mrs. Hope, fast gathering courage, “although not

-quite so joyful like as it used to be. He made particular inquiries as

-to how his father and mother looked, and seemed terribly cast down

-when I told him how poorly you had both been.”

-

-“Did he, indeed!” exclaimed Sir. John, starting from his seat, and

-pacing up and down; “why did you not let me know he was with you?”

-

-“I feared you did not wish to know it,” was the reply. “But oh, Sir

-John! in my humble way I did think it strange that, in an erring world

-like this, your heart should be turned from two such children!”

-

-Tears were running fast down the face of the good little

-schoolmistress. She hurried away; but her Magic Words were not spoken

-in vain.

-

-[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.]

-

-

-

-

-CHAPTER IV.

-

-

-Beautifully dawned the last morning of the old year. How lovely are

-some few winter sunrisings! A cold, grey sky, and dim, glimmering

-light, scarcely reveals surrounding objects. Presently a delicate blush

-appears, gently stealing over the east. It deepens to a ruddy glow; and

-then bright, golden clouds, tinged with many a varied hue, overspread

-the sky, lighting up in the strongest relief every leafless tree, even

-to the most fibre-like branches.

-

-Everything is very still. Edith sits silently at the window of her

-dressing-room, watching that lovely dawn. Presently a few starlings

-appear on the frosty slopes, with their quick, impatient gestures and

-rapid movements, seeking a breakfast. A pair of beautiful blackbirds

-droop their jetty wings, and seem numbed with cold. A robin, cheerful

-even in adversity, trills a few grateful notes on a shrub near the

-window, and Edith thinks that no new-year’s serenade could be half as

-touching as that low, sweet song. She thinks, too, what a lesson it

-teaches; for her melancholy eye had been straying mournfully over the

-broad lands stretching far and wide before her, and--“’tis an old tale,

-and often told,”--she had almost envied the humblest cottager in those

-her lordly possessions. “Farewell, old year!” she exclaimed; “none

-other will ever dawn upon me as you did. May the new bear happiness and

-joy to many! Oh, Marion! you little thought how desolate I am, when you

-prophesied that there was yet much in store for me.”

-

-Marion’s picturesque cottage could be plainly seen in the distance,

-shut in by the blue range of hills above, and sheltered with sweeping

-larches. The morning sun now shone brightly upon it, and Edith pictured

-to herself the beaming, happy countenance of her friend.

-

-“May God bless you, Marion!” she continued with emotion; “for to the

-example of your gentle goodness I owe all that is now left me,--the

-knowledge of that usefulness, that patient love and forbearance, which

-makes you so dear to others, so happy in yourself, and without which

-all that the world calls beauty and talent is hollow and heartless

-indeed! You taught me the value of true affection--the folly and

-littleness of the false pride I rejoiced in; and yet so sweetly, that

-I was only humbled to myself--not to you. Would that it had been but a

-few short months before! Oh, Percy! how willingly would I now confess

-myself in the wrong! But now I am forgotten! In your benevolent plans,

-in your honourable successes, there is no thought of me; or I am only

-remembered as a wilful, imperious woman, whom you once foolishly loved.

-I shall never see you again--mine the sorrow, mine the fault! But I am

-earning the right to self-esteem; I am doing all that I believe you

-would approve of, did you care for me now.”

-

-Her heart was very full as she descended to the breakfast-room. No

-one was there; but on the table lay a simple nosegay. “From Marion,”

-was written on a slip of paper. Edith mentally thanked her friend for

-the love which she knew was expressed in the fragrant gift; but tears

-sprang into her eyes as she looked on it; for a few lovely roses,

-the little blue periwinkle, with its shining green leaves and “sweet

-remembrances,” and a few early primroses and violets, were arranged

-almost exactly as she had received them from a still more beloved hand

-the year before. She started as her mother entered the room, and turned

-hastily to conceal her emotion; but touched by the look of anxious

-love which she caught fixed on herself, exclaimed, while she suffered

-the large tears to fall down her face, “Oh, my mother, I will not be

-proud to _you_--Heaven knows there would be little merit in that! I was

-thinking”--and her beautiful head lay on her mother’s gentle bosom--“of

-the happiness which I have thrown away--of one who has forgotten me.”

-

-“Ah, my dear child!” said her mother, as she tenderly pressed her hand

-on the throbbing brow, “in the doubtfulness of our nature we often

-accuse those of forgetfulness whose hearts may be breaking for our

-sake.”

-

-Edith looked up, a sudden expression of joy beaming over her

-countenance. As she bent again over the flowers, the sweetest gleam of

-hope stole over her, and she felt the magic influence of those words.

-

-Happy are they who in their own interests, joys, and sorrows, forget

-not the welfare of others! Edith looked forward with pleasure to the

-events of the day; for in the morning the school which she had built

-was to be opened, with an appropriate address from the good rector;

-and in the evening, young and old, rich and poor, were to be assembled

-in her splendid home. She had gaily declared to the gentry her wish to

-receive, as lady of the manor, “all good comers,” that New-Year’s Eve;

-and to sup in the old hall of her ancestors, after the manner of feudal

-times, with the peasantry of her estate “below the salt.” They, of

-course, looked forward to the event with unmixed pleasure and delight.

-Not so all those of gentler birth; for she had lived but little among

-them until of late, and was understood still less. Many thought it a

-capricious whim of the spoiled beauty, and many wondered what strange

-thing she would do next. “It was not that she cared more than the rest

-of them that the poor should enjoy themselves, but that she loved to

-do as no one else did. What a pity her uncle’s fine estate was left in

-such hands!”

-

-So charitably reasoned some of the invited guests; but, happily, there

-were others who knew Edith better, and welcomed with delight her kind

-and benevolent plan for a happy new-year’s eve to them all.

-

-The important evening at last arrived. The village children could not

-have existed much longer. Wide were the park-gates flung open, and

-never had the old avenue rung with the sound of so many merry voices

-before. Many a little belle startled a sleeping bird by stopping under

-his resting-place to admire, by the light of the lantern she carried,

-her bran new shoes and pretty frock, wondering if any of the great

-ladies would look half as nice, and feel half as happy as she did. Some

-timid little creatures clung to their mothers’ skirts, and looked with

-mingled feelings of awe and admiration on the stately mansion, blazing

-with light in the midst of the dark cedars, half afraid of entering

-it until re-assured by the promise of seeing the kind lady whom they

-all loved. But when they arrived there, and were welcomed by that

-sweet lady herself, who shook hands with all, and wished them a happy

-new-year; and when they saw the fine old hall with its bright armour,

-and many magnificent rooms all beautifully lighted up and decorated,

-and were shown the pictures and other wonderful things, their delight

-knew no bounds. But, perhaps, that which charmed them most was a deep

-recess at the lower end of the hall, completely filled with rare and

-luxuriant plants, in the midst of which stood a beautiful figure of

-Peace, joining the hands of Anger and Contention, who were regarding

-with a mingled expression of surprise and admiration the heavenly

-beauty which they had not perceived when occupied with their unholy

-strife.

-

-The children whispered softly here; for the light was very dim, but a

-lovely glow irradiated the beaming countenance of Peace, and here and

-there flowers glistened in the dark leaves around them.

-

-And now tea and cake, such as they had never tasted before, awaited

-them in a pretty room, gay with laurel and holly, where our friend Mrs.

-Hope presided, half beside herself with joy, yet preserving the most

-perfect order and decorum. Then the amusements of the evening began,

-which comprised the merriest and oddest of all styles of dancing to the

-music of the village band, the wonders of a magic lantern, and many

-a childish game beside; but above all, the crowning delight was the

-new-year’s gift to each of a pretty little volume, with the name of

-each written in it by Edith’s own hand.

-

-The hours flew too swiftly by--so thought these delighted little

-people, as ten o’clock was announced, and Edith wished them all good

-night as kindly as she had welcomed them; but in few words, for

-carriages were arriving, and she had to receive her guests: they

-thanked her in their simple way for the pleasure which she had given

-them, and the homely sincerity of their gratitude lighted her sweet

-face with happy smiles.

-

-The spacious picture-gallery, which had been converted into a ball-room

-for the occasion, was gay with many a shining wreath. The old family

-portraits seemed to look down with pleasure, and to beam a welcome on

-all assembled there; so thought several of the wandering villagers,

-grouped here and there amid the more brilliant throng, watching the

-mazes of the dance with interest and amazement, and listening with

-equal surprise to the magnificent band, to the music of which many a

-fairy foot was flying. Most, however, thought it very inferior to the

-performance of their own village musicians, and wondered how people

-could dance to such spiritless tunes on a new-year’s eve like this.

-

-Edith had anticipated their predilection, their shyness, and their love

-of country-dances and hornpipes; so they were soon marshalled by their

-gentle chamberlain, Mrs. Hope, into another room, where they could

-enjoy all these to their hearts’ content, and yet feel themselves

-privileged to look in on the grandees whenever they pleased. Perhaps

-this room, with its unrestrained mirth and merry laughter, was happier

-than the more splendid one; for though many there were thoroughly

-enjoying the beauty and gaiety of the scene, still there were

-heart-burnings. In that large assemblage several met, who, though once

-friends, had not spoken for years, and who felt startled and uneasy at

-being brought into such close proximity. But scarcely a shadow could be

-cast where the beautiful hostess moved and spoke--

-

-  “Thought in each glance, and mind in every smile.”

-

-There was so much frankness in every kind and earnest word she said,

-joined to the charm of her gentle and courtly manners, that the

-coldest, the most obtuse, the most reserved, felt moved and interested

-beyond themselves, and more cordially inclined to all the world beside.

-

-And Marion was there, whose flowers were the only ornament on Edith’s

-snowy dress; but she, usually so gay, was thoughtful almost to

-sadness, and looked anxiously into her husband’s face as they stood for

-a few moments apart--“I believed that of late years my father never

-mixed in such scenes as these,” said he. “Edith could not have thought

-he would come when she invited us.”

-

-“I knew how it was to be,” said Marion; “there are many here to-night

-whom she hopes to bring together again; rich and poor. See, she is

-looking towards us now, while speaking to him! Oh, Edward, go up to

-them at once, I entreat you!” exclaimed she earnestly.

-

-“Not before so many people,” said her husband with emotion. “Suppose he

-were to refuse my hand?”

-

-Marion sighed: but her hopeful nature whispered that the New-Year’s Eve

-was not yet ended. And now a clock of silvery tone chimed and struck

-the hour of midnight. The guests were conducted to supper: unseen

-harps, and sweet voices, gave a slow farewell to the old year, as they

-were seating themselves at the upper end of the hall, and then burst

-forth into a joyful welcome to the new, as the villagers entered

-and took their places at the lower range of tables; this again died

-away, and a sweet strain arose, of the softest prayer, for peace and

-happiness to all! Marion looked round with emotion.

-

-It was a lovely scene, that huge banquet-hall, with its gay wreaths of

-holly and flowers. The bright assemblage of guests; the happy faces of

-the villagers below; the beautiful hostess, seated in an antique chair

-at the upper end, with the banners of her ancient race, trophies of

-ages long gone by, waving behind her; the lovely figure of Peace below,

-almost shrouded in the dark leaves, and forming a striking contrast to

-those warlike emblems: all these afforded a sight which, once beheld,

-would not be easily forgotten.

-

-After each guest had paid sufficient homage to the choice viands before

-them, Edith took up a cup of curious workmanship; her face was radiant

-with kindness and love as she looked on those around her.

-

-“This cup has been possessed, for many a century, by my ancestors,”

-she said; “preserved for ages as a venerated relic: doubtless many a

-toast has been pledged in it--many a friendly welcome expressed; but I

-believe no more cordial and sincere one than that with which I greet

-you all this night. I would fain express the usual wish of a new-year

-of all imaginable happiness and prosperity, but as such have never

-visited this earth, we know it would be vain; and I therefore wish you

-the greatest of all blessings--that which cheers and supports us in

-the sorrows of life, and heightens beyond measure its pleasures and

-enjoyments,--love and harmony in your hearts and homes! There may be

-some among us estranged from friends and kindred, grieving over the

-fault, (for few, let us hope, in a Christian land, can live unmoved in

-enmity one with another,) and yet hanging back, in mistaken pride or

-want of moral courage, from the few conciliatory words which would, in

-most cases, suffice for a perfect reconciliation. The old year is now

-passing away--may it bear with it all anger, all animosity! May those

-few healing words be spoken,--and Peace, and Love, and Charity be with

-us all!”

-

-Edith’s voice trembled with emotion, but she did not perceive the

-agitation of many of her guests, for her eyes were fixed, as if in a

-dream, on the lower end of the hall. There was a movement of surprise

-among those seated there: she made her way, she knew not how, through

-them all. Yes, it was Percy!--One look, expressing a thousand emotions,

-and their hands were clasped in each other! For an instant her lovely

-head was bowed before him, while a few large, heavy tears, fell on the

-flowers at her feet! But she soon mastered her emotion, and, with a

-face radiant with joy, led him through the crowd of sympathising faces

-to her mother’s side. In the short silence which ensued, the bells of

-the village church were plainly heard ringing-in the new-born year!

-When had they ever sounded so sweetly before?

-

-And now a joyous strain again burst forth, and all returned to the

-ball-room. Again the young, the beautiful, the gay, joined in the

-dance; and never feet flew more lightly than theirs. But there

-were those who felt a deeper joy; the serene, the heavenly one of

-Reconciliation!

-

-And Percy and Edith once more stood side by side,--united, happy! And

-Marion told her wondering friend how Percy (who was an old college

-friend of her husband’s) had come to see them that morning, and in

-their quiet home had confessed that he was drawn to them by the desire

-of obtaining news of her, round whom his deep true love still lingered

-with so much regret. She had tried to persuade him to accompany them

-that night, but still he doubted--still feared. Yet he now confessed to

-Edith how, when they were gone, he had longed to see her face again,

-how he had concealed himself in the crowd, and how he had been moved,

-by what she had just said, to rush forward from the recess where he

-stood unobserved, that he might be the first to own the gentle Magic of

-those words!

-

-And many others had felt them too! Marion was leaning on _her father’s_

-arm--her eyes cast down and tearful in their joyfulness, as he spoke

-to her in a low tone of the invalid whom she must see on the morrow.

-

-And all hearts were touched and softened, and rich and poor felt drawn

-closer together! And they thought of the voice that had said,--“Love

-one another as I have loved you,”--and of the divine lessons of

-peacefulness and long-suffering which some had forgotten! And many

-blessed to the end of their days the Magic Words spoken by the

-Peacemaker[A] on that New-year’s Night.

-

-

-

-

-MAGIC WORDS.

-

-

-  Magic words! magic words!

-    From holy impulse they are born,

-  The seeming chance of circumstance,

-    God’s utterance to hearts forlorn;

-  Where’er they fall reject them not,

-    Nor think their mission is in vain;

-  ’Twixt loving hearts, whom coldness parts,

-    Let not the dreary silence reign.

-      Magic words! what are they?

-      Things the truest soul will say!

-

-  Magic words! magic words!

-    Ah! dear as to the dying flow’r,

-  The starry dews that balm infuse,

-    And whisper of the fallen show’r!

-  Sweet as the bubbling desert spring

-    To one who wanders o’er the sands,

-  Are those chance words, that sow like birds

-    The flowering seeds of happier lands!

-      Magic words! what are they?

-      Things the simplest tongue may say!

-

-  Magic words! magic words!

-    O let them live on ev’ry lip,

-  A source of bliss, of holiest kiss,

-    And bond of fairest fellowship.

-  And evermore at this blest time,

-    Tho’ winter’s snows o’erspread the scene,

-  One magic call, to bind us all,

-    Shall be old Christmas’ evergreen!

-      Magic words! are not they

-      Offerings meet for Christmas Day?

-

-

-London:--Printed by G. BARCLAY, Castle St. Leicester Sq.

-

-

-

-

-FOOTNOTE:

-

-  [A] Edith, in the Anglo-Saxon language, signifies Peacemaker.

-

-

-

-

-TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES:

-

-

-  Italicized text is surrounded by underscores: _italics_.

-

-  Superscripted characters are preceded by a carat character: lith^{rs}.

-

-  Obvious typographical errors have been corrected.

-

-  Inconsistencies in hyphenation have been standardized.

-

-  Archaic or variant spelling has been retained.

-

-*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MAGIC WORDS ***

-

-Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will

-be renamed.

-

-Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright

-law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works,

-so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the

-United States without permission and without paying copyright

-royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part

-of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project

-Gutenberg-tm electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm

-concept and trademark. Project Gutenberg is a registered trademark,

-and may not be used if you charge for an eBook, except by following

-the terms of the trademark license, including paying royalties for use

-of the Project Gutenberg trademark. If you do not charge anything for

-copies of this eBook, complying with the trademark license is very

-easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose such as creation

-of derivative works, reports, performances and research. Project

-Gutenberg eBooks may be modified and printed and given away--you may

-do practically ANYTHING in the United States with eBooks not protected

-by U.S. copyright law. Redistribution is subject to the trademark

-license, especially commercial redistribution.

-

-START: FULL LICENSE

-

-THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE

-PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK

-

-To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free

-distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work

-(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project

-Gutenberg"), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full

-Project Gutenberg-tm License available with this file or online at

-www.gutenberg.org/license.

-

-Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project

-Gutenberg-tm electronic works

-

-1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm

-electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to

-and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property

-(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all

-the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or

-destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your

-possession. If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a

-Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound

-by the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the

-person or entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph

-1.E.8.

-

-1.B. "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark. It may only be

-used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who

-agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few

-things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works

-even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See

-paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project

-Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this

-agreement and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm

-electronic works. See paragraph 1.E below.

-

-1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the

-Foundation" or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection

-of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works. Nearly all the individual

-works in the collection are in the public domain in the United

-States. If an individual work is unprotected by copyright law in the

-United States and you are located in the United States, we do not

-claim a right to prevent you from copying, distributing, performing,

-displaying or creating derivative works based on the work as long as

-all references to Project Gutenberg are removed. Of course, we hope

-that you will support the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting

-free access to electronic works by freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm

-works in compliance with the terms of this agreement for keeping the

-Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with the work. You can easily

-comply with the terms of this agreement by keeping this work in the

-same format with its attached full Project Gutenberg-tm License when

-you share it without charge with others.

-

-1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern

-what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are

-in a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States,

-check the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this

-agreement before downloading, copying, displaying, performing,

-distributing or creating derivative works based on this work or any

-other Project Gutenberg-tm work. The Foundation makes no

-representations concerning the copyright status of any work in any

-country other than the United States.

-

-1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg:

-

-1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other

-immediate access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear

-prominently whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work

-on which the phrase "Project Gutenberg" appears, or with which the

-phrase "Project Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed,

-performed, viewed, copied or distributed:

-

-  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 will have to check the laws of the country where

-  you are located before using this eBook.

-

-1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is

-derived from texts not protected by U.S. copyright law (does not

-contain a notice indicating that it is posted with permission of the

-copyright holder), the work can be copied and distributed to anyone in

-the United States without paying any fees or charges. If you are

-redistributing or providing access to a work with the phrase "Project

-Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the work, you must comply

-either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 or

-obtain permission for the use of the work and the Project Gutenberg-tm

-trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or 1.E.9.

-

-1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted

-with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution

-must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any

-additional terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms

-will be linked to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works

-posted with the permission of the copyright holder found at the

-beginning of this work.

-

-1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm

-License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this

-work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm.

-

-1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this

-electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without

-prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with

-active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project

-Gutenberg-tm License.

-

-1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary,

-compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including

-any word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access

-to or distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format

-other than "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official

-version posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm website

-(www.gutenberg.org), you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense

-to the user, provide a copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means

-of obtaining a copy upon request, of the work in its original "Plain

-Vanilla ASCII" or other form. Any alternate format must include the

-full Project Gutenberg-tm License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1.

-

-1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying,

-performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works

-unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9.

-

-1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing

-access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works

-provided that:

-

-* You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from

-  the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method

-  you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is owed

-  to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he has

-  agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the Project

-  Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments must be paid

-  within 60 days following each date on which you prepare (or are

-  legally required to prepare) your periodic tax returns. Royalty

-  payments should be clearly marked as such and sent to the Project

-  Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the address specified in

-  Section 4, "Information about donations to the Project Gutenberg

-  Literary Archive Foundation."

-

-* You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies

-  you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he

-  does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm

-  License. You must require such a user to return or destroy all

-  copies of the works possessed in a physical medium and discontinue

-  all use of and all access to other copies of Project Gutenberg-tm

-  works.

-

-* You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of

-  any money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the

-  electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days of

-  receipt of the work.

-

-* You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free

-  distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works.

-

-1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project

-Gutenberg-tm electronic work or group of works on different terms than

-are set forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing

-from the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the manager of

-the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark. Contact the Foundation as set

-forth in Section 3 below.

-

-1.F.

-

-1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable

-effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread

-works not protected by U.S. copyright law in creating the Project

-Gutenberg-tm collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm

-electronic works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may

-contain "Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate

-or corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other

-intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or

-other medium, a computer virus, or computer codes that damage or

-cannot be read by your equipment.

-

-1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right

-of Replacement or Refund" described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project

-Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project

-Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project

-Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all

-liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal

-fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT

-LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE

-PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE

-TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE

-LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR

-INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH

-DAMAGE.

-

-1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a

-defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can

-receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a

-written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you

-received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium

-with your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you

-with the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in

-lieu of a refund. If you received the work electronically, the person

-or entity providing it to you may choose to give you a second

-opportunity to receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If

-the second copy is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing

-without further opportunities to fix the problem.

-

-1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth

-in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS', WITH NO

-OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT

-LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE.

-

-1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied

-warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of

-damages. If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement

-violates the law of the state applicable to this agreement, the

-agreement shall be interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or

-limitation permitted by the applicable state law. The invalidity or

-unenforceability of any provision of this agreement shall not void the

-remaining provisions.

-

-1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the

-trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone

-providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in

-accordance with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the

-production, promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm

-electronic works, harmless from all liability, costs and expenses,

-including legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of

-the following which you do or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this

-or any Project Gutenberg-tm work, (b) alteration, modification, or

-additions or deletions to any Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any

-Defect you cause.

-

-Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm

-

-Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of

-electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of

-computers including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It

-exists because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations

-from people in all walks of life.

-

-Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the

-assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's

-goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will

-remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project

-Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure

-and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future

-generations. To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary

-Archive Foundation and how your efforts and donations can help, see

-Sections 3 and 4 and the Foundation information page at

-www.gutenberg.org

-

-Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary

-Archive Foundation

-

-The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non-profit

-501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the

-state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal

-Revenue Service. The Foundation's EIN or federal tax identification

-number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg Literary

-Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by

-U.S. federal laws and your state's laws.

-

-The Foundation's business office is located at 809 North 1500 West,

-Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email contact links and up

-to date contact information can be found at the Foundation's website

-and official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact

-

-Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg

-Literary Archive Foundation

-

-Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without

-widespread public support and donations to carry out its mission of

-increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be

-freely distributed in machine-readable form accessible by the widest

-array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations

-($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt

-status with the IRS.

-

-The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating

-charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United

-States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a

-considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up

-with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations

-where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To SEND

-DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any particular

-state visit www.gutenberg.org/donate

-

-While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we

-have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition

-against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who

-approach us with offers to donate.

-

-International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make

-any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from

-outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff.

-

-Please check the Project Gutenberg web pages for current donation

-methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other

-ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. To

-donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate

-

-Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works

-

-Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project

-Gutenberg-tm concept of a library of electronic works that could be

-freely shared with anyone. For forty years, he produced and

-distributed Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of

-volunteer support.

-

-Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed

-editions, all of which are confirmed as not protected by copyright in

-the U.S. unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not

-necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper

-edition.

-

-Most people start at our website which has the main PG search

-facility: www.gutenberg.org

-

-This website includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm,

-including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary

-Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to

-subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks.

+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 68424 ***
+
+MAGIC WORDS.
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.]
+
+
+
+
+  MAGIC WORDS;
+
+  A Tale for Christmas Time.
+
+  BY
+  EMILIE MACERONI.
+
+  “Oh, many a shaft at random sent,
+  Finds mark the archer little meant;
+  And many a word at random spoken
+  May soothe or wound a heart that’s broken.”
+
+                                     _Scott._
+
+  WITH FOUR ILLUSTRATIONS BY E. H. WEHNERT.
+
+  [Illustration]
+
+  LONDON:
+  CUNDALL & ADDEY, 21 OLD BOND STREET.
+  M.DCCC.LI.
+
+
+
+
+  LONDON:
+  Printed by G. BARCLAY, Castle St. Leicester Sq.
+
+
+
+
+  TO
+  MRS. AUSTIN
+  This Little Volume
+  IS AFFECTIONATELY INSCRIBED.
+
+
+
+
+ILLUSTRATIONS.
+
+
+  LITTLE MARY AND HER FRIEND TROY             11
+
+  MARION TEACHING LATIN                       25
+
+  EDITH WATCHING THE DAWN                     39
+
+  MARION AND HER FATHER (_Frontispiece_)      53
+
+        _From Drawings by_ E. H. WEHNERT.
+
+
+
+
+MAGIC WORDS.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+
+It was the evening of Christmas Day. The hymn of “Peace upon earth,
+good-will towards men,” had been chanted by thousands of voices
+throughout the land, from the grand cathedral-choir to the simple
+singers of the village church. Charity had extended her munificent
+hand to the poor and needy, lighting up smiles on many a care-worn
+face. Hospitality welcomed the good, the beautiful, and the great to
+the lordly mansions of the rich. Love and Peace sat enthroned in many
+a happy home. Poverty, shivering at the present, was consoled by the
+glowing figure of Hope, pointing with radiant eyes to the future.
+Memory and Sorrow lingered around the grave of many a departed one;
+but of all mourners they were the saddest who were estranged from
+those they still loved. Yes, amid the pain, the sorrow, the suffering
+of life, _their_ hearts were the heaviest; for (to use the oft-quoted
+words of the poet) “to be wroth with those we love, doth work like
+madness in the brain;” and this hallowed season speaks strongest to our
+kindest feelings, and to the tenderness of our better nature.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+A train had stopped at a rough little village station about thirty
+miles from town, and a few country people, on their way home, leaned
+over the bridge above to admire the enormous red eyes of the monster
+as it moved slowly on through a deep cutting crowned with dark firs.
+They lingered yet a moment longer, to mark whom it had borne from the
+great city to their quiet village. A beautiful girl of fifteen, glowing
+with health and exercise, accompanied by two fine, rough-looking dogs,
+rushed down to meet her playfellows and friends. She was breathless
+with joy, and with her race over the heath; but her merry laugh and
+warm greeting sounded pleasantly enough as the noise of the train died
+away in the distance.
+
+A lady, wrapped in a warm plaid, who had been anxiously waiting for
+some time, took the arm of her husband, with a few low words of
+delighted welcome, and they walked briskly away. The dogs of the
+younger party barked with glee--were patted and caressed. One look at
+the dear heath and at the hills beyond, with a thrill of delight at
+the thoughts of a long ramble over them on the morrow, and the ponies
+were mounted, the dogs whistled to, and away flew the happy trio to
+the home-welcome, to the dear old hall, to all the joy of a Christmas
+meeting.
+
+Only two other passengers appeared, winding up the pathway--a gentleman
+of tall and commanding aspect, and a buxom, brisk-footed countrywoman,
+wrapped in her scarlet cloak, who passed him with a low curtsey and
+cheerful good night. She was thinking of the bright fireside, of the
+dear little faces round it anxiously awaiting her return, and of the
+enormous amount of joy contained in that wicker basket. An event of
+great marvel and wonderment is a poor woman’s visit to her friends in
+town, and she is ever in a tearful state of ecstasy and excitement on
+reaching home again; all of which becomes a matter of grave family
+history in the lowly household, and is recounted on many an occasion to
+eager and attentive hearers.
+
+She quickly disappeared up a winding path cut through the furze and
+heather, evidently leading to a low-roofed cottage on the skirts of a
+fir-wood. Lights twinkled in the casement, and joyful voices were soon
+heard approaching to meet and welcome her. The road was now perfectly
+solitary. A few deep-red clouds still hung over the west, and here and
+there a large bright star shone silently through the sharp, pure air.
+Dogs bayed in the distance; the sound came very pleasantly over the
+heather through the rough old pines.
+
+The gentleman walked briskly on, and lights began to appear in the
+valley beneath. He stopped as the merry notes of a flageolet struck
+his ear, proceeding from a cottage by the road-side. The blaze of a
+wood fire within illumined the little rustic porch and neat garden.
+Bright branches of glistening holly shone in the tiny casement. The
+tune ceased, and was followed by a light-hearted laugh and the sound of
+young voices.
+
+“How happy they seem!” said he. “It is such scenes as these which make
+the country so delightful, so cheering to sense and spirit!”
+
+And yet he sighed heavily as he walked on; and passing through an
+avenue of fir and larch leading to one of the prettiest and most
+picturesque cottages in the world, he paused when he reached the
+garden-gate. It seemed, too, a dear, quiet, sweet-smelling home. Lights
+shone from more than one of the windows; and more than one bright young
+face might be seen, by the gleam of its golden hair, flitting about
+in the uncertain light. A sweet young voice singing as sweet a tune
+ceased, as all young voices do, suddenly, when the bell rang out its
+summons, and a brisk, rosy little maid appeared, lantern and key in
+hand, to admit the traveller, and guide him through the long shadow of
+the firs to the house. A favourite dog bounded to meet and gambol round
+him with unrepressed joy. The children clustered into the porch to say,
+timidly, “How do you do?” and hold out their little hands to shake;
+while their mother, advancing with a kindly greeting, expressed her
+pleasure at his return. Even the maid looked pleased and happy to see
+him. But yet it was not his home.
+
+After a few minutes’ conversation, the traveller was seated in his own
+room, his dog, his sole companion, looking at him with glistening eyes,
+as his master fondly stroked his magnificent head. He was a man of
+twenty-eight or thirty years of age, with a sad and thoughtful cast of
+countenance, yet one that all who looked upon it _must_ instantly love
+and respect; it was at once so engaging and so noble. He looked round
+his little room at his sketches and his gun with evident pleasure,
+placed some books and papers which he had brought on a little table
+before him, and drawing his arm-chair close to the blazing pine-logs,
+sat watching the golden cones as they crumbled away, one by one, at
+the height of their brilliancy. But every reverie must have its end;
+and his was brought to a close by the appearance of coffee, borne by
+a bright-eyed country maid, smirking and smiling with pleasure, as
+country servants are wont to do at every fresh arrival.
+
+It would seem that the reverie by the bright fireside was not an idle
+one, but that among many revolving thoughts, some, at least, were
+considered worthy of preservation; for the coffee was soon despatched,
+the table covered with books and papers, and the stranger intently
+occupied with his pen.
+
+So absorbed did he become with it, that after one or two long, wistful
+glances, the fine hound lay down reproachfully on his comfortable rug,
+as if despairing of any further notice that night.
+
+The wind moaned heavily in the pine-branches round the cottage.
+Presently the writer paused and listened to the sound, so like the
+rushing of distant waters. He walked slowly to the window, and gazed
+long and earnestly into the night. It was moonlight, yet stormy;
+and large, glittering stars, looked down through the dark branches,
+when the hurrying white clouds had drifted over them. The distant
+clock of the old village church, slowly striking the hour, sounded
+mournfully over the river; and the lonely man at that little window
+thought of years that were gone, of the bright firesides in many a
+happy home that night, and turned and put away his papers with a sigh.
+He thought how differently he used to work years ago, when, with all
+the ardour of his nature and the energy of hope, and yet with intense
+fear and anxiety, he strove to render himself worthy of one idolized,
+one long-sighed-for object! He thought, too, of the bitterness, the
+agony of disappointment; and how long years of his young life would
+have been thrown away, had he not struggled hard to save himself from
+becoming a useless, melancholy being, given up to the indulgence of
+selfish regrets. He had succeeded,--there was some comfort in that
+reflection. He knew of what he was capable, and dared not throw away
+the power he had acquired, because it no longer availed the idol Self.
+So he still worked on. He had become distinguished for his literary
+labours, and for his contributions to the improvement and well-being
+of his fellow-creatures; but to fame and to the praises of the great
+he was now equally indifferent. His happiest hours were passed in his
+favourite village, where he was greatly beloved, although he dared not
+wholly give himself up to the quiet of a country life.
+
+He had had the old Gothic church restored, with all possible observance
+of its antique ornaments and its fine clustering ivy; and took a kind
+of Sir Roger de Coverley delight in seeing the country people, bettered
+and improved in every way, flocking to it on Sundays to hear his good
+tutor’s sermons, to which he used to listen with so much reverence in
+his boyish days. He had learned to believe that the word “happiness”
+signifies, the being reconciled to bear, still having courage to
+do, and gratitude to enjoy that which remains. Thus, he was usually
+cheerful in his various occupations; _but this was Christmas time_:
+a time when the lonely heart feels most desolate--a time when many a
+tender word spoken by the absent is remembered with sorrow--when all
+anger is forgotten in the feeling of peace and love which steals over
+the heart. And his head lay buried in his hands, his whole soul given
+up to an overwhelming agony of regret.
+
+[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.]
+
+“This day last year,” he muttered, “who could have believed the change?
+Oh, Edith!” he continued, taking up a miniature that lay beside him,
+“who could have thought then that we should now be as strangers to
+each other? Who could have thought that that bright face, those many
+noble qualities, could have wrought so much misery?” Again he looked
+at the lovely countenance, smiling on him a thousand of the tenderest
+remembrances, and a still gentler expression, a kindlier spirit, came
+over him. “Those eyes,” he said, “how softly they have looked on me!
+Perhaps even now a thought----but what folly! In the pride of
+beauty and prosperity, what is there to remind her of me?”
+
+A low tap at the door interrupted his meditations. For an instant he
+could not say, “Come in!” his heart was so very full; but quickly
+recovering himself, he turned with a smile to welcome a little village
+child, who timidly advanced to place both her tiny hands in his.
+
+She looked into his face with eyes beaming with love and gratitude; but
+the joyful, sparkling expression soon faded away, for she saw that he
+was sadder than usual; and with the quick sympathy and natural grace
+of childhood she sat down quietly on the rug, and taking the stately
+head of the hound on her lap, pensively stroked his long, shaggy coat.
+Presently she ventured to break the silence in her gentle way--“I am so
+glad you are come back, sir; I have missed you so!”
+
+Her companion’s countenance brightened, and he said with
+animation--“Have you, though, my poor little Mary? I thought you had
+forgotten me, being so long away.” And he stroked her bright brown hair.
+
+“You should not have thought that,” said the child, earnestly; “I
+always remember you, for you taught me all I know. I was longing to
+come yesterday, and all day to-day,” she continued, “to hear if you
+had arrived. To-day has been so happy that I could not stay away any
+longer, and so here I am,” she added, with her merry laugh, which
+sounded pleasantly in that usually silent room. These simple words,
+that mute caress, had restored the confidence of the two friends. Mary
+was herself again, full of fun and prattle. Seated on the extreme edge
+of a huge Gothic chair, she balanced her little feet on the back of
+her friend Troy, who, far from resenting the liberty, fixed his dark
+eyes lovingly on her sweet young face, while she talked on, full of
+the details of her simple life. How she had gathered pine-cones for
+several evenings, because she knew he loved their cheerful blaze and
+sweet smell. How poor Turpin, who was always in trouble, had hunted
+a rabbit, and been caught in a trap; of her mad race over the hills
+for help; how she nursed the poor, poor foot afterwards; and how
+the faithful patient cried because he could not accompany her that
+night; the relation of all which very much affected his kind little
+mistress. Presently she produced with great glee her “Christmas
+present,”--several little bundles of bark, peeled with great care, from
+the silver birch-trees, cut into slips, and tied with red worsted. “I
+burnt a little bit the other day,” said she, “and the smell was so nice
+I thought you would like it, so I got some to light your taper with--do
+try it;” and the little creature soon held a blazing piece in her hand.
+
+“It is delicious, Mary; and how good of you to collect it for me!”
+
+“I was very happy getting it,” said the child; “but I wish you had not
+thought I had forgotten you. I could not forget you!” she continued,
+after a pause; “you, who have been so good to me, and taught me so
+much! I never looked at a book before you came. Oh, I was sadly wild!
+Mother said I made more noise than the boys!” And she laughed heartily.
+
+The tutor laughed too, and told the often repeated story, which he knew
+she loved to hear, of how, in his walks, he had frequently listened to
+her little voice singing in a cornfield, while “minding” birds; how he
+had been surprised at her sudden disappearance on his nearer approach,
+and on making a voyage of discovery, had found her ensconced in the
+body of a broken-down post-chaise, that, singularly enough, lay between
+two old fir-trees at the foot of the wood! He did not describe to her
+how, in imagination, he had pictured the different and exciting scenes
+in which the once gay equipage might have borne its part; but went on
+to say how he had peeped in unobserved, and had seen her perched on
+one of the dilapidated seats, with a little piece of board on her lap,
+intently occupied in carving a morsel of meat into divers small pieces,
+which she divided, with impartial care, among three ragged starlings
+perched on the opposite beam, who watched her with glistening eyes!
+How merrily she talked to them, and how perfectly they seemed to love
+and understand each other! He reminded her of her surprise on being
+discovered, and her frank invitation to the intruder to “look in” on
+the wonders of the unique aviary, with its valuable illustrations of
+the “History of Red Riding Hood,” its bright jay’s feathers, and other
+childish treasures!
+
+Heartily the little Mary laughed; and so the Christmas evening passed
+on.
+
+“I must go now,” she said; “I promised to read mother the pretty story
+you gave me, ‘Simple Susan,’ and they will all sit up for it! Good bye!
+You will promise not to be so sad when I am gone as you were when I
+came in. You have been thinking of that pretty lady again!” she said,
+with a face of anxious love--pointing to the miniature--“that makes you
+so, I know! Why don’t you go to her?”
+
+“Because she does not love me, Mary,” was the faltering reply; “and you
+know we are not happy with those who do not love us.”
+
+“Are you _sure_ of that?” said the child, earnestly. “People often
+hide their kindest thoughts--and perhaps she hides hers from you; you
+must look for them, as I look for violets, in their thick leaves. Oh,
+I was so unhappy once!” she continued, tears starting into her eyes at
+the remembrance: “I quarrelled with my brother, and we did not speak
+all day--both were so proud: but do you know” (and the sweet little
+face sparkled) “that when I put my arms round his neck and kissed him,
+and said, ‘Good night, Harry!’ he kissed me, and cried too; and said
+how unhappy he had been _all_ the time. I had thought he would _never_,
+_never_ love me again! Oh! if my brother had died, as baby did, before
+we kissed each other that night!”
+
+Poor little Mary paused, her heart quite full at the bare idea of such
+a thing; but she turned again, with admiring eyes, to the miniature.
+“She looks very kind and good, and _so_ beautiful! Did you speak
+gently, and ask her to love you again: or were you proud?”
+
+The child did not notice the agitation of her companion, and little did
+she imagine that, long after her head lay softly on her happy pillow,
+the simple eloquence of those Magic Words was working powerfully in his
+heart!
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+
+Over many a mile of hard, frosty road, by snow-clad fields and hills
+and woods, by many an ice-bound stream, must we lead the imagination
+of our reader on the evening of the same Christmas Day, and peep into
+another home, far from that we have just quitted.
+
+Undrawing the warm crimson curtains of a charming little room--half
+drawing-room, half library--the light of a lamp falls brightly on the
+figure of a lady reading to her husband. It is manuscript, and he puts
+the pages by for her as she goes on.
+
+She often pauses, to look up with a delighted smile at his praises, and
+he thinks that she never looked so beautiful before! She is very like
+Correggio’s Magdalen, and has the same lovely countenance and waving
+hair.
+
+Presently she came to the last page, and the praise was repeated.
+
+“I had no idea I could translate so well,” said she, “and am glad you
+like it, for that will give me spirits to go on: I may, in time, become
+quite useful to you.”
+
+“When are you not everything to me?” was the reply. “But, Marion, you
+must not work so hard; I cannot afford to see you look one bit less
+bright. Besides, it is a kind of reproach to me your working so much;
+indeed you must not!”
+
+“Nonsense!” said Marion, laughing; “you can’t think how happy I am
+when helping you, for I am sure you are often very weary! Poor Edward!
+what anxiety I have caused you! Now for a volley of protestations!”
+said she, laughing again. “But to be serious: I was thinking, to-day,
+how much we have to be thankful for; and that with all its anxieties
+how happy this year has been--how _infinitely_ happier, working and
+striving on together, than droning through an insipid life of ease,
+as some do. I don’t know what would become of me if you were ever
+to be rich,” she continued; “to be sure, one might always find some
+useful employment, some good to be done; but no one knows, except those
+who have experienced it, the delight of overcoming difficulties, and
+earning home comforts by one’s own exertions.”
+
+“True, dear Marion! I never knew, until I knew you, how little is
+necessary for happiness!”
+
+“I knew what life was--I had an anxious one at home, even from a
+little child,” said Marion, “and adversity taught me to know what is
+best worth knowing; what flowers to gather in this great garden, that
+many neglect, or do not perceive. How sweet are the uses of adversity!
+I love to linger on those words; and if ever I venture to write an
+essay,” said she, smiling, “it shall be on that subject. What does it
+not teach us?--the practice of almost every virtue.”
+
+“Nay, not quite so far, enthusiast,” said her husband, smiling;
+“remember the effect of almost constant sun on flowers; how splendid
+they become--how fully their beauty is developed!”
+
+“Yes; but they cannot bear the storm that _may_, that _must_ come.
+The stout old thistle, reared in cold and sleet, is much better
+off--much more useful, and protects many a little plant under its
+vigorous leaves. Now, only think what adversity really does for us.
+To begin with _my_ early life:--my father and mother treated me as
+their friend in all their troubles; I was accustomed to watch their
+anxious care-worn faces, to try to cheer them, and to rejoice when
+they brightened: this bound us together in the closest affection; I
+believe no child, no parents, were ever so dear to each other. No
+little home was ever so loved as mine; and I was quite broken-hearted
+when away from all its cares, even for a short time, although in the
+midst of what people called enjoyment. These were very different
+feelings from those of children nursed in the lap of affluence, who
+are frequently selfish, and often but little attached to those around
+them. I knew what it was to be deprived of many comforts, which made
+me grateful for those I had, and taught me to feel for the sufferings
+of others infinitely worse off than myself. Naturally impetuous, I
+grew up patient; for, as you know, my father was a man of eccentric
+genius, who failed in all his efforts to place us in the brilliant
+position he dreamed of. I felt and shared in his disappointments,
+until disappointment itself became powerless! Sympathy with those I
+loved roused me to exertion--taught me the value of time--the dignity
+of usefulness! But, above all, the frowns of the world, the sweet
+uses of adversity, made me feel the dear necessity of clinging to and
+loving one another, and of living in that ‘peace which passeth all
+understanding!’”
+
+Marion paused, and looked with inexpressible tenderness on her husband.
+
+“I do not believe we should have loved each other half so well if we
+had not borne so much anxiety together,” she presently continued,
+“although it would be a dangerous experiment for those to try, who
+never knew what care was! _We_ very coolly stepped into its troubled
+waters. What straits we have been in! There is really some amusement,
+though, in looking back to a hundred comical little difficulties,
+mingled with graver trials; in peeping into the crowded picture-gallery
+of one’s own life--grave and gay! Do you remember when we were so
+_very_ poor, and your father’s friends, the Saviles, condescended to
+drive over to luncheon with us?”
+
+“Oh, yes,” said Edward, laughing; “when poor old Jock behaved so
+inconsiderately!”
+
+“Inconsiderately, indeed,” said Marion, laughing too. “I shall never
+forget seeing him swallow the delicacies which I had prepared with so
+much care, in the coolest manner possible, looking me hard in the face
+all the time. I was in an agony to see the ham sandwiches disappear
+one after another down his huge throat (knowing there were no more in
+the house, too), while the capricious fine lady who took a fancy to
+feed him, drawled out, ‘the d-e-a-r d-o-g! _how_ he li-kes them!’ I
+should think he did, indeed, with his appetite! I do believe, though,
+Mr. Edward, that, like all men, you rather enjoyed the scene than
+otherwise; for you never offered to put the cruel old dog out of the
+room.”
+
+“How could I tear him from the flattering attentions of his Patroness?
+But let me see; how did you manage it, Marion? I dare say very
+ingeniously and gracefully. I remember how proud I felt of you that
+day.”
+
+“Oh, I appeared to enter into the amusement and drollery of his
+enormous appetite, but suggested, in the most affectionate manner
+possible, that he should _bow_ his thanks to the fair lady before
+tasting another morsel! Poor Jock, who had not the slightest
+acquaintance with any feat or accomplishment of the kind, was all
+amazement at my gestures and commands, and only stared hard for more;
+whereupon he was gently ‘_fie-fied_,’ and put out of the room for his
+obstinacy and ingratitude!”
+
+[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.]
+
+They both laughed heartily at the remembrance of Jock’s delinquency and
+its punishment; and Marion being in a very merry humour, recounted with
+much mirth many other similar incidents, which they _could_ laugh
+at now. “We never deceived each other but once,” said she; “the time
+when you were so ill, you know, from over-work, and I used to steal
+slily into the village to give your Latin lessons to those stupid boys
+you were ‘preparing!’ I often wonder how I took courage to ask their
+mother to let me take your place: yet I am glad I did, for I don’t know
+what we should have done without the money; and I studied the lessons
+so well myself, that I did no injustice to your pupils. But then
+the _dénouement_! I shall never forget your walking into that dingy
+library, pale as death, and your extreme surprise on finding me seated
+in the great chair, conjugating a tremendous Latin verb, while the
+poor little mamma looked on with amazement at my proficiency! _I_ was
+startled too, fully believing you to be quietly resting on the sofa,
+_while I took my walk_!”
+
+“We both looked very guilty for an instant.”
+
+“Yes, we did indeed; and I thought I never should cease laughing on
+our way home, especially as you were half inclined to be angry! But
+my mirth soon vanished when I saw how faint you were, and you rested
+your head on my shoulder as we sat on the stile. A terrible fear came
+over me,” continued Marion, shuddering, and drawing closer to her
+husband--“I never felt pain like that before!”
+
+Both were silent for some time; and Edward tenderly stroked the
+beautiful head bent down beside him. “Nay, look up, Marion,” he said;
+“I am quite well now, love, and you must not be so sad.”
+
+“I am not sad,” said Marion, raising her large eyes, and smiling
+gently. “I was thinking how grateful I am that you are better, and
+how happy this Christmas would be if you were but reconciled to your
+father.”
+
+“Every house has its spectre, Marion, and this haunts ours. I believe
+one always feels any kind of estrangement from those near to us most
+powerfully on days like these. They seem to have a strange mysterious
+power of calling up old recollections and early affections!”
+
+“Only those which ought never to be broken come at this holy time,”
+said Marion; “the gentle thoughts it brings with it seem to me like
+the soft warning of angel voices,--to be at peace ere it is too late!
+I wish you would read them so, and write to your mother again: she
+is of a gentler nature; but they must--yes, they both must, long to
+see you again!--Oh, if I could but persuade you!” she continued, with
+emotion: “we know not what a day may bring forth--even to the youngest
+and strongest among us; and Mrs. Hope says they both seem to ‘age’ very
+much. How deeply you would grieve through life if----”
+
+“Oh, Marion, say no more!” exclaimed her husband in an agitated voice,
+“it is that thought which so constantly haunts me. For myself, I could
+forget all; but their unkindness to you--to you, of whom they ought to
+have been so proud; I cannot forget that!”
+
+“Do not think of it,” said Marion, in a soothing tone; “we must not
+quarrel with people because they are unable to see things in the same
+light as ourselves. They knew very little of me, and thought, I dare
+say, that I prevented your being much happier with a wealthier bride:
+besides, they may love me yet when you have made your peace, as I know
+you will,” said she, smiling. “Remember, it is to your parents that you
+bend, and I never can feel happy while you are as a stranger to them.
+I suppose it would be my turn next,” said she, with her musical laugh,
+“if I were to venture to oppose your wishes, or to say a few angry
+words.”
+
+“Marion!” said her husband reproachfully.
+
+“Well, what security have I,” was the playful retort, “over one who
+could be contented under such circumstances? You owe to them infinitely
+more than you do to me--they loved you for years and years before I
+did. Oh, Edward! your own heart must tell you more than I could ever
+speak.”
+
+“We will not discuss the subject any further, dear Marion,” said he,
+and his voice faltered. “Sing to me, will you? The evening never seems
+perfect without a song from you.”
+
+Marion sang the following lines in a rich and lovely voice:--
+
+
+THE SPIRIT’S WHISPERINGS.
+
+  I roved one morn in a sunlit grove,
+  Where the mavis was singing his song of love,
+  Where the wild bee flew on her wing of light,
+  Flitting o’er moss-cup and blossom bright!
+  And Nature was blooming so freshly and fair,
+  Nought fading or dying was resting there;
+  Yet the light breeze sang, as it wafted by,
+  “Alas that the Lily and Rose should die!”
+
+         *       *       *       *       *
+
+  I sat by the side of a maiden bright,
+  Radiant with Beauty, and Hope’s soft light;
+  She sang a lay of our own loved isle,
+  And my heart beat proudly and high the while.
+  Fondly I gazed on that lofty brow--
+  “What can be lovelier--brighter now?”
+  Yet Echo replied to her lute’s soft lay,
+  “The sweetest and fairest must fade away!”
+
+         *       *       *       *       *
+
+  I wandered forth, ’neath the moon’s pale ray,
+  Where the dead in their last long slumbers lay;
+  Softly and coldly her pure beams shone
+  On the mouldering urn and the old grey stone;
+  And I sadly sigh’d, “Must the young and brave,
+  The loved and the honour’d, all share the grave?”
+  And a voice replied, in a hollow sigh,
+  “The bravest and fairest, all--all must die!”
+
+         *       *       *       *       *
+
+  I knew it was as the spirit said,--
+  That all we love on this earth must fade;
+  That gently they wither, and slowly decay,
+  Or are snatch’d in a moment--away, away!
+  And I said, in deep sorrow, “Alas that strife
+  Should breathe on this short--this uncertain life!
+  And, alas for those who, when Life hath fled,
+  Have Peace to ask of the silent Dead!”
+
+Marion’s beautiful voice trembled with emotion, and her eyes were
+filled with tears as she approached her husband. He leaned his head
+thoughtfully on his hand.
+
+Those Magic Words were thrilling in his heart.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+
+With the exception of the young and thoughtless, who only look
+forward to a season of festivity and enjoyment, and of the callous
+and indifferent, who seldom think of such matters at all, the varied
+feelings which hail the approach of Christmas may be compared to those
+occasioned by the contemplation of advancing age--of age so different
+in its aspects, whether we behold our fellow-mortals sinking down into
+the vale of years alone, neglected and unloved; alienated from kindred
+and friends, and still retaining the unholy animosities of earlier
+years; unsubdued by religion, unsupported by the contemplation of a
+useful and virtuous life; or, on the contrary, surrounded by loved and
+loving hearts, looking back with gratitude and pleasure to the past,
+and with hope and resignation to the future, in peace, and love, and
+charity with all! Many a family in embarrassed circumstances, many a
+poor widow with a “limited income,” looks on the increased expenses of
+this season of the year, on its bills and various claims, with the same
+feelings which anticipate the infirmities of declining years and sharp
+attacks of rheumatism and gout. Many look forward to increased domestic
+comfort, and brighter firesides. Many a mother smiles with delight on
+her children, all assembled round her once more. Many a father rejoices
+in their joyous laughter, or in the affection and reverence of maturer
+age. Many an old friend is welcomed to the social board. But, alas!
+there are many, too, who look back with a dreary regret to the years
+that are gone, and think, how different Christmas Day seems now to what
+it was!
+
+Such melancholy thoughts were revolving in the mind of a man of
+dignified and venerable aspect, pacing gloomily up and down the
+splendid library of a fine old mansion. It was almost dark, and the
+glare of the fire played over the rich volumes, and on the antique
+carving of the furniture. He looked with a sigh at the hearth, once
+crowded with happy faces. One only remained, and ah! how changed from
+the blooming figure of earlier days, which rose before him! How feebly
+that once beautiful head lay on the rich velvet cushion of her chair!
+How much suffering and sorrow might be traced on that furrowed brow! He
+felt that her reverie was as sad as his own; and truly too, for she was
+thinking of many a fair child that had gone down to the tomb in all the
+promise of early youth!--of the pride and joy of seeing them assembled
+at Christmas, well and happy!--of the joyous holiday-makings and merry
+meetings!--of the tearful partings, and the agony of those final ones,
+when the thin, small hand, pressed in its tiny grasp the last life
+greeting!
+
+Still she could think of the departed with the softened and resigned
+feelings which religion and time never fail to produce. But that which
+fell most heavily on her heart and darkened her declining years, was,
+that the last and only surviving one--the boy whom she had loved
+best--whom she had watched over with such intense fear and anxiety--was
+still a stranger from his father’s home. Month after month passed,
+and still both, in their pride, hung back from any attempt at a
+reconciliation. She felt that many more might not elapse before she
+would be far beyond the reach of mediation, and with a mother’s and
+a wife’s love she longed to see them united again ere she departed.
+Presently she walked to the window, and laid her thin white hand on the
+arm of her husband.
+
+“I see you still love to watch the rooks going to rest in the old
+elm-trees.”
+
+“Yes,” said Sir John, hastily; “it is amusing to watch their odd
+flights, and to imagine you can distinguish the croak of a particular
+bird.” He would not say that it was Edward’s favourite pastime when a
+boy, but his companion knew well that he _thought_ of the time when
+both used to stand there together. “But who is this coming up the
+avenue?” he said at length, as if willing to shake off the chain of
+thought. “Mrs. Hope, I fancy, by her black dress. I suppose she is
+come to tell us all about the dinner, as she promised.”
+
+No door ever opened on a better, or kinder, or more zealous village
+schoolmistress, than did this stately one on the spare, timid little
+body who now advanced. No one ever looked more placidly happy, and no
+one more pleased and grateful, when she was kindly placed in the most
+comfortable of chairs by Sir John, and welcomed with a cordial smile by
+his lady.
+
+“I came up to tell you, sir, that everything was done as you desired.
+The children were _so_ happy, it quite did one’s heart good to see
+them. They all came in the morning with evergreens and holly, and we
+made some beautiful wreaths to set off the room. Their new dresses
+look very nice, and they are truly thankful to you for your kindness.
+The coals and blankets, and other things, are all sent home too, and
+many say they shall thank Sir John for a happy Christmas; which they
+wish in return, with all their hearts, I am sure,” continued the good
+little woman, with emotion; “for, thank God, _very_ few among them are
+ungrateful.”
+
+Sir John’s benevolent countenance brightened with pleasure as he
+listened to the kind schoolmistress’s further recital of the village
+festivities, to which he had contributed so largely; and his wife
+marvelled how the heart of so good a man could be so unrelenting as she
+knew it was.
+
+Perhaps similar thoughts were passing in the mind of Mrs. Hope; for
+after she had told all she ostensibly had to tell, and felt that it was
+time for her to depart, she still lingered, and yet hesitated to speak.
+
+“Is there anything you wish to say to us, Mrs. Hope?” said the lady,
+kindly; “pray do not be afraid to mention anything in which we can be
+of service to you. Is your son----”
+
+“I thank your ladyship, I was not thinking of him then, but of some
+one very different. I thought you might like to know, and yet was
+not sure--but Mr. Edward and his lady came over to the school-house
+to-day,” said she, as if from a desperate resolution, “and my heart
+was quite full to see them come and go away again like strangers--just
+at Christmas time, too!” Poor little Mrs. Hope trembled, for she saw
+that Sir John’s brow darkened, and he drew back in his chair in an
+agitated manner; but an encouraging look from the lady re-assured her.
+“It was very pleasant to see him again,” she continued, “in the little
+parlour where he often used to sit years ago, and give the prizes out
+to the children, and speak encouragingly to them. I thought he had
+forgotten the old place, and all he was so good to; but he told me he
+had been longing to see it, and never could feel so happy anywhere
+else.”
+
+“Poor Edward!” said the lady, with emotion. “How does he look?”
+
+“Very pale and delicate, ma’am; but just the same as ever--just the
+same noble look,” said Mrs. Hope, fast gathering courage, “although not
+quite so joyful like as it used to be. He made particular inquiries as
+to how his father and mother looked, and seemed terribly cast down
+when I told him how poorly you had both been.”
+
+“Did he, indeed!” exclaimed Sir. John, starting from his seat, and
+pacing up and down; “why did you not let me know he was with you?”
+
+“I feared you did not wish to know it,” was the reply. “But oh, Sir
+John! in my humble way I did think it strange that, in an erring world
+like this, your heart should be turned from two such children!”
+
+Tears were running fast down the face of the good little
+schoolmistress. She hurried away; but her Magic Words were not spoken
+in vain.
+
+[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+
+Beautifully dawned the last morning of the old year. How lovely are
+some few winter sunrisings! A cold, grey sky, and dim, glimmering
+light, scarcely reveals surrounding objects. Presently a delicate blush
+appears, gently stealing over the east. It deepens to a ruddy glow; and
+then bright, golden clouds, tinged with many a varied hue, overspread
+the sky, lighting up in the strongest relief every leafless tree, even
+to the most fibre-like branches.
+
+Everything is very still. Edith sits silently at the window of her
+dressing-room, watching that lovely dawn. Presently a few starlings
+appear on the frosty slopes, with their quick, impatient gestures and
+rapid movements, seeking a breakfast. A pair of beautiful blackbirds
+droop their jetty wings, and seem numbed with cold. A robin, cheerful
+even in adversity, trills a few grateful notes on a shrub near the
+window, and Edith thinks that no new-year’s serenade could be half as
+touching as that low, sweet song. She thinks, too, what a lesson it
+teaches; for her melancholy eye had been straying mournfully over the
+broad lands stretching far and wide before her, and--“’tis an old tale,
+and often told,”--she had almost envied the humblest cottager in those
+her lordly possessions. “Farewell, old year!” she exclaimed; “none
+other will ever dawn upon me as you did. May the new bear happiness and
+joy to many! Oh, Marion! you little thought how desolate I am, when you
+prophesied that there was yet much in store for me.”
+
+Marion’s picturesque cottage could be plainly seen in the distance,
+shut in by the blue range of hills above, and sheltered with sweeping
+larches. The morning sun now shone brightly upon it, and Edith pictured
+to herself the beaming, happy countenance of her friend.
+
+“May God bless you, Marion!” she continued with emotion; “for to the
+example of your gentle goodness I owe all that is now left me,--the
+knowledge of that usefulness, that patient love and forbearance, which
+makes you so dear to others, so happy in yourself, and without which
+all that the world calls beauty and talent is hollow and heartless
+indeed! You taught me the value of true affection--the folly and
+littleness of the false pride I rejoiced in; and yet so sweetly, that
+I was only humbled to myself--not to you. Would that it had been but a
+few short months before! Oh, Percy! how willingly would I now confess
+myself in the wrong! But now I am forgotten! In your benevolent plans,
+in your honourable successes, there is no thought of me; or I am only
+remembered as a wilful, imperious woman, whom you once foolishly loved.
+I shall never see you again--mine the sorrow, mine the fault! But I am
+earning the right to self-esteem; I am doing all that I believe you
+would approve of, did you care for me now.”
+
+Her heart was very full as she descended to the breakfast-room. No
+one was there; but on the table lay a simple nosegay. “From Marion,”
+was written on a slip of paper. Edith mentally thanked her friend for
+the love which she knew was expressed in the fragrant gift; but tears
+sprang into her eyes as she looked on it; for a few lovely roses,
+the little blue periwinkle, with its shining green leaves and “sweet
+remembrances,” and a few early primroses and violets, were arranged
+almost exactly as she had received them from a still more beloved hand
+the year before. She started as her mother entered the room, and turned
+hastily to conceal her emotion; but touched by the look of anxious
+love which she caught fixed on herself, exclaimed, while she suffered
+the large tears to fall down her face, “Oh, my mother, I will not be
+proud to _you_--Heaven knows there would be little merit in that! I was
+thinking”--and her beautiful head lay on her mother’s gentle bosom--“of
+the happiness which I have thrown away--of one who has forgotten me.”
+
+“Ah, my dear child!” said her mother, as she tenderly pressed her hand
+on the throbbing brow, “in the doubtfulness of our nature we often
+accuse those of forgetfulness whose hearts may be breaking for our
+sake.”
+
+Edith looked up, a sudden expression of joy beaming over her
+countenance. As she bent again over the flowers, the sweetest gleam of
+hope stole over her, and she felt the magic influence of those words.
+
+Happy are they who in their own interests, joys, and sorrows, forget
+not the welfare of others! Edith looked forward with pleasure to the
+events of the day; for in the morning the school which she had built
+was to be opened, with an appropriate address from the good rector;
+and in the evening, young and old, rich and poor, were to be assembled
+in her splendid home. She had gaily declared to the gentry her wish to
+receive, as lady of the manor, “all good comers,” that New-Year’s Eve;
+and to sup in the old hall of her ancestors, after the manner of feudal
+times, with the peasantry of her estate “below the salt.” They, of
+course, looked forward to the event with unmixed pleasure and delight.
+Not so all those of gentler birth; for she had lived but little among
+them until of late, and was understood still less. Many thought it a
+capricious whim of the spoiled beauty, and many wondered what strange
+thing she would do next. “It was not that she cared more than the rest
+of them that the poor should enjoy themselves, but that she loved to
+do as no one else did. What a pity her uncle’s fine estate was left in
+such hands!”
+
+So charitably reasoned some of the invited guests; but, happily, there
+were others who knew Edith better, and welcomed with delight her kind
+and benevolent plan for a happy new-year’s eve to them all.
+
+The important evening at last arrived. The village children could not
+have existed much longer. Wide were the park-gates flung open, and
+never had the old avenue rung with the sound of so many merry voices
+before. Many a little belle startled a sleeping bird by stopping under
+his resting-place to admire, by the light of the lantern she carried,
+her bran new shoes and pretty frock, wondering if any of the great
+ladies would look half as nice, and feel half as happy as she did. Some
+timid little creatures clung to their mothers’ skirts, and looked with
+mingled feelings of awe and admiration on the stately mansion, blazing
+with light in the midst of the dark cedars, half afraid of entering
+it until re-assured by the promise of seeing the kind lady whom they
+all loved. But when they arrived there, and were welcomed by that
+sweet lady herself, who shook hands with all, and wished them a happy
+new-year; and when they saw the fine old hall with its bright armour,
+and many magnificent rooms all beautifully lighted up and decorated,
+and were shown the pictures and other wonderful things, their delight
+knew no bounds. But, perhaps, that which charmed them most was a deep
+recess at the lower end of the hall, completely filled with rare and
+luxuriant plants, in the midst of which stood a beautiful figure of
+Peace, joining the hands of Anger and Contention, who were regarding
+with a mingled expression of surprise and admiration the heavenly
+beauty which they had not perceived when occupied with their unholy
+strife.
+
+The children whispered softly here; for the light was very dim, but a
+lovely glow irradiated the beaming countenance of Peace, and here and
+there flowers glistened in the dark leaves around them.
+
+And now tea and cake, such as they had never tasted before, awaited
+them in a pretty room, gay with laurel and holly, where our friend Mrs.
+Hope presided, half beside herself with joy, yet preserving the most
+perfect order and decorum. Then the amusements of the evening began,
+which comprised the merriest and oddest of all styles of dancing to the
+music of the village band, the wonders of a magic lantern, and many
+a childish game beside; but above all, the crowning delight was the
+new-year’s gift to each of a pretty little volume, with the name of
+each written in it by Edith’s own hand.
+
+The hours flew too swiftly by--so thought these delighted little
+people, as ten o’clock was announced, and Edith wished them all good
+night as kindly as she had welcomed them; but in few words, for
+carriages were arriving, and she had to receive her guests: they
+thanked her in their simple way for the pleasure which she had given
+them, and the homely sincerity of their gratitude lighted her sweet
+face with happy smiles.
+
+The spacious picture-gallery, which had been converted into a ball-room
+for the occasion, was gay with many a shining wreath. The old family
+portraits seemed to look down with pleasure, and to beam a welcome on
+all assembled there; so thought several of the wandering villagers,
+grouped here and there amid the more brilliant throng, watching the
+mazes of the dance with interest and amazement, and listening with
+equal surprise to the magnificent band, to the music of which many a
+fairy foot was flying. Most, however, thought it very inferior to the
+performance of their own village musicians, and wondered how people
+could dance to such spiritless tunes on a new-year’s eve like this.
+
+Edith had anticipated their predilection, their shyness, and their love
+of country-dances and hornpipes; so they were soon marshalled by their
+gentle chamberlain, Mrs. Hope, into another room, where they could
+enjoy all these to their hearts’ content, and yet feel themselves
+privileged to look in on the grandees whenever they pleased. Perhaps
+this room, with its unrestrained mirth and merry laughter, was happier
+than the more splendid one; for though many there were thoroughly
+enjoying the beauty and gaiety of the scene, still there were
+heart-burnings. In that large assemblage several met, who, though once
+friends, had not spoken for years, and who felt startled and uneasy at
+being brought into such close proximity. But scarcely a shadow could be
+cast where the beautiful hostess moved and spoke--
+
+  “Thought in each glance, and mind in every smile.”
+
+There was so much frankness in every kind and earnest word she said,
+joined to the charm of her gentle and courtly manners, that the
+coldest, the most obtuse, the most reserved, felt moved and interested
+beyond themselves, and more cordially inclined to all the world beside.
+
+And Marion was there, whose flowers were the only ornament on Edith’s
+snowy dress; but she, usually so gay, was thoughtful almost to
+sadness, and looked anxiously into her husband’s face as they stood for
+a few moments apart--“I believed that of late years my father never
+mixed in such scenes as these,” said he. “Edith could not have thought
+he would come when she invited us.”
+
+“I knew how it was to be,” said Marion; “there are many here to-night
+whom she hopes to bring together again; rich and poor. See, she is
+looking towards us now, while speaking to him! Oh, Edward, go up to
+them at once, I entreat you!” exclaimed she earnestly.
+
+“Not before so many people,” said her husband with emotion. “Suppose he
+were to refuse my hand?”
+
+Marion sighed: but her hopeful nature whispered that the New-Year’s Eve
+was not yet ended. And now a clock of silvery tone chimed and struck
+the hour of midnight. The guests were conducted to supper: unseen
+harps, and sweet voices, gave a slow farewell to the old year, as they
+were seating themselves at the upper end of the hall, and then burst
+forth into a joyful welcome to the new, as the villagers entered
+and took their places at the lower range of tables; this again died
+away, and a sweet strain arose, of the softest prayer, for peace and
+happiness to all! Marion looked round with emotion.
+
+It was a lovely scene, that huge banquet-hall, with its gay wreaths of
+holly and flowers. The bright assemblage of guests; the happy faces of
+the villagers below; the beautiful hostess, seated in an antique chair
+at the upper end, with the banners of her ancient race, trophies of
+ages long gone by, waving behind her; the lovely figure of Peace below,
+almost shrouded in the dark leaves, and forming a striking contrast to
+those warlike emblems: all these afforded a sight which, once beheld,
+would not be easily forgotten.
+
+After each guest had paid sufficient homage to the choice viands before
+them, Edith took up a cup of curious workmanship; her face was radiant
+with kindness and love as she looked on those around her.
+
+“This cup has been possessed, for many a century, by my ancestors,”
+she said; “preserved for ages as a venerated relic: doubtless many a
+toast has been pledged in it--many a friendly welcome expressed; but I
+believe no more cordial and sincere one than that with which I greet
+you all this night. I would fain express the usual wish of a new-year
+of all imaginable happiness and prosperity, but as such have never
+visited this earth, we know it would be vain; and I therefore wish you
+the greatest of all blessings--that which cheers and supports us in
+the sorrows of life, and heightens beyond measure its pleasures and
+enjoyments,--love and harmony in your hearts and homes! There may be
+some among us estranged from friends and kindred, grieving over the
+fault, (for few, let us hope, in a Christian land, can live unmoved in
+enmity one with another,) and yet hanging back, in mistaken pride or
+want of moral courage, from the few conciliatory words which would, in
+most cases, suffice for a perfect reconciliation. The old year is now
+passing away--may it bear with it all anger, all animosity! May those
+few healing words be spoken,--and Peace, and Love, and Charity be with
+us all!”
+
+Edith’s voice trembled with emotion, but she did not perceive the
+agitation of many of her guests, for her eyes were fixed, as if in a
+dream, on the lower end of the hall. There was a movement of surprise
+among those seated there: she made her way, she knew not how, through
+them all. Yes, it was Percy!--One look, expressing a thousand emotions,
+and their hands were clasped in each other! For an instant her lovely
+head was bowed before him, while a few large, heavy tears, fell on the
+flowers at her feet! But she soon mastered her emotion, and, with a
+face radiant with joy, led him through the crowd of sympathising faces
+to her mother’s side. In the short silence which ensued, the bells of
+the village church were plainly heard ringing-in the new-born year!
+When had they ever sounded so sweetly before?
+
+And now a joyous strain again burst forth, and all returned to the
+ball-room. Again the young, the beautiful, the gay, joined in the
+dance; and never feet flew more lightly than theirs. But there
+were those who felt a deeper joy; the serene, the heavenly one of
+Reconciliation!
+
+And Percy and Edith once more stood side by side,--united, happy! And
+Marion told her wondering friend how Percy (who was an old college
+friend of her husband’s) had come to see them that morning, and in
+their quiet home had confessed that he was drawn to them by the desire
+of obtaining news of her, round whom his deep true love still lingered
+with so much regret. She had tried to persuade him to accompany them
+that night, but still he doubted--still feared. Yet he now confessed to
+Edith how, when they were gone, he had longed to see her face again,
+how he had concealed himself in the crowd, and how he had been moved,
+by what she had just said, to rush forward from the recess where he
+stood unobserved, that he might be the first to own the gentle Magic of
+those words!
+
+And many others had felt them too! Marion was leaning on _her father’s_
+arm--her eyes cast down and tearful in their joyfulness, as he spoke
+to her in a low tone of the invalid whom she must see on the morrow.
+
+And all hearts were touched and softened, and rich and poor felt drawn
+closer together! And they thought of the voice that had said,--“Love
+one another as I have loved you,”--and of the divine lessons of
+peacefulness and long-suffering which some had forgotten! And many
+blessed to the end of their days the Magic Words spoken by the
+Peacemaker[A] on that New-year’s Night.
+
+
+
+
+MAGIC WORDS.
+
+
+  Magic words! magic words!
+    From holy impulse they are born,
+  The seeming chance of circumstance,
+    God’s utterance to hearts forlorn;
+  Where’er they fall reject them not,
+    Nor think their mission is in vain;
+  ’Twixt loving hearts, whom coldness parts,
+    Let not the dreary silence reign.
+      Magic words! what are they?
+      Things the truest soul will say!
+
+  Magic words! magic words!
+    Ah! dear as to the dying flow’r,
+  The starry dews that balm infuse,
+    And whisper of the fallen show’r!
+  Sweet as the bubbling desert spring
+    To one who wanders o’er the sands,
+  Are those chance words, that sow like birds
+    The flowering seeds of happier lands!
+      Magic words! what are they?
+      Things the simplest tongue may say!
+
+  Magic words! magic words!
+    O let them live on ev’ry lip,
+  A source of bliss, of holiest kiss,
+    And bond of fairest fellowship.
+  And evermore at this blest time,
+    Tho’ winter’s snows o’erspread the scene,
+  One magic call, to bind us all,
+    Shall be old Christmas’ evergreen!
+      Magic words! are not they
+      Offerings meet for Christmas Day?
+
+
+London:--Printed by G. BARCLAY, Castle St. Leicester Sq.
+
+
+
+
+FOOTNOTE:
+
+  [A] Edith, in the Anglo-Saxon language, signifies Peacemaker.
+
+
+
+
+TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES:
+
+
+  Italicized text is surrounded by underscores: _italics_.
+
+  Superscripted characters are preceded by a carat character: lith^{rs}.
+
+  Obvious typographical errors have been corrected.
+
+  Inconsistencies in hyphenation have been standardized.
+
+  Archaic or variant spelling has been retained.
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 68424 ***
diff --git a/68424-h/68424-h.htm b/68424-h/68424-h.htm
index 0fb19d1..a538a30 100644
--- a/68424-h/68424-h.htm
+++ b/68424-h/68424-h.htm
@@ -1,2137 +1,1679 @@
-<!DOCTYPE html>

-<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">

-<head>

-    <meta charset="UTF-8" />

-    <title>

-      Magic words, by Emilie Maceroni—A Project Gutenberg eBook

-    </title>

-    <link rel="icon" href="images/cover.jpg" type="image/x-cover" />

-    <style> /* <![CDATA[ */

-

-body {

-    margin-left: 10%;

-    margin-right: 10%;

-}

-

-    h1,h2,h3 {

-    text-align: center;

-    clear: both;

-}

-

-p {

-    margin-top: .51em;

-    text-align: justify;

-    margin-bottom: .49em;

-}

-

-hr {

-    width: 33%;

-    margin-top: 2em;

-    margin-bottom: 2em;

-    margin-left: 33.5%;

-    margin-right: 33.5%;

-    clear: both;

-}

-

-hr.tb   {width: 45%; margin-left: 27.5%; margin-right: 27.5%;}

-hr.tiny   {width: 10%; margin-left: 45%; margin-right: 45%;}

-hr.chap {width: 65%; margin-left: 17.5%; margin-right: 17.5%;}

-@media print { hr.chap {display: none; visibility: hidden;} }

-

-

-div.chapter {page-break-before: always;}

-h2.nobreak  {page-break-before: avoid;}

-

-table {

-    margin-left: auto;

-    margin-right: auto;

-}

-

-.tdr      {text-align: right;}

-

-.pagenum {

-    position: absolute;

-    left: 92%;

-    font-size: smaller;

-    text-align: right;

-    font-style: normal;

-    font-weight: normal;

-    font-variant: normal;

-    text-indent: 0;

-}

-

-.bbox     {border: 0; width: 450px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;}

-

-.illoright {text-align: right; font-size: small; }

-

-.center   {text-align: center;}

-

-.smcap    {font-variant: small-caps;}

-

-.ph1 {text-align: center; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;}

-.ph2 {text-align: center; font-size: xx-large; font-weight: bold;}

-

-div.titlepage {text-align: center; page-break-before: always; page-break-after: always;}

-div.titlepage p {text-align: center; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5; margin-top: 2em;}

-

-.xxlarge {font-size: 175%;}

-.xlarge {font-size: 150%;}

-.large {font-size: 125%;}

-

-.x-ebookmaker .hide {display: none; visibility: hidden;}

-

-.figcenter {

-    margin: auto;

-    text-align: center;

-    page-break-inside: avoid;

-    max-width: 100%;

-}

-

-.footnote         {margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 10%; font-size: 0.9em;}

-

-.footnote .label  {position: absolute; right: 75%; text-align: right;}

-

-.fnanchor {

-    vertical-align: super;

-    font-size: .8em;

-    text-decoration:

-    none;

-}

-

-.antiqua {

- font-family: Blackletter, Fraktur, Textur, "Old English Text MT", "Olde English Mt", "Olde English", Gothic, serif, sans-serif;}

-

-.poetry-container  {text-align: center;}

-.poetry {display: inline-block; text-align: left;}

-.poetry .verse  {text-indent: -2.5em; padding-left: 3em;}

-.poetry .stanza {margin: 1em auto;}

-.poetry .indent  {text-indent: 1.5em;}

-.poetry .indent2  {text-indent: 2.5em;}

-.poetry .verseright  { text-align: right;}

-.poetry .first {text-indent: -3em; padding-left: 3em;}

-

-@media print { .poetry {display: block;} }

-.x-ebookmaker .poetry {display: block;}

-

-.transnote {background-color: #E6E6FA;

-    color: black;

-     font-size:smaller;

-     margin-left: 17.5%;

-     margin-right: 17.5%;

-     padding: 1em;

-     margin-bottom: 1em;

-     font-family:sans-serif, serif; }

-

-    /* ]]> */ </style>

-</head>

-<body>

-<p style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Magic words, by Emilie Maceroni</p>

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-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 <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you

-are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the

-country where you are located before using this eBook.

-</div>

-

-<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: Magic words</p>

-<p style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:0; margin-top:0; margin-bottom:1em;'>A tale for Christmas time</p>

-<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Emilie Maceroni</p>

-<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Illustrator: E. H. Wehnert</p>

-<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: June 29, 2022 [eBook #68424]</p>

-<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</p>

-  <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em; text-align:left'>Produced by: Charlene Taylor, David E. Brown, and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive/American Libraries.)</p>

-<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MAGIC WORDS ***</div>

-

-<div class="figcenter hide"><img src="images/coversmall.jpg" width="450" alt="" /></div>

-

-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />

-

-<h1>MAGIC WORDS.</h1>

-

-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />

-

-<div class="chapter">

-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_0"></span>

-<div class="bbox">

-<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/frontis.jpg" alt="" /></div>

-

-<p class="illoright"><i>Day &amp; Son, lith<sup>rs</sup> to the Queen.</i></p>

-</div></div>

-

-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />

-<div class="chapter">

-<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/titlepage.jpg" alt="" /></div>

-</div>

-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />

-<div class="titlepage">

-

-<p><span class="xxlarge">MAGIC WORDS;</span><br />

-<br />

-<span class="xlarge"><span class="antiqua">A Tale for Christmas Time.</span></span></p>

-

-<p>BY<br />

-

-<span class="large">EMILIE MACERONI.</span></p>

-

-<div class="poetry-container">

-<div class="poetry">

-<div class="stanza">

-<div class="first">“Oh, many a shaft at random sent,</div>

-<div class="verse">Finds mark the archer little meant;</div>

-<div class="verse">And many a word at random spoken</div>

-<div class="verse">May soothe or wound a heart that’s broken.”</div>

-</div>

-<div class="stanza">

-<div class="verseright"><i>Scott.</i></div>

-</div></div></div>

-

-<p>WITH FOUR ILLUSTRATIONS BY E. H. WEHNERT.</p>

-

-<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/publogo.jpg" alt="" /></div>

-

-<p><span class="large">LONDON:<br />

-CUNDALL &amp; ADDEY, 21 OLD BOND STREET.</span><br />

-M.DCCC.LI.</p>

-</div>

-

-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />

-<div class="chapter">

-<p class="center">LONDON:<br />

-Printed by <span class="smcap">G. Barclay</span>, Castle St. Leicester Sq.</p>

-</div>

-

-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />

-<div class="chapter">

-

-<p class="center">TO<br />

-<br />

-<span class="large">MRS. AUSTIN</span><br />

-<br />

-<span class="antiqua">This Little Volume</span><br />

-<br />

-IS AFFECTIONATELY INSCRIBED.</p>

-</div>

-

-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />

-

-<div class="chapter">

-<h2 class="nobreak">ILLUSTRATIONS.</h2>

-</div>

-

-<table>

-<tr><td>MARION AND HER FATHER </td><td class="tdr">(<a href="#Page_0"><i>Frontispiece</i></a>)</td></tr>

-

-<tr><td>LITTLE MARY AND HER FRIEND TROY</td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_11">         11</a></td></tr>

-

-<tr><td>MARION TEACHING LATIN</td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_25">                   25</a></td></tr>

-

-<tr><td>EDITH WATCHING THE DAWN</td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_39">                 39</a></td></tr>

-

-</table>

-

-<p class="center"><i>From Drawings by</i> <span class="smcap">E. H. Wehnert</span>.</p>

-

-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />

-

-<div class="chapter">

-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_1">[1]</span>

-<p class="ph2">MAGIC WORDS.</p>

-

-<hr class="tiny" />

-<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER I.</h2>

-</div>

-

-<p><span class="smcap">It</span> was the evening of Christmas Day. The

-hymn of “Peace upon earth, good-will towards

-men,” had been chanted by thousands of voices

-throughout the land, from the grand cathedral-choir

-to the simple singers of the village

-church. Charity had extended her munificent

-hand to the poor and needy, lighting up smiles

-on many a care-worn face. Hospitality welcomed

-the good, the beautiful, and the great

-to the lordly mansions of the rich. Love and

-Peace sat enthroned in many a happy home.

-Poverty, shivering at the present, was consoled

-by the glowing figure of Hope, pointing with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_2">[2]</span>

-radiant eyes to the future. Memory and Sorrow

-lingered around the grave of many a departed

-one; but of all mourners they were the

-saddest who were estranged from those they still

-loved. Yes, amid the pain, the sorrow, the suffering

-of life, <i>their</i> hearts were the heaviest; for

-(to use the oft-quoted words of the poet) “to

-be wroth with those we love, doth work like

-madness in the brain;” and this hallowed season

-speaks strongest to our kindest feelings, and

-to the tenderness of our better nature.</p>

-

-<hr class="tb" />

-

-<p>A train had stopped at a rough little village

-station about thirty miles from town, and a

-few country people, on their way home, leaned

-over the bridge above to admire the enormous

-red eyes of the monster as it moved slowly on

-through a deep cutting crowned with dark

-firs. They lingered yet a moment longer, to

-mark whom it had borne from the great city

-to their quiet village. A beautiful girl of fifteen,

-glowing with health and exercise, accompanied

-by two fine, rough-looking dogs, rushed<span class="pagenum" id="Page_3">[3]</span>

-down to meet her playfellows and friends. She

-was breathless with joy, and with her race over

-the heath; but her merry laugh and warm

-greeting sounded pleasantly enough as the

-noise of the train died away in the distance.</p>

-

-<p>A lady, wrapped in a warm plaid, who had

-been anxiously waiting for some time, took the

-arm of her husband, with a few low words of

-delighted welcome, and they walked briskly

-away. The dogs of the younger party barked

-with glee—were patted and caressed. One

-look at the dear heath and at the hills beyond,

-with a thrill of delight at the thoughts of a

-long ramble over them on the morrow, and the

-ponies were mounted, the dogs whistled to,

-and away flew the happy trio to the home-welcome,

-to the dear old hall, to all the joy

-of a Christmas meeting.</p>

-

-<p>Only two other passengers appeared, winding

-up the pathway—a gentleman of tall and

-commanding aspect, and a buxom, brisk-footed

-countrywoman, wrapped in her scarlet cloak,

-who passed him with a low curtsey and cheerful

-good night. She was thinking of the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_4">[4]</span>

-bright fireside, of the dear little faces round it

-anxiously awaiting her return, and of the enormous

-amount of joy contained in that wicker

-basket. An event of great marvel and wonderment

-is a poor woman’s visit to her friends in

-town, and she is ever in a tearful state of

-ecstasy and excitement on reaching home again;

-all of which becomes a matter of grave family

-history in the lowly household, and is recounted

-on many an occasion to eager and attentive

-hearers.</p>

-

-<p>She quickly disappeared up a winding path

-cut through the furze and heather, evidently

-leading to a low-roofed cottage on the skirts

-of a fir-wood. Lights twinkled in the casement,

-and joyful voices were soon heard approaching

-to meet and welcome her. The road

-was now perfectly solitary. A few deep-red

-clouds still hung over the west, and here and

-there a large bright star shone silently through

-the sharp, pure air. Dogs bayed in the distance;

-the sound came very pleasantly over

-the heather through the rough old pines.</p>

-

-<p>The gentleman walked briskly on, and lights<span class="pagenum" id="Page_5">[5]</span>

-began to appear in the valley beneath. He

-stopped as the merry notes of a flageolet struck

-his ear, proceeding from a cottage by the road-side.

-The blaze of a wood fire within illumined

-the little rustic porch and neat garden. Bright

-branches of glistening holly shone in the tiny

-casement. The tune ceased, and was followed

-by a light-hearted laugh and the sound of young

-voices.</p>

-

-<p>“How happy they seem!” said he. “It is

-such scenes as these which make the country

-so delightful, so cheering to sense and spirit!”</p>

-

-<p>And yet he sighed heavily as he walked on;

-and passing through an avenue of fir and larch

-leading to one of the prettiest and most picturesque

-cottages in the world, he paused

-when he reached the garden-gate. It seemed,

-too, a dear, quiet, sweet-smelling home. Lights

-shone from more than one of the windows;

-and more than one bright young face might

-be seen, by the gleam of its golden hair, flitting

-about in the uncertain light. A sweet

-young voice singing as sweet a tune ceased, as

-all young voices do, suddenly, when the bell<span class="pagenum" id="Page_6">[6]</span>

-rang out its summons, and a brisk, rosy little

-maid appeared, lantern and key in hand, to

-admit the traveller, and guide him through

-the long shadow of the firs to the house. A

-favourite dog bounded to meet and gambol

-round him with unrepressed joy. The children

-clustered into the porch to say, timidly,

-“How do you do?” and hold out their little

-hands to shake; while their mother, advancing

-with a kindly greeting, expressed her pleasure

-at his return. Even the maid looked pleased

-and happy to see him. But yet it was not his

-home.</p>

-

-<p>After a few minutes’ conversation, the traveller

-was seated in his own room, his dog, his

-sole companion, looking at him with glistening

-eyes, as his master fondly stroked his magnificent

-head. He was a man of twenty-eight

-or thirty years of age, with a sad and thoughtful

-cast of countenance, yet one that all who looked

-upon it <i>must</i> instantly love and respect; it was

-at once so engaging and so noble. He looked

-round his little room at his sketches and his

-gun with evident pleasure, placed some books<span class="pagenum" id="Page_7">[7]</span>

-and papers which he had brought on a little

-table before him, and drawing his arm-chair

-close to the blazing pine-logs, sat watching the

-golden cones as they crumbled away, one by

-one, at the height of their brilliancy. But every

-reverie must have its end; and his was brought

-to a close by the appearance of coffee, borne

-by a bright-eyed country maid, smirking and

-smiling with pleasure, as country servants are

-wont to do at every fresh arrival.</p>

-

-<p>It would seem that the reverie by the bright

-fireside was not an idle one, but that among

-many revolving thoughts, some, at least, were

-considered worthy of preservation; for the coffee

-was soon despatched, the table covered with

-books and papers, and the stranger intently

-occupied with his pen.</p>

-

-<p>So absorbed did he become with it, that

-after one or two long, wistful glances, the

-fine hound lay down reproachfully on his comfortable

-rug, as if despairing of any further

-notice that night.</p>

-

-<p>The wind moaned heavily in the pine-branches

-round the cottage. Presently the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_8">[8]</span>

-writer paused and listened to the sound, so

-like the rushing of distant waters. He walked

-slowly to the window, and gazed long and earnestly

-into the night. It was moonlight, yet

-stormy; and large, glittering stars, looked

-down through the dark branches, when the

-hurrying white clouds had drifted over them.

-The distant clock of the old village church,

-slowly striking the hour, sounded mournfully

-over the river; and the lonely man at that

-little window thought of years that were gone,

-of the bright firesides in many a happy home

-that night, and turned and put away his papers

-with a sigh. He thought how differently he

-used to work years ago, when, with all the

-ardour of his nature and the energy of hope,

-and yet with intense fear and anxiety, he strove

-to render himself worthy of one idolized, one

-long-sighed-for object! He thought, too, of the

-bitterness, the agony of disappointment; and

-how long years of his young life would have

-been thrown away, had he not struggled hard

-to save himself from becoming a useless, melancholy

-being, given up to the indulgence of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">[9]</span>

-selfish regrets. He had succeeded,—there was

-some comfort in that reflection. He knew of

-what he was capable, and dared not throw away

-the power he had acquired, because it no longer

-availed the idol Self. So he still worked on.

-He had become distinguished for his literary

-labours, and for his contributions to the improvement

-and well-being of his fellow-creatures;

-but to fame and to the praises of the

-great he was now equally indifferent. His happiest

-hours were passed in his favourite village,

-where he was greatly beloved, although he dared

-not wholly give himself up to the quiet of a

-country life.</p>

-

-<p>He had had the old Gothic church restored,

-with all possible observance of its antique ornaments

-and its fine clustering ivy; and took a kind

-of Sir Roger de Coverley delight in seeing the

-country people, bettered and improved in every

-way, flocking to it on Sundays to hear his good

-tutor’s sermons, to which he used to listen

-with so much reverence in his boyish days.

-He had learned to believe that the word “happiness”

-signifies, the being reconciled to bear,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_10">[10]</span>

-still having courage to do, and gratitude to enjoy

-that which remains. Thus, he was usually

-cheerful in his various occupations; <i>but this

-was Christmas time</i>: a time when the lonely

-heart feels most desolate—a time when many

-a tender word spoken by the absent is

-remembered with sorrow—when all anger is

-forgotten in the feeling of peace and love which

-steals over the heart. And his head lay buried

-in his hands, his whole soul given up to an

-overwhelming agony of regret.</p>

-

-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">[11]</span></p>

-<div class="bbox">

-<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/facing011.jpg" alt="" /></div>

-

-<p class="illoright"><i>Day &amp; Son, lith<sup>rs</sup> to the Queen.</i></p>

-</div>

-

-<p>“This day last year,” he muttered, “who

-could have believed the change? Oh, Edith!”

-he continued, taking up a miniature that lay

-beside him, “who could have thought then

-that we should now be as strangers to each

-other? Who could have thought that that

-bright face, those many noble qualities, could

-have wrought so much misery?” Again he

-looked at the lovely countenance, smiling on

-him a thousand of the tenderest remembrances,

-and a still gentler expression, a kindlier spirit,

-came over him. “Those eyes,” he said, “how

-softly they have looked on me! Perhaps even

-now a thought——but what folly! In the pride

-of beauty and prosperity, what is there to

-remind her of me?”</p>

-

-<p>A low tap at the door interrupted his meditations.

-For an instant he could not say,

-“Come in!” his heart was so very full; but

-quickly recovering himself, he turned with a

-smile to welcome a little village child, who

-timidly advanced to place both her tiny hands

-in his.</p>

-

-<p>She looked into his face with eyes beaming

-with love and gratitude; but the joyful,

-sparkling expression soon faded away, for she

-saw that he was sadder than usual; and with

-the quick sympathy and natural grace of childhood

-she sat down quietly on the rug, and

-taking the stately head of the hound on her lap,

-pensively stroked his long, shaggy coat. Presently

-she ventured to break the silence in her

-gentle way—“I am so glad you are come back,

-sir; I have missed you so!”</p>

-

-<p>Her companion’s countenance brightened,

-and he said with animation—“Have you,

-though, my poor little Mary? I thought you<span class="pagenum" id="Page_12">[12]</span>

-had forgotten me, being so long away.” And

-he stroked her bright brown hair.</p>

-

-<p>“You should not have thought that,” said

-the child, earnestly; “I always remember you,

-for you taught me all I know. I was longing

-to come yesterday, and all day to-day,” she

-continued, “to hear if you had arrived. To-day

-has been so happy that I could not stay

-away any longer, and so here I am,” she

-added, with her merry laugh, which sounded

-pleasantly in that usually silent room. These

-simple words, that mute caress, had restored

-the confidence of the two friends. Mary

-was herself again, full of fun and prattle.

-Seated on the extreme edge of a huge Gothic

-chair, she balanced her little feet on the back

-of her friend Troy, who, far from resenting the

-liberty, fixed his dark eyes lovingly on her

-sweet young face, while she talked on, full of

-the details of her simple life. How she had

-gathered pine-cones for several evenings, because

-she knew he loved their cheerful blaze

-and sweet smell. How poor Turpin, who was

-always in trouble, had hunted a rabbit, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">[13]</span>

-been caught in a trap; of her mad race over the

-hills for help; how she nursed the poor, poor

-foot afterwards; and how the faithful patient

-cried because he could not accompany her

-that night; the relation of all which very much

-affected his kind little mistress. Presently she

-produced with great glee her “Christmas present,”—several

-little bundles of bark, peeled

-with great care, from the silver birch-trees,

-cut into slips, and tied with red worsted.

-“I burnt a little bit the other day,” said she,

-“and the smell was so nice I thought you

-would like it, so I got some to light your taper

-with—do try it;” and the little creature soon

-held a blazing piece in her hand.</p>

-

-<p>“It is delicious, Mary; and how good of you

-to collect it for me!”</p>

-

-<p>“I was very happy getting it,” said the

-child; “but I wish you had not thought I

-had forgotten you. I could not forget you!”

-she continued, after a pause; “you, who have

-been so good to me, and taught me so much!

-I never looked at a book before you came.

-Oh, I was sadly wild! Mother said I made<span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">[14]</span>

-more noise than the boys!” And she laughed

-heartily.</p>

-

-<p>The tutor laughed too, and told the often

-repeated story, which he knew she loved to

-hear, of how, in his walks, he had frequently

-listened to her little voice singing in a cornfield,

-while “minding” birds; how he had

-been surprised at her sudden disappearance on

-his nearer approach, and on making a voyage

-of discovery, had found her ensconced in

-the body of a broken-down post-chaise, that,

-singularly enough, lay between two old fir-trees

-at the foot of the wood! He did not

-describe to her how, in imagination, he had

-pictured the different and exciting scenes in

-which the once gay equipage might have

-borne its part; but went on to say how he

-had peeped in unobserved, and had seen her

-perched on one of the dilapidated seats, with a

-little piece of board on her lap, intently occupied

-in carving a morsel of meat into divers

-small pieces, which she divided, with impartial

-care, among three ragged starlings perched

-on the opposite beam, who watched her with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">[15]</span>

-glistening eyes! How merrily she talked to

-them, and how perfectly they seemed to love

-and understand each other! He reminded

-her of her surprise on being discovered, and

-her frank invitation to the intruder to “look

-in” on the wonders of the unique aviary, with

-its valuable illustrations of the “History of

-Red Riding Hood,” its bright jay’s feathers,

-and other childish treasures!</p>

-

-<p>Heartily the little Mary laughed; and so

-the Christmas evening passed on.</p>

-

-<p>“I must go now,” she said; “I promised

-to read mother the pretty story you gave me,

-‘Simple Susan,’ and they will all sit up for

-it! Good bye! You will promise not to be so

-sad when I am gone as you were when I came

-in. You have been thinking of that pretty

-lady again!” she said, with a face of anxious

-love—pointing to the miniature—“that makes

-you so, I know! Why don’t you go to her?”</p>

-

-<p>“Because she does not love me, Mary,”

-was the faltering reply; “and you know we

-are not happy with those who do not love us.”</p>

-

-<p>“Are you <i>sure</i> of that?” said the child,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">[16]</span>

-earnestly. “People often hide their kindest

-thoughts—and perhaps she hides hers from

-you; you must look for them, as I look for

-violets, in their thick leaves. Oh, I was so

-unhappy once!” she continued, tears starting

-into her eyes at the remembrance: “I quarrelled

-with my brother, and we did not speak

-all day—both were so proud: but do you

-know” (and the sweet little face sparkled)

-“that when I put my arms round his neck

-and kissed him, and said, ‘Good night,

-Harry!’ he kissed me, and cried too; and

-said how unhappy he had been <i>all</i> the time.

-I had thought he would <i>never</i>, <i>never</i> love me

-again! Oh! if my brother had died, as

-baby did, before we kissed each other that

-night!”</p>

-

-<p>Poor little Mary paused, her heart quite

-full at the bare idea of such a thing; but

-she turned again, with admiring eyes, to the

-miniature. “She looks very kind and good,

-and <i>so</i> beautiful! Did you speak gently,

-and ask her to love you again: or were you

-proud?”</p>

-

-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_17">[17]</span>The child did not notice the agitation of

-her companion, and little did she imagine

-that, long after her head lay softly on her

-happy pillow, the simple eloquence of those

-Magic Words was working powerfully in his

-heart!</p>

-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />

-

-<div class="chapter">

-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">[18]</span>

-

-<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER II.</h2>

-</div>

-

-<p><span class="smcap">Over</span> many a mile of hard, frosty road, by

-snow-clad fields and hills and woods, by many

-an ice-bound stream, must we lead the imagination

-of our reader on the evening of the

-same Christmas Day, and peep into another

-home, far from that we have just quitted.</p>

-

-<p>Undrawing the warm crimson curtains of

-a charming little room—half drawing-room,

-half library—the light of a lamp falls brightly

-on the figure of a lady reading to her husband.

-It is manuscript, and he puts the pages by for

-her as she goes on.</p>

-

-<p>She often pauses, to look up with a delighted

-smile at his praises, and he thinks that she

-never looked so beautiful before! She is very

-like Correggio’s Magdalen, and has the same

-lovely countenance and waving hair.</p>

-

-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_19">[19]</span>Presently she came to the last page, and

-the praise was repeated.</p>

-

-<p>“I had no idea I could translate so well,”

-said she, “and am glad you like it, for that

-will give me spirits to go on: I may, in time,

-become quite useful to you.”</p>

-

-<p>“When are you not everything to me?”

-was the reply. “But, Marion, you must not

-work so hard; I cannot afford to see you look

-one bit less bright. Besides, it is a kind of

-reproach to me your working so much; indeed

-you must not!”</p>

-

-<p>“Nonsense!” said Marion, laughing; “you

-can’t think how happy I am when helping

-you, for I am sure you are often very weary!

-Poor Edward! what anxiety I have caused

-you! Now for a volley of protestations!”

-said she, laughing again. “But to be serious:

-I was thinking, to-day, how much we have to

-be thankful for; and that with all its anxieties

-how happy this year has been—how <i>infinitely</i>

-happier, working and striving on together,

-than droning through an insipid life of ease,

-as some do. I don’t know what would become<span class="pagenum" id="Page_20">[20]</span>

-of me if you were ever to be rich,” she

-continued; “to be sure, one might always

-find some useful employment, some good to be

-done; but no one knows, except those who

-have experienced it, the delight of overcoming

-difficulties, and earning home comforts by

-one’s own exertions.”</p>

-

-<p>“True, dear Marion! I never knew, until

-I knew you, how little is necessary for happiness!”</p>

-

-<p>“I knew what life was—I had an anxious

-one at home, even from a little child,” said

-Marion, “and adversity taught me to know

-what is best worth knowing; what flowers to

-gather in this great garden, that many neglect,

-or do not perceive. How sweet are the uses

-of adversity! I love to linger on those words;

-and if ever I venture to write an essay,” said

-she, smiling, “it shall be on that subject.

-What does it not teach us?—the practice of

-almost every virtue.”</p>

-

-<p>“Nay, not quite so far, enthusiast,” said

-her husband, smiling; “remember the effect

-of almost constant sun on flowers; how splendid<span class="pagenum" id="Page_21">[21]</span>

-they become—how fully their beauty is

-developed!”</p>

-

-<p>“Yes; but they cannot bear the storm that

-<i>may</i>, that <i>must</i> come. The stout old thistle,

-reared in cold and sleet, is much better off—much

-more useful, and protects many a little

-plant under its vigorous leaves. Now, only

-think what adversity really does for us. To

-begin with <i>my</i> early life:—my father and

-mother treated me as their friend in all their

-troubles; I was accustomed to watch their

-anxious care-worn faces, to try to cheer them,

-and to rejoice when they brightened: this

-bound us together in the closest affection; I

-believe no child, no parents, were ever so dear to

-each other. No little home was ever so loved as

-mine; and I was quite broken-hearted when

-away from all its cares, even for a short time,

-although in the midst of what people called

-enjoyment. These were very different feelings

-from those of children nursed in the lap of

-affluence, who are frequently selfish, and often

-but little attached to those around them. I

-knew what it was to be deprived of many<span class="pagenum" id="Page_22">[22]</span>

-comforts, which made me grateful for those I

-had, and taught me to feel for the sufferings

-of others infinitely worse off than myself.

-Naturally impetuous, I grew up patient; for,

-as you know, my father was a man of eccentric

-genius, who failed in all his efforts to place us

-in the brilliant position he dreamed of. I felt

-and shared in his disappointments, until disappointment

-itself became powerless! Sympathy

-with those I loved roused me to exertion—taught

-me the value of time—the dignity of

-usefulness! But, above all, the frowns of the

-world, the sweet uses of adversity, made me

-feel the dear necessity of clinging to and

-loving one another, and of living in that

-‘peace which passeth all understanding!’”</p>

-

-<p>Marion paused, and looked with inexpressible

-tenderness on her husband.</p>

-

-<p>“I do not believe we should have loved each

-other half so well if we had not borne so much

-anxiety together,” she presently continued,

-“although it would be a dangerous experiment

-for those to try, who never knew what care

-was! <i>We</i> very coolly stepped into its troubled<span class="pagenum" id="Page_23">[23]</span>

-waters. What straits we have been in! There

-is really some amusement, though, in looking

-back to a hundred comical little difficulties,

-mingled with graver trials; in peeping into

-the crowded picture-gallery of one’s own life—grave

-and gay! Do you remember when we

-were so <i>very</i> poor, and your father’s friends,

-the Saviles, condescended to drive over to

-luncheon with us?”</p>

-

-<p>“Oh, yes,” said Edward, laughing; “when

-poor old Jock behaved so inconsiderately!”</p>

-

-<p>“Inconsiderately, indeed,” said Marion,

-laughing too. “I shall never forget seeing him

-swallow the delicacies which I had prepared

-with so much care, in the coolest manner

-possible, looking me hard in the face all the

-time. I was in an agony to see the ham

-sandwiches disappear one after another down

-his huge throat (knowing there were no more

-in the house, too), while the capricious fine

-lady who took a fancy to feed him, drawled

-out, ‘the d-e-a-r d-o-g! <i>how</i> he li-kes them!’

-I should think he did, indeed, with his appetite!

-I do believe, though, Mr. Edward, that,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_24">[24]</span>

-like all men, you rather enjoyed the scene than

-otherwise; for you never offered to put the

-cruel old dog out of the room.”</p>

-

-<p>“How could I tear him from the flattering

-attentions of his Patroness? But let me see;

-how did you manage it, Marion? I dare say

-very ingeniously and gracefully. I remember

-how proud I felt of you that day.”</p>

-

-<p>“Oh, I appeared to enter into the amusement

-and drollery of his enormous appetite,

-but suggested, in the most affectionate manner

-possible, that he should <i>bow</i> his thanks to

-the fair lady before tasting another morsel!

-Poor Jock, who had not the slightest acquaintance

-with any feat or accomplishment of the

-kind, was all amazement at my gestures and

-commands, and only stared hard for more;

-whereupon he was gently ‘<i>fie-fied</i>,’ and put

-out of the room for his obstinacy and ingratitude!”</p>

-

-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_25">[25]</span></p>

-<div class="bbox">

-<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/facing025.jpg" alt="" /></div>

-

-<p class="illoright"><i>Day &amp; Son, lith<sup>rs</sup> to the Queen.</i></p>

-</div>

-

-<p>They both laughed heartily at the remembrance

-of Jock’s delinquency and its punishment;

-and Marion being in a very merry

-humour, recounted with much mirth many

-other similar incidents, which they <i>could</i> laugh

-at now. “We never deceived each other but

-once,” said she; “the time when you were so ill,

-you know, from over-work, and I used to steal

-slily into the village to give your Latin lessons

-to those stupid boys you were ‘preparing!’ I

-often wonder how I took courage to ask their

-mother to let me take your place: yet I am

-glad I did, for I don’t know what we should

-have done without the money; and I studied

-the lessons so well myself, that I did no injustice

-to your pupils. But then the <i>dénouement</i>!

-I shall never forget your walking into that

-dingy library, pale as death, and your extreme

-surprise on finding me seated in the great chair,

-conjugating a tremendous Latin verb, while the

-poor little mamma looked on with amazement at

-my proficiency! <i>I</i> was startled too, fully believing

-you to be quietly resting on the sofa,

-<i>while I took my walk</i>!”</p>

-

-<p>“We both looked very guilty for an instant.”</p>

-

-<p>“Yes, we did indeed; and I thought I

-never should cease laughing on our way home,

-especially as you were half inclined to be angry!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">[26]</span>

-But my mirth soon vanished when I saw how

-faint you were, and you rested your head on

-my shoulder as we sat on the stile. A terrible

-fear came over me,” continued Marion, shuddering,

-and drawing closer to her husband—“I

-never felt pain like that before!”</p>

-

-<p>Both were silent for some time; and

-Edward tenderly stroked the beautiful head

-bent down beside him. “Nay, look up,

-Marion,” he said; “I am quite well now, love,

-and you must not be so sad.”</p>

-

-<p>“I am not sad,” said Marion, raising her

-large eyes, and smiling gently. “I was thinking

-how grateful I am that you are better,

-and how happy this Christmas would be if you

-were but reconciled to your father.”</p>

-

-<p>“Every house has its spectre, Marion, and

-this haunts ours. I believe one always feels any

-kind of estrangement from those near to us

-most powerfully on days like these. They seem

-to have a strange mysterious power of calling

-up old recollections and early affections!”</p>

-

-<p>“Only those which ought never to be broken

-come at this holy time,” said Marion; “the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">[27]</span>

-gentle thoughts it brings with it seem to me

-like the soft warning of angel voices,—to be

-at peace ere it is too late! I wish you would

-read them so, and write to your mother again:

-she is of a gentler nature; but they must—yes,

-they both must, long to see you again!—Oh,

-if I could but persuade you!” she continued,

-with emotion: “we know not what a day may

-bring forth—even to the youngest and strongest

-among us; and Mrs. Hope says they both

-seem to ‘age’ very much. How deeply you

-would grieve through life if——”</p>

-

-<p>“Oh, Marion, say no more!” exclaimed

-her husband in an agitated voice, “it is that

-thought which so constantly haunts me. For

-myself, I could forget all; but their unkindness

-to you—to you, of whom they ought to

-have been so proud; I cannot forget that!”</p>

-

-<p>“Do not think of it,” said Marion, in a

-soothing tone; “we must not quarrel with

-people because they are unable to see things in

-the same light as ourselves. They knew very

-little of me, and thought, I dare say, that I

-prevented your being much happier with a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">[28]</span>

-wealthier bride: besides, they may love me yet

-when you have made your peace, as I know

-you will,” said she, smiling. “Remember, it

-is to your parents that you bend, and I never

-can feel happy while you are as a stranger to

-them. I suppose it would be my turn next,”

-said she, with her musical laugh, “if I were

-to venture to oppose your wishes, or to say a

-few angry words.”</p>

-

-<p>“Marion!” said her husband reproachfully.</p>

-

-<p>“Well, what security have I,” was the playful

-retort, “over one who could be contented

-under such circumstances? You owe to them

-infinitely more than you do to me—they loved

-you for years and years before I did. Oh,

-Edward! your own heart must tell you more

-than I could ever speak.”</p>

-

-<p>“We will not discuss the subject any further,

-dear Marion,” said he, and his voice

-faltered. “Sing to me, will you? The evening

-never seems perfect without a song from

-you.”</p>

-

-<p>Marion sang the following lines in a rich

-and lovely voice:—</p>

-

-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_29">[29]</span></p>

-

-<h3>THE SPIRIT’S WHISPERINGS.</h3>

-

-<div class="poetry-container">

-<div class="poetry">

-<div class="verse">I roved one morn in a sunlit grove,</div>

-<div class="verse">Where the mavis was singing his song of love,</div>

-<div class="verse">Where the wild bee flew on her wing of light,</div>

-<div class="verse">Flitting o’er moss-cup and blossom bright!</div>

-<div class="verse">And Nature was blooming so freshly and fair,</div>

-<div class="verse">Nought fading or dying was resting there;</div>

-<div class="verse">Yet the light breeze sang, as it wafted by,</div>

-<div class="verse">“Alas that the Lily and Rose should die!”</div>

-

-<div class="verse"><hr class="tb" /></div>

-

-<div class="verse">I sat by the side of a maiden bright,</div>

-<div class="verse">Radiant with Beauty, and Hope’s soft light;</div>

-<div class="verse">She sang a lay of our own loved isle,</div>

-<div class="verse">And my heart beat proudly and high the while.</div>

-<div class="verse">Fondly I gazed on that lofty brow—</div>

-<div class="verse">“What can be lovelier—brighter now?”</div>

-<div class="verse">Yet Echo replied to her lute’s soft lay,</div>

-<div class="verse">“The sweetest and fairest must fade away!”</div>

-

-<div class="verse"><hr class="tb" /></div>

-

-<div class="verse">I wandered forth, ’neath the moon’s pale ray,</div>

-<div class="verse">Where the dead in their last long slumbers lay;</div>

-<div class="verse">Softly and coldly her pure beams shone</div>

-<div class="verse">On the mouldering urn and the old grey stone;</div><span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">[30]</span>

-<div class="verse">And I sadly sigh’d, “Must the young and brave,</div>

-<div class="verse">The loved and the honour’d, all share the grave?”</div>

-<div class="verse">And a voice replied, in a hollow sigh,</div>

-<div class="verse">“The bravest and fairest, all—all must die!”</div>

-

-<div class="verse"><hr class="tb" /></div>

-

-<div class="verse">I knew it was as the spirit said,—</div>

-<div class="verse">That all we love on this earth must fade;</div>

-<div class="verse">That gently they wither, and slowly decay,</div>

-<div class="verse">Or are snatch’d in a moment—away, away!</div>

-<div class="verse">And I said, in deep sorrow, “Alas that strife</div>

-<div class="verse">Should breathe on this short—this uncertain life!</div>

-<div class="verse">And, alas for those who, when Life hath fled,</div>

-<div class="verse">Have Peace to ask of the silent Dead!”</div>

-</div></div>

-

-<p>Marion’s beautiful voice trembled with emotion,

-and her eyes were filled with tears as she

-approached her husband. He leaned his head

-thoughtfully on his hand.</p>

-

-<p>Those Magic Words were thrilling in his

-heart.</p>

-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />

-

-<div class="chapter">

-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">[31]</span>

-

-<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER III.</h2>

-</div>

-

-<p><span class="smcap">With</span> the exception of the young and

-thoughtless, who only look forward to a season

-of festivity and enjoyment, and of the callous

-and indifferent, who seldom think of such

-matters at all, the varied feelings which hail

-the approach of Christmas may be compared

-to those occasioned by the contemplation of

-advancing age—of age so different in its

-aspects, whether we behold our fellow-mortals

-sinking down into the vale of years alone,

-neglected and unloved; alienated from kindred

-and friends, and still retaining the unholy

-animosities of earlier years; unsubdued by

-religion, unsupported by the contemplation of

-a useful and virtuous life; or, on the contrary,

-surrounded by loved and loving hearts,

-looking back with gratitude and pleasure to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_32">[32]</span>

-the past, and with hope and resignation to the

-future, in peace, and love, and charity with all!

-Many a family in embarrassed circumstances,

-many a poor widow with a “limited income,”

-looks on the increased expenses of this season

-of the year, on its bills and various claims,

-with the same feelings which anticipate the

-infirmities of declining years and sharp attacks

-of rheumatism and gout. Many look forward

-to increased domestic comfort, and brighter

-firesides. Many a mother smiles with delight

-on her children, all assembled round her once

-more. Many a father rejoices in their joyous

-laughter, or in the affection and reverence of

-maturer age. Many an old friend is welcomed

-to the social board. But, alas! there are many,

-too, who look back with a dreary regret to the

-years that are gone, and think, how different

-Christmas Day seems now to what it was!</p>

-

-<p>Such melancholy thoughts were revolving in

-the mind of a man of dignified and venerable

-aspect, pacing gloomily up and down the splendid

-library of a fine old mansion. It was almost

-dark, and the glare of the fire played over the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">[33]</span>

-rich volumes, and on the antique carving of

-the furniture. He looked with a sigh at the

-hearth, once crowded with happy faces. One

-only remained, and ah! how changed from the

-blooming figure of earlier days, which rose

-before him! How feebly that once beautiful

-head lay on the rich velvet cushion of her

-chair! How much suffering and sorrow might

-be traced on that furrowed brow! He felt

-that her reverie was as sad as his own; and

-truly too, for she was thinking of many a fair

-child that had gone down to the tomb in all

-the promise of early youth!—of the pride and

-joy of seeing them assembled at Christmas,

-well and happy!—of the joyous holiday-makings

-and merry meetings!—of the tearful

-partings, and the agony of those final ones,

-when the thin, small hand, pressed in its tiny

-grasp the last life greeting!</p>

-

-<p>Still she could think of the departed with the

-softened and resigned feelings which religion

-and time never fail to produce. But that which

-fell most heavily on her heart and darkened her

-declining years, was, that the last and only surviving<span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">[34]</span>

-one—the boy whom she had loved best—whom

-she had watched over with such intense

-fear and anxiety—was still a stranger from his

-father’s home. Month after month passed, and

-still both, in their pride, hung back from any

-attempt at a reconciliation. She felt that many

-more might not elapse before she would be far

-beyond the reach of mediation, and with a mother’s

-and a wife’s love she longed to see them

-united again ere she departed. Presently she

-walked to the window, and laid her thin white

-hand on the arm of her husband.</p>

-

-<p>“I see you still love to watch the rooks

-going to rest in the old elm-trees.”</p>

-

-<p>“Yes,” said Sir John, hastily; “it is amusing

-to watch their odd flights, and to imagine

-you can distinguish the croak of a particular

-bird.” He would not say that it was Edward’s

-favourite pastime when a boy, but

-his companion knew well that he <i>thought</i>

-of the time when both used to stand there

-together. “But who is this coming up the

-avenue?” he said at length, as if willing to

-shake off the chain of thought. “Mrs. Hope,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_35">[35]</span>

-I fancy, by her black dress. I suppose she is

-come to tell us all about the dinner, as she

-promised.”</p>

-

-<p>No door ever opened on a better, or kinder,

-or more zealous village schoolmistress, than

-did this stately one on the spare, timid little

-body who now advanced. No one ever looked

-more placidly happy, and no one more pleased

-and grateful, when she was kindly placed in

-the most comfortable of chairs by Sir John,

-and welcomed with a cordial smile by his

-lady.</p>

-

-<p>“I came up to tell you, sir, that everything

-was done as you desired. The children were

-<i>so</i> happy, it quite did one’s heart good to see

-them. They all came in the morning with

-evergreens and holly, and we made some beautiful

-wreaths to set off the room. Their new

-dresses look very nice, and they are truly

-thankful to you for your kindness. The coals

-and blankets, and other things, are all sent

-home too, and many say they shall thank Sir

-John for a happy Christmas; which they wish

-in return, with all their hearts, I am sure,”<span class="pagenum" id="Page_36">[36]</span>

-continued the good little woman, with emotion;

-“for, thank God, <i>very</i> few among them are

-ungrateful.”</p>

-

-<p>Sir John’s benevolent countenance brightened

-with pleasure as he listened to the kind

-schoolmistress’s further recital of the village

-festivities, to which he had contributed so

-largely; and his wife marvelled how the heart

-of so good a man could be so unrelenting as

-she knew it was.</p>

-

-<p>Perhaps similar thoughts were passing in the

-mind of Mrs. Hope; for after she had told

-all she ostensibly had to tell, and felt that

-it was time for her to depart, she still lingered,

-and yet hesitated to speak.</p>

-

-<p>“Is there anything you wish to say to us,

-Mrs. Hope?” said the lady, kindly; “pray

-do not be afraid to mention anything in which

-we can be of service to you. Is your son——”</p>

-

-<p>“I thank your ladyship, I was not thinking

-of him then, but of some one very different.

-I thought you might like to know, and yet

-was not sure—but Mr. Edward and his

-lady came over to the school-house to-day,”<span class="pagenum" id="Page_37">[37]</span>

-said she, as if from a desperate resolution,

-“and my heart was quite full to see them

-come and go away again like strangers—just at

-Christmas time, too!” Poor little Mrs. Hope

-trembled, for she saw that Sir John’s brow

-darkened, and he drew back in his chair in an

-agitated manner; but an encouraging look

-from the lady re-assured her. “It was very

-pleasant to see him again,” she continued,

-“in the little parlour where he often used

-to sit years ago, and give the prizes out to the

-children, and speak encouragingly to them.

-I thought he had forgotten the old place, and

-all he was so good to; but he told me he had

-been longing to see it, and never could feel so

-happy anywhere else.”</p>

-

-<p>“Poor Edward!” said the lady, with emotion.

-“How does he look?”</p>

-

-<p>“Very pale and delicate, ma’am; but just the

-same as ever—just the same noble look,” said

-Mrs. Hope, fast gathering courage, “although

-not quite so joyful like as it used to be. He

-made particular inquiries as to how his father

-and mother looked, and seemed terribly cast<span class="pagenum" id="Page_38">[38]</span>

-down when I told him how poorly you had

-both been.”</p>

-

-<p>“Did he, indeed!” exclaimed Sir. John,

-starting from his seat, and pacing up and

-down; “why did you not let me know he was

-with you?”</p>

-

-<p>“I feared you did not wish to know it,”

-was the reply. “But oh, Sir John! in my

-humble way I did think it strange that, in an

-erring world like this, your heart should be

-turned from two such children!”</p>

-

-<p>Tears were running fast down the face of

-the good little schoolmistress. She hurried

-away; but her Magic Words were not spoken

-in vain.</p>

-

-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_39">[39]</span></p>

-<div class="bbox">

-<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/facing039.jpg" alt="" /></div>

-

-<p class="illoright"><i>Day &amp; Son, lith<sup>rs</sup> to the Queen.</i></p>

-</div>

-

-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />

-

-<div class="chapter">

-<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER IV.</h2>

-</div>

-

-<p><span class="smcap">Beautifully</span> dawned the last morning of

-the old year. How lovely are some few winter

-sunrisings! A cold, grey sky, and dim, glimmering

-light, scarcely reveals surrounding

-objects. Presently a delicate blush appears,

-gently stealing over the east. It deepens to a

-ruddy glow; and then bright, golden clouds,

-tinged with many a varied hue, overspread the

-sky, lighting up in the strongest relief every

-leafless tree, even to the most fibre-like branches.</p>

-

-<p>Everything is very still. Edith sits silently

-at the window of her dressing-room, watching

-that lovely dawn. Presently a few starlings

-appear on the frosty slopes, with their quick,

-impatient gestures and rapid movements, seeking

-a breakfast. A pair of beautiful blackbirds

-droop their jetty wings, and seem<span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">[40]</span>

-numbed with cold. A robin, cheerful even in

-adversity, trills a few grateful notes on a shrub

-near the window, and Edith thinks that no

-new-year’s serenade could be half as touching

-as that low, sweet song. She thinks, too, what

-a lesson it teaches; for her melancholy eye

-had been straying mournfully over the broad

-lands stretching far and wide before her, and—“’tis

-an old tale, and often told,”—she had

-almost envied the humblest cottager in those her

-lordly possessions. “Farewell, old year!” she

-exclaimed; “none other will ever dawn upon

-me as you did. May the new bear happiness

-and joy to many! Oh, Marion! you little

-thought how desolate I am, when you prophesied

-that there was yet much in store for me.”</p>

-

-<p>Marion’s picturesque cottage could be plainly

-seen in the distance, shut in by the blue range

-of hills above, and sheltered with sweeping

-larches. The morning sun now shone brightly

-upon it, and Edith pictured to herself the

-beaming, happy countenance of her friend.</p>

-

-<p>“May God bless you, Marion!” she continued

-with emotion; “for to the example of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">[41]</span>

-your gentle goodness I owe all that is now left

-me,—the knowledge of that usefulness, that

-patient love and forbearance, which makes you

-so dear to others, so happy in yourself, and

-without which all that the world calls beauty

-and talent is hollow and heartless indeed! You

-taught me the value of true affection—the folly

-and littleness of the false pride I rejoiced in;

-and yet so sweetly, that I was only humbled

-to myself—not to you. Would that it had

-been but a few short months before! Oh,

-Percy! how willingly would I now confess myself

-in the wrong! But now I am forgotten!

-In your benevolent plans, in your honourable

-successes, there is no thought of me; or I am

-only remembered as a wilful, imperious woman,

-whom you once foolishly loved. I shall never

-see you again—mine the sorrow, mine the

-fault! But I am earning the right to self-esteem;

-I am doing all that I believe you

-would approve of, did you care for me now.”</p>

-

-<p>Her heart was very full as she descended to

-the breakfast-room. No one was there; but

-on the table lay a simple nosegay. “From<span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">[42]</span>

-Marion,” was written on a slip of paper. Edith

-mentally thanked her friend for the love which

-she knew was expressed in the fragrant gift;

-but tears sprang into her eyes as she looked

-on it; for a few lovely roses, the little blue

-periwinkle, with its shining green leaves and

-“sweet remembrances,” and a few early primroses

-and violets, were arranged almost exactly

-as she had received them from a still more

-beloved hand the year before. She started

-as her mother entered the room, and turned

-hastily to conceal her emotion; but touched by

-the look of anxious love which she caught

-fixed on herself, exclaimed, while she suffered

-the large tears to fall down her face, “Oh, my

-mother, I will not be proud to <i>you</i>—Heaven

-knows there would be little merit in that! I was

-thinking”—and her beautiful head lay on her

-mother’s gentle bosom—“of the happiness

-which I have thrown away—of one who has

-forgotten me.”</p>

-

-<p>“Ah, my dear child!” said her mother, as

-she tenderly pressed her hand on the throbbing

-brow, “in the doubtfulness of our nature<span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">[43]</span>

-we often accuse those of forgetfulness whose

-hearts may be breaking for our sake.”</p>

-

-<p>Edith looked up, a sudden expression of joy

-beaming over her countenance. As she bent

-again over the flowers, the sweetest gleam of

-hope stole over her, and she felt the magic

-influence of those words.</p>

-

-<p>Happy are they who in their own interests,

-joys, and sorrows, forget not the welfare of

-others! Edith looked forward with pleasure

-to the events of the day; for in the morning

-the school which she had built was to be

-opened, with an appropriate address from the

-good rector; and in the evening, young and

-old, rich and poor, were to be assembled in her

-splendid home. She had gaily declared to the

-gentry her wish to receive, as lady of the

-manor, “all good comers,” that New-Year’s

-Eve; and to sup in the old hall of her ancestors,

-after the manner of feudal times, with the peasantry

-of her estate “below the salt.” They, of

-course, looked forward to the event with unmixed

-pleasure and delight. Not so all those

-of gentler birth; for she had lived but little<span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">[44]</span>

-among them until of late, and was understood

-still less. Many thought it a capricious whim

-of the spoiled beauty, and many wondered what

-strange thing she would do next. “It was not

-that she cared more than the rest of them that

-the poor should enjoy themselves, but that she

-loved to do as no one else did. What a pity

-her uncle’s fine estate was left in such hands!”</p>

-

-<p>So charitably reasoned some of the invited

-guests; but, happily, there were others who

-knew Edith better, and welcomed with delight

-her kind and benevolent plan for a happy new-year’s

-eve to them all.</p>

-

-<p>The important evening at last arrived. The

-village children could not have existed much

-longer. Wide were the park-gates flung open,

-and never had the old avenue rung with the

-sound of so many merry voices before. Many

-a little belle startled a sleeping bird by stopping

-under his resting-place to admire, by the

-light of the lantern she carried, her bran

-new shoes and pretty frock, wondering if any

-of the great ladies would look half as nice,

-and feel half as happy as she did. Some timid<span class="pagenum" id="Page_45">[45]</span>

-little creatures clung to their mothers’ skirts,

-and looked with mingled feelings of awe and

-admiration on the stately mansion, blazing with

-light in the midst of the dark cedars, half

-afraid of entering it until re-assured by the

-promise of seeing the kind lady whom they all

-loved. But when they arrived there, and were

-welcomed by that sweet lady herself, who shook

-hands with all, and wished them a happy new-year;

-and when they saw the fine old hall

-with its bright armour, and many magnificent

-rooms all beautifully lighted up and decorated,

-and were shown the pictures and other wonderful

-things, their delight knew no bounds.

-But, perhaps, that which charmed them most

-was a deep recess at the lower end of the hall,

-completely filled with rare and luxuriant plants,

-in the midst of which stood a beautiful figure

-of Peace, joining the hands of Anger and Contention,

-who were regarding with a mingled

-expression of surprise and admiration the heavenly

-beauty which they had not perceived

-when occupied with their unholy strife.</p>

-

-<p>The children whispered softly here; for the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">[46]</span>

-light was very dim, but a lovely glow irradiated

-the beaming countenance of Peace, and here

-and there flowers glistened in the dark leaves

-around them.</p>

-

-<p>And now tea and cake, such as they had

-never tasted before, awaited them in a pretty

-room, gay with laurel and holly, where our

-friend Mrs. Hope presided, half beside herself

-with joy, yet preserving the most perfect order

-and decorum. Then the amusements of the

-evening began, which comprised the merriest

-and oddest of all styles of dancing to the music

-of the village band, the wonders of a magic

-lantern, and many a childish game beside; but

-above all, the crowning delight was the new-year’s

-gift to each of a pretty little volume,

-with the name of each written in it by Edith’s

-own hand.</p>

-

-<p>The hours flew too swiftly by—so thought

-these delighted little people, as ten o’clock was

-announced, and Edith wished them all good

-night as kindly as she had welcomed them; but

-in few words, for carriages were arriving, and

-she had to receive her guests: they thanked<span class="pagenum" id="Page_47">[47]</span>

-her in their simple way for the pleasure which

-she had given them, and the homely sincerity

-of their gratitude lighted her sweet face with

-happy smiles.</p>

-

-<p>The spacious picture-gallery, which had been

-converted into a ball-room for the occasion,

-was gay with many a shining wreath. The

-old family portraits seemed to look down with

-pleasure, and to beam a welcome on all assembled

-there; so thought several of the wandering

-villagers, grouped here and there amid the

-more brilliant throng, watching the mazes of

-the dance with interest and amazement, and

-listening with equal surprise to the magnificent

-band, to the music of which many a fairy foot

-was flying. Most, however, thought it very

-inferior to the performance of their own village

-musicians, and wondered how people could

-dance to such spiritless tunes on a new-year’s

-eve like this.</p>

-

-<p>Edith had anticipated their predilection,

-their shyness, and their love of country-dances

-and hornpipes; so they were soon marshalled

-by their gentle chamberlain, Mrs.

-Hope, into another room, where they could<span class="pagenum" id="Page_48">[48]</span>

-enjoy all these to their hearts’ content, and yet

-feel themselves privileged to look in on the

-grandees whenever they pleased. Perhaps

-this room, with its unrestrained mirth and

-merry laughter, was happier than the more

-splendid one; for though many there were

-thoroughly enjoying the beauty and gaiety of

-the scene, still there were heart-burnings.

-In that large assemblage several met, who,

-though once friends, had not spoken for years,

-and who felt startled and uneasy at being

-brought into such close proximity. But scarcely

-a shadow could be cast where the beautiful

-hostess moved and spoke—</p>

-

-<p class="center">“Thought in each glance, and mind in every smile.”</p>

-

-<p>There was so much frankness in every kind

-and earnest word she said, joined to the charm

-of her gentle and courtly manners, that the

-coldest, the most obtuse, the most reserved, felt

-moved and interested beyond themselves, and

-more cordially inclined to all the world beside.</p>

-

-<p>And Marion was there, whose flowers were

-the only ornament on Edith’s snowy dress;

-but she, usually so gay, was thoughtful almost<span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">[49]</span>

-to sadness, and looked anxiously into her husband’s

-face as they stood for a few moments

-apart—“I believed that of late years my father

-never mixed in such scenes as these,” said he.

-“Edith could not have thought he would come

-when she invited us.”</p>

-

-<p>“I knew how it was to be,” said Marion;

-“there are many here to-night whom she hopes

-to bring together again; rich and poor. See,

-she is looking towards us now, while speaking

-to him! Oh, Edward, go up to them at once,

-I entreat you!” exclaimed she earnestly.</p>

-

-<p>“Not before so many people,” said her husband

-with emotion. “Suppose he were to

-refuse my hand?”</p>

-

-<p>Marion sighed: but her hopeful nature

-whispered that the New-Year’s Eve was not

-yet ended. And now a clock of silvery tone

-chimed and struck the hour of midnight.

-The guests were conducted to supper: unseen

-harps, and sweet voices, gave a slow farewell to

-the old year, as they were seating themselves

-at the upper end of the hall, and then burst

-forth into a joyful welcome to the new, as the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">[50]</span>

-villagers entered and took their places at the

-lower range of tables; this again died away,

-and a sweet strain arose, of the softest prayer,

-for peace and happiness to all! Marion looked

-round with emotion.</p>

-

-<p>It was a lovely scene, that huge banquet-hall,

-with its gay wreaths of holly and flowers.

-The bright assemblage of guests; the happy

-faces of the villagers below; the beautiful

-hostess, seated in an antique chair at the upper

-end, with the banners of her ancient race,

-trophies of ages long gone by, waving behind

-her; the lovely figure of Peace below, almost

-shrouded in the dark leaves, and forming a

-striking contrast to those warlike emblems:

-all these afforded a sight which, once beheld,

-would not be easily forgotten.</p>

-

-<p>After each guest had paid sufficient homage

-to the choice viands before them, Edith took

-up a cup of curious workmanship; her face

-was radiant with kindness and love as she

-looked on those around her.</p>

-

-<p>“This cup has been possessed, for many a

-century, by my ancestors,” she said; “preserved<span class="pagenum" id="Page_51">[51]</span>

-for ages as a venerated relic: doubtless

-many a toast has been pledged in it—many a

-friendly welcome expressed; but I believe no

-more cordial and sincere one than that with

-which I greet you all this night. I would fain

-express the usual wish of a new-year of all

-imaginable happiness and prosperity, but as

-such have never visited this earth, we know it

-would be vain; and I therefore wish you the

-greatest of all blessings—that which cheers

-and supports us in the sorrows of life, and

-heightens beyond measure its pleasures and

-enjoyments,—love and harmony in your hearts

-and homes! There may be some among us

-estranged from friends and kindred, grieving

-over the fault, (for few, let us hope, in a

-Christian land, can live unmoved in enmity

-one with another,) and yet hanging back, in

-mistaken pride or want of moral courage, from

-the few conciliatory words which would, in

-most cases, suffice for a perfect reconciliation.

-The old year is now passing away—may it

-bear with it all anger, all animosity! May

-those few healing words be spoken,—and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_52">[52]</span>

-Peace, and Love, and Charity be with us

-all!”</p>

-

-<p>Edith’s voice trembled with emotion, but

-she did not perceive the agitation of many

-of her guests, for her eyes were fixed, as

-if in a dream, on the lower end of the hall.

-There was a movement of surprise among those

-seated there: she made her way, she knew not

-how, through them all. Yes, it was Percy!—One

-look, expressing a thousand emotions, and

-their hands were clasped in each other! For

-an instant her lovely head was bowed before

-him, while a few large, heavy tears, fell on

-the flowers at her feet! But she soon mastered

-her emotion, and, with a face radiant

-with joy, led him through the crowd of sympathising

-faces to her mother’s side. In the

-short silence which ensued, the bells of the

-village church were plainly heard ringing-in

-the new-born year! When had they ever

-sounded so sweetly before?</p>

-

-<p>And now a joyous strain again burst forth,

-and all returned to the ball-room. Again the

-young, the beautiful, the gay, joined in the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_53">[53]</span>

-dance; and never feet flew more lightly than

-theirs. But there were those who felt a deeper

-joy; the serene, the heavenly one of Reconciliation!</p>

-

-<p>And Percy and Edith once more stood side

-by side,—united, happy! And Marion told

-her wondering friend how Percy (who was an

-old college friend of her husband’s) had come

-to see them that morning, and in their quiet

-home had confessed that he was drawn to

-them by the desire of obtaining news of her,

-round whom his deep true love still lingered

-with so much regret. She had tried to persuade

-him to accompany them that night, but

-still he doubted—still feared. Yet he now

-confessed to Edith how, when they were gone,

-he had longed to see her face again, how he

-had concealed himself in the crowd, and how

-he had been moved, by what she had just said,

-to rush forward from the recess where he

-stood unobserved, that he might be the first

-to own the gentle Magic of those words!</p>

-

-<p>And many others had felt them too!

-Marion was leaning on <i>her father’s</i> arm—her<span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">[54]</span>

-eyes cast down and tearful in their joyfulness,

-as he spoke to her in a low tone of the invalid

-whom she must see on the morrow.</p>

-

-<p>And all hearts were touched and softened,

-and rich and poor felt drawn closer together!

-And they thought of the voice that had said,—“Love

-one another as I have loved you,”—and

-of the divine lessons of peacefulness and

-long-suffering which some had forgotten!

-And many blessed to the end of their days

-the Magic Words spoken by the Peacemaker<a id="FNanchor_1" href="#Footnote_1" class="fnanchor">[A]</a>

-on that New-year’s Night.</p>

-

-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />

-

-<div class="chapter">

-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">[55]</span>

-<h2 class="nobreak">MAGIC WORDS.</h2>

-</div>

-

-<div class="poetry-container">

-<div class="poetry">

-<div class="stanza">

-<div class="verse">Magic words! magic words!</div>

-<div class="indent">From holy impulse they are born,</div>

-<div class="verse">The seeming chance of circumstance,</div>

-<div class="indent">God’s utterance to hearts forlorn;</div>

-<div class="verse">Where’er they fall reject them not,</div>

-<div class="indent">Nor think their mission is in vain;</div>

-<div class="verse">’Twixt loving hearts, whom coldness parts,</div>

-<div class="indent">Let not the dreary silence reign.</div>

-<div class="indent2">Magic words! what are they?</div>

-<div class="indent2">Things the truest soul will say!</div>

-</div>

-<div class="stanza">

-<div class="verse">Magic words! magic words!</div>

-<div class="indent">Ah! dear as to the dying flow’r,</div>

-<div class="verse">The starry dews that balm infuse,</div>

-<div class="indent">And whisper of the fallen show’r!</div>

-<div class="verse">Sweet as the bubbling desert spring</div>

-<div class="indent">To one who wanders o’er the sands,</div>

-<div class="verse">Are those chance words, that sow like birds</div>

-<div class="indent">The flowering seeds of happier lands!</div>

-<div class="indent2">Magic words! what are they?</div>

-<div class="indent2">Things the simplest tongue may say!</div>

-</div>

-<div class="stanza"><span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">[56]</span>

-<div class="verse">Magic words! magic words!</div>

-<div class="indent">O let them live on ev’ry lip,</div>

-<div class="verse">A source of bliss, of holiest kiss,</div>

-<div class="indent">And bond of fairest fellowship.</div>

-<div class="verse">And evermore at this blest time,</div>

-<div class="indent">Tho’ winter’s snows o’erspread the scene,</div>

-<div class="verse">One magic call, to bind us all,</div>

-<div class="indent">Shall be old Christmas’ evergreen!</div>

-<div class="indent2">Magic words! are not they</div>

-<div class="indent2">Offerings meet for Christmas Day?</div>

-</div></div></div>

-

-<p class="center"><small>London:—Printed by <span class="smcap">G. Barclay</span>, Castle St. Leicester Sq.</small></p>

-

-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />

-

-<div class="chapter">

-<p class="ph1">FOOTNOTE:</p>

-</div>

-

-<div class="footnote">

-

-<p><a id="Footnote_1" href="#FNanchor_1" class="label">[A]</a> Edith, in the Anglo-Saxon language, signifies Peacemaker.</p>

-

-</div>

-

-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />

-

-<div class="chapter">

-<div class="transnote">

-<p class="ph1">TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES:</p>

-

-<p>Obvious typographical errors have been corrected.</p>

-

-<p>Inconsistencies in hyphenation have been standardized.</p>

-

-<p>Archaic or variant spelling has been retained.</p>

-</div></div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MAGIC WORDS ***</div>

-<div style='text-align:left'>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-Updated editions will replace the previous one&#8212;the old editions will

-be renamed.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright

-law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works,

-so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United

-States without permission and without paying copyright

-royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part

-of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project

-Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG&#8482;

-concept and trademark. Project Gutenberg is a registered trademark,

-and may not be used if you charge for an eBook, except by following

-the terms of the trademark license, including paying royalties for use

-of the Project Gutenberg trademark. If you do not charge anything for

-copies of this eBook, complying with the trademark license is very

-easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose such as creation

-of derivative works, reports, performances and research. Project

-Gutenberg eBooks may be modified and printed and given away&#8212;you may

-do practically ANYTHING in the United States with eBooks not protected

-by U.S. copyright law. Redistribution is subject to the trademark

-license, especially commercial redistribution.

-</div>

-

-<div style='margin-top:1em; font-size:1.1em; text-align:center'>START: FULL LICENSE</div>

-<div style='text-align:center;font-size:0.9em'>THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE</div>

-<div style='text-align:center;font-size:0.9em'>PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-To protect the Project Gutenberg&#8482; mission of promoting the free

-distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work

-(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase &#8220;Project

-Gutenberg&#8221;), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full

-Project Gutenberg&#8482; License available with this file or online at

-www.gutenberg.org/license.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'>

-Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg&#8482;

-electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to

-and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property

-(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all

-the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or

-destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works in your

-possession. If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a

-Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic work and you do not agree to be bound

-by the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person

-or entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.B. &#8220;Project Gutenberg&#8221; is a registered trademark. It may only be

-used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who

-agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few

-things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works

-even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See

-paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project

-Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works if you follow the terms of this

-agreement and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg&#8482;

-electronic works. See paragraph 1.E below.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation (&#8220;the

-Foundation&#8221; or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection

-of Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works. Nearly all the individual

-works in the collection are in the public domain in the United

-States. If an individual work is unprotected by copyright law in the

-United States and you are located in the United States, we do not

-claim a right to prevent you from copying, distributing, performing,

-displaying or creating derivative works based on the work as long as

-all references to Project Gutenberg are removed. Of course, we hope

-that you will support the Project Gutenberg&#8482; mission of promoting

-free access to electronic works by freely sharing Project Gutenberg&#8482;

-works in compliance with the terms of this agreement for keeping the

-Project Gutenberg&#8482; name associated with the work. You can easily

-comply with the terms of this agreement by keeping this work in the

-same format with its attached full Project Gutenberg&#8482; License when

-you share it without charge with others.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern

-what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are

-in a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States,

-check the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this

-agreement before downloading, copying, displaying, performing,

-distributing or creating derivative works based on this work or any

-other Project Gutenberg&#8482; work. The Foundation makes no

-representations concerning the copyright status of any work in any

-country other than the United States.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg:

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other

-immediate access to, the full Project Gutenberg&#8482; License must appear

-prominently whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg&#8482; work (any work

-on which the phrase &#8220;Project Gutenberg&#8221; appears, or with which the

-phrase &#8220;Project Gutenberg&#8221; is associated) is accessed, displayed,

-performed, viewed, copied or distributed:

-</div>

-

-<blockquote>

-  <div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-    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 <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you

-    are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws

-    of the country where you are located before using this eBook.

-  </div>

-</blockquote>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic work is

-derived from texts not protected by U.S. copyright law (does not

-contain a notice indicating that it is posted with permission of the

-copyright holder), the work can be copied and distributed to anyone in

-the United States without paying any fees or charges. If you are

-redistributing or providing access to a work with the phrase &#8220;Project

-Gutenberg&#8221; associated with or appearing on the work, you must comply

-either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 or

-obtain permission for the use of the work and the Project Gutenberg&#8482;

-trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or 1.E.9.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic work is posted

-with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution

-must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any

-additional terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms

-will be linked to the Project Gutenberg&#8482; License for all works

-posted with the permission of the copyright holder found at the

-beginning of this work.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg&#8482;

-License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this

-work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg&#8482;.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this

-electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without

-prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with

-active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project

-Gutenberg&#8482; License.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary,

-compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including

-any word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access

-to or distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg&#8482; work in a format

-other than &#8220;Plain Vanilla ASCII&#8221; or other format used in the official

-version posted on the official Project Gutenberg&#8482; website

-(www.gutenberg.org), you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense

-to the user, provide a copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means

-of obtaining a copy upon request, of the work in its original &#8220;Plain

-Vanilla ASCII&#8221; or other form. Any alternate format must include the

-full Project Gutenberg&#8482; License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying,

-performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg&#8482; works

-unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing

-access to or distributing Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works

-provided that:

-</div>

-

-<div style='margin-left:0.7em;'>

-    <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'>

-        &#8226; You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from

-        the use of Project Gutenberg&#8482; works calculated using the method

-        you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is owed

-        to the owner of the Project Gutenberg&#8482; trademark, but he has

-        agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the Project

-        Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments must be paid

-        within 60 days following each date on which you prepare (or are

-        legally required to prepare) your periodic tax returns. Royalty

-        payments should be clearly marked as such and sent to the Project

-        Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the address specified in

-        Section 4, &#8220;Information about donations to the Project Gutenberg

-        Literary Archive Foundation.&#8221;

-    </div>

-

-    <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'>

-        &#8226; You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies

-        you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he

-        does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg&#8482;

-        License. You must require such a user to return or destroy all

-        copies of the works possessed in a physical medium and discontinue

-        all use of and all access to other copies of Project Gutenberg&#8482;

-        works.

-    </div>

-

-    <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'>

-        &#8226; You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of

-        any money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the

-        electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days of

-        receipt of the work.

-    </div>

-

-    <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'>

-        &#8226; You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free

-        distribution of Project Gutenberg&#8482; works.

-    </div>

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project

-Gutenberg&#8482; electronic work or group of works on different terms than

-are set forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing

-from the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the manager of

-the Project Gutenberg&#8482; trademark. Contact the Foundation as set

-forth in Section 3 below.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.F.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable

-effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread

-works not protected by U.S. copyright law in creating the Project

-Gutenberg&#8482; collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg&#8482;

-electronic works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may

-contain &#8220;Defects,&#8221; such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate

-or corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other

-intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or

-other medium, a computer virus, or computer codes that damage or

-cannot be read by your equipment.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the &#8220;Right

-of Replacement or Refund&#8221; described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project

-Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project

-Gutenberg&#8482; trademark, and any other party distributing a Project

-Gutenberg&#8482; electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all

-liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal

-fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT

-LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE

-PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE

-TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE

-LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR

-INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH

-DAMAGE.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a

-defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can

-receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a

-written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you

-received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium

-with your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you

-with the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in

-lieu of a refund. If you received the work electronically, the person

-or entity providing it to you may choose to give you a second

-opportunity to receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If

-the second copy is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing

-without further opportunities to fix the problem.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth

-in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you &#8216;AS-IS&#8217;, WITH NO

-OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT

-LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied

-warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of

-damages. If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement

-violates the law of the state applicable to this agreement, the

-agreement shall be interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or

-limitation permitted by the applicable state law. The invalidity or

-unenforceability of any provision of this agreement shall not void the

-remaining provisions.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the

-trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone

-providing copies of Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works in

-accordance with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the

-production, promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg&#8482;

-electronic works, harmless from all liability, costs and expenses,

-including legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of

-the following which you do or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this

-or any Project Gutenberg&#8482; work, (b) alteration, modification, or

-additions or deletions to any Project Gutenberg&#8482; work, and (c) any

-Defect you cause.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'>

-Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg&#8482;

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-Project Gutenberg&#8482; is synonymous with the free distribution of

-electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of

-computers including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It

-exists because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations

-from people in all walks of life.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the

-assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg&#8482;&#8217;s

-goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg&#8482; collection will

-remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project

-Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure

-and permanent future for Project Gutenberg&#8482; and future

-generations. To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary

-Archive Foundation and how your efforts and donations can help, see

-Sections 3 and 4 and the Foundation information page at www.gutenberg.org.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'>

-Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non-profit

-501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the

-state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal

-Revenue Service. The Foundation&#8217;s EIN or federal tax identification

-number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg Literary

-Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by

-U.S. federal laws and your state&#8217;s laws.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-The Foundation&#8217;s business office is located at 809 North 1500 West,

-Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email contact links and up

-to date contact information can be found at the Foundation&#8217;s website

-and official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'>

-Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-Project Gutenberg&#8482; depends upon and cannot survive without widespread

-public support and donations to carry out its mission of

-increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be

-freely distributed in machine-readable form accessible by the widest

-array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations

-($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt

-status with the IRS.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating

-charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United

-States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a

-considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up

-with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations

-where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To SEND

-DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any particular state

-visit <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/donate/">www.gutenberg.org/donate</a>.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we

-have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition

-against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who

-approach us with offers to donate.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make

-any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from

-outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-Please check the Project Gutenberg web pages for current donation

-methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other

-ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. To

-donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'>

-Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project

-Gutenberg&#8482; concept of a library of electronic works that could be

-freely shared with anyone. For forty years, he produced and

-distributed Project Gutenberg&#8482; eBooks with only a loose network of

-volunteer support.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-Project Gutenberg&#8482; eBooks are often created from several printed

-editions, all of which are confirmed as not protected by copyright in

-the U.S. unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not

-necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper

-edition.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-Most people start at our website which has the main PG search

-facility: <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>.

-</div>

-

-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>

-This website includes information about Project Gutenberg&#8482;,

-including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary

-Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to

-subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks.

-</div>

-

-</div>

-</body>

-</html>

+<!DOCTYPE html>
+<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">
+<head>
+    <meta charset="UTF-8" />
+    <title>
+      Magic words, by Emilie Maceroni—A Project Gutenberg eBook
+    </title>
+    <link rel="icon" href="images/cover.jpg" type="image/x-cover" />
+    <style> /* <![CDATA[ */
+
+body {
+    margin-left: 10%;
+    margin-right: 10%;
+}
+
+    h1,h2,h3 {
+    text-align: center;
+    clear: both;
+}
+
+p {
+    margin-top: .51em;
+    text-align: justify;
+    margin-bottom: .49em;
+}
+
+hr {
+    width: 33%;
+    margin-top: 2em;
+    margin-bottom: 2em;
+    margin-left: 33.5%;
+    margin-right: 33.5%;
+    clear: both;
+}
+
+hr.tb   {width: 45%; margin-left: 27.5%; margin-right: 27.5%;}
+hr.tiny   {width: 10%; margin-left: 45%; margin-right: 45%;}
+hr.chap {width: 65%; margin-left: 17.5%; margin-right: 17.5%;}
+@media print { hr.chap {display: none; visibility: hidden;} }
+
+
+div.chapter {page-break-before: always;}
+h2.nobreak  {page-break-before: avoid;}
+
+table {
+    margin-left: auto;
+    margin-right: auto;
+}
+
+.tdr      {text-align: right;}
+
+.pagenum {
+    position: absolute;
+    left: 92%;
+    font-size: smaller;
+    text-align: right;
+    font-style: normal;
+    font-weight: normal;
+    font-variant: normal;
+    text-indent: 0;
+}
+
+.bbox     {border: 0; width: 450px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;}
+
+.illoright {text-align: right; font-size: small; }
+
+.center   {text-align: center;}
+
+.smcap    {font-variant: small-caps;}
+
+.ph1 {text-align: center; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;}
+.ph2 {text-align: center; font-size: xx-large; font-weight: bold;}
+
+div.titlepage {text-align: center; page-break-before: always; page-break-after: always;}
+div.titlepage p {text-align: center; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5; margin-top: 2em;}
+
+.xxlarge {font-size: 175%;}
+.xlarge {font-size: 150%;}
+.large {font-size: 125%;}
+
+.x-ebookmaker .hide {display: none; visibility: hidden;}
+
+.figcenter {
+    margin: auto;
+    text-align: center;
+    page-break-inside: avoid;
+    max-width: 100%;
+}
+
+.footnote         {margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 10%; font-size: 0.9em;}
+
+.footnote .label  {position: absolute; right: 75%; text-align: right;}
+
+.fnanchor {
+    vertical-align: super;
+    font-size: .8em;
+    text-decoration:
+    none;
+}
+
+.antiqua {
+ font-family: Blackletter, Fraktur, Textur, "Old English Text MT", "Olde English Mt", "Olde English", Gothic, serif, sans-serif;}
+
+.poetry-container  {text-align: center;}
+.poetry {display: inline-block; text-align: left;}
+.poetry .verse  {text-indent: -2.5em; padding-left: 3em;}
+.poetry .stanza {margin: 1em auto;}
+.poetry .indent  {text-indent: 1.5em;}
+.poetry .indent2  {text-indent: 2.5em;}
+.poetry .verseright  { text-align: right;}
+.poetry .first {text-indent: -3em; padding-left: 3em;}
+
+@media print { .poetry {display: block;} }
+.x-ebookmaker .poetry {display: block;}
+
+.transnote {background-color: #E6E6FA;
+    color: black;
+     font-size:smaller;
+     margin-left: 17.5%;
+     margin-right: 17.5%;
+     padding: 1em;
+     margin-bottom: 1em;
+     font-family:sans-serif, serif; }
+
+    /* ]]> */ </style>
+</head>
+<body>
+<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 68424 ***</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter hide"><img src="images/coversmall.jpg" width="450" alt="" /></div>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<h1>MAGIC WORDS.</h1>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<span class="pagenum" id="Page_0"></span>
+<div class="bbox">
+<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/frontis.jpg" alt="" /></div>
+
+<p class="illoright"><i>Day &amp; Son, lith<sup>rs</sup> to the Queen.</i></p>
+</div></div>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/titlepage.jpg" alt="" /></div>
+</div>
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+<div class="titlepage">
+
+<p><span class="xxlarge">MAGIC WORDS;</span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="xlarge"><span class="antiqua">A Tale for Christmas Time.</span></span></p>
+
+<p>BY<br />
+
+<span class="large">EMILIE MACERONI.</span></p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poetry">
+<div class="stanza">
+<div class="first">“Oh, many a shaft at random sent,</div>
+<div class="verse">Finds mark the archer little meant;</div>
+<div class="verse">And many a word at random spoken</div>
+<div class="verse">May soothe or wound a heart that’s broken.”</div>
+</div>
+<div class="stanza">
+<div class="verseright"><i>Scott.</i></div>
+</div></div></div>
+
+<p>WITH FOUR ILLUSTRATIONS BY E. H. WEHNERT.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/publogo.jpg" alt="" /></div>
+
+<p><span class="large">LONDON:<br />
+CUNDALL &amp; ADDEY, 21 OLD BOND STREET.</span><br />
+M.DCCC.LI.</p>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p class="center">LONDON:<br />
+Printed by <span class="smcap">G. Barclay</span>, Castle St. Leicester Sq.</p>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<p class="center">TO<br />
+<br />
+<span class="large">MRS. AUSTIN</span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="antiqua">This Little Volume</span><br />
+<br />
+IS AFFECTIONATELY INSCRIBED.</p>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h2 class="nobreak">ILLUSTRATIONS.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<table>
+<tr><td>MARION AND HER FATHER </td><td class="tdr">(<a href="#Page_0"><i>Frontispiece</i></a>)</td></tr>
+
+<tr><td>LITTLE MARY AND HER FRIEND TROY</td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_11">         11</a></td></tr>
+
+<tr><td>MARION TEACHING LATIN</td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_25">                   25</a></td></tr>
+
+<tr><td>EDITH WATCHING THE DAWN</td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_39">                 39</a></td></tr>
+
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>From Drawings by</i> <span class="smcap">E. H. Wehnert</span>.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<span class="pagenum" id="Page_1">[1]</span>
+<p class="ph2">MAGIC WORDS.</p>
+
+<hr class="tiny" />
+<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER I.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">It</span> was the evening of Christmas Day. The
+hymn of “Peace upon earth, good-will towards
+men,” had been chanted by thousands of voices
+throughout the land, from the grand cathedral-choir
+to the simple singers of the village
+church. Charity had extended her munificent
+hand to the poor and needy, lighting up smiles
+on many a care-worn face. Hospitality welcomed
+the good, the beautiful, and the great
+to the lordly mansions of the rich. Love and
+Peace sat enthroned in many a happy home.
+Poverty, shivering at the present, was consoled
+by the glowing figure of Hope, pointing with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_2">[2]</span>
+radiant eyes to the future. Memory and Sorrow
+lingered around the grave of many a departed
+one; but of all mourners they were the
+saddest who were estranged from those they still
+loved. Yes, amid the pain, the sorrow, the suffering
+of life, <i>their</i> hearts were the heaviest; for
+(to use the oft-quoted words of the poet) “to
+be wroth with those we love, doth work like
+madness in the brain;” and this hallowed season
+speaks strongest to our kindest feelings, and
+to the tenderness of our better nature.</p>
+
+<hr class="tb" />
+
+<p>A train had stopped at a rough little village
+station about thirty miles from town, and a
+few country people, on their way home, leaned
+over the bridge above to admire the enormous
+red eyes of the monster as it moved slowly on
+through a deep cutting crowned with dark
+firs. They lingered yet a moment longer, to
+mark whom it had borne from the great city
+to their quiet village. A beautiful girl of fifteen,
+glowing with health and exercise, accompanied
+by two fine, rough-looking dogs, rushed<span class="pagenum" id="Page_3">[3]</span>
+down to meet her playfellows and friends. She
+was breathless with joy, and with her race over
+the heath; but her merry laugh and warm
+greeting sounded pleasantly enough as the
+noise of the train died away in the distance.</p>
+
+<p>A lady, wrapped in a warm plaid, who had
+been anxiously waiting for some time, took the
+arm of her husband, with a few low words of
+delighted welcome, and they walked briskly
+away. The dogs of the younger party barked
+with glee—were patted and caressed. One
+look at the dear heath and at the hills beyond,
+with a thrill of delight at the thoughts of a
+long ramble over them on the morrow, and the
+ponies were mounted, the dogs whistled to,
+and away flew the happy trio to the home-welcome,
+to the dear old hall, to all the joy
+of a Christmas meeting.</p>
+
+<p>Only two other passengers appeared, winding
+up the pathway—a gentleman of tall and
+commanding aspect, and a buxom, brisk-footed
+countrywoman, wrapped in her scarlet cloak,
+who passed him with a low curtsey and cheerful
+good night. She was thinking of the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_4">[4]</span>
+bright fireside, of the dear little faces round it
+anxiously awaiting her return, and of the enormous
+amount of joy contained in that wicker
+basket. An event of great marvel and wonderment
+is a poor woman’s visit to her friends in
+town, and she is ever in a tearful state of
+ecstasy and excitement on reaching home again;
+all of which becomes a matter of grave family
+history in the lowly household, and is recounted
+on many an occasion to eager and attentive
+hearers.</p>
+
+<p>She quickly disappeared up a winding path
+cut through the furze and heather, evidently
+leading to a low-roofed cottage on the skirts
+of a fir-wood. Lights twinkled in the casement,
+and joyful voices were soon heard approaching
+to meet and welcome her. The road
+was now perfectly solitary. A few deep-red
+clouds still hung over the west, and here and
+there a large bright star shone silently through
+the sharp, pure air. Dogs bayed in the distance;
+the sound came very pleasantly over
+the heather through the rough old pines.</p>
+
+<p>The gentleman walked briskly on, and lights<span class="pagenum" id="Page_5">[5]</span>
+began to appear in the valley beneath. He
+stopped as the merry notes of a flageolet struck
+his ear, proceeding from a cottage by the road-side.
+The blaze of a wood fire within illumined
+the little rustic porch and neat garden. Bright
+branches of glistening holly shone in the tiny
+casement. The tune ceased, and was followed
+by a light-hearted laugh and the sound of young
+voices.</p>
+
+<p>“How happy they seem!” said he. “It is
+such scenes as these which make the country
+so delightful, so cheering to sense and spirit!”</p>
+
+<p>And yet he sighed heavily as he walked on;
+and passing through an avenue of fir and larch
+leading to one of the prettiest and most picturesque
+cottages in the world, he paused
+when he reached the garden-gate. It seemed,
+too, a dear, quiet, sweet-smelling home. Lights
+shone from more than one of the windows;
+and more than one bright young face might
+be seen, by the gleam of its golden hair, flitting
+about in the uncertain light. A sweet
+young voice singing as sweet a tune ceased, as
+all young voices do, suddenly, when the bell<span class="pagenum" id="Page_6">[6]</span>
+rang out its summons, and a brisk, rosy little
+maid appeared, lantern and key in hand, to
+admit the traveller, and guide him through
+the long shadow of the firs to the house. A
+favourite dog bounded to meet and gambol
+round him with unrepressed joy. The children
+clustered into the porch to say, timidly,
+“How do you do?” and hold out their little
+hands to shake; while their mother, advancing
+with a kindly greeting, expressed her pleasure
+at his return. Even the maid looked pleased
+and happy to see him. But yet it was not his
+home.</p>
+
+<p>After a few minutes’ conversation, the traveller
+was seated in his own room, his dog, his
+sole companion, looking at him with glistening
+eyes, as his master fondly stroked his magnificent
+head. He was a man of twenty-eight
+or thirty years of age, with a sad and thoughtful
+cast of countenance, yet one that all who looked
+upon it <i>must</i> instantly love and respect; it was
+at once so engaging and so noble. He looked
+round his little room at his sketches and his
+gun with evident pleasure, placed some books<span class="pagenum" id="Page_7">[7]</span>
+and papers which he had brought on a little
+table before him, and drawing his arm-chair
+close to the blazing pine-logs, sat watching the
+golden cones as they crumbled away, one by
+one, at the height of their brilliancy. But every
+reverie must have its end; and his was brought
+to a close by the appearance of coffee, borne
+by a bright-eyed country maid, smirking and
+smiling with pleasure, as country servants are
+wont to do at every fresh arrival.</p>
+
+<p>It would seem that the reverie by the bright
+fireside was not an idle one, but that among
+many revolving thoughts, some, at least, were
+considered worthy of preservation; for the coffee
+was soon despatched, the table covered with
+books and papers, and the stranger intently
+occupied with his pen.</p>
+
+<p>So absorbed did he become with it, that
+after one or two long, wistful glances, the
+fine hound lay down reproachfully on his comfortable
+rug, as if despairing of any further
+notice that night.</p>
+
+<p>The wind moaned heavily in the pine-branches
+round the cottage. Presently the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_8">[8]</span>
+writer paused and listened to the sound, so
+like the rushing of distant waters. He walked
+slowly to the window, and gazed long and earnestly
+into the night. It was moonlight, yet
+stormy; and large, glittering stars, looked
+down through the dark branches, when the
+hurrying white clouds had drifted over them.
+The distant clock of the old village church,
+slowly striking the hour, sounded mournfully
+over the river; and the lonely man at that
+little window thought of years that were gone,
+of the bright firesides in many a happy home
+that night, and turned and put away his papers
+with a sigh. He thought how differently he
+used to work years ago, when, with all the
+ardour of his nature and the energy of hope,
+and yet with intense fear and anxiety, he strove
+to render himself worthy of one idolized, one
+long-sighed-for object! He thought, too, of the
+bitterness, the agony of disappointment; and
+how long years of his young life would have
+been thrown away, had he not struggled hard
+to save himself from becoming a useless, melancholy
+being, given up to the indulgence of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">[9]</span>
+selfish regrets. He had succeeded,—there was
+some comfort in that reflection. He knew of
+what he was capable, and dared not throw away
+the power he had acquired, because it no longer
+availed the idol Self. So he still worked on.
+He had become distinguished for his literary
+labours, and for his contributions to the improvement
+and well-being of his fellow-creatures;
+but to fame and to the praises of the
+great he was now equally indifferent. His happiest
+hours were passed in his favourite village,
+where he was greatly beloved, although he dared
+not wholly give himself up to the quiet of a
+country life.</p>
+
+<p>He had had the old Gothic church restored,
+with all possible observance of its antique ornaments
+and its fine clustering ivy; and took a kind
+of Sir Roger de Coverley delight in seeing the
+country people, bettered and improved in every
+way, flocking to it on Sundays to hear his good
+tutor’s sermons, to which he used to listen
+with so much reverence in his boyish days.
+He had learned to believe that the word “happiness”
+signifies, the being reconciled to bear,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_10">[10]</span>
+still having courage to do, and gratitude to enjoy
+that which remains. Thus, he was usually
+cheerful in his various occupations; <i>but this
+was Christmas time</i>: a time when the lonely
+heart feels most desolate—a time when many
+a tender word spoken by the absent is
+remembered with sorrow—when all anger is
+forgotten in the feeling of peace and love which
+steals over the heart. And his head lay buried
+in his hands, his whole soul given up to an
+overwhelming agony of regret.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">[11]</span></p>
+<div class="bbox">
+<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/facing011.jpg" alt="" /></div>
+
+<p class="illoright"><i>Day &amp; Son, lith<sup>rs</sup> to the Queen.</i></p>
+</div>
+
+<p>“This day last year,” he muttered, “who
+could have believed the change? Oh, Edith!”
+he continued, taking up a miniature that lay
+beside him, “who could have thought then
+that we should now be as strangers to each
+other? Who could have thought that that
+bright face, those many noble qualities, could
+have wrought so much misery?” Again he
+looked at the lovely countenance, smiling on
+him a thousand of the tenderest remembrances,
+and a still gentler expression, a kindlier spirit,
+came over him. “Those eyes,” he said, “how
+softly they have looked on me! Perhaps even
+now a thought——but what folly! In the pride
+of beauty and prosperity, what is there to
+remind her of me?”</p>
+
+<p>A low tap at the door interrupted his meditations.
+For an instant he could not say,
+“Come in!” his heart was so very full; but
+quickly recovering himself, he turned with a
+smile to welcome a little village child, who
+timidly advanced to place both her tiny hands
+in his.</p>
+
+<p>She looked into his face with eyes beaming
+with love and gratitude; but the joyful,
+sparkling expression soon faded away, for she
+saw that he was sadder than usual; and with
+the quick sympathy and natural grace of childhood
+she sat down quietly on the rug, and
+taking the stately head of the hound on her lap,
+pensively stroked his long, shaggy coat. Presently
+she ventured to break the silence in her
+gentle way—“I am so glad you are come back,
+sir; I have missed you so!”</p>
+
+<p>Her companion’s countenance brightened,
+and he said with animation—“Have you,
+though, my poor little Mary? I thought you<span class="pagenum" id="Page_12">[12]</span>
+had forgotten me, being so long away.” And
+he stroked her bright brown hair.</p>
+
+<p>“You should not have thought that,” said
+the child, earnestly; “I always remember you,
+for you taught me all I know. I was longing
+to come yesterday, and all day to-day,” she
+continued, “to hear if you had arrived. To-day
+has been so happy that I could not stay
+away any longer, and so here I am,” she
+added, with her merry laugh, which sounded
+pleasantly in that usually silent room. These
+simple words, that mute caress, had restored
+the confidence of the two friends. Mary
+was herself again, full of fun and prattle.
+Seated on the extreme edge of a huge Gothic
+chair, she balanced her little feet on the back
+of her friend Troy, who, far from resenting the
+liberty, fixed his dark eyes lovingly on her
+sweet young face, while she talked on, full of
+the details of her simple life. How she had
+gathered pine-cones for several evenings, because
+she knew he loved their cheerful blaze
+and sweet smell. How poor Turpin, who was
+always in trouble, had hunted a rabbit, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">[13]</span>
+been caught in a trap; of her mad race over the
+hills for help; how she nursed the poor, poor
+foot afterwards; and how the faithful patient
+cried because he could not accompany her
+that night; the relation of all which very much
+affected his kind little mistress. Presently she
+produced with great glee her “Christmas present,”—several
+little bundles of bark, peeled
+with great care, from the silver birch-trees,
+cut into slips, and tied with red worsted.
+“I burnt a little bit the other day,” said she,
+“and the smell was so nice I thought you
+would like it, so I got some to light your taper
+with—do try it;” and the little creature soon
+held a blazing piece in her hand.</p>
+
+<p>“It is delicious, Mary; and how good of you
+to collect it for me!”</p>
+
+<p>“I was very happy getting it,” said the
+child; “but I wish you had not thought I
+had forgotten you. I could not forget you!”
+she continued, after a pause; “you, who have
+been so good to me, and taught me so much!
+I never looked at a book before you came.
+Oh, I was sadly wild! Mother said I made<span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">[14]</span>
+more noise than the boys!” And she laughed
+heartily.</p>
+
+<p>The tutor laughed too, and told the often
+repeated story, which he knew she loved to
+hear, of how, in his walks, he had frequently
+listened to her little voice singing in a cornfield,
+while “minding” birds; how he had
+been surprised at her sudden disappearance on
+his nearer approach, and on making a voyage
+of discovery, had found her ensconced in
+the body of a broken-down post-chaise, that,
+singularly enough, lay between two old fir-trees
+at the foot of the wood! He did not
+describe to her how, in imagination, he had
+pictured the different and exciting scenes in
+which the once gay equipage might have
+borne its part; but went on to say how he
+had peeped in unobserved, and had seen her
+perched on one of the dilapidated seats, with a
+little piece of board on her lap, intently occupied
+in carving a morsel of meat into divers
+small pieces, which she divided, with impartial
+care, among three ragged starlings perched
+on the opposite beam, who watched her with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">[15]</span>
+glistening eyes! How merrily she talked to
+them, and how perfectly they seemed to love
+and understand each other! He reminded
+her of her surprise on being discovered, and
+her frank invitation to the intruder to “look
+in” on the wonders of the unique aviary, with
+its valuable illustrations of the “History of
+Red Riding Hood,” its bright jay’s feathers,
+and other childish treasures!</p>
+
+<p>Heartily the little Mary laughed; and so
+the Christmas evening passed on.</p>
+
+<p>“I must go now,” she said; “I promised
+to read mother the pretty story you gave me,
+‘Simple Susan,’ and they will all sit up for
+it! Good bye! You will promise not to be so
+sad when I am gone as you were when I came
+in. You have been thinking of that pretty
+lady again!” she said, with a face of anxious
+love—pointing to the miniature—“that makes
+you so, I know! Why don’t you go to her?”</p>
+
+<p>“Because she does not love me, Mary,”
+was the faltering reply; “and you know we
+are not happy with those who do not love us.”</p>
+
+<p>“Are you <i>sure</i> of that?” said the child,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">[16]</span>
+earnestly. “People often hide their kindest
+thoughts—and perhaps she hides hers from
+you; you must look for them, as I look for
+violets, in their thick leaves. Oh, I was so
+unhappy once!” she continued, tears starting
+into her eyes at the remembrance: “I quarrelled
+with my brother, and we did not speak
+all day—both were so proud: but do you
+know” (and the sweet little face sparkled)
+“that when I put my arms round his neck
+and kissed him, and said, ‘Good night,
+Harry!’ he kissed me, and cried too; and
+said how unhappy he had been <i>all</i> the time.
+I had thought he would <i>never</i>, <i>never</i> love me
+again! Oh! if my brother had died, as
+baby did, before we kissed each other that
+night!”</p>
+
+<p>Poor little Mary paused, her heart quite
+full at the bare idea of such a thing; but
+she turned again, with admiring eyes, to the
+miniature. “She looks very kind and good,
+and <i>so</i> beautiful! Did you speak gently,
+and ask her to love you again: or were you
+proud?”</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_17">[17]</span>The child did not notice the agitation of
+her companion, and little did she imagine
+that, long after her head lay softly on her
+happy pillow, the simple eloquence of those
+Magic Words was working powerfully in his
+heart!</p>
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">[18]</span>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER II.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Over</span> many a mile of hard, frosty road, by
+snow-clad fields and hills and woods, by many
+an ice-bound stream, must we lead the imagination
+of our reader on the evening of the
+same Christmas Day, and peep into another
+home, far from that we have just quitted.</p>
+
+<p>Undrawing the warm crimson curtains of
+a charming little room—half drawing-room,
+half library—the light of a lamp falls brightly
+on the figure of a lady reading to her husband.
+It is manuscript, and he puts the pages by for
+her as she goes on.</p>
+
+<p>She often pauses, to look up with a delighted
+smile at his praises, and he thinks that she
+never looked so beautiful before! She is very
+like Correggio’s Magdalen, and has the same
+lovely countenance and waving hair.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_19">[19]</span>Presently she came to the last page, and
+the praise was repeated.</p>
+
+<p>“I had no idea I could translate so well,”
+said she, “and am glad you like it, for that
+will give me spirits to go on: I may, in time,
+become quite useful to you.”</p>
+
+<p>“When are you not everything to me?”
+was the reply. “But, Marion, you must not
+work so hard; I cannot afford to see you look
+one bit less bright. Besides, it is a kind of
+reproach to me your working so much; indeed
+you must not!”</p>
+
+<p>“Nonsense!” said Marion, laughing; “you
+can’t think how happy I am when helping
+you, for I am sure you are often very weary!
+Poor Edward! what anxiety I have caused
+you! Now for a volley of protestations!”
+said she, laughing again. “But to be serious:
+I was thinking, to-day, how much we have to
+be thankful for; and that with all its anxieties
+how happy this year has been—how <i>infinitely</i>
+happier, working and striving on together,
+than droning through an insipid life of ease,
+as some do. I don’t know what would become<span class="pagenum" id="Page_20">[20]</span>
+of me if you were ever to be rich,” she
+continued; “to be sure, one might always
+find some useful employment, some good to be
+done; but no one knows, except those who
+have experienced it, the delight of overcoming
+difficulties, and earning home comforts by
+one’s own exertions.”</p>
+
+<p>“True, dear Marion! I never knew, until
+I knew you, how little is necessary for happiness!”</p>
+
+<p>“I knew what life was—I had an anxious
+one at home, even from a little child,” said
+Marion, “and adversity taught me to know
+what is best worth knowing; what flowers to
+gather in this great garden, that many neglect,
+or do not perceive. How sweet are the uses
+of adversity! I love to linger on those words;
+and if ever I venture to write an essay,” said
+she, smiling, “it shall be on that subject.
+What does it not teach us?—the practice of
+almost every virtue.”</p>
+
+<p>“Nay, not quite so far, enthusiast,” said
+her husband, smiling; “remember the effect
+of almost constant sun on flowers; how splendid<span class="pagenum" id="Page_21">[21]</span>
+they become—how fully their beauty is
+developed!”</p>
+
+<p>“Yes; but they cannot bear the storm that
+<i>may</i>, that <i>must</i> come. The stout old thistle,
+reared in cold and sleet, is much better off—much
+more useful, and protects many a little
+plant under its vigorous leaves. Now, only
+think what adversity really does for us. To
+begin with <i>my</i> early life:—my father and
+mother treated me as their friend in all their
+troubles; I was accustomed to watch their
+anxious care-worn faces, to try to cheer them,
+and to rejoice when they brightened: this
+bound us together in the closest affection; I
+believe no child, no parents, were ever so dear to
+each other. No little home was ever so loved as
+mine; and I was quite broken-hearted when
+away from all its cares, even for a short time,
+although in the midst of what people called
+enjoyment. These were very different feelings
+from those of children nursed in the lap of
+affluence, who are frequently selfish, and often
+but little attached to those around them. I
+knew what it was to be deprived of many<span class="pagenum" id="Page_22">[22]</span>
+comforts, which made me grateful for those I
+had, and taught me to feel for the sufferings
+of others infinitely worse off than myself.
+Naturally impetuous, I grew up patient; for,
+as you know, my father was a man of eccentric
+genius, who failed in all his efforts to place us
+in the brilliant position he dreamed of. I felt
+and shared in his disappointments, until disappointment
+itself became powerless! Sympathy
+with those I loved roused me to exertion—taught
+me the value of time—the dignity of
+usefulness! But, above all, the frowns of the
+world, the sweet uses of adversity, made me
+feel the dear necessity of clinging to and
+loving one another, and of living in that
+‘peace which passeth all understanding!’”</p>
+
+<p>Marion paused, and looked with inexpressible
+tenderness on her husband.</p>
+
+<p>“I do not believe we should have loved each
+other half so well if we had not borne so much
+anxiety together,” she presently continued,
+“although it would be a dangerous experiment
+for those to try, who never knew what care
+was! <i>We</i> very coolly stepped into its troubled<span class="pagenum" id="Page_23">[23]</span>
+waters. What straits we have been in! There
+is really some amusement, though, in looking
+back to a hundred comical little difficulties,
+mingled with graver trials; in peeping into
+the crowded picture-gallery of one’s own life—grave
+and gay! Do you remember when we
+were so <i>very</i> poor, and your father’s friends,
+the Saviles, condescended to drive over to
+luncheon with us?”</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, yes,” said Edward, laughing; “when
+poor old Jock behaved so inconsiderately!”</p>
+
+<p>“Inconsiderately, indeed,” said Marion,
+laughing too. “I shall never forget seeing him
+swallow the delicacies which I had prepared
+with so much care, in the coolest manner
+possible, looking me hard in the face all the
+time. I was in an agony to see the ham
+sandwiches disappear one after another down
+his huge throat (knowing there were no more
+in the house, too), while the capricious fine
+lady who took a fancy to feed him, drawled
+out, ‘the d-e-a-r d-o-g! <i>how</i> he li-kes them!’
+I should think he did, indeed, with his appetite!
+I do believe, though, Mr. Edward, that,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_24">[24]</span>
+like all men, you rather enjoyed the scene than
+otherwise; for you never offered to put the
+cruel old dog out of the room.”</p>
+
+<p>“How could I tear him from the flattering
+attentions of his Patroness? But let me see;
+how did you manage it, Marion? I dare say
+very ingeniously and gracefully. I remember
+how proud I felt of you that day.”</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, I appeared to enter into the amusement
+and drollery of his enormous appetite,
+but suggested, in the most affectionate manner
+possible, that he should <i>bow</i> his thanks to
+the fair lady before tasting another morsel!
+Poor Jock, who had not the slightest acquaintance
+with any feat or accomplishment of the
+kind, was all amazement at my gestures and
+commands, and only stared hard for more;
+whereupon he was gently ‘<i>fie-fied</i>,’ and put
+out of the room for his obstinacy and ingratitude!”</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_25">[25]</span></p>
+<div class="bbox">
+<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/facing025.jpg" alt="" /></div>
+
+<p class="illoright"><i>Day &amp; Son, lith<sup>rs</sup> to the Queen.</i></p>
+</div>
+
+<p>They both laughed heartily at the remembrance
+of Jock’s delinquency and its punishment;
+and Marion being in a very merry
+humour, recounted with much mirth many
+other similar incidents, which they <i>could</i> laugh
+at now. “We never deceived each other but
+once,” said she; “the time when you were so ill,
+you know, from over-work, and I used to steal
+slily into the village to give your Latin lessons
+to those stupid boys you were ‘preparing!’ I
+often wonder how I took courage to ask their
+mother to let me take your place: yet I am
+glad I did, for I don’t know what we should
+have done without the money; and I studied
+the lessons so well myself, that I did no injustice
+to your pupils. But then the <i>dénouement</i>!
+I shall never forget your walking into that
+dingy library, pale as death, and your extreme
+surprise on finding me seated in the great chair,
+conjugating a tremendous Latin verb, while the
+poor little mamma looked on with amazement at
+my proficiency! <i>I</i> was startled too, fully believing
+you to be quietly resting on the sofa,
+<i>while I took my walk</i>!”</p>
+
+<p>“We both looked very guilty for an instant.”</p>
+
+<p>“Yes, we did indeed; and I thought I
+never should cease laughing on our way home,
+especially as you were half inclined to be angry!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">[26]</span>
+But my mirth soon vanished when I saw how
+faint you were, and you rested your head on
+my shoulder as we sat on the stile. A terrible
+fear came over me,” continued Marion, shuddering,
+and drawing closer to her husband—“I
+never felt pain like that before!”</p>
+
+<p>Both were silent for some time; and
+Edward tenderly stroked the beautiful head
+bent down beside him. “Nay, look up,
+Marion,” he said; “I am quite well now, love,
+and you must not be so sad.”</p>
+
+<p>“I am not sad,” said Marion, raising her
+large eyes, and smiling gently. “I was thinking
+how grateful I am that you are better,
+and how happy this Christmas would be if you
+were but reconciled to your father.”</p>
+
+<p>“Every house has its spectre, Marion, and
+this haunts ours. I believe one always feels any
+kind of estrangement from those near to us
+most powerfully on days like these. They seem
+to have a strange mysterious power of calling
+up old recollections and early affections!”</p>
+
+<p>“Only those which ought never to be broken
+come at this holy time,” said Marion; “the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">[27]</span>
+gentle thoughts it brings with it seem to me
+like the soft warning of angel voices,—to be
+at peace ere it is too late! I wish you would
+read them so, and write to your mother again:
+she is of a gentler nature; but they must—yes,
+they both must, long to see you again!—Oh,
+if I could but persuade you!” she continued,
+with emotion: “we know not what a day may
+bring forth—even to the youngest and strongest
+among us; and Mrs. Hope says they both
+seem to ‘age’ very much. How deeply you
+would grieve through life if——”</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, Marion, say no more!” exclaimed
+her husband in an agitated voice, “it is that
+thought which so constantly haunts me. For
+myself, I could forget all; but their unkindness
+to you—to you, of whom they ought to
+have been so proud; I cannot forget that!”</p>
+
+<p>“Do not think of it,” said Marion, in a
+soothing tone; “we must not quarrel with
+people because they are unable to see things in
+the same light as ourselves. They knew very
+little of me, and thought, I dare say, that I
+prevented your being much happier with a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">[28]</span>
+wealthier bride: besides, they may love me yet
+when you have made your peace, as I know
+you will,” said she, smiling. “Remember, it
+is to your parents that you bend, and I never
+can feel happy while you are as a stranger to
+them. I suppose it would be my turn next,”
+said she, with her musical laugh, “if I were
+to venture to oppose your wishes, or to say a
+few angry words.”</p>
+
+<p>“Marion!” said her husband reproachfully.</p>
+
+<p>“Well, what security have I,” was the playful
+retort, “over one who could be contented
+under such circumstances? You owe to them
+infinitely more than you do to me—they loved
+you for years and years before I did. Oh,
+Edward! your own heart must tell you more
+than I could ever speak.”</p>
+
+<p>“We will not discuss the subject any further,
+dear Marion,” said he, and his voice
+faltered. “Sing to me, will you? The evening
+never seems perfect without a song from
+you.”</p>
+
+<p>Marion sang the following lines in a rich
+and lovely voice:—</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_29">[29]</span></p>
+
+<h3>THE SPIRIT’S WHISPERINGS.</h3>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poetry">
+<div class="verse">I roved one morn in a sunlit grove,</div>
+<div class="verse">Where the mavis was singing his song of love,</div>
+<div class="verse">Where the wild bee flew on her wing of light,</div>
+<div class="verse">Flitting o’er moss-cup and blossom bright!</div>
+<div class="verse">And Nature was blooming so freshly and fair,</div>
+<div class="verse">Nought fading or dying was resting there;</div>
+<div class="verse">Yet the light breeze sang, as it wafted by,</div>
+<div class="verse">“Alas that the Lily and Rose should die!”</div>
+
+<div class="verse"><hr class="tb" /></div>
+
+<div class="verse">I sat by the side of a maiden bright,</div>
+<div class="verse">Radiant with Beauty, and Hope’s soft light;</div>
+<div class="verse">She sang a lay of our own loved isle,</div>
+<div class="verse">And my heart beat proudly and high the while.</div>
+<div class="verse">Fondly I gazed on that lofty brow—</div>
+<div class="verse">“What can be lovelier—brighter now?”</div>
+<div class="verse">Yet Echo replied to her lute’s soft lay,</div>
+<div class="verse">“The sweetest and fairest must fade away!”</div>
+
+<div class="verse"><hr class="tb" /></div>
+
+<div class="verse">I wandered forth, ’neath the moon’s pale ray,</div>
+<div class="verse">Where the dead in their last long slumbers lay;</div>
+<div class="verse">Softly and coldly her pure beams shone</div>
+<div class="verse">On the mouldering urn and the old grey stone;</div><span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">[30]</span>
+<div class="verse">And I sadly sigh’d, “Must the young and brave,</div>
+<div class="verse">The loved and the honour’d, all share the grave?”</div>
+<div class="verse">And a voice replied, in a hollow sigh,</div>
+<div class="verse">“The bravest and fairest, all—all must die!”</div>
+
+<div class="verse"><hr class="tb" /></div>
+
+<div class="verse">I knew it was as the spirit said,—</div>
+<div class="verse">That all we love on this earth must fade;</div>
+<div class="verse">That gently they wither, and slowly decay,</div>
+<div class="verse">Or are snatch’d in a moment—away, away!</div>
+<div class="verse">And I said, in deep sorrow, “Alas that strife</div>
+<div class="verse">Should breathe on this short—this uncertain life!</div>
+<div class="verse">And, alas for those who, when Life hath fled,</div>
+<div class="verse">Have Peace to ask of the silent Dead!”</div>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>Marion’s beautiful voice trembled with emotion,
+and her eyes were filled with tears as she
+approached her husband. He leaned his head
+thoughtfully on his hand.</p>
+
+<p>Those Magic Words were thrilling in his
+heart.</p>
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">[31]</span>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER III.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">With</span> the exception of the young and
+thoughtless, who only look forward to a season
+of festivity and enjoyment, and of the callous
+and indifferent, who seldom think of such
+matters at all, the varied feelings which hail
+the approach of Christmas may be compared
+to those occasioned by the contemplation of
+advancing age—of age so different in its
+aspects, whether we behold our fellow-mortals
+sinking down into the vale of years alone,
+neglected and unloved; alienated from kindred
+and friends, and still retaining the unholy
+animosities of earlier years; unsubdued by
+religion, unsupported by the contemplation of
+a useful and virtuous life; or, on the contrary,
+surrounded by loved and loving hearts,
+looking back with gratitude and pleasure to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_32">[32]</span>
+the past, and with hope and resignation to the
+future, in peace, and love, and charity with all!
+Many a family in embarrassed circumstances,
+many a poor widow with a “limited income,”
+looks on the increased expenses of this season
+of the year, on its bills and various claims,
+with the same feelings which anticipate the
+infirmities of declining years and sharp attacks
+of rheumatism and gout. Many look forward
+to increased domestic comfort, and brighter
+firesides. Many a mother smiles with delight
+on her children, all assembled round her once
+more. Many a father rejoices in their joyous
+laughter, or in the affection and reverence of
+maturer age. Many an old friend is welcomed
+to the social board. But, alas! there are many,
+too, who look back with a dreary regret to the
+years that are gone, and think, how different
+Christmas Day seems now to what it was!</p>
+
+<p>Such melancholy thoughts were revolving in
+the mind of a man of dignified and venerable
+aspect, pacing gloomily up and down the splendid
+library of a fine old mansion. It was almost
+dark, and the glare of the fire played over the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">[33]</span>
+rich volumes, and on the antique carving of
+the furniture. He looked with a sigh at the
+hearth, once crowded with happy faces. One
+only remained, and ah! how changed from the
+blooming figure of earlier days, which rose
+before him! How feebly that once beautiful
+head lay on the rich velvet cushion of her
+chair! How much suffering and sorrow might
+be traced on that furrowed brow! He felt
+that her reverie was as sad as his own; and
+truly too, for she was thinking of many a fair
+child that had gone down to the tomb in all
+the promise of early youth!—of the pride and
+joy of seeing them assembled at Christmas,
+well and happy!—of the joyous holiday-makings
+and merry meetings!—of the tearful
+partings, and the agony of those final ones,
+when the thin, small hand, pressed in its tiny
+grasp the last life greeting!</p>
+
+<p>Still she could think of the departed with the
+softened and resigned feelings which religion
+and time never fail to produce. But that which
+fell most heavily on her heart and darkened her
+declining years, was, that the last and only surviving<span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">[34]</span>
+one—the boy whom she had loved best—whom
+she had watched over with such intense
+fear and anxiety—was still a stranger from his
+father’s home. Month after month passed, and
+still both, in their pride, hung back from any
+attempt at a reconciliation. She felt that many
+more might not elapse before she would be far
+beyond the reach of mediation, and with a mother’s
+and a wife’s love she longed to see them
+united again ere she departed. Presently she
+walked to the window, and laid her thin white
+hand on the arm of her husband.</p>
+
+<p>“I see you still love to watch the rooks
+going to rest in the old elm-trees.”</p>
+
+<p>“Yes,” said Sir John, hastily; “it is amusing
+to watch their odd flights, and to imagine
+you can distinguish the croak of a particular
+bird.” He would not say that it was Edward’s
+favourite pastime when a boy, but
+his companion knew well that he <i>thought</i>
+of the time when both used to stand there
+together. “But who is this coming up the
+avenue?” he said at length, as if willing to
+shake off the chain of thought. “Mrs. Hope,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_35">[35]</span>
+I fancy, by her black dress. I suppose she is
+come to tell us all about the dinner, as she
+promised.”</p>
+
+<p>No door ever opened on a better, or kinder,
+or more zealous village schoolmistress, than
+did this stately one on the spare, timid little
+body who now advanced. No one ever looked
+more placidly happy, and no one more pleased
+and grateful, when she was kindly placed in
+the most comfortable of chairs by Sir John,
+and welcomed with a cordial smile by his
+lady.</p>
+
+<p>“I came up to tell you, sir, that everything
+was done as you desired. The children were
+<i>so</i> happy, it quite did one’s heart good to see
+them. They all came in the morning with
+evergreens and holly, and we made some beautiful
+wreaths to set off the room. Their new
+dresses look very nice, and they are truly
+thankful to you for your kindness. The coals
+and blankets, and other things, are all sent
+home too, and many say they shall thank Sir
+John for a happy Christmas; which they wish
+in return, with all their hearts, I am sure,”<span class="pagenum" id="Page_36">[36]</span>
+continued the good little woman, with emotion;
+“for, thank God, <i>very</i> few among them are
+ungrateful.”</p>
+
+<p>Sir John’s benevolent countenance brightened
+with pleasure as he listened to the kind
+schoolmistress’s further recital of the village
+festivities, to which he had contributed so
+largely; and his wife marvelled how the heart
+of so good a man could be so unrelenting as
+she knew it was.</p>
+
+<p>Perhaps similar thoughts were passing in the
+mind of Mrs. Hope; for after she had told
+all she ostensibly had to tell, and felt that
+it was time for her to depart, she still lingered,
+and yet hesitated to speak.</p>
+
+<p>“Is there anything you wish to say to us,
+Mrs. Hope?” said the lady, kindly; “pray
+do not be afraid to mention anything in which
+we can be of service to you. Is your son——”</p>
+
+<p>“I thank your ladyship, I was not thinking
+of him then, but of some one very different.
+I thought you might like to know, and yet
+was not sure—but Mr. Edward and his
+lady came over to the school-house to-day,”<span class="pagenum" id="Page_37">[37]</span>
+said she, as if from a desperate resolution,
+“and my heart was quite full to see them
+come and go away again like strangers—just at
+Christmas time, too!” Poor little Mrs. Hope
+trembled, for she saw that Sir John’s brow
+darkened, and he drew back in his chair in an
+agitated manner; but an encouraging look
+from the lady re-assured her. “It was very
+pleasant to see him again,” she continued,
+“in the little parlour where he often used
+to sit years ago, and give the prizes out to the
+children, and speak encouragingly to them.
+I thought he had forgotten the old place, and
+all he was so good to; but he told me he had
+been longing to see it, and never could feel so
+happy anywhere else.”</p>
+
+<p>“Poor Edward!” said the lady, with emotion.
+“How does he look?”</p>
+
+<p>“Very pale and delicate, ma’am; but just the
+same as ever—just the same noble look,” said
+Mrs. Hope, fast gathering courage, “although
+not quite so joyful like as it used to be. He
+made particular inquiries as to how his father
+and mother looked, and seemed terribly cast<span class="pagenum" id="Page_38">[38]</span>
+down when I told him how poorly you had
+both been.”</p>
+
+<p>“Did he, indeed!” exclaimed Sir. John,
+starting from his seat, and pacing up and
+down; “why did you not let me know he was
+with you?”</p>
+
+<p>“I feared you did not wish to know it,”
+was the reply. “But oh, Sir John! in my
+humble way I did think it strange that, in an
+erring world like this, your heart should be
+turned from two such children!”</p>
+
+<p>Tears were running fast down the face of
+the good little schoolmistress. She hurried
+away; but her Magic Words were not spoken
+in vain.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_39">[39]</span></p>
+<div class="bbox">
+<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/facing039.jpg" alt="" /></div>
+
+<p class="illoright"><i>Day &amp; Son, lith<sup>rs</sup> to the Queen.</i></p>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER IV.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Beautifully</span> dawned the last morning of
+the old year. How lovely are some few winter
+sunrisings! A cold, grey sky, and dim, glimmering
+light, scarcely reveals surrounding
+objects. Presently a delicate blush appears,
+gently stealing over the east. It deepens to a
+ruddy glow; and then bright, golden clouds,
+tinged with many a varied hue, overspread the
+sky, lighting up in the strongest relief every
+leafless tree, even to the most fibre-like branches.</p>
+
+<p>Everything is very still. Edith sits silently
+at the window of her dressing-room, watching
+that lovely dawn. Presently a few starlings
+appear on the frosty slopes, with their quick,
+impatient gestures and rapid movements, seeking
+a breakfast. A pair of beautiful blackbirds
+droop their jetty wings, and seem<span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">[40]</span>
+numbed with cold. A robin, cheerful even in
+adversity, trills a few grateful notes on a shrub
+near the window, and Edith thinks that no
+new-year’s serenade could be half as touching
+as that low, sweet song. She thinks, too, what
+a lesson it teaches; for her melancholy eye
+had been straying mournfully over the broad
+lands stretching far and wide before her, and—“’tis
+an old tale, and often told,”—she had
+almost envied the humblest cottager in those her
+lordly possessions. “Farewell, old year!” she
+exclaimed; “none other will ever dawn upon
+me as you did. May the new bear happiness
+and joy to many! Oh, Marion! you little
+thought how desolate I am, when you prophesied
+that there was yet much in store for me.”</p>
+
+<p>Marion’s picturesque cottage could be plainly
+seen in the distance, shut in by the blue range
+of hills above, and sheltered with sweeping
+larches. The morning sun now shone brightly
+upon it, and Edith pictured to herself the
+beaming, happy countenance of her friend.</p>
+
+<p>“May God bless you, Marion!” she continued
+with emotion; “for to the example of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">[41]</span>
+your gentle goodness I owe all that is now left
+me,—the knowledge of that usefulness, that
+patient love and forbearance, which makes you
+so dear to others, so happy in yourself, and
+without which all that the world calls beauty
+and talent is hollow and heartless indeed! You
+taught me the value of true affection—the folly
+and littleness of the false pride I rejoiced in;
+and yet so sweetly, that I was only humbled
+to myself—not to you. Would that it had
+been but a few short months before! Oh,
+Percy! how willingly would I now confess myself
+in the wrong! But now I am forgotten!
+In your benevolent plans, in your honourable
+successes, there is no thought of me; or I am
+only remembered as a wilful, imperious woman,
+whom you once foolishly loved. I shall never
+see you again—mine the sorrow, mine the
+fault! But I am earning the right to self-esteem;
+I am doing all that I believe you
+would approve of, did you care for me now.”</p>
+
+<p>Her heart was very full as she descended to
+the breakfast-room. No one was there; but
+on the table lay a simple nosegay. “From<span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">[42]</span>
+Marion,” was written on a slip of paper. Edith
+mentally thanked her friend for the love which
+she knew was expressed in the fragrant gift;
+but tears sprang into her eyes as she looked
+on it; for a few lovely roses, the little blue
+periwinkle, with its shining green leaves and
+“sweet remembrances,” and a few early primroses
+and violets, were arranged almost exactly
+as she had received them from a still more
+beloved hand the year before. She started
+as her mother entered the room, and turned
+hastily to conceal her emotion; but touched by
+the look of anxious love which she caught
+fixed on herself, exclaimed, while she suffered
+the large tears to fall down her face, “Oh, my
+mother, I will not be proud to <i>you</i>—Heaven
+knows there would be little merit in that! I was
+thinking”—and her beautiful head lay on her
+mother’s gentle bosom—“of the happiness
+which I have thrown away—of one who has
+forgotten me.”</p>
+
+<p>“Ah, my dear child!” said her mother, as
+she tenderly pressed her hand on the throbbing
+brow, “in the doubtfulness of our nature<span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">[43]</span>
+we often accuse those of forgetfulness whose
+hearts may be breaking for our sake.”</p>
+
+<p>Edith looked up, a sudden expression of joy
+beaming over her countenance. As she bent
+again over the flowers, the sweetest gleam of
+hope stole over her, and she felt the magic
+influence of those words.</p>
+
+<p>Happy are they who in their own interests,
+joys, and sorrows, forget not the welfare of
+others! Edith looked forward with pleasure
+to the events of the day; for in the morning
+the school which she had built was to be
+opened, with an appropriate address from the
+good rector; and in the evening, young and
+old, rich and poor, were to be assembled in her
+splendid home. She had gaily declared to the
+gentry her wish to receive, as lady of the
+manor, “all good comers,” that New-Year’s
+Eve; and to sup in the old hall of her ancestors,
+after the manner of feudal times, with the peasantry
+of her estate “below the salt.” They, of
+course, looked forward to the event with unmixed
+pleasure and delight. Not so all those
+of gentler birth; for she had lived but little<span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">[44]</span>
+among them until of late, and was understood
+still less. Many thought it a capricious whim
+of the spoiled beauty, and many wondered what
+strange thing she would do next. “It was not
+that she cared more than the rest of them that
+the poor should enjoy themselves, but that she
+loved to do as no one else did. What a pity
+her uncle’s fine estate was left in such hands!”</p>
+
+<p>So charitably reasoned some of the invited
+guests; but, happily, there were others who
+knew Edith better, and welcomed with delight
+her kind and benevolent plan for a happy new-year’s
+eve to them all.</p>
+
+<p>The important evening at last arrived. The
+village children could not have existed much
+longer. Wide were the park-gates flung open,
+and never had the old avenue rung with the
+sound of so many merry voices before. Many
+a little belle startled a sleeping bird by stopping
+under his resting-place to admire, by the
+light of the lantern she carried, her bran
+new shoes and pretty frock, wondering if any
+of the great ladies would look half as nice,
+and feel half as happy as she did. Some timid<span class="pagenum" id="Page_45">[45]</span>
+little creatures clung to their mothers’ skirts,
+and looked with mingled feelings of awe and
+admiration on the stately mansion, blazing with
+light in the midst of the dark cedars, half
+afraid of entering it until re-assured by the
+promise of seeing the kind lady whom they all
+loved. But when they arrived there, and were
+welcomed by that sweet lady herself, who shook
+hands with all, and wished them a happy new-year;
+and when they saw the fine old hall
+with its bright armour, and many magnificent
+rooms all beautifully lighted up and decorated,
+and were shown the pictures and other wonderful
+things, their delight knew no bounds.
+But, perhaps, that which charmed them most
+was a deep recess at the lower end of the hall,
+completely filled with rare and luxuriant plants,
+in the midst of which stood a beautiful figure
+of Peace, joining the hands of Anger and Contention,
+who were regarding with a mingled
+expression of surprise and admiration the heavenly
+beauty which they had not perceived
+when occupied with their unholy strife.</p>
+
+<p>The children whispered softly here; for the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">[46]</span>
+light was very dim, but a lovely glow irradiated
+the beaming countenance of Peace, and here
+and there flowers glistened in the dark leaves
+around them.</p>
+
+<p>And now tea and cake, such as they had
+never tasted before, awaited them in a pretty
+room, gay with laurel and holly, where our
+friend Mrs. Hope presided, half beside herself
+with joy, yet preserving the most perfect order
+and decorum. Then the amusements of the
+evening began, which comprised the merriest
+and oddest of all styles of dancing to the music
+of the village band, the wonders of a magic
+lantern, and many a childish game beside; but
+above all, the crowning delight was the new-year’s
+gift to each of a pretty little volume,
+with the name of each written in it by Edith’s
+own hand.</p>
+
+<p>The hours flew too swiftly by—so thought
+these delighted little people, as ten o’clock was
+announced, and Edith wished them all good
+night as kindly as she had welcomed them; but
+in few words, for carriages were arriving, and
+she had to receive her guests: they thanked<span class="pagenum" id="Page_47">[47]</span>
+her in their simple way for the pleasure which
+she had given them, and the homely sincerity
+of their gratitude lighted her sweet face with
+happy smiles.</p>
+
+<p>The spacious picture-gallery, which had been
+converted into a ball-room for the occasion,
+was gay with many a shining wreath. The
+old family portraits seemed to look down with
+pleasure, and to beam a welcome on all assembled
+there; so thought several of the wandering
+villagers, grouped here and there amid the
+more brilliant throng, watching the mazes of
+the dance with interest and amazement, and
+listening with equal surprise to the magnificent
+band, to the music of which many a fairy foot
+was flying. Most, however, thought it very
+inferior to the performance of their own village
+musicians, and wondered how people could
+dance to such spiritless tunes on a new-year’s
+eve like this.</p>
+
+<p>Edith had anticipated their predilection,
+their shyness, and their love of country-dances
+and hornpipes; so they were soon marshalled
+by their gentle chamberlain, Mrs.
+Hope, into another room, where they could<span class="pagenum" id="Page_48">[48]</span>
+enjoy all these to their hearts’ content, and yet
+feel themselves privileged to look in on the
+grandees whenever they pleased. Perhaps
+this room, with its unrestrained mirth and
+merry laughter, was happier than the more
+splendid one; for though many there were
+thoroughly enjoying the beauty and gaiety of
+the scene, still there were heart-burnings.
+In that large assemblage several met, who,
+though once friends, had not spoken for years,
+and who felt startled and uneasy at being
+brought into such close proximity. But scarcely
+a shadow could be cast where the beautiful
+hostess moved and spoke—</p>
+
+<p class="center">“Thought in each glance, and mind in every smile.”</p>
+
+<p>There was so much frankness in every kind
+and earnest word she said, joined to the charm
+of her gentle and courtly manners, that the
+coldest, the most obtuse, the most reserved, felt
+moved and interested beyond themselves, and
+more cordially inclined to all the world beside.</p>
+
+<p>And Marion was there, whose flowers were
+the only ornament on Edith’s snowy dress;
+but she, usually so gay, was thoughtful almost<span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">[49]</span>
+to sadness, and looked anxiously into her husband’s
+face as they stood for a few moments
+apart—“I believed that of late years my father
+never mixed in such scenes as these,” said he.
+“Edith could not have thought he would come
+when she invited us.”</p>
+
+<p>“I knew how it was to be,” said Marion;
+“there are many here to-night whom she hopes
+to bring together again; rich and poor. See,
+she is looking towards us now, while speaking
+to him! Oh, Edward, go up to them at once,
+I entreat you!” exclaimed she earnestly.</p>
+
+<p>“Not before so many people,” said her husband
+with emotion. “Suppose he were to
+refuse my hand?”</p>
+
+<p>Marion sighed: but her hopeful nature
+whispered that the New-Year’s Eve was not
+yet ended. And now a clock of silvery tone
+chimed and struck the hour of midnight.
+The guests were conducted to supper: unseen
+harps, and sweet voices, gave a slow farewell to
+the old year, as they were seating themselves
+at the upper end of the hall, and then burst
+forth into a joyful welcome to the new, as the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">[50]</span>
+villagers entered and took their places at the
+lower range of tables; this again died away,
+and a sweet strain arose, of the softest prayer,
+for peace and happiness to all! Marion looked
+round with emotion.</p>
+
+<p>It was a lovely scene, that huge banquet-hall,
+with its gay wreaths of holly and flowers.
+The bright assemblage of guests; the happy
+faces of the villagers below; the beautiful
+hostess, seated in an antique chair at the upper
+end, with the banners of her ancient race,
+trophies of ages long gone by, waving behind
+her; the lovely figure of Peace below, almost
+shrouded in the dark leaves, and forming a
+striking contrast to those warlike emblems:
+all these afforded a sight which, once beheld,
+would not be easily forgotten.</p>
+
+<p>After each guest had paid sufficient homage
+to the choice viands before them, Edith took
+up a cup of curious workmanship; her face
+was radiant with kindness and love as she
+looked on those around her.</p>
+
+<p>“This cup has been possessed, for many a
+century, by my ancestors,” she said; “preserved<span class="pagenum" id="Page_51">[51]</span>
+for ages as a venerated relic: doubtless
+many a toast has been pledged in it—many a
+friendly welcome expressed; but I believe no
+more cordial and sincere one than that with
+which I greet you all this night. I would fain
+express the usual wish of a new-year of all
+imaginable happiness and prosperity, but as
+such have never visited this earth, we know it
+would be vain; and I therefore wish you the
+greatest of all blessings—that which cheers
+and supports us in the sorrows of life, and
+heightens beyond measure its pleasures and
+enjoyments,—love and harmony in your hearts
+and homes! There may be some among us
+estranged from friends and kindred, grieving
+over the fault, (for few, let us hope, in a
+Christian land, can live unmoved in enmity
+one with another,) and yet hanging back, in
+mistaken pride or want of moral courage, from
+the few conciliatory words which would, in
+most cases, suffice for a perfect reconciliation.
+The old year is now passing away—may it
+bear with it all anger, all animosity! May
+those few healing words be spoken,—and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_52">[52]</span>
+Peace, and Love, and Charity be with us
+all!”</p>
+
+<p>Edith’s voice trembled with emotion, but
+she did not perceive the agitation of many
+of her guests, for her eyes were fixed, as
+if in a dream, on the lower end of the hall.
+There was a movement of surprise among those
+seated there: she made her way, she knew not
+how, through them all. Yes, it was Percy!—One
+look, expressing a thousand emotions, and
+their hands were clasped in each other! For
+an instant her lovely head was bowed before
+him, while a few large, heavy tears, fell on
+the flowers at her feet! But she soon mastered
+her emotion, and, with a face radiant
+with joy, led him through the crowd of sympathising
+faces to her mother’s side. In the
+short silence which ensued, the bells of the
+village church were plainly heard ringing-in
+the new-born year! When had they ever
+sounded so sweetly before?</p>
+
+<p>And now a joyous strain again burst forth,
+and all returned to the ball-room. Again the
+young, the beautiful, the gay, joined in the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_53">[53]</span>
+dance; and never feet flew more lightly than
+theirs. But there were those who felt a deeper
+joy; the serene, the heavenly one of Reconciliation!</p>
+
+<p>And Percy and Edith once more stood side
+by side,—united, happy! And Marion told
+her wondering friend how Percy (who was an
+old college friend of her husband’s) had come
+to see them that morning, and in their quiet
+home had confessed that he was drawn to
+them by the desire of obtaining news of her,
+round whom his deep true love still lingered
+with so much regret. She had tried to persuade
+him to accompany them that night, but
+still he doubted—still feared. Yet he now
+confessed to Edith how, when they were gone,
+he had longed to see her face again, how he
+had concealed himself in the crowd, and how
+he had been moved, by what she had just said,
+to rush forward from the recess where he
+stood unobserved, that he might be the first
+to own the gentle Magic of those words!</p>
+
+<p>And many others had felt them too!
+Marion was leaning on <i>her father’s</i> arm—her<span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">[54]</span>
+eyes cast down and tearful in their joyfulness,
+as he spoke to her in a low tone of the invalid
+whom she must see on the morrow.</p>
+
+<p>And all hearts were touched and softened,
+and rich and poor felt drawn closer together!
+And they thought of the voice that had said,—“Love
+one another as I have loved you,”—and
+of the divine lessons of peacefulness and
+long-suffering which some had forgotten!
+And many blessed to the end of their days
+the Magic Words spoken by the Peacemaker<a id="FNanchor_1" href="#Footnote_1" class="fnanchor">[A]</a>
+on that New-year’s Night.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">[55]</span>
+<h2 class="nobreak">MAGIC WORDS.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poetry">
+<div class="stanza">
+<div class="verse">Magic words! magic words!</div>
+<div class="indent">From holy impulse they are born,</div>
+<div class="verse">The seeming chance of circumstance,</div>
+<div class="indent">God’s utterance to hearts forlorn;</div>
+<div class="verse">Where’er they fall reject them not,</div>
+<div class="indent">Nor think their mission is in vain;</div>
+<div class="verse">’Twixt loving hearts, whom coldness parts,</div>
+<div class="indent">Let not the dreary silence reign.</div>
+<div class="indent2">Magic words! what are they?</div>
+<div class="indent2">Things the truest soul will say!</div>
+</div>
+<div class="stanza">
+<div class="verse">Magic words! magic words!</div>
+<div class="indent">Ah! dear as to the dying flow’r,</div>
+<div class="verse">The starry dews that balm infuse,</div>
+<div class="indent">And whisper of the fallen show’r!</div>
+<div class="verse">Sweet as the bubbling desert spring</div>
+<div class="indent">To one who wanders o’er the sands,</div>
+<div class="verse">Are those chance words, that sow like birds</div>
+<div class="indent">The flowering seeds of happier lands!</div>
+<div class="indent2">Magic words! what are they?</div>
+<div class="indent2">Things the simplest tongue may say!</div>
+</div>
+<div class="stanza"><span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">[56]</span>
+<div class="verse">Magic words! magic words!</div>
+<div class="indent">O let them live on ev’ry lip,</div>
+<div class="verse">A source of bliss, of holiest kiss,</div>
+<div class="indent">And bond of fairest fellowship.</div>
+<div class="verse">And evermore at this blest time,</div>
+<div class="indent">Tho’ winter’s snows o’erspread the scene,</div>
+<div class="verse">One magic call, to bind us all,</div>
+<div class="indent">Shall be old Christmas’ evergreen!</div>
+<div class="indent2">Magic words! are not they</div>
+<div class="indent2">Offerings meet for Christmas Day?</div>
+</div></div></div>
+
+<p class="center"><small>London:—Printed by <span class="smcap">G. Barclay</span>, Castle St. Leicester Sq.</small></p>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p class="ph1">FOOTNOTE:</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a id="Footnote_1" href="#FNanchor_1" class="label">[A]</a> Edith, in the Anglo-Saxon language, signifies Peacemaker.</p>
+
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<div class="transnote">
+<p class="ph1">TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES:</p>
+
+<p>Obvious typographical errors have been corrected.</p>
+
+<p>Inconsistencies in hyphenation have been standardized.</p>
+
+<p>Archaic or variant spelling has been retained.</p>
+</div></div>
+
+<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 68424 ***</div>
+</body>
+</html>
diff --git a/old/68424-0.txt b/old/68424-0.txt
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..595f83f
--- /dev/null
+++ b/old/68424-0.txt
@@ -0,0 +1,1470 @@
+The Project Gutenberg eBook of Magic words, by Emilie Maceroni
+
+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
+will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before
+using this eBook.
+
+Title: Magic words
+       A tale for Christmas time
+
+Author: Emilie Maceroni
+
+Illustrator: E. H. Wehnert
+
+Release Date: June 29, 2022 [eBook #68424]
+
+Language: English
+
+Produced by: Charlene Taylor, David E. Brown, and the Online Distributed
+             Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was
+             produced from images generously made available by The
+             Internet Archive/American Libraries.)
+
+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MAGIC WORDS ***
+
+
+
+
+
+MAGIC WORDS.
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.]
+
+
+
+
+  MAGIC WORDS;
+
+  A Tale for Christmas Time.
+
+  BY
+  EMILIE MACERONI.
+
+  “Oh, many a shaft at random sent,
+  Finds mark the archer little meant;
+  And many a word at random spoken
+  May soothe or wound a heart that’s broken.”
+
+                                     _Scott._
+
+  WITH FOUR ILLUSTRATIONS BY E. H. WEHNERT.
+
+  [Illustration]
+
+  LONDON:
+  CUNDALL & ADDEY, 21 OLD BOND STREET.
+  M.DCCC.LI.
+
+
+
+
+  LONDON:
+  Printed by G. BARCLAY, Castle St. Leicester Sq.
+
+
+
+
+  TO
+  MRS. AUSTIN
+  This Little Volume
+  IS AFFECTIONATELY INSCRIBED.
+
+
+
+
+ILLUSTRATIONS.
+
+
+  LITTLE MARY AND HER FRIEND TROY             11
+
+  MARION TEACHING LATIN                       25
+
+  EDITH WATCHING THE DAWN                     39
+
+  MARION AND HER FATHER (_Frontispiece_)      53
+
+        _From Drawings by_ E. H. WEHNERT.
+
+
+
+
+MAGIC WORDS.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+
+It was the evening of Christmas Day. The hymn of “Peace upon earth,
+good-will towards men,” had been chanted by thousands of voices
+throughout the land, from the grand cathedral-choir to the simple
+singers of the village church. Charity had extended her munificent
+hand to the poor and needy, lighting up smiles on many a care-worn
+face. Hospitality welcomed the good, the beautiful, and the great to
+the lordly mansions of the rich. Love and Peace sat enthroned in many
+a happy home. Poverty, shivering at the present, was consoled by the
+glowing figure of Hope, pointing with radiant eyes to the future.
+Memory and Sorrow lingered around the grave of many a departed one;
+but of all mourners they were the saddest who were estranged from
+those they still loved. Yes, amid the pain, the sorrow, the suffering
+of life, _their_ hearts were the heaviest; for (to use the oft-quoted
+words of the poet) “to be wroth with those we love, doth work like
+madness in the brain;” and this hallowed season speaks strongest to our
+kindest feelings, and to the tenderness of our better nature.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+A train had stopped at a rough little village station about thirty
+miles from town, and a few country people, on their way home, leaned
+over the bridge above to admire the enormous red eyes of the monster
+as it moved slowly on through a deep cutting crowned with dark firs.
+They lingered yet a moment longer, to mark whom it had borne from the
+great city to their quiet village. A beautiful girl of fifteen, glowing
+with health and exercise, accompanied by two fine, rough-looking dogs,
+rushed down to meet her playfellows and friends. She was breathless
+with joy, and with her race over the heath; but her merry laugh and
+warm greeting sounded pleasantly enough as the noise of the train died
+away in the distance.
+
+A lady, wrapped in a warm plaid, who had been anxiously waiting for
+some time, took the arm of her husband, with a few low words of
+delighted welcome, and they walked briskly away. The dogs of the
+younger party barked with glee--were patted and caressed. One look at
+the dear heath and at the hills beyond, with a thrill of delight at
+the thoughts of a long ramble over them on the morrow, and the ponies
+were mounted, the dogs whistled to, and away flew the happy trio to
+the home-welcome, to the dear old hall, to all the joy of a Christmas
+meeting.
+
+Only two other passengers appeared, winding up the pathway--a gentleman
+of tall and commanding aspect, and a buxom, brisk-footed countrywoman,
+wrapped in her scarlet cloak, who passed him with a low curtsey and
+cheerful good night. She was thinking of the bright fireside, of the
+dear little faces round it anxiously awaiting her return, and of the
+enormous amount of joy contained in that wicker basket. An event of
+great marvel and wonderment is a poor woman’s visit to her friends in
+town, and she is ever in a tearful state of ecstasy and excitement on
+reaching home again; all of which becomes a matter of grave family
+history in the lowly household, and is recounted on many an occasion to
+eager and attentive hearers.
+
+She quickly disappeared up a winding path cut through the furze and
+heather, evidently leading to a low-roofed cottage on the skirts of a
+fir-wood. Lights twinkled in the casement, and joyful voices were soon
+heard approaching to meet and welcome her. The road was now perfectly
+solitary. A few deep-red clouds still hung over the west, and here and
+there a large bright star shone silently through the sharp, pure air.
+Dogs bayed in the distance; the sound came very pleasantly over the
+heather through the rough old pines.
+
+The gentleman walked briskly on, and lights began to appear in the
+valley beneath. He stopped as the merry notes of a flageolet struck
+his ear, proceeding from a cottage by the road-side. The blaze of a
+wood fire within illumined the little rustic porch and neat garden.
+Bright branches of glistening holly shone in the tiny casement. The
+tune ceased, and was followed by a light-hearted laugh and the sound of
+young voices.
+
+“How happy they seem!” said he. “It is such scenes as these which make
+the country so delightful, so cheering to sense and spirit!”
+
+And yet he sighed heavily as he walked on; and passing through an
+avenue of fir and larch leading to one of the prettiest and most
+picturesque cottages in the world, he paused when he reached the
+garden-gate. It seemed, too, a dear, quiet, sweet-smelling home. Lights
+shone from more than one of the windows; and more than one bright young
+face might be seen, by the gleam of its golden hair, flitting about
+in the uncertain light. A sweet young voice singing as sweet a tune
+ceased, as all young voices do, suddenly, when the bell rang out its
+summons, and a brisk, rosy little maid appeared, lantern and key in
+hand, to admit the traveller, and guide him through the long shadow of
+the firs to the house. A favourite dog bounded to meet and gambol round
+him with unrepressed joy. The children clustered into the porch to say,
+timidly, “How do you do?” and hold out their little hands to shake;
+while their mother, advancing with a kindly greeting, expressed her
+pleasure at his return. Even the maid looked pleased and happy to see
+him. But yet it was not his home.
+
+After a few minutes’ conversation, the traveller was seated in his own
+room, his dog, his sole companion, looking at him with glistening eyes,
+as his master fondly stroked his magnificent head. He was a man of
+twenty-eight or thirty years of age, with a sad and thoughtful cast of
+countenance, yet one that all who looked upon it _must_ instantly love
+and respect; it was at once so engaging and so noble. He looked round
+his little room at his sketches and his gun with evident pleasure,
+placed some books and papers which he had brought on a little table
+before him, and drawing his arm-chair close to the blazing pine-logs,
+sat watching the golden cones as they crumbled away, one by one, at
+the height of their brilliancy. But every reverie must have its end;
+and his was brought to a close by the appearance of coffee, borne by
+a bright-eyed country maid, smirking and smiling with pleasure, as
+country servants are wont to do at every fresh arrival.
+
+It would seem that the reverie by the bright fireside was not an idle
+one, but that among many revolving thoughts, some, at least, were
+considered worthy of preservation; for the coffee was soon despatched,
+the table covered with books and papers, and the stranger intently
+occupied with his pen.
+
+So absorbed did he become with it, that after one or two long, wistful
+glances, the fine hound lay down reproachfully on his comfortable rug,
+as if despairing of any further notice that night.
+
+The wind moaned heavily in the pine-branches round the cottage.
+Presently the writer paused and listened to the sound, so like the
+rushing of distant waters. He walked slowly to the window, and gazed
+long and earnestly into the night. It was moonlight, yet stormy;
+and large, glittering stars, looked down through the dark branches,
+when the hurrying white clouds had drifted over them. The distant
+clock of the old village church, slowly striking the hour, sounded
+mournfully over the river; and the lonely man at that little window
+thought of years that were gone, of the bright firesides in many a
+happy home that night, and turned and put away his papers with a sigh.
+He thought how differently he used to work years ago, when, with all
+the ardour of his nature and the energy of hope, and yet with intense
+fear and anxiety, he strove to render himself worthy of one idolized,
+one long-sighed-for object! He thought, too, of the bitterness, the
+agony of disappointment; and how long years of his young life would
+have been thrown away, had he not struggled hard to save himself from
+becoming a useless, melancholy being, given up to the indulgence of
+selfish regrets. He had succeeded,--there was some comfort in that
+reflection. He knew of what he was capable, and dared not throw away
+the power he had acquired, because it no longer availed the idol Self.
+So he still worked on. He had become distinguished for his literary
+labours, and for his contributions to the improvement and well-being
+of his fellow-creatures; but to fame and to the praises of the great
+he was now equally indifferent. His happiest hours were passed in his
+favourite village, where he was greatly beloved, although he dared not
+wholly give himself up to the quiet of a country life.
+
+He had had the old Gothic church restored, with all possible observance
+of its antique ornaments and its fine clustering ivy; and took a kind
+of Sir Roger de Coverley delight in seeing the country people, bettered
+and improved in every way, flocking to it on Sundays to hear his good
+tutor’s sermons, to which he used to listen with so much reverence in
+his boyish days. He had learned to believe that the word “happiness”
+signifies, the being reconciled to bear, still having courage to
+do, and gratitude to enjoy that which remains. Thus, he was usually
+cheerful in his various occupations; _but this was Christmas time_:
+a time when the lonely heart feels most desolate--a time when many a
+tender word spoken by the absent is remembered with sorrow--when all
+anger is forgotten in the feeling of peace and love which steals over
+the heart. And his head lay buried in his hands, his whole soul given
+up to an overwhelming agony of regret.
+
+[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.]
+
+“This day last year,” he muttered, “who could have believed the change?
+Oh, Edith!” he continued, taking up a miniature that lay beside him,
+“who could have thought then that we should now be as strangers to
+each other? Who could have thought that that bright face, those many
+noble qualities, could have wrought so much misery?” Again he looked
+at the lovely countenance, smiling on him a thousand of the tenderest
+remembrances, and a still gentler expression, a kindlier spirit, came
+over him. “Those eyes,” he said, “how softly they have looked on me!
+Perhaps even now a thought----but what folly! In the pride of
+beauty and prosperity, what is there to remind her of me?”
+
+A low tap at the door interrupted his meditations. For an instant he
+could not say, “Come in!” his heart was so very full; but quickly
+recovering himself, he turned with a smile to welcome a little village
+child, who timidly advanced to place both her tiny hands in his.
+
+She looked into his face with eyes beaming with love and gratitude; but
+the joyful, sparkling expression soon faded away, for she saw that he
+was sadder than usual; and with the quick sympathy and natural grace
+of childhood she sat down quietly on the rug, and taking the stately
+head of the hound on her lap, pensively stroked his long, shaggy coat.
+Presently she ventured to break the silence in her gentle way--“I am so
+glad you are come back, sir; I have missed you so!”
+
+Her companion’s countenance brightened, and he said with
+animation--“Have you, though, my poor little Mary? I thought you had
+forgotten me, being so long away.” And he stroked her bright brown hair.
+
+“You should not have thought that,” said the child, earnestly; “I
+always remember you, for you taught me all I know. I was longing to
+come yesterday, and all day to-day,” she continued, “to hear if you
+had arrived. To-day has been so happy that I could not stay away any
+longer, and so here I am,” she added, with her merry laugh, which
+sounded pleasantly in that usually silent room. These simple words,
+that mute caress, had restored the confidence of the two friends. Mary
+was herself again, full of fun and prattle. Seated on the extreme edge
+of a huge Gothic chair, she balanced her little feet on the back of
+her friend Troy, who, far from resenting the liberty, fixed his dark
+eyes lovingly on her sweet young face, while she talked on, full of
+the details of her simple life. How she had gathered pine-cones for
+several evenings, because she knew he loved their cheerful blaze and
+sweet smell. How poor Turpin, who was always in trouble, had hunted
+a rabbit, and been caught in a trap; of her mad race over the hills
+for help; how she nursed the poor, poor foot afterwards; and how
+the faithful patient cried because he could not accompany her that
+night; the relation of all which very much affected his kind little
+mistress. Presently she produced with great glee her “Christmas
+present,”--several little bundles of bark, peeled with great care, from
+the silver birch-trees, cut into slips, and tied with red worsted. “I
+burnt a little bit the other day,” said she, “and the smell was so nice
+I thought you would like it, so I got some to light your taper with--do
+try it;” and the little creature soon held a blazing piece in her hand.
+
+“It is delicious, Mary; and how good of you to collect it for me!”
+
+“I was very happy getting it,” said the child; “but I wish you had not
+thought I had forgotten you. I could not forget you!” she continued,
+after a pause; “you, who have been so good to me, and taught me so
+much! I never looked at a book before you came. Oh, I was sadly wild!
+Mother said I made more noise than the boys!” And she laughed heartily.
+
+The tutor laughed too, and told the often repeated story, which he knew
+she loved to hear, of how, in his walks, he had frequently listened to
+her little voice singing in a cornfield, while “minding” birds; how he
+had been surprised at her sudden disappearance on his nearer approach,
+and on making a voyage of discovery, had found her ensconced in the
+body of a broken-down post-chaise, that, singularly enough, lay between
+two old fir-trees at the foot of the wood! He did not describe to her
+how, in imagination, he had pictured the different and exciting scenes
+in which the once gay equipage might have borne its part; but went on
+to say how he had peeped in unobserved, and had seen her perched on
+one of the dilapidated seats, with a little piece of board on her lap,
+intently occupied in carving a morsel of meat into divers small pieces,
+which she divided, with impartial care, among three ragged starlings
+perched on the opposite beam, who watched her with glistening eyes!
+How merrily she talked to them, and how perfectly they seemed to love
+and understand each other! He reminded her of her surprise on being
+discovered, and her frank invitation to the intruder to “look in” on
+the wonders of the unique aviary, with its valuable illustrations of
+the “History of Red Riding Hood,” its bright jay’s feathers, and other
+childish treasures!
+
+Heartily the little Mary laughed; and so the Christmas evening passed
+on.
+
+“I must go now,” she said; “I promised to read mother the pretty story
+you gave me, ‘Simple Susan,’ and they will all sit up for it! Good bye!
+You will promise not to be so sad when I am gone as you were when I
+came in. You have been thinking of that pretty lady again!” she said,
+with a face of anxious love--pointing to the miniature--“that makes you
+so, I know! Why don’t you go to her?”
+
+“Because she does not love me, Mary,” was the faltering reply; “and you
+know we are not happy with those who do not love us.”
+
+“Are you _sure_ of that?” said the child, earnestly. “People often
+hide their kindest thoughts--and perhaps she hides hers from you; you
+must look for them, as I look for violets, in their thick leaves. Oh,
+I was so unhappy once!” she continued, tears starting into her eyes at
+the remembrance: “I quarrelled with my brother, and we did not speak
+all day--both were so proud: but do you know” (and the sweet little
+face sparkled) “that when I put my arms round his neck and kissed him,
+and said, ‘Good night, Harry!’ he kissed me, and cried too; and said
+how unhappy he had been _all_ the time. I had thought he would _never_,
+_never_ love me again! Oh! if my brother had died, as baby did, before
+we kissed each other that night!”
+
+Poor little Mary paused, her heart quite full at the bare idea of such
+a thing; but she turned again, with admiring eyes, to the miniature.
+“She looks very kind and good, and _so_ beautiful! Did you speak
+gently, and ask her to love you again: or were you proud?”
+
+The child did not notice the agitation of her companion, and little did
+she imagine that, long after her head lay softly on her happy pillow,
+the simple eloquence of those Magic Words was working powerfully in his
+heart!
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+
+Over many a mile of hard, frosty road, by snow-clad fields and hills
+and woods, by many an ice-bound stream, must we lead the imagination
+of our reader on the evening of the same Christmas Day, and peep into
+another home, far from that we have just quitted.
+
+Undrawing the warm crimson curtains of a charming little room--half
+drawing-room, half library--the light of a lamp falls brightly on the
+figure of a lady reading to her husband. It is manuscript, and he puts
+the pages by for her as she goes on.
+
+She often pauses, to look up with a delighted smile at his praises, and
+he thinks that she never looked so beautiful before! She is very like
+Correggio’s Magdalen, and has the same lovely countenance and waving
+hair.
+
+Presently she came to the last page, and the praise was repeated.
+
+“I had no idea I could translate so well,” said she, “and am glad you
+like it, for that will give me spirits to go on: I may, in time, become
+quite useful to you.”
+
+“When are you not everything to me?” was the reply. “But, Marion, you
+must not work so hard; I cannot afford to see you look one bit less
+bright. Besides, it is a kind of reproach to me your working so much;
+indeed you must not!”
+
+“Nonsense!” said Marion, laughing; “you can’t think how happy I am
+when helping you, for I am sure you are often very weary! Poor Edward!
+what anxiety I have caused you! Now for a volley of protestations!”
+said she, laughing again. “But to be serious: I was thinking, to-day,
+how much we have to be thankful for; and that with all its anxieties
+how happy this year has been--how _infinitely_ happier, working and
+striving on together, than droning through an insipid life of ease,
+as some do. I don’t know what would become of me if you were ever
+to be rich,” she continued; “to be sure, one might always find some
+useful employment, some good to be done; but no one knows, except those
+who have experienced it, the delight of overcoming difficulties, and
+earning home comforts by one’s own exertions.”
+
+“True, dear Marion! I never knew, until I knew you, how little is
+necessary for happiness!”
+
+“I knew what life was--I had an anxious one at home, even from a
+little child,” said Marion, “and adversity taught me to know what is
+best worth knowing; what flowers to gather in this great garden, that
+many neglect, or do not perceive. How sweet are the uses of adversity!
+I love to linger on those words; and if ever I venture to write an
+essay,” said she, smiling, “it shall be on that subject. What does it
+not teach us?--the practice of almost every virtue.”
+
+“Nay, not quite so far, enthusiast,” said her husband, smiling;
+“remember the effect of almost constant sun on flowers; how splendid
+they become--how fully their beauty is developed!”
+
+“Yes; but they cannot bear the storm that _may_, that _must_ come.
+The stout old thistle, reared in cold and sleet, is much better
+off--much more useful, and protects many a little plant under its
+vigorous leaves. Now, only think what adversity really does for us.
+To begin with _my_ early life:--my father and mother treated me as
+their friend in all their troubles; I was accustomed to watch their
+anxious care-worn faces, to try to cheer them, and to rejoice when
+they brightened: this bound us together in the closest affection; I
+believe no child, no parents, were ever so dear to each other. No
+little home was ever so loved as mine; and I was quite broken-hearted
+when away from all its cares, even for a short time, although in the
+midst of what people called enjoyment. These were very different
+feelings from those of children nursed in the lap of affluence, who
+are frequently selfish, and often but little attached to those around
+them. I knew what it was to be deprived of many comforts, which made
+me grateful for those I had, and taught me to feel for the sufferings
+of others infinitely worse off than myself. Naturally impetuous, I
+grew up patient; for, as you know, my father was a man of eccentric
+genius, who failed in all his efforts to place us in the brilliant
+position he dreamed of. I felt and shared in his disappointments,
+until disappointment itself became powerless! Sympathy with those I
+loved roused me to exertion--taught me the value of time--the dignity
+of usefulness! But, above all, the frowns of the world, the sweet
+uses of adversity, made me feel the dear necessity of clinging to and
+loving one another, and of living in that ‘peace which passeth all
+understanding!’”
+
+Marion paused, and looked with inexpressible tenderness on her husband.
+
+“I do not believe we should have loved each other half so well if we
+had not borne so much anxiety together,” she presently continued,
+“although it would be a dangerous experiment for those to try, who
+never knew what care was! _We_ very coolly stepped into its troubled
+waters. What straits we have been in! There is really some amusement,
+though, in looking back to a hundred comical little difficulties,
+mingled with graver trials; in peeping into the crowded picture-gallery
+of one’s own life--grave and gay! Do you remember when we were so
+_very_ poor, and your father’s friends, the Saviles, condescended to
+drive over to luncheon with us?”
+
+“Oh, yes,” said Edward, laughing; “when poor old Jock behaved so
+inconsiderately!”
+
+“Inconsiderately, indeed,” said Marion, laughing too. “I shall never
+forget seeing him swallow the delicacies which I had prepared with so
+much care, in the coolest manner possible, looking me hard in the face
+all the time. I was in an agony to see the ham sandwiches disappear
+one after another down his huge throat (knowing there were no more in
+the house, too), while the capricious fine lady who took a fancy to
+feed him, drawled out, ‘the d-e-a-r d-o-g! _how_ he li-kes them!’ I
+should think he did, indeed, with his appetite! I do believe, though,
+Mr. Edward, that, like all men, you rather enjoyed the scene than
+otherwise; for you never offered to put the cruel old dog out of the
+room.”
+
+“How could I tear him from the flattering attentions of his Patroness?
+But let me see; how did you manage it, Marion? I dare say very
+ingeniously and gracefully. I remember how proud I felt of you that
+day.”
+
+“Oh, I appeared to enter into the amusement and drollery of his
+enormous appetite, but suggested, in the most affectionate manner
+possible, that he should _bow_ his thanks to the fair lady before
+tasting another morsel! Poor Jock, who had not the slightest
+acquaintance with any feat or accomplishment of the kind, was all
+amazement at my gestures and commands, and only stared hard for more;
+whereupon he was gently ‘_fie-fied_,’ and put out of the room for his
+obstinacy and ingratitude!”
+
+[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.]
+
+They both laughed heartily at the remembrance of Jock’s delinquency and
+its punishment; and Marion being in a very merry humour, recounted with
+much mirth many other similar incidents, which they _could_ laugh
+at now. “We never deceived each other but once,” said she; “the time
+when you were so ill, you know, from over-work, and I used to steal
+slily into the village to give your Latin lessons to those stupid boys
+you were ‘preparing!’ I often wonder how I took courage to ask their
+mother to let me take your place: yet I am glad I did, for I don’t know
+what we should have done without the money; and I studied the lessons
+so well myself, that I did no injustice to your pupils. But then
+the _dénouement_! I shall never forget your walking into that dingy
+library, pale as death, and your extreme surprise on finding me seated
+in the great chair, conjugating a tremendous Latin verb, while the
+poor little mamma looked on with amazement at my proficiency! _I_ was
+startled too, fully believing you to be quietly resting on the sofa,
+_while I took my walk_!”
+
+“We both looked very guilty for an instant.”
+
+“Yes, we did indeed; and I thought I never should cease laughing on
+our way home, especially as you were half inclined to be angry! But
+my mirth soon vanished when I saw how faint you were, and you rested
+your head on my shoulder as we sat on the stile. A terrible fear came
+over me,” continued Marion, shuddering, and drawing closer to her
+husband--“I never felt pain like that before!”
+
+Both were silent for some time; and Edward tenderly stroked the
+beautiful head bent down beside him. “Nay, look up, Marion,” he said;
+“I am quite well now, love, and you must not be so sad.”
+
+“I am not sad,” said Marion, raising her large eyes, and smiling
+gently. “I was thinking how grateful I am that you are better, and
+how happy this Christmas would be if you were but reconciled to your
+father.”
+
+“Every house has its spectre, Marion, and this haunts ours. I believe
+one always feels any kind of estrangement from those near to us most
+powerfully on days like these. They seem to have a strange mysterious
+power of calling up old recollections and early affections!”
+
+“Only those which ought never to be broken come at this holy time,”
+said Marion; “the gentle thoughts it brings with it seem to me like
+the soft warning of angel voices,--to be at peace ere it is too late!
+I wish you would read them so, and write to your mother again: she
+is of a gentler nature; but they must--yes, they both must, long to
+see you again!--Oh, if I could but persuade you!” she continued, with
+emotion: “we know not what a day may bring forth--even to the youngest
+and strongest among us; and Mrs. Hope says they both seem to ‘age’ very
+much. How deeply you would grieve through life if----”
+
+“Oh, Marion, say no more!” exclaimed her husband in an agitated voice,
+“it is that thought which so constantly haunts me. For myself, I could
+forget all; but their unkindness to you--to you, of whom they ought to
+have been so proud; I cannot forget that!”
+
+“Do not think of it,” said Marion, in a soothing tone; “we must not
+quarrel with people because they are unable to see things in the same
+light as ourselves. They knew very little of me, and thought, I dare
+say, that I prevented your being much happier with a wealthier bride:
+besides, they may love me yet when you have made your peace, as I know
+you will,” said she, smiling. “Remember, it is to your parents that you
+bend, and I never can feel happy while you are as a stranger to them.
+I suppose it would be my turn next,” said she, with her musical laugh,
+“if I were to venture to oppose your wishes, or to say a few angry
+words.”
+
+“Marion!” said her husband reproachfully.
+
+“Well, what security have I,” was the playful retort, “over one who
+could be contented under such circumstances? You owe to them infinitely
+more than you do to me--they loved you for years and years before I
+did. Oh, Edward! your own heart must tell you more than I could ever
+speak.”
+
+“We will not discuss the subject any further, dear Marion,” said he,
+and his voice faltered. “Sing to me, will you? The evening never seems
+perfect without a song from you.”
+
+Marion sang the following lines in a rich and lovely voice:--
+
+
+THE SPIRIT’S WHISPERINGS.
+
+  I roved one morn in a sunlit grove,
+  Where the mavis was singing his song of love,
+  Where the wild bee flew on her wing of light,
+  Flitting o’er moss-cup and blossom bright!
+  And Nature was blooming so freshly and fair,
+  Nought fading or dying was resting there;
+  Yet the light breeze sang, as it wafted by,
+  “Alas that the Lily and Rose should die!”
+
+         *       *       *       *       *
+
+  I sat by the side of a maiden bright,
+  Radiant with Beauty, and Hope’s soft light;
+  She sang a lay of our own loved isle,
+  And my heart beat proudly and high the while.
+  Fondly I gazed on that lofty brow--
+  “What can be lovelier--brighter now?”
+  Yet Echo replied to her lute’s soft lay,
+  “The sweetest and fairest must fade away!”
+
+         *       *       *       *       *
+
+  I wandered forth, ’neath the moon’s pale ray,
+  Where the dead in their last long slumbers lay;
+  Softly and coldly her pure beams shone
+  On the mouldering urn and the old grey stone;
+  And I sadly sigh’d, “Must the young and brave,
+  The loved and the honour’d, all share the grave?”
+  And a voice replied, in a hollow sigh,
+  “The bravest and fairest, all--all must die!”
+
+         *       *       *       *       *
+
+  I knew it was as the spirit said,--
+  That all we love on this earth must fade;
+  That gently they wither, and slowly decay,
+  Or are snatch’d in a moment--away, away!
+  And I said, in deep sorrow, “Alas that strife
+  Should breathe on this short--this uncertain life!
+  And, alas for those who, when Life hath fled,
+  Have Peace to ask of the silent Dead!”
+
+Marion’s beautiful voice trembled with emotion, and her eyes were
+filled with tears as she approached her husband. He leaned his head
+thoughtfully on his hand.
+
+Those Magic Words were thrilling in his heart.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+
+With the exception of the young and thoughtless, who only look
+forward to a season of festivity and enjoyment, and of the callous
+and indifferent, who seldom think of such matters at all, the varied
+feelings which hail the approach of Christmas may be compared to those
+occasioned by the contemplation of advancing age--of age so different
+in its aspects, whether we behold our fellow-mortals sinking down into
+the vale of years alone, neglected and unloved; alienated from kindred
+and friends, and still retaining the unholy animosities of earlier
+years; unsubdued by religion, unsupported by the contemplation of a
+useful and virtuous life; or, on the contrary, surrounded by loved and
+loving hearts, looking back with gratitude and pleasure to the past,
+and with hope and resignation to the future, in peace, and love, and
+charity with all! Many a family in embarrassed circumstances, many a
+poor widow with a “limited income,” looks on the increased expenses of
+this season of the year, on its bills and various claims, with the same
+feelings which anticipate the infirmities of declining years and sharp
+attacks of rheumatism and gout. Many look forward to increased domestic
+comfort, and brighter firesides. Many a mother smiles with delight on
+her children, all assembled round her once more. Many a father rejoices
+in their joyous laughter, or in the affection and reverence of maturer
+age. Many an old friend is welcomed to the social board. But, alas!
+there are many, too, who look back with a dreary regret to the years
+that are gone, and think, how different Christmas Day seems now to what
+it was!
+
+Such melancholy thoughts were revolving in the mind of a man of
+dignified and venerable aspect, pacing gloomily up and down the
+splendid library of a fine old mansion. It was almost dark, and the
+glare of the fire played over the rich volumes, and on the antique
+carving of the furniture. He looked with a sigh at the hearth, once
+crowded with happy faces. One only remained, and ah! how changed from
+the blooming figure of earlier days, which rose before him! How feebly
+that once beautiful head lay on the rich velvet cushion of her chair!
+How much suffering and sorrow might be traced on that furrowed brow! He
+felt that her reverie was as sad as his own; and truly too, for she was
+thinking of many a fair child that had gone down to the tomb in all the
+promise of early youth!--of the pride and joy of seeing them assembled
+at Christmas, well and happy!--of the joyous holiday-makings and merry
+meetings!--of the tearful partings, and the agony of those final ones,
+when the thin, small hand, pressed in its tiny grasp the last life
+greeting!
+
+Still she could think of the departed with the softened and resigned
+feelings which religion and time never fail to produce. But that which
+fell most heavily on her heart and darkened her declining years, was,
+that the last and only surviving one--the boy whom she had loved
+best--whom she had watched over with such intense fear and anxiety--was
+still a stranger from his father’s home. Month after month passed,
+and still both, in their pride, hung back from any attempt at a
+reconciliation. She felt that many more might not elapse before she
+would be far beyond the reach of mediation, and with a mother’s and
+a wife’s love she longed to see them united again ere she departed.
+Presently she walked to the window, and laid her thin white hand on the
+arm of her husband.
+
+“I see you still love to watch the rooks going to rest in the old
+elm-trees.”
+
+“Yes,” said Sir John, hastily; “it is amusing to watch their odd
+flights, and to imagine you can distinguish the croak of a particular
+bird.” He would not say that it was Edward’s favourite pastime when a
+boy, but his companion knew well that he _thought_ of the time when
+both used to stand there together. “But who is this coming up the
+avenue?” he said at length, as if willing to shake off the chain of
+thought. “Mrs. Hope, I fancy, by her black dress. I suppose she is
+come to tell us all about the dinner, as she promised.”
+
+No door ever opened on a better, or kinder, or more zealous village
+schoolmistress, than did this stately one on the spare, timid little
+body who now advanced. No one ever looked more placidly happy, and no
+one more pleased and grateful, when she was kindly placed in the most
+comfortable of chairs by Sir John, and welcomed with a cordial smile by
+his lady.
+
+“I came up to tell you, sir, that everything was done as you desired.
+The children were _so_ happy, it quite did one’s heart good to see
+them. They all came in the morning with evergreens and holly, and we
+made some beautiful wreaths to set off the room. Their new dresses
+look very nice, and they are truly thankful to you for your kindness.
+The coals and blankets, and other things, are all sent home too, and
+many say they shall thank Sir John for a happy Christmas; which they
+wish in return, with all their hearts, I am sure,” continued the good
+little woman, with emotion; “for, thank God, _very_ few among them are
+ungrateful.”
+
+Sir John’s benevolent countenance brightened with pleasure as he
+listened to the kind schoolmistress’s further recital of the village
+festivities, to which he had contributed so largely; and his wife
+marvelled how the heart of so good a man could be so unrelenting as she
+knew it was.
+
+Perhaps similar thoughts were passing in the mind of Mrs. Hope; for
+after she had told all she ostensibly had to tell, and felt that it was
+time for her to depart, she still lingered, and yet hesitated to speak.
+
+“Is there anything you wish to say to us, Mrs. Hope?” said the lady,
+kindly; “pray do not be afraid to mention anything in which we can be
+of service to you. Is your son----”
+
+“I thank your ladyship, I was not thinking of him then, but of some
+one very different. I thought you might like to know, and yet was
+not sure--but Mr. Edward and his lady came over to the school-house
+to-day,” said she, as if from a desperate resolution, “and my heart
+was quite full to see them come and go away again like strangers--just
+at Christmas time, too!” Poor little Mrs. Hope trembled, for she saw
+that Sir John’s brow darkened, and he drew back in his chair in an
+agitated manner; but an encouraging look from the lady re-assured her.
+“It was very pleasant to see him again,” she continued, “in the little
+parlour where he often used to sit years ago, and give the prizes out
+to the children, and speak encouragingly to them. I thought he had
+forgotten the old place, and all he was so good to; but he told me he
+had been longing to see it, and never could feel so happy anywhere
+else.”
+
+“Poor Edward!” said the lady, with emotion. “How does he look?”
+
+“Very pale and delicate, ma’am; but just the same as ever--just the
+same noble look,” said Mrs. Hope, fast gathering courage, “although not
+quite so joyful like as it used to be. He made particular inquiries as
+to how his father and mother looked, and seemed terribly cast down
+when I told him how poorly you had both been.”
+
+“Did he, indeed!” exclaimed Sir. John, starting from his seat, and
+pacing up and down; “why did you not let me know he was with you?”
+
+“I feared you did not wish to know it,” was the reply. “But oh, Sir
+John! in my humble way I did think it strange that, in an erring world
+like this, your heart should be turned from two such children!”
+
+Tears were running fast down the face of the good little
+schoolmistress. She hurried away; but her Magic Words were not spoken
+in vain.
+
+[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+
+Beautifully dawned the last morning of the old year. How lovely are
+some few winter sunrisings! A cold, grey sky, and dim, glimmering
+light, scarcely reveals surrounding objects. Presently a delicate blush
+appears, gently stealing over the east. It deepens to a ruddy glow; and
+then bright, golden clouds, tinged with many a varied hue, overspread
+the sky, lighting up in the strongest relief every leafless tree, even
+to the most fibre-like branches.
+
+Everything is very still. Edith sits silently at the window of her
+dressing-room, watching that lovely dawn. Presently a few starlings
+appear on the frosty slopes, with their quick, impatient gestures and
+rapid movements, seeking a breakfast. A pair of beautiful blackbirds
+droop their jetty wings, and seem numbed with cold. A robin, cheerful
+even in adversity, trills a few grateful notes on a shrub near the
+window, and Edith thinks that no new-year’s serenade could be half as
+touching as that low, sweet song. She thinks, too, what a lesson it
+teaches; for her melancholy eye had been straying mournfully over the
+broad lands stretching far and wide before her, and--“’tis an old tale,
+and often told,”--she had almost envied the humblest cottager in those
+her lordly possessions. “Farewell, old year!” she exclaimed; “none
+other will ever dawn upon me as you did. May the new bear happiness and
+joy to many! Oh, Marion! you little thought how desolate I am, when you
+prophesied that there was yet much in store for me.”
+
+Marion’s picturesque cottage could be plainly seen in the distance,
+shut in by the blue range of hills above, and sheltered with sweeping
+larches. The morning sun now shone brightly upon it, and Edith pictured
+to herself the beaming, happy countenance of her friend.
+
+“May God bless you, Marion!” she continued with emotion; “for to the
+example of your gentle goodness I owe all that is now left me,--the
+knowledge of that usefulness, that patient love and forbearance, which
+makes you so dear to others, so happy in yourself, and without which
+all that the world calls beauty and talent is hollow and heartless
+indeed! You taught me the value of true affection--the folly and
+littleness of the false pride I rejoiced in; and yet so sweetly, that
+I was only humbled to myself--not to you. Would that it had been but a
+few short months before! Oh, Percy! how willingly would I now confess
+myself in the wrong! But now I am forgotten! In your benevolent plans,
+in your honourable successes, there is no thought of me; or I am only
+remembered as a wilful, imperious woman, whom you once foolishly loved.
+I shall never see you again--mine the sorrow, mine the fault! But I am
+earning the right to self-esteem; I am doing all that I believe you
+would approve of, did you care for me now.”
+
+Her heart was very full as she descended to the breakfast-room. No
+one was there; but on the table lay a simple nosegay. “From Marion,”
+was written on a slip of paper. Edith mentally thanked her friend for
+the love which she knew was expressed in the fragrant gift; but tears
+sprang into her eyes as she looked on it; for a few lovely roses,
+the little blue periwinkle, with its shining green leaves and “sweet
+remembrances,” and a few early primroses and violets, were arranged
+almost exactly as she had received them from a still more beloved hand
+the year before. She started as her mother entered the room, and turned
+hastily to conceal her emotion; but touched by the look of anxious
+love which she caught fixed on herself, exclaimed, while she suffered
+the large tears to fall down her face, “Oh, my mother, I will not be
+proud to _you_--Heaven knows there would be little merit in that! I was
+thinking”--and her beautiful head lay on her mother’s gentle bosom--“of
+the happiness which I have thrown away--of one who has forgotten me.”
+
+“Ah, my dear child!” said her mother, as she tenderly pressed her hand
+on the throbbing brow, “in the doubtfulness of our nature we often
+accuse those of forgetfulness whose hearts may be breaking for our
+sake.”
+
+Edith looked up, a sudden expression of joy beaming over her
+countenance. As she bent again over the flowers, the sweetest gleam of
+hope stole over her, and she felt the magic influence of those words.
+
+Happy are they who in their own interests, joys, and sorrows, forget
+not the welfare of others! Edith looked forward with pleasure to the
+events of the day; for in the morning the school which she had built
+was to be opened, with an appropriate address from the good rector;
+and in the evening, young and old, rich and poor, were to be assembled
+in her splendid home. She had gaily declared to the gentry her wish to
+receive, as lady of the manor, “all good comers,” that New-Year’s Eve;
+and to sup in the old hall of her ancestors, after the manner of feudal
+times, with the peasantry of her estate “below the salt.” They, of
+course, looked forward to the event with unmixed pleasure and delight.
+Not so all those of gentler birth; for she had lived but little among
+them until of late, and was understood still less. Many thought it a
+capricious whim of the spoiled beauty, and many wondered what strange
+thing she would do next. “It was not that she cared more than the rest
+of them that the poor should enjoy themselves, but that she loved to
+do as no one else did. What a pity her uncle’s fine estate was left in
+such hands!”
+
+So charitably reasoned some of the invited guests; but, happily, there
+were others who knew Edith better, and welcomed with delight her kind
+and benevolent plan for a happy new-year’s eve to them all.
+
+The important evening at last arrived. The village children could not
+have existed much longer. Wide were the park-gates flung open, and
+never had the old avenue rung with the sound of so many merry voices
+before. Many a little belle startled a sleeping bird by stopping under
+his resting-place to admire, by the light of the lantern she carried,
+her bran new shoes and pretty frock, wondering if any of the great
+ladies would look half as nice, and feel half as happy as she did. Some
+timid little creatures clung to their mothers’ skirts, and looked with
+mingled feelings of awe and admiration on the stately mansion, blazing
+with light in the midst of the dark cedars, half afraid of entering
+it until re-assured by the promise of seeing the kind lady whom they
+all loved. But when they arrived there, and were welcomed by that
+sweet lady herself, who shook hands with all, and wished them a happy
+new-year; and when they saw the fine old hall with its bright armour,
+and many magnificent rooms all beautifully lighted up and decorated,
+and were shown the pictures and other wonderful things, their delight
+knew no bounds. But, perhaps, that which charmed them most was a deep
+recess at the lower end of the hall, completely filled with rare and
+luxuriant plants, in the midst of which stood a beautiful figure of
+Peace, joining the hands of Anger and Contention, who were regarding
+with a mingled expression of surprise and admiration the heavenly
+beauty which they had not perceived when occupied with their unholy
+strife.
+
+The children whispered softly here; for the light was very dim, but a
+lovely glow irradiated the beaming countenance of Peace, and here and
+there flowers glistened in the dark leaves around them.
+
+And now tea and cake, such as they had never tasted before, awaited
+them in a pretty room, gay with laurel and holly, where our friend Mrs.
+Hope presided, half beside herself with joy, yet preserving the most
+perfect order and decorum. Then the amusements of the evening began,
+which comprised the merriest and oddest of all styles of dancing to the
+music of the village band, the wonders of a magic lantern, and many
+a childish game beside; but above all, the crowning delight was the
+new-year’s gift to each of a pretty little volume, with the name of
+each written in it by Edith’s own hand.
+
+The hours flew too swiftly by--so thought these delighted little
+people, as ten o’clock was announced, and Edith wished them all good
+night as kindly as she had welcomed them; but in few words, for
+carriages were arriving, and she had to receive her guests: they
+thanked her in their simple way for the pleasure which she had given
+them, and the homely sincerity of their gratitude lighted her sweet
+face with happy smiles.
+
+The spacious picture-gallery, which had been converted into a ball-room
+for the occasion, was gay with many a shining wreath. The old family
+portraits seemed to look down with pleasure, and to beam a welcome on
+all assembled there; so thought several of the wandering villagers,
+grouped here and there amid the more brilliant throng, watching the
+mazes of the dance with interest and amazement, and listening with
+equal surprise to the magnificent band, to the music of which many a
+fairy foot was flying. Most, however, thought it very inferior to the
+performance of their own village musicians, and wondered how people
+could dance to such spiritless tunes on a new-year’s eve like this.
+
+Edith had anticipated their predilection, their shyness, and their love
+of country-dances and hornpipes; so they were soon marshalled by their
+gentle chamberlain, Mrs. Hope, into another room, where they could
+enjoy all these to their hearts’ content, and yet feel themselves
+privileged to look in on the grandees whenever they pleased. Perhaps
+this room, with its unrestrained mirth and merry laughter, was happier
+than the more splendid one; for though many there were thoroughly
+enjoying the beauty and gaiety of the scene, still there were
+heart-burnings. In that large assemblage several met, who, though once
+friends, had not spoken for years, and who felt startled and uneasy at
+being brought into such close proximity. But scarcely a shadow could be
+cast where the beautiful hostess moved and spoke--
+
+  “Thought in each glance, and mind in every smile.”
+
+There was so much frankness in every kind and earnest word she said,
+joined to the charm of her gentle and courtly manners, that the
+coldest, the most obtuse, the most reserved, felt moved and interested
+beyond themselves, and more cordially inclined to all the world beside.
+
+And Marion was there, whose flowers were the only ornament on Edith’s
+snowy dress; but she, usually so gay, was thoughtful almost to
+sadness, and looked anxiously into her husband’s face as they stood for
+a few moments apart--“I believed that of late years my father never
+mixed in such scenes as these,” said he. “Edith could not have thought
+he would come when she invited us.”
+
+“I knew how it was to be,” said Marion; “there are many here to-night
+whom she hopes to bring together again; rich and poor. See, she is
+looking towards us now, while speaking to him! Oh, Edward, go up to
+them at once, I entreat you!” exclaimed she earnestly.
+
+“Not before so many people,” said her husband with emotion. “Suppose he
+were to refuse my hand?”
+
+Marion sighed: but her hopeful nature whispered that the New-Year’s Eve
+was not yet ended. And now a clock of silvery tone chimed and struck
+the hour of midnight. The guests were conducted to supper: unseen
+harps, and sweet voices, gave a slow farewell to the old year, as they
+were seating themselves at the upper end of the hall, and then burst
+forth into a joyful welcome to the new, as the villagers entered
+and took their places at the lower range of tables; this again died
+away, and a sweet strain arose, of the softest prayer, for peace and
+happiness to all! Marion looked round with emotion.
+
+It was a lovely scene, that huge banquet-hall, with its gay wreaths of
+holly and flowers. The bright assemblage of guests; the happy faces of
+the villagers below; the beautiful hostess, seated in an antique chair
+at the upper end, with the banners of her ancient race, trophies of
+ages long gone by, waving behind her; the lovely figure of Peace below,
+almost shrouded in the dark leaves, and forming a striking contrast to
+those warlike emblems: all these afforded a sight which, once beheld,
+would not be easily forgotten.
+
+After each guest had paid sufficient homage to the choice viands before
+them, Edith took up a cup of curious workmanship; her face was radiant
+with kindness and love as she looked on those around her.
+
+“This cup has been possessed, for many a century, by my ancestors,”
+she said; “preserved for ages as a venerated relic: doubtless many a
+toast has been pledged in it--many a friendly welcome expressed; but I
+believe no more cordial and sincere one than that with which I greet
+you all this night. I would fain express the usual wish of a new-year
+of all imaginable happiness and prosperity, but as such have never
+visited this earth, we know it would be vain; and I therefore wish you
+the greatest of all blessings--that which cheers and supports us in
+the sorrows of life, and heightens beyond measure its pleasures and
+enjoyments,--love and harmony in your hearts and homes! There may be
+some among us estranged from friends and kindred, grieving over the
+fault, (for few, let us hope, in a Christian land, can live unmoved in
+enmity one with another,) and yet hanging back, in mistaken pride or
+want of moral courage, from the few conciliatory words which would, in
+most cases, suffice for a perfect reconciliation. The old year is now
+passing away--may it bear with it all anger, all animosity! May those
+few healing words be spoken,--and Peace, and Love, and Charity be with
+us all!”
+
+Edith’s voice trembled with emotion, but she did not perceive the
+agitation of many of her guests, for her eyes were fixed, as if in a
+dream, on the lower end of the hall. There was a movement of surprise
+among those seated there: she made her way, she knew not how, through
+them all. Yes, it was Percy!--One look, expressing a thousand emotions,
+and their hands were clasped in each other! For an instant her lovely
+head was bowed before him, while a few large, heavy tears, fell on the
+flowers at her feet! But she soon mastered her emotion, and, with a
+face radiant with joy, led him through the crowd of sympathising faces
+to her mother’s side. In the short silence which ensued, the bells of
+the village church were plainly heard ringing-in the new-born year!
+When had they ever sounded so sweetly before?
+
+And now a joyous strain again burst forth, and all returned to the
+ball-room. Again the young, the beautiful, the gay, joined in the
+dance; and never feet flew more lightly than theirs. But there
+were those who felt a deeper joy; the serene, the heavenly one of
+Reconciliation!
+
+And Percy and Edith once more stood side by side,--united, happy! And
+Marion told her wondering friend how Percy (who was an old college
+friend of her husband’s) had come to see them that morning, and in
+their quiet home had confessed that he was drawn to them by the desire
+of obtaining news of her, round whom his deep true love still lingered
+with so much regret. She had tried to persuade him to accompany them
+that night, but still he doubted--still feared. Yet he now confessed to
+Edith how, when they were gone, he had longed to see her face again,
+how he had concealed himself in the crowd, and how he had been moved,
+by what she had just said, to rush forward from the recess where he
+stood unobserved, that he might be the first to own the gentle Magic of
+those words!
+
+And many others had felt them too! Marion was leaning on _her father’s_
+arm--her eyes cast down and tearful in their joyfulness, as he spoke
+to her in a low tone of the invalid whom she must see on the morrow.
+
+And all hearts were touched and softened, and rich and poor felt drawn
+closer together! And they thought of the voice that had said,--“Love
+one another as I have loved you,”--and of the divine lessons of
+peacefulness and long-suffering which some had forgotten! And many
+blessed to the end of their days the Magic Words spoken by the
+Peacemaker[A] on that New-year’s Night.
+
+
+
+
+MAGIC WORDS.
+
+
+  Magic words! magic words!
+    From holy impulse they are born,
+  The seeming chance of circumstance,
+    God’s utterance to hearts forlorn;
+  Where’er they fall reject them not,
+    Nor think their mission is in vain;
+  ’Twixt loving hearts, whom coldness parts,
+    Let not the dreary silence reign.
+      Magic words! what are they?
+      Things the truest soul will say!
+
+  Magic words! magic words!
+    Ah! dear as to the dying flow’r,
+  The starry dews that balm infuse,
+    And whisper of the fallen show’r!
+  Sweet as the bubbling desert spring
+    To one who wanders o’er the sands,
+  Are those chance words, that sow like birds
+    The flowering seeds of happier lands!
+      Magic words! what are they?
+      Things the simplest tongue may say!
+
+  Magic words! magic words!
+    O let them live on ev’ry lip,
+  A source of bliss, of holiest kiss,
+    And bond of fairest fellowship.
+  And evermore at this blest time,
+    Tho’ winter’s snows o’erspread the scene,
+  One magic call, to bind us all,
+    Shall be old Christmas’ evergreen!
+      Magic words! are not they
+      Offerings meet for Christmas Day?
+
+
+London:--Printed by G. BARCLAY, Castle St. Leicester Sq.
+
+
+
+
+FOOTNOTE:
+
+  [A] Edith, in the Anglo-Saxon language, signifies Peacemaker.
+
+
+
+
+TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES:
+
+
+  Italicized text is surrounded by underscores: _italics_.
+
+  Superscripted characters are preceded by a carat character: lith^{rs}.
+
+  Obvious typographical errors have been corrected.
+
+  Inconsistencies in hyphenation have been standardized.
+
+  Archaic or variant spelling has been retained.
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MAGIC WORDS ***
+
+Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will
+be renamed.
+
+Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright
+law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works,
+so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the
+United States without permission and without paying copyright
+royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part
+of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm
+concept and trademark. Project Gutenberg is a registered trademark,
+and may not be used if you charge for an eBook, except by following
+the terms of the trademark license, including paying royalties for use
+of the Project Gutenberg trademark. If you do not charge anything for
+copies of this eBook, complying with the trademark license is very
+easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose such as creation
+of derivative works, reports, performances and research. Project
+Gutenberg eBooks may be modified and printed and given away--you may
+do practically ANYTHING in the United States with eBooks not protected
+by U.S. copyright law. Redistribution is subject to the trademark
+license, especially commercial redistribution.
+
+START: FULL LICENSE
+
+THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE
+PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK
+
+To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free
+distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work
+(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project
+Gutenberg"), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full
+Project Gutenberg-tm License available with this file or online at
+www.gutenberg.org/license.
+
+Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic works
+
+1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to
+and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property
+(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all
+the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or
+destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your
+possession. If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a
+Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound
+by the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the
+person or entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph
+1.E.8.
+
+1.B. "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark. It may only be
+used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who
+agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few
+things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works
+even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See
+paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this
+agreement and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic works. See paragraph 1.E below.
+
+1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the
+Foundation" or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection
+of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works. Nearly all the individual
+works in the collection are in the public domain in the United
+States. If an individual work is unprotected by copyright law in the
+United States and you are located in the United States, we do not
+claim a right to prevent you from copying, distributing, performing,
+displaying or creating derivative works based on the work as long as
+all references to Project Gutenberg are removed. Of course, we hope
+that you will support the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting
+free access to electronic works by freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm
+works in compliance with the terms of this agreement for keeping the
+Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with the work. You can easily
+comply with the terms of this agreement by keeping this work in the
+same format with its attached full Project Gutenberg-tm License when
+you share it without charge with others.
+
+1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern
+what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are
+in a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States,
+check the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this
+agreement before downloading, copying, displaying, performing,
+distributing or creating derivative works based on this work or any
+other Project Gutenberg-tm work. The Foundation makes no
+representations concerning the copyright status of any work in any
+country other than the United States.
+
+1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg:
+
+1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other
+immediate access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear
+prominently whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work
+on which the phrase "Project Gutenberg" appears, or with which the
+phrase "Project Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed,
+performed, viewed, copied or distributed:
+
+  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 will have to check the laws of the country where
+  you are located before using this eBook.
+
+1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is
+derived from texts not protected by U.S. copyright law (does not
+contain a notice indicating that it is posted with permission of the
+copyright holder), the work can be copied and distributed to anyone in
+the United States without paying any fees or charges. If you are
+redistributing or providing access to a work with the phrase "Project
+Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the work, you must comply
+either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 or
+obtain permission for the use of the work and the Project Gutenberg-tm
+trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or 1.E.9.
+
+1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted
+with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution
+must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any
+additional terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms
+will be linked to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works
+posted with the permission of the copyright holder found at the
+beginning of this work.
+
+1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm
+License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this
+work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm.
+
+1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this
+electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without
+prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with
+active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project
+Gutenberg-tm License.
+
+1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary,
+compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including
+any word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access
+to or distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format
+other than "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official
+version posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm website
+(www.gutenberg.org), you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense
+to the user, provide a copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means
+of obtaining a copy upon request, of the work in its original "Plain
+Vanilla ASCII" or other form. Any alternate format must include the
+full Project Gutenberg-tm License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1.
+
+1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying,
+performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works
+unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9.
+
+1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing
+access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works
+provided that:
+
+* You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from
+  the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method
+  you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is owed
+  to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he has
+  agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the Project
+  Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments must be paid
+  within 60 days following each date on which you prepare (or are
+  legally required to prepare) your periodic tax returns. Royalty
+  payments should be clearly marked as such and sent to the Project
+  Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the address specified in
+  Section 4, "Information about donations to the Project Gutenberg
+  Literary Archive Foundation."
+
+* You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies
+  you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he
+  does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm
+  License. You must require such a user to return or destroy all
+  copies of the works possessed in a physical medium and discontinue
+  all use of and all access to other copies of Project Gutenberg-tm
+  works.
+
+* You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of
+  any money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the
+  electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days of
+  receipt of the work.
+
+* You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free
+  distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works.
+
+1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic work or group of works on different terms than
+are set forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing
+from the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the manager of
+the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark. Contact the Foundation as set
+forth in Section 3 below.
+
+1.F.
+
+1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable
+effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread
+works not protected by U.S. copyright law in creating the Project
+Gutenberg-tm collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may
+contain "Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate
+or corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other
+intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or
+other medium, a computer virus, or computer codes that damage or
+cannot be read by your equipment.
+
+1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right
+of Replacement or Refund" described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project
+Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project
+Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all
+liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal
+fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT
+LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE
+PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE
+TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE
+LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR
+INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
+DAMAGE.
+
+1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a
+defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can
+receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a
+written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you
+received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium
+with your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you
+with the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in
+lieu of a refund. If you received the work electronically, the person
+or entity providing it to you may choose to give you a second
+opportunity to receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If
+the second copy is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing
+without further opportunities to fix the problem.
+
+1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth
+in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS', WITH NO
+OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT
+LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE.
+
+1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied
+warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of
+damages. If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement
+violates the law of the state applicable to this agreement, the
+agreement shall be interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or
+limitation permitted by the applicable state law. The invalidity or
+unenforceability of any provision of this agreement shall not void the
+remaining provisions.
+
+1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the
+trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone
+providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in
+accordance with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the
+production, promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic works, harmless from all liability, costs and expenses,
+including legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of
+the following which you do or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this
+or any Project Gutenberg-tm work, (b) alteration, modification, or
+additions or deletions to any Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any
+Defect you cause.
+
+Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of
+electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of
+computers including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It
+exists because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations
+from people in all walks of life.
+
+Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the
+assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's
+goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will
+remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project
+Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure
+and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future
+generations. To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary
+Archive Foundation and how your efforts and donations can help, see
+Sections 3 and 4 and the Foundation information page at
+www.gutenberg.org
+
+Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary
+Archive Foundation
+
+The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non-profit
+501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the
+state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal
+Revenue Service. The Foundation's EIN or federal tax identification
+number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg Literary
+Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by
+U.S. federal laws and your state's laws.
+
+The Foundation's business office is located at 809 North 1500 West,
+Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email contact links and up
+to date contact information can be found at the Foundation's website
+and official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact
+
+Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg
+Literary Archive Foundation
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without
+widespread public support and donations to carry out its mission of
+increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be
+freely distributed in machine-readable form accessible by the widest
+array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations
+($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt
+status with the IRS.
+
+The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating
+charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United
+States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a
+considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up
+with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations
+where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To SEND
+DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any particular
+state visit www.gutenberg.org/donate
+
+While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we
+have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition
+against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who
+approach us with offers to donate.
+
+International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make
+any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from
+outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff.
+
+Please check the Project Gutenberg web pages for current donation
+methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other
+ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. To
+donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate
+
+Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works
+
+Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project
+Gutenberg-tm concept of a library of electronic works that could be
+freely shared with anyone. For forty years, he produced and
+distributed Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of
+volunteer support.
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed
+editions, all of which are confirmed as not protected by copyright in
+the U.S. unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not
+necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper
+edition.
+
+Most people start at our website which has the main PG search
+facility: www.gutenberg.org
+
+This website includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm,
+including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary
+Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to
+subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks.
diff --git a/68424-0.zip b/old/68424-0.zip
index c4bf0f9..c4bf0f9 100644
--- a/68424-0.zip
+++ b/old/68424-0.zip
diff --git a/68424-h.zip b/old/68424-h.zip
index 3c9d25d..3c9d25d 100644
--- a/68424-h.zip
+++ b/old/68424-h.zip
diff --git a/old/68424-h/68424-h.htm b/old/68424-h/68424-h.htm
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9371787
--- /dev/null
+++ b/old/68424-h/68424-h.htm
@@ -0,0 +1,2137 @@
+<!DOCTYPE html>
+<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">
+<head>
+    <meta charset="UTF-8" />
+    <title>
+      Magic words, by Emilie Maceroni—A Project Gutenberg eBook
+    </title>
+    <link rel="icon" href="images/cover.jpg" type="image/x-cover" />
+    <style> /* <![CDATA[ */
+
+body {
+    margin-left: 10%;
+    margin-right: 10%;
+}
+
+    h1,h2,h3 {
+    text-align: center;
+    clear: both;
+}
+
+p {
+    margin-top: .51em;
+    text-align: justify;
+    margin-bottom: .49em;
+}
+
+hr {
+    width: 33%;
+    margin-top: 2em;
+    margin-bottom: 2em;
+    margin-left: 33.5%;
+    margin-right: 33.5%;
+    clear: both;
+}
+
+hr.tb   {width: 45%; margin-left: 27.5%; margin-right: 27.5%;}
+hr.tiny   {width: 10%; margin-left: 45%; margin-right: 45%;}
+hr.chap {width: 65%; margin-left: 17.5%; margin-right: 17.5%;}
+@media print { hr.chap {display: none; visibility: hidden;} }
+
+
+div.chapter {page-break-before: always;}
+h2.nobreak  {page-break-before: avoid;}
+
+table {
+    margin-left: auto;
+    margin-right: auto;
+}
+
+.tdr      {text-align: right;}
+
+.pagenum {
+    position: absolute;
+    left: 92%;
+    font-size: smaller;
+    text-align: right;
+    font-style: normal;
+    font-weight: normal;
+    font-variant: normal;
+    text-indent: 0;
+}
+
+.bbox     {border: 0; width: 450px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;}
+
+.illoright {text-align: right; font-size: small; }
+
+.center   {text-align: center;}
+
+.smcap    {font-variant: small-caps;}
+
+.ph1 {text-align: center; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;}
+.ph2 {text-align: center; font-size: xx-large; font-weight: bold;}
+
+div.titlepage {text-align: center; page-break-before: always; page-break-after: always;}
+div.titlepage p {text-align: center; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5; margin-top: 2em;}
+
+.xxlarge {font-size: 175%;}
+.xlarge {font-size: 150%;}
+.large {font-size: 125%;}
+
+.x-ebookmaker .hide {display: none; visibility: hidden;}
+
+.figcenter {
+    margin: auto;
+    text-align: center;
+    page-break-inside: avoid;
+    max-width: 100%;
+}
+
+.footnote         {margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 10%; font-size: 0.9em;}
+
+.footnote .label  {position: absolute; right: 75%; text-align: right;}
+
+.fnanchor {
+    vertical-align: super;
+    font-size: .8em;
+    text-decoration:
+    none;
+}
+
+.antiqua {
+ font-family: Blackletter, Fraktur, Textur, "Old English Text MT", "Olde English Mt", "Olde English", Gothic, serif, sans-serif;}
+
+.poetry-container  {text-align: center;}
+.poetry {display: inline-block; text-align: left;}
+.poetry .verse  {text-indent: -2.5em; padding-left: 3em;}
+.poetry .stanza {margin: 1em auto;}
+.poetry .indent  {text-indent: 1.5em;}
+.poetry .indent2  {text-indent: 2.5em;}
+.poetry .verseright  { text-align: right;}
+.poetry .first {text-indent: -3em; padding-left: 3em;}
+
+@media print { .poetry {display: block;} }
+.x-ebookmaker .poetry {display: block;}
+
+.transnote {background-color: #E6E6FA;
+    color: black;
+     font-size:smaller;
+     margin-left: 17.5%;
+     margin-right: 17.5%;
+     padding: 1em;
+     margin-bottom: 1em;
+     font-family:sans-serif, serif; }
+
+    /* ]]> */ </style>
+</head>
+<body>
+<p style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Magic words, by Emilie Maceroni</p>
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+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 <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you
+are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the
+country where you are located before using this eBook.
+</div>
+
+<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: Magic words</p>
+<p style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:0; margin-top:0; margin-bottom:1em;'>A tale for Christmas time</p>
+<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Emilie Maceroni</p>
+<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Illustrator: E. H. Wehnert</p>
+<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: June 29, 2022 [eBook #68424]</p>
+<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</p>
+  <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em; text-align:left'>Produced by: Charlene Taylor, David E. Brown, and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive/American Libraries.)</p>
+<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MAGIC WORDS ***</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter hide"><img src="images/coversmall.jpg" width="450" alt="" /></div>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<h1>MAGIC WORDS.</h1>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<span class="pagenum" id="Page_0"></span>
+<div class="bbox">
+<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/frontis.jpg" alt="" /></div>
+
+<p class="illoright"><i>Day &amp; Son, lith<sup>rs</sup> to the Queen.</i></p>
+</div></div>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/titlepage.jpg" alt="" /></div>
+</div>
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+<div class="titlepage">
+
+<p><span class="xxlarge">MAGIC WORDS;</span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="xlarge"><span class="antiqua">A Tale for Christmas Time.</span></span></p>
+
+<p>BY<br />
+
+<span class="large">EMILIE MACERONI.</span></p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poetry">
+<div class="stanza">
+<div class="first">“Oh, many a shaft at random sent,</div>
+<div class="verse">Finds mark the archer little meant;</div>
+<div class="verse">And many a word at random spoken</div>
+<div class="verse">May soothe or wound a heart that’s broken.”</div>
+</div>
+<div class="stanza">
+<div class="verseright"><i>Scott.</i></div>
+</div></div></div>
+
+<p>WITH FOUR ILLUSTRATIONS BY E. H. WEHNERT.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/publogo.jpg" alt="" /></div>
+
+<p><span class="large">LONDON:<br />
+CUNDALL &amp; ADDEY, 21 OLD BOND STREET.</span><br />
+M.DCCC.LI.</p>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p class="center">LONDON:<br />
+Printed by <span class="smcap">G. Barclay</span>, Castle St. Leicester Sq.</p>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<p class="center">TO<br />
+<br />
+<span class="large">MRS. AUSTIN</span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="antiqua">This Little Volume</span><br />
+<br />
+IS AFFECTIONATELY INSCRIBED.</p>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h2 class="nobreak">ILLUSTRATIONS.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<table>
+<tr><td>MARION AND HER FATHER </td><td class="tdr">(<a href="#Page_0"><i>Frontispiece</i></a>)</td></tr>
+
+<tr><td>LITTLE MARY AND HER FRIEND TROY</td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_11">         11</a></td></tr>
+
+<tr><td>MARION TEACHING LATIN</td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_25">                   25</a></td></tr>
+
+<tr><td>EDITH WATCHING THE DAWN</td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_39">                 39</a></td></tr>
+
+</table>
+
+<p class="center"><i>From Drawings by</i> <span class="smcap">E. H. Wehnert</span>.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<span class="pagenum" id="Page_1">[1]</span>
+<p class="ph2">MAGIC WORDS.</p>
+
+<hr class="tiny" />
+<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER I.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">It</span> was the evening of Christmas Day. The
+hymn of “Peace upon earth, good-will towards
+men,” had been chanted by thousands of voices
+throughout the land, from the grand cathedral-choir
+to the simple singers of the village
+church. Charity had extended her munificent
+hand to the poor and needy, lighting up smiles
+on many a care-worn face. Hospitality welcomed
+the good, the beautiful, and the great
+to the lordly mansions of the rich. Love and
+Peace sat enthroned in many a happy home.
+Poverty, shivering at the present, was consoled
+by the glowing figure of Hope, pointing with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_2">[2]</span>
+radiant eyes to the future. Memory and Sorrow
+lingered around the grave of many a departed
+one; but of all mourners they were the
+saddest who were estranged from those they still
+loved. Yes, amid the pain, the sorrow, the suffering
+of life, <i>their</i> hearts were the heaviest; for
+(to use the oft-quoted words of the poet) “to
+be wroth with those we love, doth work like
+madness in the brain;” and this hallowed season
+speaks strongest to our kindest feelings, and
+to the tenderness of our better nature.</p>
+
+<hr class="tb" />
+
+<p>A train had stopped at a rough little village
+station about thirty miles from town, and a
+few country people, on their way home, leaned
+over the bridge above to admire the enormous
+red eyes of the monster as it moved slowly on
+through a deep cutting crowned with dark
+firs. They lingered yet a moment longer, to
+mark whom it had borne from the great city
+to their quiet village. A beautiful girl of fifteen,
+glowing with health and exercise, accompanied
+by two fine, rough-looking dogs, rushed<span class="pagenum" id="Page_3">[3]</span>
+down to meet her playfellows and friends. She
+was breathless with joy, and with her race over
+the heath; but her merry laugh and warm
+greeting sounded pleasantly enough as the
+noise of the train died away in the distance.</p>
+
+<p>A lady, wrapped in a warm plaid, who had
+been anxiously waiting for some time, took the
+arm of her husband, with a few low words of
+delighted welcome, and they walked briskly
+away. The dogs of the younger party barked
+with glee—were patted and caressed. One
+look at the dear heath and at the hills beyond,
+with a thrill of delight at the thoughts of a
+long ramble over them on the morrow, and the
+ponies were mounted, the dogs whistled to,
+and away flew the happy trio to the home-welcome,
+to the dear old hall, to all the joy
+of a Christmas meeting.</p>
+
+<p>Only two other passengers appeared, winding
+up the pathway—a gentleman of tall and
+commanding aspect, and a buxom, brisk-footed
+countrywoman, wrapped in her scarlet cloak,
+who passed him with a low curtsey and cheerful
+good night. She was thinking of the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_4">[4]</span>
+bright fireside, of the dear little faces round it
+anxiously awaiting her return, and of the enormous
+amount of joy contained in that wicker
+basket. An event of great marvel and wonderment
+is a poor woman’s visit to her friends in
+town, and she is ever in a tearful state of
+ecstasy and excitement on reaching home again;
+all of which becomes a matter of grave family
+history in the lowly household, and is recounted
+on many an occasion to eager and attentive
+hearers.</p>
+
+<p>She quickly disappeared up a winding path
+cut through the furze and heather, evidently
+leading to a low-roofed cottage on the skirts
+of a fir-wood. Lights twinkled in the casement,
+and joyful voices were soon heard approaching
+to meet and welcome her. The road
+was now perfectly solitary. A few deep-red
+clouds still hung over the west, and here and
+there a large bright star shone silently through
+the sharp, pure air. Dogs bayed in the distance;
+the sound came very pleasantly over
+the heather through the rough old pines.</p>
+
+<p>The gentleman walked briskly on, and lights<span class="pagenum" id="Page_5">[5]</span>
+began to appear in the valley beneath. He
+stopped as the merry notes of a flageolet struck
+his ear, proceeding from a cottage by the road-side.
+The blaze of a wood fire within illumined
+the little rustic porch and neat garden. Bright
+branches of glistening holly shone in the tiny
+casement. The tune ceased, and was followed
+by a light-hearted laugh and the sound of young
+voices.</p>
+
+<p>“How happy they seem!” said he. “It is
+such scenes as these which make the country
+so delightful, so cheering to sense and spirit!”</p>
+
+<p>And yet he sighed heavily as he walked on;
+and passing through an avenue of fir and larch
+leading to one of the prettiest and most picturesque
+cottages in the world, he paused
+when he reached the garden-gate. It seemed,
+too, a dear, quiet, sweet-smelling home. Lights
+shone from more than one of the windows;
+and more than one bright young face might
+be seen, by the gleam of its golden hair, flitting
+about in the uncertain light. A sweet
+young voice singing as sweet a tune ceased, as
+all young voices do, suddenly, when the bell<span class="pagenum" id="Page_6">[6]</span>
+rang out its summons, and a brisk, rosy little
+maid appeared, lantern and key in hand, to
+admit the traveller, and guide him through
+the long shadow of the firs to the house. A
+favourite dog bounded to meet and gambol
+round him with unrepressed joy. The children
+clustered into the porch to say, timidly,
+“How do you do?” and hold out their little
+hands to shake; while their mother, advancing
+with a kindly greeting, expressed her pleasure
+at his return. Even the maid looked pleased
+and happy to see him. But yet it was not his
+home.</p>
+
+<p>After a few minutes’ conversation, the traveller
+was seated in his own room, his dog, his
+sole companion, looking at him with glistening
+eyes, as his master fondly stroked his magnificent
+head. He was a man of twenty-eight
+or thirty years of age, with a sad and thoughtful
+cast of countenance, yet one that all who looked
+upon it <i>must</i> instantly love and respect; it was
+at once so engaging and so noble. He looked
+round his little room at his sketches and his
+gun with evident pleasure, placed some books<span class="pagenum" id="Page_7">[7]</span>
+and papers which he had brought on a little
+table before him, and drawing his arm-chair
+close to the blazing pine-logs, sat watching the
+golden cones as they crumbled away, one by
+one, at the height of their brilliancy. But every
+reverie must have its end; and his was brought
+to a close by the appearance of coffee, borne
+by a bright-eyed country maid, smirking and
+smiling with pleasure, as country servants are
+wont to do at every fresh arrival.</p>
+
+<p>It would seem that the reverie by the bright
+fireside was not an idle one, but that among
+many revolving thoughts, some, at least, were
+considered worthy of preservation; for the coffee
+was soon despatched, the table covered with
+books and papers, and the stranger intently
+occupied with his pen.</p>
+
+<p>So absorbed did he become with it, that
+after one or two long, wistful glances, the
+fine hound lay down reproachfully on his comfortable
+rug, as if despairing of any further
+notice that night.</p>
+
+<p>The wind moaned heavily in the pine-branches
+round the cottage. Presently the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_8">[8]</span>
+writer paused and listened to the sound, so
+like the rushing of distant waters. He walked
+slowly to the window, and gazed long and earnestly
+into the night. It was moonlight, yet
+stormy; and large, glittering stars, looked
+down through the dark branches, when the
+hurrying white clouds had drifted over them.
+The distant clock of the old village church,
+slowly striking the hour, sounded mournfully
+over the river; and the lonely man at that
+little window thought of years that were gone,
+of the bright firesides in many a happy home
+that night, and turned and put away his papers
+with a sigh. He thought how differently he
+used to work years ago, when, with all the
+ardour of his nature and the energy of hope,
+and yet with intense fear and anxiety, he strove
+to render himself worthy of one idolized, one
+long-sighed-for object! He thought, too, of the
+bitterness, the agony of disappointment; and
+how long years of his young life would have
+been thrown away, had he not struggled hard
+to save himself from becoming a useless, melancholy
+being, given up to the indulgence of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">[9]</span>
+selfish regrets. He had succeeded,—there was
+some comfort in that reflection. He knew of
+what he was capable, and dared not throw away
+the power he had acquired, because it no longer
+availed the idol Self. So he still worked on.
+He had become distinguished for his literary
+labours, and for his contributions to the improvement
+and well-being of his fellow-creatures;
+but to fame and to the praises of the
+great he was now equally indifferent. His happiest
+hours were passed in his favourite village,
+where he was greatly beloved, although he dared
+not wholly give himself up to the quiet of a
+country life.</p>
+
+<p>He had had the old Gothic church restored,
+with all possible observance of its antique ornaments
+and its fine clustering ivy; and took a kind
+of Sir Roger de Coverley delight in seeing the
+country people, bettered and improved in every
+way, flocking to it on Sundays to hear his good
+tutor’s sermons, to which he used to listen
+with so much reverence in his boyish days.
+He had learned to believe that the word “happiness”
+signifies, the being reconciled to bear,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_10">[10]</span>
+still having courage to do, and gratitude to enjoy
+that which remains. Thus, he was usually
+cheerful in his various occupations; <i>but this
+was Christmas time</i>: a time when the lonely
+heart feels most desolate—a time when many
+a tender word spoken by the absent is
+remembered with sorrow—when all anger is
+forgotten in the feeling of peace and love which
+steals over the heart. And his head lay buried
+in his hands, his whole soul given up to an
+overwhelming agony of regret.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">[11]</span></p>
+<div class="bbox">
+<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/facing011.jpg" alt="" /></div>
+
+<p class="illoright"><i>Day &amp; Son, lith<sup>rs</sup> to the Queen.</i></p>
+</div>
+
+<p>“This day last year,” he muttered, “who
+could have believed the change? Oh, Edith!”
+he continued, taking up a miniature that lay
+beside him, “who could have thought then
+that we should now be as strangers to each
+other? Who could have thought that that
+bright face, those many noble qualities, could
+have wrought so much misery?” Again he
+looked at the lovely countenance, smiling on
+him a thousand of the tenderest remembrances,
+and a still gentler expression, a kindlier spirit,
+came over him. “Those eyes,” he said, “how
+softly they have looked on me! Perhaps even
+now a thought——but what folly! In the pride
+of beauty and prosperity, what is there to
+remind her of me?”</p>
+
+<p>A low tap at the door interrupted his meditations.
+For an instant he could not say,
+“Come in!” his heart was so very full; but
+quickly recovering himself, he turned with a
+smile to welcome a little village child, who
+timidly advanced to place both her tiny hands
+in his.</p>
+
+<p>She looked into his face with eyes beaming
+with love and gratitude; but the joyful,
+sparkling expression soon faded away, for she
+saw that he was sadder than usual; and with
+the quick sympathy and natural grace of childhood
+she sat down quietly on the rug, and
+taking the stately head of the hound on her lap,
+pensively stroked his long, shaggy coat. Presently
+she ventured to break the silence in her
+gentle way—“I am so glad you are come back,
+sir; I have missed you so!”</p>
+
+<p>Her companion’s countenance brightened,
+and he said with animation—“Have you,
+though, my poor little Mary? I thought you<span class="pagenum" id="Page_12">[12]</span>
+had forgotten me, being so long away.” And
+he stroked her bright brown hair.</p>
+
+<p>“You should not have thought that,” said
+the child, earnestly; “I always remember you,
+for you taught me all I know. I was longing
+to come yesterday, and all day to-day,” she
+continued, “to hear if you had arrived. To-day
+has been so happy that I could not stay
+away any longer, and so here I am,” she
+added, with her merry laugh, which sounded
+pleasantly in that usually silent room. These
+simple words, that mute caress, had restored
+the confidence of the two friends. Mary
+was herself again, full of fun and prattle.
+Seated on the extreme edge of a huge Gothic
+chair, she balanced her little feet on the back
+of her friend Troy, who, far from resenting the
+liberty, fixed his dark eyes lovingly on her
+sweet young face, while she talked on, full of
+the details of her simple life. How she had
+gathered pine-cones for several evenings, because
+she knew he loved their cheerful blaze
+and sweet smell. How poor Turpin, who was
+always in trouble, had hunted a rabbit, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">[13]</span>
+been caught in a trap; of her mad race over the
+hills for help; how she nursed the poor, poor
+foot afterwards; and how the faithful patient
+cried because he could not accompany her
+that night; the relation of all which very much
+affected his kind little mistress. Presently she
+produced with great glee her “Christmas present,”—several
+little bundles of bark, peeled
+with great care, from the silver birch-trees,
+cut into slips, and tied with red worsted.
+“I burnt a little bit the other day,” said she,
+“and the smell was so nice I thought you
+would like it, so I got some to light your taper
+with—do try it;” and the little creature soon
+held a blazing piece in her hand.</p>
+
+<p>“It is delicious, Mary; and how good of you
+to collect it for me!”</p>
+
+<p>“I was very happy getting it,” said the
+child; “but I wish you had not thought I
+had forgotten you. I could not forget you!”
+she continued, after a pause; “you, who have
+been so good to me, and taught me so much!
+I never looked at a book before you came.
+Oh, I was sadly wild! Mother said I made<span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">[14]</span>
+more noise than the boys!” And she laughed
+heartily.</p>
+
+<p>The tutor laughed too, and told the often
+repeated story, which he knew she loved to
+hear, of how, in his walks, he had frequently
+listened to her little voice singing in a cornfield,
+while “minding” birds; how he had
+been surprised at her sudden disappearance on
+his nearer approach, and on making a voyage
+of discovery, had found her ensconced in
+the body of a broken-down post-chaise, that,
+singularly enough, lay between two old fir-trees
+at the foot of the wood! He did not
+describe to her how, in imagination, he had
+pictured the different and exciting scenes in
+which the once gay equipage might have
+borne its part; but went on to say how he
+had peeped in unobserved, and had seen her
+perched on one of the dilapidated seats, with a
+little piece of board on her lap, intently occupied
+in carving a morsel of meat into divers
+small pieces, which she divided, with impartial
+care, among three ragged starlings perched
+on the opposite beam, who watched her with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">[15]</span>
+glistening eyes! How merrily she talked to
+them, and how perfectly they seemed to love
+and understand each other! He reminded
+her of her surprise on being discovered, and
+her frank invitation to the intruder to “look
+in” on the wonders of the unique aviary, with
+its valuable illustrations of the “History of
+Red Riding Hood,” its bright jay’s feathers,
+and other childish treasures!</p>
+
+<p>Heartily the little Mary laughed; and so
+the Christmas evening passed on.</p>
+
+<p>“I must go now,” she said; “I promised
+to read mother the pretty story you gave me,
+‘Simple Susan,’ and they will all sit up for
+it! Good bye! You will promise not to be so
+sad when I am gone as you were when I came
+in. You have been thinking of that pretty
+lady again!” she said, with a face of anxious
+love—pointing to the miniature—“that makes
+you so, I know! Why don’t you go to her?”</p>
+
+<p>“Because she does not love me, Mary,”
+was the faltering reply; “and you know we
+are not happy with those who do not love us.”</p>
+
+<p>“Are you <i>sure</i> of that?” said the child,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">[16]</span>
+earnestly. “People often hide their kindest
+thoughts—and perhaps she hides hers from
+you; you must look for them, as I look for
+violets, in their thick leaves. Oh, I was so
+unhappy once!” she continued, tears starting
+into her eyes at the remembrance: “I quarrelled
+with my brother, and we did not speak
+all day—both were so proud: but do you
+know” (and the sweet little face sparkled)
+“that when I put my arms round his neck
+and kissed him, and said, ‘Good night,
+Harry!’ he kissed me, and cried too; and
+said how unhappy he had been <i>all</i> the time.
+I had thought he would <i>never</i>, <i>never</i> love me
+again! Oh! if my brother had died, as
+baby did, before we kissed each other that
+night!”</p>
+
+<p>Poor little Mary paused, her heart quite
+full at the bare idea of such a thing; but
+she turned again, with admiring eyes, to the
+miniature. “She looks very kind and good,
+and <i>so</i> beautiful! Did you speak gently,
+and ask her to love you again: or were you
+proud?”</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_17">[17]</span>The child did not notice the agitation of
+her companion, and little did she imagine
+that, long after her head lay softly on her
+happy pillow, the simple eloquence of those
+Magic Words was working powerfully in his
+heart!</p>
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">[18]</span>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER II.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Over</span> many a mile of hard, frosty road, by
+snow-clad fields and hills and woods, by many
+an ice-bound stream, must we lead the imagination
+of our reader on the evening of the
+same Christmas Day, and peep into another
+home, far from that we have just quitted.</p>
+
+<p>Undrawing the warm crimson curtains of
+a charming little room—half drawing-room,
+half library—the light of a lamp falls brightly
+on the figure of a lady reading to her husband.
+It is manuscript, and he puts the pages by for
+her as she goes on.</p>
+
+<p>She often pauses, to look up with a delighted
+smile at his praises, and he thinks that she
+never looked so beautiful before! She is very
+like Correggio’s Magdalen, and has the same
+lovely countenance and waving hair.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_19">[19]</span>Presently she came to the last page, and
+the praise was repeated.</p>
+
+<p>“I had no idea I could translate so well,”
+said she, “and am glad you like it, for that
+will give me spirits to go on: I may, in time,
+become quite useful to you.”</p>
+
+<p>“When are you not everything to me?”
+was the reply. “But, Marion, you must not
+work so hard; I cannot afford to see you look
+one bit less bright. Besides, it is a kind of
+reproach to me your working so much; indeed
+you must not!”</p>
+
+<p>“Nonsense!” said Marion, laughing; “you
+can’t think how happy I am when helping
+you, for I am sure you are often very weary!
+Poor Edward! what anxiety I have caused
+you! Now for a volley of protestations!”
+said she, laughing again. “But to be serious:
+I was thinking, to-day, how much we have to
+be thankful for; and that with all its anxieties
+how happy this year has been—how <i>infinitely</i>
+happier, working and striving on together,
+than droning through an insipid life of ease,
+as some do. I don’t know what would become<span class="pagenum" id="Page_20">[20]</span>
+of me if you were ever to be rich,” she
+continued; “to be sure, one might always
+find some useful employment, some good to be
+done; but no one knows, except those who
+have experienced it, the delight of overcoming
+difficulties, and earning home comforts by
+one’s own exertions.”</p>
+
+<p>“True, dear Marion! I never knew, until
+I knew you, how little is necessary for happiness!”</p>
+
+<p>“I knew what life was—I had an anxious
+one at home, even from a little child,” said
+Marion, “and adversity taught me to know
+what is best worth knowing; what flowers to
+gather in this great garden, that many neglect,
+or do not perceive. How sweet are the uses
+of adversity! I love to linger on those words;
+and if ever I venture to write an essay,” said
+she, smiling, “it shall be on that subject.
+What does it not teach us?—the practice of
+almost every virtue.”</p>
+
+<p>“Nay, not quite so far, enthusiast,” said
+her husband, smiling; “remember the effect
+of almost constant sun on flowers; how splendid<span class="pagenum" id="Page_21">[21]</span>
+they become—how fully their beauty is
+developed!”</p>
+
+<p>“Yes; but they cannot bear the storm that
+<i>may</i>, that <i>must</i> come. The stout old thistle,
+reared in cold and sleet, is much better off—much
+more useful, and protects many a little
+plant under its vigorous leaves. Now, only
+think what adversity really does for us. To
+begin with <i>my</i> early life:—my father and
+mother treated me as their friend in all their
+troubles; I was accustomed to watch their
+anxious care-worn faces, to try to cheer them,
+and to rejoice when they brightened: this
+bound us together in the closest affection; I
+believe no child, no parents, were ever so dear to
+each other. No little home was ever so loved as
+mine; and I was quite broken-hearted when
+away from all its cares, even for a short time,
+although in the midst of what people called
+enjoyment. These were very different feelings
+from those of children nursed in the lap of
+affluence, who are frequently selfish, and often
+but little attached to those around them. I
+knew what it was to be deprived of many<span class="pagenum" id="Page_22">[22]</span>
+comforts, which made me grateful for those I
+had, and taught me to feel for the sufferings
+of others infinitely worse off than myself.
+Naturally impetuous, I grew up patient; for,
+as you know, my father was a man of eccentric
+genius, who failed in all his efforts to place us
+in the brilliant position he dreamed of. I felt
+and shared in his disappointments, until disappointment
+itself became powerless! Sympathy
+with those I loved roused me to exertion—taught
+me the value of time—the dignity of
+usefulness! But, above all, the frowns of the
+world, the sweet uses of adversity, made me
+feel the dear necessity of clinging to and
+loving one another, and of living in that
+‘peace which passeth all understanding!’”</p>
+
+<p>Marion paused, and looked with inexpressible
+tenderness on her husband.</p>
+
+<p>“I do not believe we should have loved each
+other half so well if we had not borne so much
+anxiety together,” she presently continued,
+“although it would be a dangerous experiment
+for those to try, who never knew what care
+was! <i>We</i> very coolly stepped into its troubled<span class="pagenum" id="Page_23">[23]</span>
+waters. What straits we have been in! There
+is really some amusement, though, in looking
+back to a hundred comical little difficulties,
+mingled with graver trials; in peeping into
+the crowded picture-gallery of one’s own life—grave
+and gay! Do you remember when we
+were so <i>very</i> poor, and your father’s friends,
+the Saviles, condescended to drive over to
+luncheon with us?”</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, yes,” said Edward, laughing; “when
+poor old Jock behaved so inconsiderately!”</p>
+
+<p>“Inconsiderately, indeed,” said Marion,
+laughing too. “I shall never forget seeing him
+swallow the delicacies which I had prepared
+with so much care, in the coolest manner
+possible, looking me hard in the face all the
+time. I was in an agony to see the ham
+sandwiches disappear one after another down
+his huge throat (knowing there were no more
+in the house, too), while the capricious fine
+lady who took a fancy to feed him, drawled
+out, ‘the d-e-a-r d-o-g! <i>how</i> he li-kes them!’
+I should think he did, indeed, with his appetite!
+I do believe, though, Mr. Edward, that,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_24">[24]</span>
+like all men, you rather enjoyed the scene than
+otherwise; for you never offered to put the
+cruel old dog out of the room.”</p>
+
+<p>“How could I tear him from the flattering
+attentions of his Patroness? But let me see;
+how did you manage it, Marion? I dare say
+very ingeniously and gracefully. I remember
+how proud I felt of you that day.”</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, I appeared to enter into the amusement
+and drollery of his enormous appetite,
+but suggested, in the most affectionate manner
+possible, that he should <i>bow</i> his thanks to
+the fair lady before tasting another morsel!
+Poor Jock, who had not the slightest acquaintance
+with any feat or accomplishment of the
+kind, was all amazement at my gestures and
+commands, and only stared hard for more;
+whereupon he was gently ‘<i>fie-fied</i>,’ and put
+out of the room for his obstinacy and ingratitude!”</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_25">[25]</span></p>
+<div class="bbox">
+<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/facing025.jpg" alt="" /></div>
+
+<p class="illoright"><i>Day &amp; Son, lith<sup>rs</sup> to the Queen.</i></p>
+</div>
+
+<p>They both laughed heartily at the remembrance
+of Jock’s delinquency and its punishment;
+and Marion being in a very merry
+humour, recounted with much mirth many
+other similar incidents, which they <i>could</i> laugh
+at now. “We never deceived each other but
+once,” said she; “the time when you were so ill,
+you know, from over-work, and I used to steal
+slily into the village to give your Latin lessons
+to those stupid boys you were ‘preparing!’ I
+often wonder how I took courage to ask their
+mother to let me take your place: yet I am
+glad I did, for I don’t know what we should
+have done without the money; and I studied
+the lessons so well myself, that I did no injustice
+to your pupils. But then the <i>dénouement</i>!
+I shall never forget your walking into that
+dingy library, pale as death, and your extreme
+surprise on finding me seated in the great chair,
+conjugating a tremendous Latin verb, while the
+poor little mamma looked on with amazement at
+my proficiency! <i>I</i> was startled too, fully believing
+you to be quietly resting on the sofa,
+<i>while I took my walk</i>!”</p>
+
+<p>“We both looked very guilty for an instant.”</p>
+
+<p>“Yes, we did indeed; and I thought I
+never should cease laughing on our way home,
+especially as you were half inclined to be angry!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">[26]</span>
+But my mirth soon vanished when I saw how
+faint you were, and you rested your head on
+my shoulder as we sat on the stile. A terrible
+fear came over me,” continued Marion, shuddering,
+and drawing closer to her husband—“I
+never felt pain like that before!”</p>
+
+<p>Both were silent for some time; and
+Edward tenderly stroked the beautiful head
+bent down beside him. “Nay, look up,
+Marion,” he said; “I am quite well now, love,
+and you must not be so sad.”</p>
+
+<p>“I am not sad,” said Marion, raising her
+large eyes, and smiling gently. “I was thinking
+how grateful I am that you are better,
+and how happy this Christmas would be if you
+were but reconciled to your father.”</p>
+
+<p>“Every house has its spectre, Marion, and
+this haunts ours. I believe one always feels any
+kind of estrangement from those near to us
+most powerfully on days like these. They seem
+to have a strange mysterious power of calling
+up old recollections and early affections!”</p>
+
+<p>“Only those which ought never to be broken
+come at this holy time,” said Marion; “the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">[27]</span>
+gentle thoughts it brings with it seem to me
+like the soft warning of angel voices,—to be
+at peace ere it is too late! I wish you would
+read them so, and write to your mother again:
+she is of a gentler nature; but they must—yes,
+they both must, long to see you again!—Oh,
+if I could but persuade you!” she continued,
+with emotion: “we know not what a day may
+bring forth—even to the youngest and strongest
+among us; and Mrs. Hope says they both
+seem to ‘age’ very much. How deeply you
+would grieve through life if——”</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, Marion, say no more!” exclaimed
+her husband in an agitated voice, “it is that
+thought which so constantly haunts me. For
+myself, I could forget all; but their unkindness
+to you—to you, of whom they ought to
+have been so proud; I cannot forget that!”</p>
+
+<p>“Do not think of it,” said Marion, in a
+soothing tone; “we must not quarrel with
+people because they are unable to see things in
+the same light as ourselves. They knew very
+little of me, and thought, I dare say, that I
+prevented your being much happier with a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">[28]</span>
+wealthier bride: besides, they may love me yet
+when you have made your peace, as I know
+you will,” said she, smiling. “Remember, it
+is to your parents that you bend, and I never
+can feel happy while you are as a stranger to
+them. I suppose it would be my turn next,”
+said she, with her musical laugh, “if I were
+to venture to oppose your wishes, or to say a
+few angry words.”</p>
+
+<p>“Marion!” said her husband reproachfully.</p>
+
+<p>“Well, what security have I,” was the playful
+retort, “over one who could be contented
+under such circumstances? You owe to them
+infinitely more than you do to me—they loved
+you for years and years before I did. Oh,
+Edward! your own heart must tell you more
+than I could ever speak.”</p>
+
+<p>“We will not discuss the subject any further,
+dear Marion,” said he, and his voice
+faltered. “Sing to me, will you? The evening
+never seems perfect without a song from
+you.”</p>
+
+<p>Marion sang the following lines in a rich
+and lovely voice:—</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_29">[29]</span></p>
+
+<h3>THE SPIRIT’S WHISPERINGS.</h3>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poetry">
+<div class="verse">I roved one morn in a sunlit grove,</div>
+<div class="verse">Where the mavis was singing his song of love,</div>
+<div class="verse">Where the wild bee flew on her wing of light,</div>
+<div class="verse">Flitting o’er moss-cup and blossom bright!</div>
+<div class="verse">And Nature was blooming so freshly and fair,</div>
+<div class="verse">Nought fading or dying was resting there;</div>
+<div class="verse">Yet the light breeze sang, as it wafted by,</div>
+<div class="verse">“Alas that the Lily and Rose should die!”</div>
+
+<div class="verse"><hr class="tb" /></div>
+
+<div class="verse">I sat by the side of a maiden bright,</div>
+<div class="verse">Radiant with Beauty, and Hope’s soft light;</div>
+<div class="verse">She sang a lay of our own loved isle,</div>
+<div class="verse">And my heart beat proudly and high the while.</div>
+<div class="verse">Fondly I gazed on that lofty brow—</div>
+<div class="verse">“What can be lovelier—brighter now?”</div>
+<div class="verse">Yet Echo replied to her lute’s soft lay,</div>
+<div class="verse">“The sweetest and fairest must fade away!”</div>
+
+<div class="verse"><hr class="tb" /></div>
+
+<div class="verse">I wandered forth, ’neath the moon’s pale ray,</div>
+<div class="verse">Where the dead in their last long slumbers lay;</div>
+<div class="verse">Softly and coldly her pure beams shone</div>
+<div class="verse">On the mouldering urn and the old grey stone;</div><span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">[30]</span>
+<div class="verse">And I sadly sigh’d, “Must the young and brave,</div>
+<div class="verse">The loved and the honour’d, all share the grave?”</div>
+<div class="verse">And a voice replied, in a hollow sigh,</div>
+<div class="verse">“The bravest and fairest, all—all must die!”</div>
+
+<div class="verse"><hr class="tb" /></div>
+
+<div class="verse">I knew it was as the spirit said,—</div>
+<div class="verse">That all we love on this earth must fade;</div>
+<div class="verse">That gently they wither, and slowly decay,</div>
+<div class="verse">Or are snatch’d in a moment—away, away!</div>
+<div class="verse">And I said, in deep sorrow, “Alas that strife</div>
+<div class="verse">Should breathe on this short—this uncertain life!</div>
+<div class="verse">And, alas for those who, when Life hath fled,</div>
+<div class="verse">Have Peace to ask of the silent Dead!”</div>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>Marion’s beautiful voice trembled with emotion,
+and her eyes were filled with tears as she
+approached her husband. He leaned his head
+thoughtfully on his hand.</p>
+
+<p>Those Magic Words were thrilling in his
+heart.</p>
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">[31]</span>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER III.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">With</span> the exception of the young and
+thoughtless, who only look forward to a season
+of festivity and enjoyment, and of the callous
+and indifferent, who seldom think of such
+matters at all, the varied feelings which hail
+the approach of Christmas may be compared
+to those occasioned by the contemplation of
+advancing age—of age so different in its
+aspects, whether we behold our fellow-mortals
+sinking down into the vale of years alone,
+neglected and unloved; alienated from kindred
+and friends, and still retaining the unholy
+animosities of earlier years; unsubdued by
+religion, unsupported by the contemplation of
+a useful and virtuous life; or, on the contrary,
+surrounded by loved and loving hearts,
+looking back with gratitude and pleasure to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_32">[32]</span>
+the past, and with hope and resignation to the
+future, in peace, and love, and charity with all!
+Many a family in embarrassed circumstances,
+many a poor widow with a “limited income,”
+looks on the increased expenses of this season
+of the year, on its bills and various claims,
+with the same feelings which anticipate the
+infirmities of declining years and sharp attacks
+of rheumatism and gout. Many look forward
+to increased domestic comfort, and brighter
+firesides. Many a mother smiles with delight
+on her children, all assembled round her once
+more. Many a father rejoices in their joyous
+laughter, or in the affection and reverence of
+maturer age. Many an old friend is welcomed
+to the social board. But, alas! there are many,
+too, who look back with a dreary regret to the
+years that are gone, and think, how different
+Christmas Day seems now to what it was!</p>
+
+<p>Such melancholy thoughts were revolving in
+the mind of a man of dignified and venerable
+aspect, pacing gloomily up and down the splendid
+library of a fine old mansion. It was almost
+dark, and the glare of the fire played over the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">[33]</span>
+rich volumes, and on the antique carving of
+the furniture. He looked with a sigh at the
+hearth, once crowded with happy faces. One
+only remained, and ah! how changed from the
+blooming figure of earlier days, which rose
+before him! How feebly that once beautiful
+head lay on the rich velvet cushion of her
+chair! How much suffering and sorrow might
+be traced on that furrowed brow! He felt
+that her reverie was as sad as his own; and
+truly too, for she was thinking of many a fair
+child that had gone down to the tomb in all
+the promise of early youth!—of the pride and
+joy of seeing them assembled at Christmas,
+well and happy!—of the joyous holiday-makings
+and merry meetings!—of the tearful
+partings, and the agony of those final ones,
+when the thin, small hand, pressed in its tiny
+grasp the last life greeting!</p>
+
+<p>Still she could think of the departed with the
+softened and resigned feelings which religion
+and time never fail to produce. But that which
+fell most heavily on her heart and darkened her
+declining years, was, that the last and only surviving<span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">[34]</span>
+one—the boy whom she had loved best—whom
+she had watched over with such intense
+fear and anxiety—was still a stranger from his
+father’s home. Month after month passed, and
+still both, in their pride, hung back from any
+attempt at a reconciliation. She felt that many
+more might not elapse before she would be far
+beyond the reach of mediation, and with a mother’s
+and a wife’s love she longed to see them
+united again ere she departed. Presently she
+walked to the window, and laid her thin white
+hand on the arm of her husband.</p>
+
+<p>“I see you still love to watch the rooks
+going to rest in the old elm-trees.”</p>
+
+<p>“Yes,” said Sir John, hastily; “it is amusing
+to watch their odd flights, and to imagine
+you can distinguish the croak of a particular
+bird.” He would not say that it was Edward’s
+favourite pastime when a boy, but
+his companion knew well that he <i>thought</i>
+of the time when both used to stand there
+together. “But who is this coming up the
+avenue?” he said at length, as if willing to
+shake off the chain of thought. “Mrs. Hope,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_35">[35]</span>
+I fancy, by her black dress. I suppose she is
+come to tell us all about the dinner, as she
+promised.”</p>
+
+<p>No door ever opened on a better, or kinder,
+or more zealous village schoolmistress, than
+did this stately one on the spare, timid little
+body who now advanced. No one ever looked
+more placidly happy, and no one more pleased
+and grateful, when she was kindly placed in
+the most comfortable of chairs by Sir John,
+and welcomed with a cordial smile by his
+lady.</p>
+
+<p>“I came up to tell you, sir, that everything
+was done as you desired. The children were
+<i>so</i> happy, it quite did one’s heart good to see
+them. They all came in the morning with
+evergreens and holly, and we made some beautiful
+wreaths to set off the room. Their new
+dresses look very nice, and they are truly
+thankful to you for your kindness. The coals
+and blankets, and other things, are all sent
+home too, and many say they shall thank Sir
+John for a happy Christmas; which they wish
+in return, with all their hearts, I am sure,”<span class="pagenum" id="Page_36">[36]</span>
+continued the good little woman, with emotion;
+“for, thank God, <i>very</i> few among them are
+ungrateful.”</p>
+
+<p>Sir John’s benevolent countenance brightened
+with pleasure as he listened to the kind
+schoolmistress’s further recital of the village
+festivities, to which he had contributed so
+largely; and his wife marvelled how the heart
+of so good a man could be so unrelenting as
+she knew it was.</p>
+
+<p>Perhaps similar thoughts were passing in the
+mind of Mrs. Hope; for after she had told
+all she ostensibly had to tell, and felt that
+it was time for her to depart, she still lingered,
+and yet hesitated to speak.</p>
+
+<p>“Is there anything you wish to say to us,
+Mrs. Hope?” said the lady, kindly; “pray
+do not be afraid to mention anything in which
+we can be of service to you. Is your son——”</p>
+
+<p>“I thank your ladyship, I was not thinking
+of him then, but of some one very different.
+I thought you might like to know, and yet
+was not sure—but Mr. Edward and his
+lady came over to the school-house to-day,”<span class="pagenum" id="Page_37">[37]</span>
+said she, as if from a desperate resolution,
+“and my heart was quite full to see them
+come and go away again like strangers—just at
+Christmas time, too!” Poor little Mrs. Hope
+trembled, for she saw that Sir John’s brow
+darkened, and he drew back in his chair in an
+agitated manner; but an encouraging look
+from the lady re-assured her. “It was very
+pleasant to see him again,” she continued,
+“in the little parlour where he often used
+to sit years ago, and give the prizes out to the
+children, and speak encouragingly to them.
+I thought he had forgotten the old place, and
+all he was so good to; but he told me he had
+been longing to see it, and never could feel so
+happy anywhere else.”</p>
+
+<p>“Poor Edward!” said the lady, with emotion.
+“How does he look?”</p>
+
+<p>“Very pale and delicate, ma’am; but just the
+same as ever—just the same noble look,” said
+Mrs. Hope, fast gathering courage, “although
+not quite so joyful like as it used to be. He
+made particular inquiries as to how his father
+and mother looked, and seemed terribly cast<span class="pagenum" id="Page_38">[38]</span>
+down when I told him how poorly you had
+both been.”</p>
+
+<p>“Did he, indeed!” exclaimed Sir. John,
+starting from his seat, and pacing up and
+down; “why did you not let me know he was
+with you?”</p>
+
+<p>“I feared you did not wish to know it,”
+was the reply. “But oh, Sir John! in my
+humble way I did think it strange that, in an
+erring world like this, your heart should be
+turned from two such children!”</p>
+
+<p>Tears were running fast down the face of
+the good little schoolmistress. She hurried
+away; but her Magic Words were not spoken
+in vain.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_39">[39]</span></p>
+<div class="bbox">
+<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/facing039.jpg" alt="" /></div>
+
+<p class="illoright"><i>Day &amp; Son, lith<sup>rs</sup> to the Queen.</i></p>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER IV.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Beautifully</span> dawned the last morning of
+the old year. How lovely are some few winter
+sunrisings! A cold, grey sky, and dim, glimmering
+light, scarcely reveals surrounding
+objects. Presently a delicate blush appears,
+gently stealing over the east. It deepens to a
+ruddy glow; and then bright, golden clouds,
+tinged with many a varied hue, overspread the
+sky, lighting up in the strongest relief every
+leafless tree, even to the most fibre-like branches.</p>
+
+<p>Everything is very still. Edith sits silently
+at the window of her dressing-room, watching
+that lovely dawn. Presently a few starlings
+appear on the frosty slopes, with their quick,
+impatient gestures and rapid movements, seeking
+a breakfast. A pair of beautiful blackbirds
+droop their jetty wings, and seem<span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">[40]</span>
+numbed with cold. A robin, cheerful even in
+adversity, trills a few grateful notes on a shrub
+near the window, and Edith thinks that no
+new-year’s serenade could be half as touching
+as that low, sweet song. She thinks, too, what
+a lesson it teaches; for her melancholy eye
+had been straying mournfully over the broad
+lands stretching far and wide before her, and—“’tis
+an old tale, and often told,”—she had
+almost envied the humblest cottager in those her
+lordly possessions. “Farewell, old year!” she
+exclaimed; “none other will ever dawn upon
+me as you did. May the new bear happiness
+and joy to many! Oh, Marion! you little
+thought how desolate I am, when you prophesied
+that there was yet much in store for me.”</p>
+
+<p>Marion’s picturesque cottage could be plainly
+seen in the distance, shut in by the blue range
+of hills above, and sheltered with sweeping
+larches. The morning sun now shone brightly
+upon it, and Edith pictured to herself the
+beaming, happy countenance of her friend.</p>
+
+<p>“May God bless you, Marion!” she continued
+with emotion; “for to the example of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">[41]</span>
+your gentle goodness I owe all that is now left
+me,—the knowledge of that usefulness, that
+patient love and forbearance, which makes you
+so dear to others, so happy in yourself, and
+without which all that the world calls beauty
+and talent is hollow and heartless indeed! You
+taught me the value of true affection—the folly
+and littleness of the false pride I rejoiced in;
+and yet so sweetly, that I was only humbled
+to myself—not to you. Would that it had
+been but a few short months before! Oh,
+Percy! how willingly would I now confess myself
+in the wrong! But now I am forgotten!
+In your benevolent plans, in your honourable
+successes, there is no thought of me; or I am
+only remembered as a wilful, imperious woman,
+whom you once foolishly loved. I shall never
+see you again—mine the sorrow, mine the
+fault! But I am earning the right to self-esteem;
+I am doing all that I believe you
+would approve of, did you care for me now.”</p>
+
+<p>Her heart was very full as she descended to
+the breakfast-room. No one was there; but
+on the table lay a simple nosegay. “From<span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">[42]</span>
+Marion,” was written on a slip of paper. Edith
+mentally thanked her friend for the love which
+she knew was expressed in the fragrant gift;
+but tears sprang into her eyes as she looked
+on it; for a few lovely roses, the little blue
+periwinkle, with its shining green leaves and
+“sweet remembrances,” and a few early primroses
+and violets, were arranged almost exactly
+as she had received them from a still more
+beloved hand the year before. She started
+as her mother entered the room, and turned
+hastily to conceal her emotion; but touched by
+the look of anxious love which she caught
+fixed on herself, exclaimed, while she suffered
+the large tears to fall down her face, “Oh, my
+mother, I will not be proud to <i>you</i>—Heaven
+knows there would be little merit in that! I was
+thinking”—and her beautiful head lay on her
+mother’s gentle bosom—“of the happiness
+which I have thrown away—of one who has
+forgotten me.”</p>
+
+<p>“Ah, my dear child!” said her mother, as
+she tenderly pressed her hand on the throbbing
+brow, “in the doubtfulness of our nature<span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">[43]</span>
+we often accuse those of forgetfulness whose
+hearts may be breaking for our sake.”</p>
+
+<p>Edith looked up, a sudden expression of joy
+beaming over her countenance. As she bent
+again over the flowers, the sweetest gleam of
+hope stole over her, and she felt the magic
+influence of those words.</p>
+
+<p>Happy are they who in their own interests,
+joys, and sorrows, forget not the welfare of
+others! Edith looked forward with pleasure
+to the events of the day; for in the morning
+the school which she had built was to be
+opened, with an appropriate address from the
+good rector; and in the evening, young and
+old, rich and poor, were to be assembled in her
+splendid home. She had gaily declared to the
+gentry her wish to receive, as lady of the
+manor, “all good comers,” that New-Year’s
+Eve; and to sup in the old hall of her ancestors,
+after the manner of feudal times, with the peasantry
+of her estate “below the salt.” They, of
+course, looked forward to the event with unmixed
+pleasure and delight. Not so all those
+of gentler birth; for she had lived but little<span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">[44]</span>
+among them until of late, and was understood
+still less. Many thought it a capricious whim
+of the spoiled beauty, and many wondered what
+strange thing she would do next. “It was not
+that she cared more than the rest of them that
+the poor should enjoy themselves, but that she
+loved to do as no one else did. What a pity
+her uncle’s fine estate was left in such hands!”</p>
+
+<p>So charitably reasoned some of the invited
+guests; but, happily, there were others who
+knew Edith better, and welcomed with delight
+her kind and benevolent plan for a happy new-year’s
+eve to them all.</p>
+
+<p>The important evening at last arrived. The
+village children could not have existed much
+longer. Wide were the park-gates flung open,
+and never had the old avenue rung with the
+sound of so many merry voices before. Many
+a little belle startled a sleeping bird by stopping
+under his resting-place to admire, by the
+light of the lantern she carried, her bran
+new shoes and pretty frock, wondering if any
+of the great ladies would look half as nice,
+and feel half as happy as she did. Some timid<span class="pagenum" id="Page_45">[45]</span>
+little creatures clung to their mothers’ skirts,
+and looked with mingled feelings of awe and
+admiration on the stately mansion, blazing with
+light in the midst of the dark cedars, half
+afraid of entering it until re-assured by the
+promise of seeing the kind lady whom they all
+loved. But when they arrived there, and were
+welcomed by that sweet lady herself, who shook
+hands with all, and wished them a happy new-year;
+and when they saw the fine old hall
+with its bright armour, and many magnificent
+rooms all beautifully lighted up and decorated,
+and were shown the pictures and other wonderful
+things, their delight knew no bounds.
+But, perhaps, that which charmed them most
+was a deep recess at the lower end of the hall,
+completely filled with rare and luxuriant plants,
+in the midst of which stood a beautiful figure
+of Peace, joining the hands of Anger and Contention,
+who were regarding with a mingled
+expression of surprise and admiration the heavenly
+beauty which they had not perceived
+when occupied with their unholy strife.</p>
+
+<p>The children whispered softly here; for the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">[46]</span>
+light was very dim, but a lovely glow irradiated
+the beaming countenance of Peace, and here
+and there flowers glistened in the dark leaves
+around them.</p>
+
+<p>And now tea and cake, such as they had
+never tasted before, awaited them in a pretty
+room, gay with laurel and holly, where our
+friend Mrs. Hope presided, half beside herself
+with joy, yet preserving the most perfect order
+and decorum. Then the amusements of the
+evening began, which comprised the merriest
+and oddest of all styles of dancing to the music
+of the village band, the wonders of a magic
+lantern, and many a childish game beside; but
+above all, the crowning delight was the new-year’s
+gift to each of a pretty little volume,
+with the name of each written in it by Edith’s
+own hand.</p>
+
+<p>The hours flew too swiftly by—so thought
+these delighted little people, as ten o’clock was
+announced, and Edith wished them all good
+night as kindly as she had welcomed them; but
+in few words, for carriages were arriving, and
+she had to receive her guests: they thanked<span class="pagenum" id="Page_47">[47]</span>
+her in their simple way for the pleasure which
+she had given them, and the homely sincerity
+of their gratitude lighted her sweet face with
+happy smiles.</p>
+
+<p>The spacious picture-gallery, which had been
+converted into a ball-room for the occasion,
+was gay with many a shining wreath. The
+old family portraits seemed to look down with
+pleasure, and to beam a welcome on all assembled
+there; so thought several of the wandering
+villagers, grouped here and there amid the
+more brilliant throng, watching the mazes of
+the dance with interest and amazement, and
+listening with equal surprise to the magnificent
+band, to the music of which many a fairy foot
+was flying. Most, however, thought it very
+inferior to the performance of their own village
+musicians, and wondered how people could
+dance to such spiritless tunes on a new-year’s
+eve like this.</p>
+
+<p>Edith had anticipated their predilection,
+their shyness, and their love of country-dances
+and hornpipes; so they were soon marshalled
+by their gentle chamberlain, Mrs.
+Hope, into another room, where they could<span class="pagenum" id="Page_48">[48]</span>
+enjoy all these to their hearts’ content, and yet
+feel themselves privileged to look in on the
+grandees whenever they pleased. Perhaps
+this room, with its unrestrained mirth and
+merry laughter, was happier than the more
+splendid one; for though many there were
+thoroughly enjoying the beauty and gaiety of
+the scene, still there were heart-burnings.
+In that large assemblage several met, who,
+though once friends, had not spoken for years,
+and who felt startled and uneasy at being
+brought into such close proximity. But scarcely
+a shadow could be cast where the beautiful
+hostess moved and spoke—</p>
+
+<p class="center">“Thought in each glance, and mind in every smile.”</p>
+
+<p>There was so much frankness in every kind
+and earnest word she said, joined to the charm
+of her gentle and courtly manners, that the
+coldest, the most obtuse, the most reserved, felt
+moved and interested beyond themselves, and
+more cordially inclined to all the world beside.</p>
+
+<p>And Marion was there, whose flowers were
+the only ornament on Edith’s snowy dress;
+but she, usually so gay, was thoughtful almost<span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">[49]</span>
+to sadness, and looked anxiously into her husband’s
+face as they stood for a few moments
+apart—“I believed that of late years my father
+never mixed in such scenes as these,” said he.
+“Edith could not have thought he would come
+when she invited us.”</p>
+
+<p>“I knew how it was to be,” said Marion;
+“there are many here to-night whom she hopes
+to bring together again; rich and poor. See,
+she is looking towards us now, while speaking
+to him! Oh, Edward, go up to them at once,
+I entreat you!” exclaimed she earnestly.</p>
+
+<p>“Not before so many people,” said her husband
+with emotion. “Suppose he were to
+refuse my hand?”</p>
+
+<p>Marion sighed: but her hopeful nature
+whispered that the New-Year’s Eve was not
+yet ended. And now a clock of silvery tone
+chimed and struck the hour of midnight.
+The guests were conducted to supper: unseen
+harps, and sweet voices, gave a slow farewell to
+the old year, as they were seating themselves
+at the upper end of the hall, and then burst
+forth into a joyful welcome to the new, as the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">[50]</span>
+villagers entered and took their places at the
+lower range of tables; this again died away,
+and a sweet strain arose, of the softest prayer,
+for peace and happiness to all! Marion looked
+round with emotion.</p>
+
+<p>It was a lovely scene, that huge banquet-hall,
+with its gay wreaths of holly and flowers.
+The bright assemblage of guests; the happy
+faces of the villagers below; the beautiful
+hostess, seated in an antique chair at the upper
+end, with the banners of her ancient race,
+trophies of ages long gone by, waving behind
+her; the lovely figure of Peace below, almost
+shrouded in the dark leaves, and forming a
+striking contrast to those warlike emblems:
+all these afforded a sight which, once beheld,
+would not be easily forgotten.</p>
+
+<p>After each guest had paid sufficient homage
+to the choice viands before them, Edith took
+up a cup of curious workmanship; her face
+was radiant with kindness and love as she
+looked on those around her.</p>
+
+<p>“This cup has been possessed, for many a
+century, by my ancestors,” she said; “preserved<span class="pagenum" id="Page_51">[51]</span>
+for ages as a venerated relic: doubtless
+many a toast has been pledged in it—many a
+friendly welcome expressed; but I believe no
+more cordial and sincere one than that with
+which I greet you all this night. I would fain
+express the usual wish of a new-year of all
+imaginable happiness and prosperity, but as
+such have never visited this earth, we know it
+would be vain; and I therefore wish you the
+greatest of all blessings—that which cheers
+and supports us in the sorrows of life, and
+heightens beyond measure its pleasures and
+enjoyments,—love and harmony in your hearts
+and homes! There may be some among us
+estranged from friends and kindred, grieving
+over the fault, (for few, let us hope, in a
+Christian land, can live unmoved in enmity
+one with another,) and yet hanging back, in
+mistaken pride or want of moral courage, from
+the few conciliatory words which would, in
+most cases, suffice for a perfect reconciliation.
+The old year is now passing away—may it
+bear with it all anger, all animosity! May
+those few healing words be spoken,—and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_52">[52]</span>
+Peace, and Love, and Charity be with us
+all!”</p>
+
+<p>Edith’s voice trembled with emotion, but
+she did not perceive the agitation of many
+of her guests, for her eyes were fixed, as
+if in a dream, on the lower end of the hall.
+There was a movement of surprise among those
+seated there: she made her way, she knew not
+how, through them all. Yes, it was Percy!—One
+look, expressing a thousand emotions, and
+their hands were clasped in each other! For
+an instant her lovely head was bowed before
+him, while a few large, heavy tears, fell on
+the flowers at her feet! But she soon mastered
+her emotion, and, with a face radiant
+with joy, led him through the crowd of sympathising
+faces to her mother’s side. In the
+short silence which ensued, the bells of the
+village church were plainly heard ringing-in
+the new-born year! When had they ever
+sounded so sweetly before?</p>
+
+<p>And now a joyous strain again burst forth,
+and all returned to the ball-room. Again the
+young, the beautiful, the gay, joined in the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_53">[53]</span>
+dance; and never feet flew more lightly than
+theirs. But there were those who felt a deeper
+joy; the serene, the heavenly one of Reconciliation!</p>
+
+<p>And Percy and Edith once more stood side
+by side,—united, happy! And Marion told
+her wondering friend how Percy (who was an
+old college friend of her husband’s) had come
+to see them that morning, and in their quiet
+home had confessed that he was drawn to
+them by the desire of obtaining news of her,
+round whom his deep true love still lingered
+with so much regret. She had tried to persuade
+him to accompany them that night, but
+still he doubted—still feared. Yet he now
+confessed to Edith how, when they were gone,
+he had longed to see her face again, how he
+had concealed himself in the crowd, and how
+he had been moved, by what she had just said,
+to rush forward from the recess where he
+stood unobserved, that he might be the first
+to own the gentle Magic of those words!</p>
+
+<p>And many others had felt them too!
+Marion was leaning on <i>her father’s</i> arm—her<span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">[54]</span>
+eyes cast down and tearful in their joyfulness,
+as he spoke to her in a low tone of the invalid
+whom she must see on the morrow.</p>
+
+<p>And all hearts were touched and softened,
+and rich and poor felt drawn closer together!
+And they thought of the voice that had said,—“Love
+one another as I have loved you,”—and
+of the divine lessons of peacefulness and
+long-suffering which some had forgotten!
+And many blessed to the end of their days
+the Magic Words spoken by the Peacemaker<a id="FNanchor_1" href="#Footnote_1" class="fnanchor">[A]</a>
+on that New-year’s Night.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">[55]</span>
+<h2 class="nobreak">MAGIC WORDS.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poetry">
+<div class="stanza">
+<div class="verse">Magic words! magic words!</div>
+<div class="indent">From holy impulse they are born,</div>
+<div class="verse">The seeming chance of circumstance,</div>
+<div class="indent">God’s utterance to hearts forlorn;</div>
+<div class="verse">Where’er they fall reject them not,</div>
+<div class="indent">Nor think their mission is in vain;</div>
+<div class="verse">’Twixt loving hearts, whom coldness parts,</div>
+<div class="indent">Let not the dreary silence reign.</div>
+<div class="indent2">Magic words! what are they?</div>
+<div class="indent2">Things the truest soul will say!</div>
+</div>
+<div class="stanza">
+<div class="verse">Magic words! magic words!</div>
+<div class="indent">Ah! dear as to the dying flow’r,</div>
+<div class="verse">The starry dews that balm infuse,</div>
+<div class="indent">And whisper of the fallen show’r!</div>
+<div class="verse">Sweet as the bubbling desert spring</div>
+<div class="indent">To one who wanders o’er the sands,</div>
+<div class="verse">Are those chance words, that sow like birds</div>
+<div class="indent">The flowering seeds of happier lands!</div>
+<div class="indent2">Magic words! what are they?</div>
+<div class="indent2">Things the simplest tongue may say!</div>
+</div>
+<div class="stanza"><span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">[56]</span>
+<div class="verse">Magic words! magic words!</div>
+<div class="indent">O let them live on ev’ry lip,</div>
+<div class="verse">A source of bliss, of holiest kiss,</div>
+<div class="indent">And bond of fairest fellowship.</div>
+<div class="verse">And evermore at this blest time,</div>
+<div class="indent">Tho’ winter’s snows o’erspread the scene,</div>
+<div class="verse">One magic call, to bind us all,</div>
+<div class="indent">Shall be old Christmas’ evergreen!</div>
+<div class="indent2">Magic words! are not they</div>
+<div class="indent2">Offerings meet for Christmas Day?</div>
+</div></div></div>
+
+<p class="center"><small>London:—Printed by <span class="smcap">G. Barclay</span>, Castle St. Leicester Sq.</small></p>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p class="ph1">FOOTNOTE:</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a id="Footnote_1" href="#FNanchor_1" class="label">[A]</a> Edith, in the Anglo-Saxon language, signifies Peacemaker.</p>
+
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<div class="transnote">
+<p class="ph1">TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES:</p>
+
+<p>Obvious typographical errors have been corrected.</p>
+
+<p>Inconsistencies in hyphenation have been standardized.</p>
+
+<p>Archaic or variant spelling has been retained.</p>
+</div></div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MAGIC WORDS ***</div>
+<div style='text-align:left'>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+Updated editions will replace the previous one&#8212;the old editions will
+be renamed.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright
+law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works,
+so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United
+States without permission and without paying copyright
+royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part
+of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project
+Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG&#8482;
+concept and trademark. Project Gutenberg is a registered trademark,
+and may not be used if you charge for an eBook, except by following
+the terms of the trademark license, including paying royalties for use
+of the Project Gutenberg trademark. If you do not charge anything for
+copies of this eBook, complying with the trademark license is very
+easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose such as creation
+of derivative works, reports, performances and research. Project
+Gutenberg eBooks may be modified and printed and given away&#8212;you may
+do practically ANYTHING in the United States with eBooks not protected
+by U.S. copyright law. Redistribution is subject to the trademark
+license, especially commercial redistribution.
+</div>
+
+<div style='margin-top:1em; font-size:1.1em; text-align:center'>START: FULL LICENSE</div>
+<div style='text-align:center;font-size:0.9em'>THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE</div>
+<div style='text-align:center;font-size:0.9em'>PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+To protect the Project Gutenberg&#8482; mission of promoting the free
+distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work
+(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase &#8220;Project
+Gutenberg&#8221;), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full
+Project Gutenberg&#8482; License available with this file or online at
+www.gutenberg.org/license.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'>
+Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg&#8482;
+electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to
+and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property
+(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all
+the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or
+destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works in your
+possession. If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a
+Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic work and you do not agree to be bound
+by the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person
+or entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.B. &#8220;Project Gutenberg&#8221; is a registered trademark. It may only be
+used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who
+agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few
+things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works
+even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See
+paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project
+Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works if you follow the terms of this
+agreement and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg&#8482;
+electronic works. See paragraph 1.E below.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation (&#8220;the
+Foundation&#8221; or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection
+of Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works. Nearly all the individual
+works in the collection are in the public domain in the United
+States. If an individual work is unprotected by copyright law in the
+United States and you are located in the United States, we do not
+claim a right to prevent you from copying, distributing, performing,
+displaying or creating derivative works based on the work as long as
+all references to Project Gutenberg are removed. Of course, we hope
+that you will support the Project Gutenberg&#8482; mission of promoting
+free access to electronic works by freely sharing Project Gutenberg&#8482;
+works in compliance with the terms of this agreement for keeping the
+Project Gutenberg&#8482; name associated with the work. You can easily
+comply with the terms of this agreement by keeping this work in the
+same format with its attached full Project Gutenberg&#8482; License when
+you share it without charge with others.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern
+what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are
+in a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States,
+check the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this
+agreement before downloading, copying, displaying, performing,
+distributing or creating derivative works based on this work or any
+other Project Gutenberg&#8482; work. The Foundation makes no
+representations concerning the copyright status of any work in any
+country other than the United States.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg:
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other
+immediate access to, the full Project Gutenberg&#8482; License must appear
+prominently whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg&#8482; work (any work
+on which the phrase &#8220;Project Gutenberg&#8221; appears, or with which the
+phrase &#8220;Project Gutenberg&#8221; is associated) is accessed, displayed,
+performed, viewed, copied or distributed:
+</div>
+
+<blockquote>
+  <div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+    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 <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you
+    are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws
+    of the country where you are located before using this eBook.
+  </div>
+</blockquote>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic work is
+derived from texts not protected by U.S. copyright law (does not
+contain a notice indicating that it is posted with permission of the
+copyright holder), the work can be copied and distributed to anyone in
+the United States without paying any fees or charges. If you are
+redistributing or providing access to a work with the phrase &#8220;Project
+Gutenberg&#8221; associated with or appearing on the work, you must comply
+either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 or
+obtain permission for the use of the work and the Project Gutenberg&#8482;
+trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or 1.E.9.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic work is posted
+with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution
+must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any
+additional terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms
+will be linked to the Project Gutenberg&#8482; License for all works
+posted with the permission of the copyright holder found at the
+beginning of this work.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg&#8482;
+License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this
+work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg&#8482;.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this
+electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without
+prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with
+active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project
+Gutenberg&#8482; License.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary,
+compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including
+any word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access
+to or distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg&#8482; work in a format
+other than &#8220;Plain Vanilla ASCII&#8221; or other format used in the official
+version posted on the official Project Gutenberg&#8482; website
+(www.gutenberg.org), you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense
+to the user, provide a copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means
+of obtaining a copy upon request, of the work in its original &#8220;Plain
+Vanilla ASCII&#8221; or other form. Any alternate format must include the
+full Project Gutenberg&#8482; License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying,
+performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg&#8482; works
+unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing
+access to or distributing Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works
+provided that:
+</div>
+
+<div style='margin-left:0.7em;'>
+    <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'>
+        &#8226; You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from
+        the use of Project Gutenberg&#8482; works calculated using the method
+        you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is owed
+        to the owner of the Project Gutenberg&#8482; trademark, but he has
+        agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the Project
+        Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments must be paid
+        within 60 days following each date on which you prepare (or are
+        legally required to prepare) your periodic tax returns. Royalty
+        payments should be clearly marked as such and sent to the Project
+        Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the address specified in
+        Section 4, &#8220;Information about donations to the Project Gutenberg
+        Literary Archive Foundation.&#8221;
+    </div>
+
+    <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'>
+        &#8226; You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies
+        you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he
+        does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg&#8482;
+        License. You must require such a user to return or destroy all
+        copies of the works possessed in a physical medium and discontinue
+        all use of and all access to other copies of Project Gutenberg&#8482;
+        works.
+    </div>
+
+    <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'>
+        &#8226; You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of
+        any money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the
+        electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days of
+        receipt of the work.
+    </div>
+
+    <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'>
+        &#8226; You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free
+        distribution of Project Gutenberg&#8482; works.
+    </div>
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project
+Gutenberg&#8482; electronic work or group of works on different terms than
+are set forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing
+from the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the manager of
+the Project Gutenberg&#8482; trademark. Contact the Foundation as set
+forth in Section 3 below.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.F.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable
+effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread
+works not protected by U.S. copyright law in creating the Project
+Gutenberg&#8482; collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg&#8482;
+electronic works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may
+contain &#8220;Defects,&#8221; such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate
+or corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other
+intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or
+other medium, a computer virus, or computer codes that damage or
+cannot be read by your equipment.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the &#8220;Right
+of Replacement or Refund&#8221; described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project
+Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project
+Gutenberg&#8482; trademark, and any other party distributing a Project
+Gutenberg&#8482; electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all
+liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal
+fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT
+LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE
+PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE
+TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE
+LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR
+INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
+DAMAGE.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a
+defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can
+receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a
+written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you
+received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium
+with your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you
+with the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in
+lieu of a refund. If you received the work electronically, the person
+or entity providing it to you may choose to give you a second
+opportunity to receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If
+the second copy is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing
+without further opportunities to fix the problem.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth
+in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you &#8216;AS-IS&#8217;, WITH NO
+OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT
+LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied
+warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of
+damages. If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement
+violates the law of the state applicable to this agreement, the
+agreement shall be interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or
+limitation permitted by the applicable state law. The invalidity or
+unenforceability of any provision of this agreement shall not void the
+remaining provisions.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the
+trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone
+providing copies of Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works in
+accordance with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the
+production, promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg&#8482;
+electronic works, harmless from all liability, costs and expenses,
+including legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of
+the following which you do or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this
+or any Project Gutenberg&#8482; work, (b) alteration, modification, or
+additions or deletions to any Project Gutenberg&#8482; work, and (c) any
+Defect you cause.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'>
+Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg&#8482;
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+Project Gutenberg&#8482; is synonymous with the free distribution of
+electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of
+computers including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It
+exists because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations
+from people in all walks of life.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the
+assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg&#8482;&#8217;s
+goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg&#8482; collection will
+remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project
+Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure
+and permanent future for Project Gutenberg&#8482; and future
+generations. To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary
+Archive Foundation and how your efforts and donations can help, see
+Sections 3 and 4 and the Foundation information page at www.gutenberg.org.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'>
+Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non-profit
+501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the
+state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal
+Revenue Service. The Foundation&#8217;s EIN or federal tax identification
+number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg Literary
+Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by
+U.S. federal laws and your state&#8217;s laws.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+The Foundation&#8217;s business office is located at 809 North 1500 West,
+Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email contact links and up
+to date contact information can be found at the Foundation&#8217;s website
+and official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'>
+Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+Project Gutenberg&#8482; depends upon and cannot survive without widespread
+public support and donations to carry out its mission of
+increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be
+freely distributed in machine-readable form accessible by the widest
+array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations
+($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt
+status with the IRS.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating
+charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United
+States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a
+considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up
+with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations
+where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To SEND
+DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any particular state
+visit <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/donate/">www.gutenberg.org/donate</a>.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we
+have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition
+against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who
+approach us with offers to donate.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make
+any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from
+outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+Please check the Project Gutenberg web pages for current donation
+methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other
+ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. To
+donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'>
+Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg&#8482; electronic works
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project
+Gutenberg&#8482; concept of a library of electronic works that could be
+freely shared with anyone. For forty years, he produced and
+distributed Project Gutenberg&#8482; eBooks with only a loose network of
+volunteer support.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+Project Gutenberg&#8482; eBooks are often created from several printed
+editions, all of which are confirmed as not protected by copyright in
+the U.S. unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not
+necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper
+edition.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+Most people start at our website which has the main PG search
+facility: <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+This website includes information about Project Gutenberg&#8482;,
+including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary
+Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to
+subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks.
+</div>
+
+</div>
+</body>
+</html>
diff --git a/old/68424-h/images/cover.jpg b/old/68424-h/images/cover.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..7cc6c96
--- /dev/null
+++ b/old/68424-h/images/cover.jpg
diff --git a/old/68424-h/images/coversmall.jpg b/old/68424-h/images/coversmall.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..dc55d99
--- /dev/null
+++ b/old/68424-h/images/coversmall.jpg
diff --git a/old/68424-h/images/facing011.jpg b/old/68424-h/images/facing011.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..8cbae0a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/old/68424-h/images/facing011.jpg
diff --git a/old/68424-h/images/facing025.jpg b/old/68424-h/images/facing025.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9fd6a6e
--- /dev/null
+++ b/old/68424-h/images/facing025.jpg
diff --git a/old/68424-h/images/facing039.jpg b/old/68424-h/images/facing039.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..7fa7fe8
--- /dev/null
+++ b/old/68424-h/images/facing039.jpg
diff --git a/old/68424-h/images/frontis.jpg b/old/68424-h/images/frontis.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..0ffc96e
--- /dev/null
+++ b/old/68424-h/images/frontis.jpg
diff --git a/old/68424-h/images/publogo.jpg b/old/68424-h/images/publogo.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..aafb912
--- /dev/null
+++ b/old/68424-h/images/publogo.jpg
diff --git a/old/68424-h/images/titlepage.jpg b/old/68424-h/images/titlepage.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c69f988
--- /dev/null
+++ b/old/68424-h/images/titlepage.jpg