ive much cheaper than in the metropolis, and
with tolerable decency.

She had not passed more than two months in this retreat, when
information was brought her, that her banker had failed in trade, and
consequently all her money was lost. Judge what must be the horrors of
her situation! Sickness and grief had so debilitated her constitution,
that she was unable to do any kind of work, whereby to procure a
subsistence; and, after having passed her youth in ease and pleasure,
she had no resources left in the evening of her life, but that of a
workhouse, or common beggary.

Not one of her acquaintance would see her, nor condescend to take the
least interest in her sufferings. Being brought by her husband from a
foreign country, she had no friends to cry to for assistance, except a
distant relation, whom she had brought with her to England, and who, by
her husband's credit, gained great riches; but this man's avarice was
greater than his wealth, and there was little charity to be expected
from a man who denied himself the common necessaries of life.

Afflicted virtue, however, always finds resource in the bounteous hands
of Providence, and she found the means of subsistence where she little
expected it. In the former days of her prosperity, she had adopted a
female orphan, whose name was Clarissa, who now became her guardian and
protector. Clarissa had a grateful heart; she wept for the misfortunes
of her friend, but she rejoiced at the thoughts of having an opportunity
to show her gratitude.

When Dorinda mentioned her design of seeking refuge in a parish
workhouse, "No," said Clarissa, "you shall never leave me. From your
tenderness I formerly received the indulgences of a beloved child; and,
if in your prosperity I thought myself happy in the idea of being so
nearly related to you by adoption, I still think it more so now I see
you in adversity. Thank heaven and your adoption for my comfortable
situation! your maternal conduct was amply displayed in teaching me all
the necessary female arts; and I am happy in the reflection, that I can
make use of my knowledge for your sake. With health and courage, I fear
not being able to procure for us both at least a comfortable living."

This generous offer exceedingly affected the unhappy widow, who embraced
Clarissa, and with joy accepted of her proposal. This amiable girl, in
her turn, became the mother, by adoption, of her former benefactress.
Not contented with feeding her