Page:Traits and Trials.pdf/245

Rh poor Edith bear her loss, and yet on that poor afflicted child was her chief dependence. She had taught her to read, write, and draw, and Edith could now get on by herself; not as she would have done with her sister always by her side, but still enough for instruction and employment. Moreover, there would always be a companion for her mother, one who, if she could not amuse her like Fanny, would yet always be at hand to do those little offices which were to Mrs. Beaumont quite indispensable.

The first red light of morning was stealing through the lattice, and Fanny raised herself on her arm to gaze on her sleeping sister. The long dark lash rested on the pale cheek which looked so placid and composed, while the warm light played round it, like a blessing.

In moments of great anxiety there is a sort of natural superstition about the heart, which the reason rejects in cooler moments.

Fanny, for an instant, watched that cheerful ray as if it were a good omen—She thought with