Page:The Poor Rich Man, and the Rich Poor Man.djvu/55

Rh It is not necessary to give the doctors directions, in regard to Charlotte's food, in detail. Her diet was to consist of plain food, plainly dressed; and when he finished, Charlotte said, with a smile,

"As to eating, sir, I shall be as well off as if I were the richest lady in the land, for I can easily get the food you think convenient for me."

"As well off, and far better, my dear child; I have many rich patients to whom I make the same prescription; but, surrounded as they are by tempting luxuries, they are for ever transgressing and suffering—they do not enough take to heart the wise saying, that they that do the things that please the Lord shall receive of the fruit of the tree of immortality. But, Miss Charlotte, there are other matters besides eating to which you must be attentive; gentle and regular exercise you must have—riding will not suit you."

"That's a real mercy, sir; for, since father has lost his horse, I have no way to ride."

"You have a little house-keeping, what the women call stirring about, to do—sweeping, washing dishes, setting tables, and so on?"

"Yes, sir, but I have let our Susy do it; and, when I was able, taken in sewing, because that brought us in a little money." "You must not sit at your needle; none but the strong can bear that. Your little hardy sister must take that part."

"Well, that is a comfort, as Susy would herself say, for I want her to learn the tailoress' trade, and Miss Sally Baker had agreed to teach her for the rent of our back room."

"By all means," said the doctor, entering with