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128 I really think is destined to be a lady) may secure a prize in life's lottery." "I wish she may be a lady—oh! that I do." "Mighty fine! you are as enthusiastic in your filial as your nautical affections—will they burn equally bright, think you, when you see Helen wearing my pearl necklace with the diamond drops, and the bracelets to match, and find she has got the beautiful gown I bought at Brighton (by the way, that gown brought on all my illness) made up for her, and that she looks charmingly in it?" "I am sure I shall always rejoice to see Helen look well, mamma; and so far am I from wishing to rival her, that I intended to beg, as a favour, I might keep in my own room—and, indeed, Mrs. Palmer says I ought to do so." "What right has Mrs. Palmer to give an opinion? I say you shall make your appearance. I don't ask you to look smart, or cheerful; be as great an object as you please, and look as triste, but you shall be there, because, as I have adopted, that is, chosen to adopt, the idea that the sailor is safe, it is perfectly consistent that I should really compel his fiancée to take a little pleasure." " Would you wish me to wear this ring, mamma?—it is one that was put into my box when Sir Edward's valuable present was taken out—a mourning ring."