for the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Mrs. Gardner heard with gratitude the determination of her child, and
left her with an affectionate wish that her birth-day might pass
happily. When Isabella returned to her chamber she found upon her table
a large Bible. It was a birth-day gift from her parents, and beneath
Isabella's name were written the words which stand on the title-page of
this book,--"He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he
that ruleth his spirit, than he that taketh a city." Prov. xvi, 32.

Isabella had two brothers, Edward and George: they were both younger
than herself. Mary, her only sister, was seventeen years old, and was a
lovely example of gentleness and piety. She was not so quick as
Isabella; but she had "the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit," which
is far more beautiful in the sight of God than the most brilliant
worldly accomplishments. Her faults were controlled by Christian
principle and self-denial; and an affectionate interest in the happiness
of others marked her conduct.

On the morning of Isabella's birthday, Mary was busily employed in
arranging fresh flowers in the little parlor, and in trying to make
everything look pleasant for her sister. The recollection of Isabella's
unkindness to her the day before, while it grieved her kind heart, only
made her the more anxious to add to her happiness.

This was like many other summer days. Though it opened in sunshine, it
closed in clouds. At about twelve o'clock the bright light was darkened,
and soon the heavy rain began to fall.

"How cross Isabella will be this afternoon!" said Edward to his sister
Mary. "I am sure I don't want to see her; she will be so angry because
it rains."

"That is a very unkind remark, Edward," replied Mary, "and shows a
wrong state of feeling. I have not heard Isabella speak an angry word
to-day; and instead of wishing to be out of her way, you ought to try to
do all that you can to make up to her for the disappointment she will
feel at not seeing her young friends."

"You are right, sister Mary," said Edward: "in judging Isabella I was
committing the same sin myself; and I thank you for correcting me. I
will try to make my sister happy; but I do hope that as she grows older
she will become more amiable, and do to others as she would have them do
to her."

At this moment Isabella entered the room. There was no blue sky to be
seen, nor any prospect of fair weather.

"I am sorry that your