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Rh she knew it was not binding, but its influence as a religious obligation was enthralling to a degree. Weak in body, suffering under the reaction of excitement, with a vague but strong sense of a solemn vow, the desire of rest, the shame of retracting—all conspired to keep firm Emily's resolve. Angry at length—though angry in the very spirit of affection—Lady Mandeville rose to depart; then, and not till then, did Emily seem to rouse from her stupor. A thousand acts of kindness rushed at once upon her mind—she threw herself on her friend's neck, and in a scarcely audible voice called down every blessing from Heaven upon her and hers. Still she said farewell; and when Lady Mandeville returned to her carriage, she shed the bitterest tears she had ever known. Gentle, affectionate, full of those small courtesies so endearing in daily life, generally silent, but such an appreciating listener, so unworldly, so young, and so lovely—Emily attached those with whom she lived, more than themselves suspected. You passed her over among many—you loved her among few. The interest she excited was that of protection. Accustomed always to see her yield her opinion or her inclination, Lady Mandeville never