ground on which Christianity even here brings forth fruit. Such an
occupation becomes a quiet and consecrated temple in all hours of
affliction, into which the Saviour pours out his blessing; it unites us
with all other men, so that we can sympathise in their feelings, and
makes our actions and our wills administer to their wants; it teaches us
rightly to weigh our own circumscribed condition and the worth of
others. It is the true, firm, and fruit-bearing ground of real
Christianity."

These words came like a breath of air on glowing sparks. A light was
kindled in my soul, and I knew now what I wanted, and what I ought to
do. After I had well considered all this with myself, I spoke with my
parents, and opened my whole heart to them. They were surprised, opposed
me, and besought me to think better of it. I had foreseen this; but as I
adhered firmly and decidedly to my wishes and my prayers, they surprised
me by their kindness.

I was very fond of children; my plan was, therefore, to begin
housekeeping for myself, and to undertake some work or occupation which
should, by degrees, enable me to take two or three children, for whom I
would provide, whom I would educate, and altogether adopt as my own. I
was well persuaded that I needed many of the qualifications which make a
good teacher; but I hoped that that new fountain of activity would, as
it were, give to my whole being a new birth. My goodwill, my affection
for children would, I believed, be helpful to make me a good guide to
them; and thus, though I could not become a wife, I might yet enjoy the
blessing of a mother.

"And why could you not--why could you not?" interrupted Elise.

"People say," returned Evelina, smiling, "that you had to make your
selection of a husband from many adorers; you cannot then understand a
case in which there should not even be one choice. But truly, indeed,
that was my case. But do not look at me so amazed--don't look at me as
if I were guilty of high treason. The truth is, sweet Elise, that I
never had an opportunity to say either yes or no to a lover. With my
sisters, who were much more agreeable and much more attractive than I,
it was otherwise."

But now I must return to that moment of my life when I released myself
from every-day paths--but, thank God! not with violence, not amid
discontent; but with the blessing of those who had given me life, for
which I now, for the first time, blessed them.

Touched by my steadfastness o