wn feelings. The triumph of
affection would have been cheap; Mrs. Carlton's was the triumph of
religion; of a principle which could subdue an attachment to a worthy
object, and act with such generosity toward an unworthy one."

Mr. Stanley went on. "Mrs. Carlton frequently sat up late, reading such
books as might qualify her for the education of her child, but always
retired before she had reason to expect Mr. Carlton, lest he might
construe it into upbraiding. One night, as he was not expected to come
home at all, she sat later than usual, and had indulged herself with
taking her child to pass the night in her bed. With her usual
earnestness she knelt down and offered up her devotions by her bed-side,
and in a manner particularly solemn and affecting, prayed for her
husband. Her heart was deeply touched, and she dwelt on these petitions
in a strain peculiarly fervent. She prayed for his welfare in both
worlds, and earnestly implored that she might be made the humble
instrument of his happiness. She meekly acknowledged her own many
offenses; of his she said nothing.

"Thinking herself secure from interruption, her petitions were uttered
aloud; her voice often faltering, and her eyes streaming with tears.
Little did she suspect that the object of her prayers was within hearing
of them. He had returned home unexpectedly, and coming softly into the
room, heard her pious aspirations. He was inexpressibly affected. He
wept, and sighed bitterly. The light from the candles on the table fell
on the blooming face of his sleeping infant, and on that of his weeping
wife. It was too much for him. But he had not the virtuous courage to
give way to his feelings. He had not the generosity to come forward and
express the admiration he felt. He withdrew unperceived, and passed the
remainder of the night in great perturbation of spirit. Shame, remorse,
and confusion, raised such a conflict in his mind, as prevented him from
closing his eyes; while she slept in quiet, and awoke in peace.

"The next morning, during a very short interview, he behaved to her with
a kindness which she had never before experienced. He had not resolution
to breakfast with her, but promised, with affection in his words and
manners, to return to dinner. The truth was, he never quitted home, but
wandered about his woods to compose and strengthen his mind. This
self-examination was the first he had practiced; its effects were
salutary.

"A day or two previous t