Page:Traits and Trials.pdf/198

192 she had those natural talents which reward cultivation, while she had what was even more than talent, that kindness of heart, and that sweet and affectionate disposition, which even prosperity cannot spoil. As she past up the room, her step buoyant, and her beautiful face beaming with gaiety and health—she seemed like the very extreme of contrast to the pale and sickly child who sat weeping in the corner, the only one who did not call to her. But the poor little West Indian was not over-looked—Frances' quick eye soon observed her trouble, and turning to her side, she said in a low and consoling whisper, "The signor kept me longer than I expected, but I have not forgotten my promise to help you with the French lesson—What, crying, my poor Emmeline, fie, fie, dry up your tears, while I am speaking to Miss Aiken, and I shall be back in a moment. You know how well we always get on together."

The child gave one deep sob, but it was the last, and Fanny went to the fire-place to