to her mamma; and as she did so, she put a
sixpence between the pence, so as not to be seen by Matilda, lest it should
seem like a reproach to her; and as she slipped the whole into her mother's
hand, she said--"I hope, mamma, you will be so good as to let Miss Hanson
make a little cap for the baby?"

"I don't like to sew," said Matilda, rising; "at least not such things as
these: I think a bit of calico to wrap the pickaninnies in is the best, and
I'll give that to buy some with."

As she spoke she threw half-a-guinea on the table, with the air of one
desirous of exhibiting both generosity and wealth, and looked round with an
eye that asked for admiration.

No notice was taken. Mrs. Harewood opening her own purse, took out
half-a-crown, and then counted all that she had got. In doing it, Ellen
perceived not her sixpence, and she then, with modesty, but without any
shame, said--"I believe my sixpence must have slipped down."

"I did not know you gave me one, child."

"Yes, but she did, for I saw her," said Mr. Harewood, "though she was not
aware that I did. She gave it in silence, not from affectation, but a kind
motive towards one who could not appreciate it; but we will say no more on
this point. Ellen, you have gratified your father: I see in your conduct
the germ of a gentlewoman, and, what is infinitely more precious, of a
Christian."

Ellen sprung to her father's arms, and in his affectionate kiss found a
rich reward.

For a moment, Matilda thought to herself, what a piece of work is here
about sixpence, while they take no notice at all of a bright golden
half-guinea! but still her understanding combated this thought, for she
knew that all the present company saw beyond the surface, and estimated
the gift according to the spirit of the donor.

Betty now came in, and Mrs. Harewood gave her the money, telling her to buy
some frocks with it. Observing the servant eye the half-guinea, she
said--"_That_ was the gift of Miss Hanson; she is very rich, it seems, and
gives out of her abundance. I am sure you will be grateful to _her_; but if
your fellow-servants, Betty, should spare, out of the little time they
have, enough to assist you in the making of these things, they will be the
best friends you meet with; for labour is much greater charity than money."

Betty replied, that she was much obliged to all her friends, both above and
below, and especially to poor Zebby, who had offered, with her lady's
leave, to