family and an honourable birth. She has no
family, and her birth is shrouded in mystery; but the blood that courses
in her veins would never disgrace the race from which she sprung, and
every throb of her unselfish heart allies her to all that is noble.

"You are eloquent upon the subject of beauty. When I parted from
Gertrude, she was, in all but character, a mere child, being only
thirteen years of age. Though much altered and improved since the time
when she first came among us, I scarcely think she could have been said
to possess much of what the world calls beauty. It was a matter of which
I seldom thought or cared; and had I been less indifferent on the
subject, she was so dear to me that I should have been unable to form an
impartial judgment of her claims in this respect.

"I well remember, however, the indignation I once felt at hearing a
fellow-clerk, who had met her in one of our walks, sneeringly contrast
her personal appearance with that of our employer's handsome daughter,
Miss Clinton; and the proportionate rapture with which I listened to the
excellent teacher, Miss Brown, when, being present at a school
examination, I overheard her commenting to a lady upon Gertrude's
wonderful promise in person as well as in mind. Whether the first part
of this promise has been fulfilled I have no means of judging; but as I
recall her dignified and graceful little figure, her large, intelligent,
sparkling eyes, the glow of feeling that lit up her countenance, and the
peaceful, almost majestic expression which purity of soul imparted to
her yet childish features, she stands forth to my remembrance the
embodiment of all that I hold most dear.

"Six years may have outwardly changed her much; but they cannot have
robbed her of what I prize the most. She has charms over which time can
have no power, a grace that is a gift of Heaven, a beauty that is
eternal. Could I ask for more? Do not believe, then, that my fidelity to
my early playmate is an emotion of gratitude merely. It is true I owe
her much--far more than I can ever repay; but the honest warmth of my
affection for the noble girl springs from the truest love of a purity of
character and singleness of heart which I had never seen equalled.

"What is there in the foolish walks of Fashion, the glitter of wealth,
the homage of an idle crowd, that could so elevate my spirit and inspire
my exertions as the thought of a peaceful, happy home, blessed by a
presiding spirit