th. But I
cannot let you entertain the idea that I think it an 'accident.'
On the contrary, I regard my birth as the well-considered
ordination of Almighty God. I was not an 'accident' to my good
father and mother. I was placed in their care, because the
All-Wise considered the Van Hoosen home the best possible place
for my highest development. I think it is time people stopped
talking about the 'accident' of birth; and I am sure, as soon as
you regard birth in its proper light, you will do so. Your love
for me has led you likewise into a very stupid assertion about
'loving Yanna the same whether she was princess or pauper.' My
dear, there is no question of either. I am as far removed from
pauperism as we both are from royalty. Our mutual liking has stood
a number of little shocks, and I have no fear it will go to pieces
on my father's trade. He is building you a handsome house in the
most honorable manner. He was pleased to have the contract to do
so, and Mr. Filmer was equally pleased to secure his work. That is
the position, as I understand it. Suppose we say no more on the
subject; it will be so much nicer to write about your balls, and
fairs, and parties. From what you say, I think charity must be the
gayest of all the virtues; certainly it cuts the most considerable
figure of any during the New York season. I am sure you enjoyed
the private theatricals; for we all like occasionally to play a
part not our own. And so you are going to the seaside this summer?
Will you bathe? That is one of the things vanity would forbid me
to do, except in private. It is true, Venus rose beautiful from
the sea; but no mere mortal woman can do so. Do you not think,
that for a distinctly levelling process, sea bathing is supreme?
Life is very even and quiet here; when Woodsome Hall is finished,
we all hope it will make a difference. Is it to be 'Woodsome' or
'Filmer' Hall? Mr. Filmer had not decided when he was here last.
Dear Rose, do not let us have any more misunderstandings, and send
me a real nice letter soon.

"Yours lovingly,

"Adriana Van Hoosen."

This letter did not please Rose any better than her own effusion had
pleased Adriana; and for a little while there was a coolness between
the girls. They wrote to each other with accustomed regularity, but
their letters were set to a wrong key, Adriana's being specially
independent in tone, as if her self-estee