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36 the rich and the poor never dwell so far apart as to be in equal ignorance of each other's real condition!" But as the light fell on Sir Robert's emaciated figure, and wan though still fine face, no longer animated by the joy of his son's return, the ravage of disease became visible; and it was no marvel that bodily weakness shunned exertion.

"To-morrow," said the invalid, "you shall take my place at the board; to-night I cannot spare you."

Perhaps there is no moment when beloved objects are so much beloved, as on the return from a long absence. When the thousand fears for their health, their safety, and their welfare, have all been proved to be vain; while the reaction from their depression is so exhilarating. When the many merits which fancy has added to their own, are all warm from the thought; all fresh, too, with the gloss of novelty, untarnished with recent differences, and unworn by daily use. How pleasant the hurry of their arrival, and the many preparations to receive them! In winter, the warmest seat by the fire; in summer, the coolest by the open lattice. Then the supper, where, all former likings are so carefully remembered; the cheerful flutter of spirits, the disposition to talk,