Page:Over the river, and other poems.djvu/30

24 her rare poetical genius, that her extreme self-distrust and dislike of notoriety induced her to decline all overtures of the kind. But there is reason tb believe that other causes, highly creditable to her character, led to this decision. In one case a lady of wealth, with rare generosity, offered to give her a finished education, and wished to treat her as an adopted daughter ; but, how ever desirable the literary advantages, she could not endure the thought of forming any connection that would come between herself and the loved ones of her own home. She chose wisely ; and her heart had its reward in the love of her nearest kindred, and, later, in the cherished affection of husband and children. How much her heart was bound up in the little ones is apparent from the two poems which will be found in the division entitled "Love and Friendship." One is headed " Baby asleep," and the other, " Christmas Stockings." These were found by Mr. Wakefield, after her decease, written carelessly in pencil, as if under sudden impulse of the heart. Another piece was found by him enclosed in an envelope, and reserved for his own eye, after she was gone. It is entitled " A Fancy," and is a priceless legacy to a bereaved husband. One verse is among the most touching in the language ; and the thought seems to have escaped expression hitherto, though it immediately finds an echo in all delicately tender souls:—