had never met
with or known any other female, combining in her own person such
extraordinary beauty and dignity--such obvious candor of heart--such
graceful and irresistible simplicity, or who was encompassed by an
atmosphere of such truth and purity--the effect was such as absolutely
confounded himself, and taught him to feel how far they go in purifying,
elevating, and refining those who come within the sphere of their
influence. This young man, for instance, was touched, softened, and awed
into such an involuntary respect for her character and virtues, that
he felt himself almost unable to sustain the part he had undertaken to
play, so far at least as she was concerned. In fact, he felt himself
changed for the better, and was forced, as it were, to look in upon his
own heart, and contemplate its deformity by the light that emanated from
her character. Nor was this singular but natural influence unperceived
by her father, who began to fear that if they were to be much together,
he must ultimately lose the connivance and support of his son.

Thomas took the portrait from her hand, and, after contemplating it for
some time, felt himself bound to kiss it, which he did, with a momentary
consciousness of his hypocrisy that felt like guilt.

"It is most interesting," said he; "there is goodness, indeed, and
benignity, as you say, in every line of that placid but sorrowful face.
Here," said he, "take it back, my dear sister; I feel that it is painful
to me to look upon it."

"It has been my secret companion," said Lucy, gazing at it with deep
emotion, "and my silent monitress ever since poor mamma's death. It
seemed to say to me with those sweet lips that will never more move:
Be patient, my child, and put your firm trust in the hopes of a better
life, for this world is one of trial and suffering."

"That is all very fine, Lucy," said her father, somewhat fretfully; "but
it would have been as well if she had preached a lesson of obedience at
the same time. However, you had better withdraw, my dear; as I told you,
Thomas and I have many important matters to talk over."

"I am ready to go, papa," she replied; "but, by the way, my dear Thomas,
I had always heard that you resembled her very much; instead of that,
you are papa's very image."

"A circumstance which will take from his favor with you, Lucy, I fear,"
observed her father; "but, indeed, I myself am surprised at the change
that has come over you, Thomas; for, unqu