d
we must treat the dear girl kindly, and gently, and affectionately;
tenderly, tenderly must she be treated; and, children, much depends upon
you--keep her mind engaged. You have music--play more than you do--read
more--walk more--sing more. I myself will commence a short course of
lectures upon the duties and character of women, in the single and
married state of life; alternately with which I will also give you a
short course upon _Belles-Lettres_. If this engages and relieves her
mind, it will answer an important purpose; but at all events it will be
time well spent, and that is something."

When Jane appeared at breakfast, she was paler than usual; but then the
expression of her countenance, though pensive, was natural. Mr. Sinclair
placed her between himself and her mother, and each kissed her in
silence ere she sat down.

"I have been very unwell yesterday,papa. I know I must have been; but I
have made my mind up to bear his absence with fortitude--not that it is
his mere absence which I feel so severely, but an impression that some
calamity is to occur either to him or me."

"Impressions of that kind, my dear child, are the results of low spirits
and a nervous habit. You should not suffer your mind to be disturbed by
them; for, when it is weakened by suffering, they gather strength, and
sometimes become formidable."

"There is no bearing my calamity, papa, as it ought to be borne, without
the grace of God, and you know we must pray to be made worthy of that. I
dare say that if I am resigned and submissive that my usual cheerfulness
will gradually return. I have confidence in heaven, papa, but none in my
own strength, or I should rather say in my own weakness. My attachment
to Charles resembles a disease more than a healthy and rational passion.
I know it is excessive, and I indeed think its excess is a disease. Yet
it is singular I do not fear my heart, papa, but I do my head; here is
where the danger lies--here--here;" and as she spoke, she applied her
hand to here forehead and gave a faint smile of melancholy apprehension.

"Wait, Jane," said her brother; "just wait for a week or ten days, and
if you don't scold yourself for being now so childish, why never call me
brother again. Sure I understand these things like a philosopher. I have
been three times in love myself."

Jane looked at him, and a faint sparkle of her usual good nature lit up
her countenance.

"Didn't I tell you," he proceeded, addressi